GAOA Iargo Springs Interpretive Site Stair and Boardwalk Renovation
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The USDA Forest Service is soliciting bids for the GAOA Iargo Springs Interpretive Site Stair and Boardwalk Renovation project in Oscoda, MI. This Invitation For Bids (IFB) seeks a contractor to perform significant site improvements, including the removal and replacement of existing wooden stairs and observation platform components. This opportunity is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Bids are due by March 10, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. Eastern.
Scope of Work
The project involves comprehensive renovation at the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. Key tasks include:
- Removal and replacement of the existing wood stair from the upper parking area to the lower boardwalk.
- Removal and replacement of the upper observation platform decking and railings.
- Removal of a stairway and landing near the dam at the lower level, followed by the installation of a new railing.
- An optional bid item for select boardwalk maintenance. The worksite features steep slopes and wetlands, necessitating careful planning and execution.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price (FFP)
- Estimated Magnitude: Between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000
- Period of Performance: 545 days after the Notice to Proceed (NTP). The government prefers completion within one construction season.
- NAICS Code: 237990 Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction, with a small business size standard of $45,000,000.
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside.
- Place of Performance: Iosco County, Oscoda, MI 48750.
Submission & Evaluation
Bids must be emailed to debra.brinn@usda.gov and CC paul.boucher@usda.gov by the deadline. A complete bid requires Attachment 02 "Schedule of Items" with all items priced and acknowledgement of all amendments. Bids exceeding $150,000 for base items require a bid bond on Standard Form 24 (SF-24). Award will be made to the lowest priced, responsible, and responsive offeror. Offerors must hold prices firm for 90 calendar days.
Key Considerations
- Site Inspection: Contractors are strongly encouraged to inspect the location due to challenging site conditions.
- Alternate Offers: Permitted for Diamond Pier, Helical-type foundations, and Aluminum stair treads. These require a complete written description, detailed deviations, a Professional Engineer (PE) stamped design, and Buy American Act documentation, submitted at least seven days prior to bid opening.
- Environmental: No oak trees may be cut between April 15 and July 15 due to Oak Wilt fungus.
- Labor: Davis Bacon wages apply to this federal construction project.
- Site Closure: The site will be closed to the public during construction, with the contractor responsible for barricading and signage.