DCR 947 Natural Surface Trail Planning

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) awarded a five‑year natural‑surface trail planning contract to SWCA. The work includes comprehensive planning, design, permitting, maintenance, repair, training, and volunteer coordination for Massachusetts trail systems. The contract is structured as a rate contract with an initial three‑year period and one optional two‑year renewal. Evaluation criteria emphasized experience in sustainable trail design, permitting expertise (wetlands, endangered species, historic resources), maintenance capabilities, and training/volunteer management. The solicitation required bidders to submit a detailed response form, a Supplier Diversity Plan, and compliance certifications. A high‑scoring vendor (96.67/100) was selected, indicating strong qualifications across all technical categories. • Scope: Trail planning, design, permitting, maintenance, repair, training, and volunteer coordination for natural‑surface trails. • Contract type: Rate contract (project‑by‑project pricing) with a three‑year base term and one optional two‑year renewal. • Evaluation focus: Demonstrated trail‑planning expertise, permitting knowledge, maintenance experience, and training/volunteer management.