Snow Removal and Groundskeeping/Landscaping Services - Oriska Rest Area

The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), Valley City District, has issued a notice of intent to award its snow removal and groundskeeping contract at the I-94 Oriska Rest Area under RFP 988-36-26-050 to Golden Meadows Landscaping, with written protests due within seven calendar days of the October 21, 2026 notice. The solicitation specifies no set-asides. The winning vendor must comply with North Dakota Secretary of State registration requirements under N.D.C.C. 54-44.4-09.1 and keep that registration active throughout the contract period. The awardee may not begin work, purchase materials, or enter subcontracts until both the recipient and the state execute the contract.

The scope covers year-round groundskeeping and landscaping at 12895 34th Street SE, Tower City, North Dakota, including mowing, trimming, weeding, pruning, and irrigation from spring through fall, plus snow and ice removal during winter. The contractor must provide all equipment and supplies except fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, sidewalk deicing material, mulch, landscaping rock, irrigation system replacement parts, dog park waste bags, and Class 3 safety vests, which NDDOT furnishes. Bidders need a minimum of two years of similar-service experience with favorable references and any required professional licenses and permits. Proof of required insurance is due before contract approval.

The contract is firm fixed-price, with pricing held firm for the first 12 months. Payment is made in 24 equal monthly installments following completed monthly work, invoice submission, and state approval. The initial term runs approximately November 1, 2026 through October 1, 2028, with one optional two-year renewal not to exceed 48 months total. Funds are already appropriated. Evaluation totals 100 points: 60 technical (30 for scope-of-work strategy and 30 for experience and qualifications) and 40 for cost. A minimum technical score of 40 out of 100 is required for responsiveness. Three bids were received from Budding Stars Hi-Line Excavation, Golden Meadows Landscaping, and an unnamed third bidder. Questions go to Procurement Officer Jalen Sprecher at jsprecher@nd.gov or 701-328-4413. The mandatory on-site inspection took place October 2, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. CT, questions closed October 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. CT, and proposals were due October 15, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. CT.