U. S Highway 27 Utility (Gas) Turnpike Relocation Project

The City of Leesburg is seeking a qualified Florida licensed contractor to perform a U.S. Highway 27 Utility (Gas) Turnpike Relocation Project involving the abandonment and installation of approximately 1,500 feet of 6-inch steel natural gas main. The project requires boring under the Florida Turnpike along U.S. Highway 27 and is being partially funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), which is expanding the turnpike from four to eight lanes. Contractors must meet API 1104 standards and satisfy the City of Leesburg Natural Gas Department's Operator Qualifications requirements. The solicitation (IFB No. 26-002-HG) requires a mandatory pre-bid conference on October 15, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at the Venetian Center, with final bids due on November 5, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. Key deliverables include comprehensive utility infrastructure installation, including directional boring, pipe installation, connections, pressure testing, and site restoration. Evaluation criteria will likely involve contractor qualifications, technical capabilities, compliance with specifications, and pricing submitted through the itemized price schedule.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must submit a 5% bid bond, provide proof of insurance, and demonstrate compliance with various certification requirements including conflict of interest, non-collusion, and e-verify documentation. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the City will provide certain materials for the project, including pipes, fittings, and coatings. The project has a targeted completion date of February 12, 2026, with liquidated damages of $1,685 per day for delays beyond this date. Though a precise contract value is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the utility relocation project, involving approximately 1,500 linear feet of gas main installation and associated infrastructure work, suggests a significant capital investment. Contractors will need to submit detailed references, lists of equipment and supervisory personnel, and demonstrate familiarity with federal grant funding requirements associated with the FDOT-supported infrastructure improvement.