Highway 71 and 525 Kenora - Close Cut Clearing

The Government of Ontario Ministry of Transportation has issued solicitation rfX_20476 for close cut clearing services along Highway 71 and Highway 525 in Kenora. The primary objective of this work is to improve drainage, operational safety, and sightlines, with a required completion date of April 30, 2027. The scope includes clearing 1,177,000 square meters on Highway 71 and providing temporary traffic control staging. Bids must be submitted electronically via the Ontario Tenders Portal by November 19, 2026. Awarding is based on the lowest priced compliant bid, with a significant 10% evaluation advantage granted to bidders demonstrating the highest proportion of Ontario-made goods and services, followed by Canadian-made goods and services. This advantage is calculated using a specific domestic supply chain formula and is used for evaluation purposes only. Mandatory requirements include a signed Domestic Supply Chain Plan, proof of insurance, and the delivery of performance securities within fifteen days of selection. Contractors must strictly adhere to the Occupational Health and Safety Act, maintaining written safety policies, providing competent supervision, and ensuring all workers complete mandatory health and safety awareness training. Additionally, bidders must provide a declaration regarding their business status as a U.S. or Canadian-controlled entity. The procurement process involves a two-stage evaluation to ensure all mandatory forms and technical requirements are met before the commercial response is reviewed.