Freshwater Boat Ramp Facility Improvements

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is issuing a solicitation for a qualified general contractor to undertake significant improvements at two freshwater boating facilities in northern Rhode Island, specifically at Keech Pond in Glocester and Wilson Reservoir in Burrillville. The project involves demolishing existing boat ramps and constructing new ones, including the installation of concrete abutments, floating docks, and an aquatic invasive species washdown station at Wilson Reservoir to help protect aquatic ecosystems. The scope emphasizes site improvements, roadway restoration, and adherence to environmental and safety standards, with a contract duration of approximately two years starting in early 2026, with an option for a one-year renewal. The procurement process requires vendors to submit bids via Ocean State Procures™, including surety bonds and certifications, with a pre-bid conference scheduled for November 18, 2025. The contract is valued between $500,000 and $1,500,000 and incorporates specific clauses aligned with Rhode Island state laws and standards, including prevailing wage requirements, domestic steel mandates, and liquidated damages of $800 per day for delays. The solicitation references standard AIA contract documents for agreement and general conditions, and emphasizes compliance with environmental, licensing, and insurance requirements. Evaluation criteria are primarily compliance-based, with no explicit scoring or weighting system detailed, and awards may be made to one or multiple responsive, responsible bidders. The procurement emphasizes transparency, confidentiality, and adherence to statutory and regulatory standards, with detailed instructions for proposal submission, documentation, and certifications covering conflict of interest, past debarments, and socioeconomic participation, notably a 15% MBE/WBE participation goal. The overall process underscores the importance of regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and project performance standards to ensure the successful enhancement of boating access and ecosystem protection at these key Rhode Island sites.