RIC Adams Chiller Replacement

The Rhode Island College is soliciting bids for the replacement of the chiller at Adams Library, located on the college campus in Providence. The project scope involves demolishing and removing the existing chiller, then furnishing and installing a new chiller system, including all necessary piping, ductwork, and electrical connections. The procurement process is managed by Rhode Island Purchasing, with a solicitation posted on October 3, 2025, and a response deadline of October 31, 2025. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for October 15, 2025, at the college’s Forman Center. Bidders must submit their proposals electronically via Ocean State Procures™, including a bid surety bond or certified check equal to 5% of their bid, with the successful contractor required to provide 100% payment and performance bonds before contract award. The contract will be governed by Rhode Island’s general conditions, applicable laws, and the use of standard AIA contract forms, specifically AIA A101-2017 and A201-2017, with an emphasis on responsible and responsive bidding. The work is to commence immediately upon issuance of the purchase order, with substantial completion expected by April 1, 2026, and final completion by April 15, 2026, with liquidated damages of $250 per day for delays beyond these deadlines. The contractual framework incorporates Rhode Island’s general conditions of purchase, along with specific insurance, bonding, and prevailing wage requirements. Vendors must maintain appropriate licenses, comply with domestic steel mandates, and disclose any conflicts of interest or suspensions/debarments. The project emphasizes responsible procurement practices, requiring vendors to register and be approved in the Ocean State Procures system, and to submit all certifications and disclosures as part of their bid. Evaluation will be based on responsiveness, responsibility, and price, with the state reserving the right to reject any or all bids or make multiple awards. The contract includes provisions for liquidated damages, unit prices for change orders, and strict adherence to delivery deadlines, with performance to be inspected and accepted at the project site. Overall, the solicitation emphasizes transparency, compliance with legal and technical standards, and timely project completion within specified performance and quality standards.