Tree & Shrub Removal - University Region (as needed)

The Michigan Department of Transportation is requesting proposals for tree and shrub removal services across the University Region (Lansing, Jackson, and Brighton Transportation Service Centers) on an as-needed basis under RFP 26-2669, with proposals due October 7, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern. Mandatory qualifications require International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist certification for personnel performing tree removal and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Commercial Pesticide Applicator licensure in Category 3B (Ornamental Plant and Shade Tree Pest Management) and Category 6 (Right of Way Pest Management) for chemical applicators.

The scope encompasses tree and shrub removal, trimming, stump grinding, chemical stump treatment, and site restoration across Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, and Washtenaw counties. Work is assigned through written orders in three priority categories: Category 1 (seven business days), Category 2 (thirty business days), and Category 3 (sixty business days). The RFP may result in a single regional contract or individual contracts for each service center. Contractors must furnish all labor, equipment, materials, and supplies and submit an Equipment List documenting owned equipment available at contract start.

The contract term is one year effective October 21, 2026 through October 20, 2027, with four one-year renewal options at the State's sole discretion. Pricing is firm for 365 days; separate pricing schedules apply to each service center with unit prices for 23 line items (tree removal by diameter class, stump grinding, chemical treatment, site restoration, trimming, brush clearing, and ground protection pads) multiplied by estimated annual occurrences. Liquidated damages of $2,500 plus $100 per day apply for late or improper completion.

The State will evaluate proposals on a pass/fail basis and award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. An optional pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for September 30, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern via Microsoft Teams. Written questions are due October 1, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern, with answers posted by October 2 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern. Submissions must be made through the SIGMA VSS online system in modifiable native formats with pricing submitted separately. Contracts valued at $250,000 or more require State Administrative Board approval.