How to bid on M/V Powhatan Maintenance for Virginia Department of Transportation

What the agency is buying

The Virginia Department of Transportation is seeking a contractor to provide all labor, rigging, materials, equipment, and services, including crane services, for the M/V Powhatan. This work involves cleaning, painting, and making repairs to the vessel. The project will take place in Surry, Virginia.

This opportunity is for businesses that can handle comprehensive marine vessel maintenance, specifically for a ferry. It offers a chance to work with a state transportation agency on a critical infrastructure asset.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on July 31, 2026. All responses must be submitted by August 25, 2026, at 7:00 AM ET. It is important to submit your bid before this deadline, as late submissions are typically not accepted.

Who this opportunity suits

This Invitation for Bid (IFB) is suitable for firms specializing in marine vessel maintenance, industrial painting, and repair services. Companies with experience in providing crane services and a suitable plant site for such work would be well-suited. The category for this work is facilities maintenance, specifically for marine assets.

How to respond

To access the solicitation documents, click the “View original source” link. This will direct you to the eVA, Virginia’s eProcurement portal, where the solicitation 125430 is posted. You can view the full details publicly without an account.

To submit a response, you will need to sign in with a free eVA vendor account. Ensure you have an active account or create one well in advance of the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Tips for a competitive response

When preparing your bid, carefully review all specifications for cleaning, painting, and repair work. Clearly detail your proposed methods, materials, and equipment, especially regarding the crane services and plant site. Highlight your experience with similar marine vessel projects.

Ensure your pricing is comprehensive and covers all aspects of the work, including labor, materials, and any necessary permits or logistics. A well-organized and thorough response that directly addresses all requirements in the solicitation will strengthen your bid.