Turtle Enclosure Design, Fabrication and Installation

The Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission is requesting proposals for complete design, fabrication, installation, and commissioning of a new permanent semi-aquatic turtle exhibit occupying approximately 50 square feet in its Discovery Center at 195 New Karner Road, Albany, New York, with proposals due September 1, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. The solicitation carries mandatory New York State prevailing wage compliance and subcontracting goals: 15% Minority Owned Business Enterprise (MBE), 15% Women Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), and 6% Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business (SDVOB) participation.

The exhibit must support three native turtle species—Wood turtle, Eastern box turtle, and Spotted turtle—and provide an interactive, ADA-compliant experience interpreting the Albany Pine Bush Inland Pine Barrens ecosystem. The scope encompasses habitat design, demolition of the existing exhibit, site preparation, installation, testing, commissioning, and warranty services. All work must be completed by March 1, 2027.

The selected contractor must provide a minimum five-year warranty covering workmanship, fabrication, mechanical systems, lighting, interactive components, graphics, finishes, and exhibit hardware, in addition to manufacturers' warranties for specialty equipment. Contractors must submit utilization plans for MWBE and SDVOB subcontractors, proof of New York State workers compensation insurance, EEO and sexual harassment prevention policies, and applicable licenses.

Evaluation will proceed through interviews with the top three proposals, using cost, technical expertise, references, and interview performance as criteria. The Commission will award to the lowest responsible bidder. Contractors must submit certified payrolls with each invoice. Inquiries and proposals should be directed to Blake Hastie-Etchison, Discovery Center Manager, at betchison@albanypinebush.org or 518-690-2777.