SOLAR LIGHTING SYSTEM FOR BARTOW SPORT COMPLEX PARKING LOT

The City of Bartow has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP 26-09) for the design and supply of a high-efficiency solar-powered LED lighting system for the Bartow Sports Complex parking lot. The objective is to enhance nighttime safety and accessibility while advancing the City's sustainability and infrastructure modernization initiatives by reducing dependence on grid electricity and lowering operational costs. This solar lighting system must comply with applicable lighting standards, including IES RP-6-20, and incorporate advanced features such as remote access, dimming capabilities, a secure mesh network, and cloud-based monitoring. The scope excludes installation and focuses on delivering detailed design plans and system components including poles, luminaires, photovoltaic panels, battery storage, and controls. The facility is publicly accessible seven days a week, and proposers are encouraged to perform site visits during specified hours to prepare responsive proposals. The submission deadline is April 1, 2026, with proposals accepted via physical delivery or electronic submission through the City's OpenGov portal; late or multiple-method submissions will not be considered. Proposals will be rigorously evaluated using a weighted scoring system emphasizing technical merit: approach to the project (40 points), experience and expertise (30 points), and performance surveys (10 points) comprise the bulk of the total 110 points, while cost factors contribute only 10 points, making price a secondary consideration in award decisions. Additional evaluation criteria include executive summary quality, organizational resources, participation of Women- and Minority-Owned Businesses (W/MBE), and utilization of local businesses. The award process involves a trade-off analysis based on the best overall value rather than lowest price alone. Required bidder certifications include compliance with drug-free workplace laws, immigration laws, E-Verify enrollment, non-collusion, and lobbying restrictions, alongside disclosures regarding conflicts of interest. The contract contains specific clauses related to key personnel supervision, indemnification, public records compliance, and technical specifications; deviations from specs must be clearly indicated and alternative products require City approval. Deliverables must be furnished within 90 days from contract award, with inspection and acceptance occurring at a designated facility controlled by the City. Payment will be processed via the City's Accounts Payable office following invoice submission referencing the applicable bid or purchase order number. This solicitation reflects the City's commitment to sustainable, technologically advanced public infrastructure improvements with stringent adherence to regulatory and procedural requirements.