Grounds Maintenance Services for District Schools: Comprehensive Mowing and Management Program

Background
Durham Public Schools (DPS) is seeking to contract out its grounds maintenance services, specifically mowing activities across all district sites. The goal is to maintain a high standard of appearance for all schools, ensuring they are safe and visually appealing at all times. The DPS Grounds Department aims to protect the capital investment of each campus through a well-defined maintenance program that emphasizes quality, cost efficiency, and effective resource utilization.

Work Details
The contractor will provide comprehensive mowing services for various school grounds in specified regions. This includes:
- Mowing all established grass areas to a uniform height of 3 inches.
- Trimming and weed-eating around structures, flowerbeds, and similar areas.
- Maintaining growth under bleachers without concrete pads.
- Removing trash and debris from lawn areas before mowing.
- Edging sidewalks and curbs for a finished appearance.
- Herbicide application for weed control in mulched areas, flowerbeds, and along fence lines.
- Monthly walkthroughs with the Grounds supervisor from March 1 to October 31 to assess maintenance quality.
The contractor must also provide a list of equipment used for the work, demonstrate experience with similar projects, and maintain compliance with safety regulations.

Period of Performance
The contract will be annual, commencing on July 15th and concluding on June 30th each year. The typical mowing season runs from the third week of July through the second week of October (10 full services per zone) and from the third week of March through June 30th (10 full services per zone). The contract may be extended for up to two additional one-year periods if mutually agreed upon.

Place of Performance
Mowing services will be performed at various school locations throughout Durham County, North Carolina, including but not limited to Hillside High School, Southern High School, Lucas Middle School, and others listed in the RFP.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must have a registered pesticide applicator's license during the contract term. They should demonstrate prior experience in grounds maintenance with references from at least three properties maintained over the last calendar year. Bidders must also provide proof of financial stability and undergo background checks as required by Durham Public Schools.