Guided White Water Rafting Concession

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is soliciting proposals for a seasonal guided white water rafting concession at Letchworth State Park in Castile, NY. Operating on the Genesee River from the Lower Falls launch area to the St Helena Area, the concession is required to operate from April 1 through October 31. The selected licensee must supply 100% of the necessary equipment, including rafts, safety gear, and vehicles, and is responsible for all operational costs, including the establishment of a shuttle service and the development of an Emergency Action Plan. The contract term is two years with possible extensions up to three years, commencing with the 2027 operating season. Award selection is based on a maximum of 120 points, with 90 points allocated to technical qualifications—such as operational performance, personnel expertise, and financial capacity—and 30 points awarded to the proposal offering the highest financial return to the State. Licensees must adhere to strict environmental standards, including a ban on polystyrene and a transition away from single-use plastic beverage containers by 2028. Additionally, the contract requires comprehensive commercial liability insurance, performance bonds for capital projects, and strict compliance with New York State labor laws, including prevailing wage requirements for construction and mandatory workplace policies regarding sexual harassment and gender-based violence. Proposals are due by November 3, 2026.