DDO Laminated Sign Panel Replacement Various Routes Project

This project involves the emergency replacement of nine failing laminated sign panels on state highways SR-5, SR-22, SR-55, SR-91, and SR-241 in Orange County, California, under a Caltrans District 12 Director’s Order using Force Account procedures. The panels, identified with improper adhesive that has led to de-bonding and delamination, are being removed and replaced with new units fabricated offsite and installed at night to minimize traffic disruption. Two of the signs are mounted on sign structures while seven are mounted on two-wood post systems along roadside shoulders, with all work confined within Caltrans right-of-way and no vegetation removal or soil disturbance beyond minimal 2 ft by 2 ft by 6 ft areas allowed. The project has been classified as exempt under CEQA and NEPA, with environmental compliance ensured through adherence to NPDES permit requirements and Caltrans Storm Water Quality Handbooks, particularly Section 13 of the 2024 Caltrans Standard Specifications. The solicitation number is 0V8904/1225000100, issued on December 29, 2025, with a submission deadline of July 7, 2025, and the work was authorized via a Director’s Order following completion of environmental review on July 9, 2025. The project is funded solely by state resources with no federal-aid or appropriation codes identified, and no formal contract value, pricing, or payment system is specified due to its internal force account nature. There is no competitive bidding process, no named contractor, and no standard FAR clauses, evaluation factors, or procurement awards applied, as this is an administrative emergency action handled directly by Caltrans. Performance occurs at listed post-mile locations along the specified routes, with inspection and acceptance managed by Caltrans District 12 personnel at the installation sites. Key contacts include Judy Bernal as the primary environmental planner, with oversight from Water Quality and Environmental Planning staff, though no COR, COTR, or PCO roles are formally designated. All work is performed under strict environmental and operational constraints, including nighttime execution and a prohibition on temporary construction easements, with no additional packaging, marking, or socioeconomic requirements applicable since no external vendor is involved.