How to bid on the FDC-CM20007 Lake CI Modernization Project for Florida Department of Corrections

What the agency is buying and why a vendor would care

The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is undertaking a significant modernization project at its Lake CI facility in Clermont, Florida. This project, FDC-CM20007 Lake CI Modernization Project, has an estimated overall construction budget of $130 million.

Ajax Building Company LLC is the Construction Manager for this project and is seeking pre-qualified subcontractors for various scopes of work. This is a substantial opportunity for construction firms specializing in trades such as concrete, masonry, roofing, HVAC, security systems, and many others across multiple bid groups.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation was published on May 1, 2026. Pre-bid meetings via video call are scheduled for May 20, 2026, for Bid Groups #2, #3, and #4. A site visit will be discussed during these pre-bid conferences.

Bid openings are scheduled for June 3, 2026, for Bid Group #2; June 4, 2026, for Bid Group #3; and June 5, 2026, for Bid Group #4. All bid openings will be held at 2:00 PM EDT at Ajax’s Offices in Clermont, Florida. The final deadline for this overall project is October 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. Subcontractors must pre-qualify and submit their responses before their respective bid opening dates.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction subcontractors with expertise in a wide range of trades. Specific bid packages include work for survey, testing laboratories, concrete, masonry, metals, doors, detention equipment, security fences, roofing, metal panels, glass and glazing, drywall, fire protection, plumbing, HVAC, communications, and security electronics.

Further opportunities exist for final cleaning, wood and composites, waterproofing, fireproofing, overhead doors, acoustical ceilings, wood flooring, carpet and resilient flooring, painting, resinous flooring, access flooring, miscellaneous equipment, appliances, and window treatments. Firms with experience in correctional facility construction or large-scale institutional projects will find this particularly relevant.

How to respond

To respond to this opportunity, interested subcontractors must first pre-qualify through Ajax Building Company LLC’s website. Bidding documents will only be made available to pre-qualified subcontractors. Pre-qualification forms and instructions are available on Ajax’s website.

You can view the original solicitation on Florida’s MyFloridaMarketplace Vendor Information Portal by clicking the “View original source” link. Once on the portal, allow the page to load, then read the posting. Submission instructions for your response will be detailed in the posting and specific bid packages. Bid awards will be made in accordance with Section 255.29, Florida Statutes.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Thoroughly review all pre-qualification requirements on Ajax Building Company’s website. Ensure all necessary documentation, certifications, and financial information are current and accurately submitted to avoid delays in receiving bid packages.

Attend the scheduled pre-bid meetings for your relevant bid group. These meetings are crucial for understanding the project scope, asking questions, and potentially discussing site visit logistics. Pay close attention to the specific details provided for your bid package, as bid awards will be made based on these details.

Prepare your bid well in advance of the deadline. This includes carefully estimating costs, scheduling resources, and ensuring compliance with all specifications. For a project of this scale, demonstrating your firm's capacity, relevant experience, and financial stability will be key.