Bid guide
How to bid on the Butterfly Dome Replacement for the Saint Louis Zoo
What the Saint Louis Zoo is buying
The Saint Louis Zoo seeks proposals to replace the geodesic dome over the Mary Ann Lee Butterfly Wing at the Bayer Insectarium. The work includes removing and recycling or disposing of the existing aluminum frame and acrylic glazing, preparing the concrete foundation walls, and designing, fabricating, and installing a new aluminum frame with an ETFE roof system.
The contractor is also responsible for the labor, materials, equipment, delegated design and services needed for the work, along with the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems required to operate the ETFE system. The exhibit and surrounding areas must be protected, and disturbed site areas restored.
Key dates and the closing deadline
The RFP was published October 28, 2026. Questions are due November 12, 2026. The proposal deadline is November 19, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET.
Submit through BidNet Direct, or as the notice directs, before the closing time. The provided information does not specify what happens after the deadline, so check the solicitation notice and documents for submission instructions.
Who this opportunity suits
This construction opportunity suits qualified contractors able to manage structural replacement work, including removal and disposal, foundation preparation, delegated design, fabrication and installation.
Relevant capabilities include aluminum structural framing, ETFE roof systems, and coordinating the mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment needed for the roof system. Contractors should also be prepared to protect an existing exhibit and restore disturbed areas.
How to access and respond
Open the solicitation on BidNet Direct using the “View original source” option. The title and dates are public; a free BidNet Direct vendor account is required to see the full notice, documents and addenda.
Review the documents and any addenda, then submit your response through BidNet Direct or as the notice directs. Make sure it is submitted before November 19, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET.
Prepare a clear, competitive proposal
Use the solicitation documents to confirm the required proposal format, submission steps, scope details and any evaluation criteria. Track the November 12 question deadline, and send questions through the process stated in the notice.
Explain how your team will handle removal and disposal, foundation preparation, design and installation, required MEP systems, and protection of the exhibit and landscaping. Describe how you will restore disturbed areas, and make sure your response addresses each requirement in the solicitation.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Saint Louis Zoo; the original posting controls.