Pole Testing

The City of Port Angeles, Washington, has issued a sealed bid solicitation (CON-2024-19) for the inspection and testing of wood power poles within the city limits, with bids due by 2:00 PM on May 22, 2024. The project involves a firm fixed-price contract estimated between $54,000 and $60,000 and is managed by the City’s Public Works and Utilities Department. The scope distinguishes poles by age: newer poles (0–5 years) undergo visual inspection while older poles (6+ years) require extensive evaluation including above- and below-ground testing, sounding, excavation, boring, and fumigation if necessary. The contractor is responsible for providing all labor, tools, equipment, and documentation systems for the work while the City supplies location maps. Inspection results must be documented with electronic imaging and detailed reports, submitted through the City's Virtual Project Manager system, culminating in a formal Certification of Work Completion. The project mandates full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations covering safety, environmental protection, pesticide application, nondiscrimination, and prevailing wage statutes. Contractual and procedural requirements include submission of various bid forms such as a Bid Form, Non-Collusion Affidavit, Bid Bond, and certifications of registration and insurance. Bonds (performance and payment) are required for bids over $35,000. The contract sets a firm completion deadline of July 31, 2024, or within 20 days following the Notice to Proceed. Safety and quality standards are rigorously defined, referencing City and state specifications, OSHA and EPA regulations, Washington pesticide laws, and public works standards like WSDOT/APWA 2023 standards. Acceptances are contingent upon the City Engineer’s approval after thorough onsite inspections, following criteria including the National Electrical Safety Code and specific decay and defect thresholds. The contractor must secure all materials properly during transportation and storage, apply EPA-registered preservatives per label instructions, and correctly mark poles with weatherproof tags. The administrative management of the contract involves monthly invoicing reviewed and approved by the City’s Public Works director or designee; however, there is no electronic invoice processing system mandated. The solicitation encourages participation from small and disadvantaged businesses but does not specify formal evaluation criteria, suggesting award based on responsiveness and price according to sealed bid procedures. Overall, the contract emphasizes regulatory compliance, detailed fieldwork, thorough documentation, and clear lines of responsibility between the City and the contractor.