Specifications for locating underground utilities and facilities

Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (FKEC) is requesting bids for underground utility and facilities locating and marking services in accordance with the Sunshine 811 notification service, with bids due September 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and questions due by 2:00 p.m. on September 10, 2026.

The scope includes locating FKEC's below-ground electrical infrastructure, conducting field visits when FKEC facilities are within 50 feet of proposed excavation sites, marking locations with red paint or stakes, providing photographic documentation, investigating damage incidents, and coordinating with the Sunshine 811 notification center. Emergency locate requests must be responded to within two hours; routine requests must be completed within state-mandated timeframes.

FKEC serves the Upper and Middle Florida Keys with more than 34,000 meters. The contract will be effective October 1, 2026, and continue for three years unless terminated by either party with 30 days' written notice. Contractors must submit firm fixed-price proposals with rates remaining constant throughout the term. Payment will be rendered by FKEC upon invoice submission; FKEC retains the right to withhold 10 percent of projected costs if the contractor exceeds the scheduled completion date, with withheld funds released upon satisfaction of all deliverables.

Contractors must maintain professional liability insurance with General Liability of $2,000,000 per occurrence, Workers' Compensation of $500,000 per accident, and Auto Liability of $2,000,000 per accident, with FKEC designated as certificate holder. This solicitation is identified as "without bonding." Subcontractors, if used, must be approved in writing by FKEC. Contractors must make affirmative efforts to solicit small and minority businesses, women's business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms.

Proposals will be evaluated on qualifications of the firm and staff (40 points), relevant past performance (20 points), and cost proposal (40 points). FKEC reserves the right to award contracts to multiple respondents. An intent to award is anticipated by September 28, 2026. All proposal materials must be submitted electronically to procurement@fkec.com or via DemandStar e-Bidding.