SR-31 Force Main Replacement

The DeSoto County Utility Department (DCU) is seeking formal bids for the SR-31 Force Main Replacement Project, a critical infrastructure improvement initiative. The procurement involves the removal of an existing 12-inch force main and construction of 4,494 linear feet of new 18-inch HDPE force main within the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) right-of-way along State Road 31. The project scope includes plugging existing road crossings, installing associated fittings, valves, and appurtenances, and completing sod restoration. Bidders are required to provide alternate pricing for 16-inch and 18-inch diameter pipes, as well as comparing PVC and HDPE material costs. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder, with all work required to conform to specific construction plan sets, project technical specifications, DCU Utilities Standards Handbook, and FDOT FY 25-26 standard construction specifications. The project timeline mandates completion within 80 calendar days of the notice to proceed, with a total contract period of 90 calendar days to allow for county inspections and potential deficiency corrections. Bid submissions are due by August 19, 2025, with work to be performed between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, on non-County holidays.

While no specific set-aside designations or disadvantaged enterprise requirements are explicitly mentioned in the procurement documents, contractors must comply with notification requirements, including providing at least two county business days' notice prior to commencing work. The contract does not specify a precise budget range, but the comprehensive scope of work suggests a significant infrastructure investment. Potential bidders will need to demonstrate technical capabilities in utility infrastructure replacement, HDPE pipe installation, and compliance with FDOT and county standards. The project requires precise coordination with county utilities and transportation departments, indicating a need for contractors with extensive experience in municipal infrastructure projects. The inclusion of alternate bid options for pipe diameter and material types suggests flexibility in the procurement process and an openness to cost-effective engineering solutions. Contractors will need to provide detailed pricing, demonstrate technical expertise in utility infrastructure, and show capability to complete the project within the specified 80-day operational timeline.