Van Saun Zoo Railroad Improvements

Bergen County, New Jersey is soliciting bids for the Van Saun Zoo Railroad Improvements project (Contract No. BC-C-25-019), a comprehensive railroad signal system infrastructure upgrade. The project requires furnishing and installing a new train control signal system across multiple locations within the zoo, specifically involving the installation of railroad signal houses, gates, foundations, automatic signals, LED lights, and associated conduit and cable infrastructure. Key deliverables include Western Cullen 3593 railroad gates, 12" LED lights, direct burial cables, track bonding, insulated joints, and insulated turnout throw rods, all to be installed in strict accordance with Chance Rides Manufacturing and American Railway Engineering standards. Electronic bids will be received through the Euna E-Procurement platform on October 9, 2025, at 12:00 pm, with a live-stream bid opening. Bidders must submit a bid bond for 10% of the total bid price (not exceeding $20,000) and a Certificate of Consent of Surety, with electronic bid bonds accepted. The project has a defined completion timeline of four months, and contractors must obtain all necessary permits and conduct local inspections.

The procurement includes several set-aside and diversity provisions, with Bergen County promoting economic inclusion through its Joint Venture and Set-Aside Program targeting Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Women's Business Enterprises (WBE), Veteran Business Enterprises (VBE), and Small Business Enterprises (SBE). Contractors must demonstrate participation in approved apprenticeship programs or have verifiable on-the-job experience, particularly for projects with engineering estimates exceeding $250,000. Additional compliance requirements include submitting Ownership Disclosure statements, Federal Non-Debarment Certifications, Iran Investment Disclosure forms, and Equal Employment Opportunity documentation. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, contractors must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 in comprehensive general liability. Potential bidders must register on the Bergen County Purchasing portal and upload necessary business registration and certification documents. The county reserves the right to reject any bid and emphasizes strict adherence to non-discrimination policies, prevailing wage regulations, and various state and federal contracting standards.