Z -- Hardin Ridge Electrical Construction on the Hoosier National Forest in Indiana

The contract involves awarding a sole source agreement to the Utilities District of Western Indiana REMC for the removal and underground relocation of approximately 14,860 feet of existing above-ground utility lines at the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area within the Hoosier National Forest in Monroe County, Indiana. The REMC currently provides primary electrical service to the area, with most lines being overhead and challenging to maintain due to the terrain. This project will relocate the power lines underground along the main entrance road, and REMC will also remove all disconnected power poles. The Forest Service will share the installation costs, benefiting both the forest and the utility provider, as REMC purchases materials and handles the installation independently. Upon completion, REMC will retain ownership and be responsible for ongoing maintenance of the utility service. The contract scope specifies that the Forest Service cannot engage other contractors for this installation due to REMC’s role. The estimated value of the work is under $100,000. The solicitation was posted on February 9, 2005, under the NAICS code 237130, related to electrical and utility line construction. The project reflects a collaborative effort to improve service reliability and maintenance efficiency in a challenging forest environment, with a designated contract specialist available for further contact.