How to bid on RRIC Construction Services for 2026 Offseason Work – Bid Package 2, City and County of Denver

What the agency is buying

The City and County of Denver is seeking bids for civil and site infrastructure improvements at Red Rocks Amphitheatre’s Jurassic Lot. This project, known as RRIC Construction Services for 2026 Offseason Work – Bid Package 2, involves preparing the site for future development and operational use. The work includes demolition, mass earthwork, grading, erosion control, and the construction of storm drainage infrastructure. It also covers the installation and extension of electrical distribution systems, site power, lighting infrastructure, and related utility improvements. Roadway and parking area subgrade preparation, utility coordination, traffic control, and site restoration are also part of the scope.

Hardscape improvements such as curb and gutter, site concrete, decorative concrete paving, and asphalt paving are excluded from the base bid but are listed as add alternates for potential inclusion. This opportunity is significant for firms specializing in heavy civil construction looking to work on public infrastructure projects in Denver.

Key dates and deadlines

There is a mandatory virtual pre-bid meeting on August 4, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. local time. Attending this meeting is required for all bidders. Questions regarding the solicitation are due by August 28, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. local time. The bid opening is scheduled for September 14, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. MST. Bids must be received and accepted by M.A. Mortenson via their SmartBid system by the deadline.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for heavy civil construction firms. Bidders must be prequalified with the City and County of Denver in category 1A Heavy Civil at or above the $15,000,000 monetary level. A prequalification application must have been submitted a minimum of ten calendar days prior to the bid due date. There is also a 15% Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) goal for this contract. Firms with experience in site preparation, earthwork, drainage, and electrical infrastructure for large-scale outdoor venues would be well-suited.

How to respond

To respond to this Invitation for Bid (IFB), first access the solicitation's page on denvergov.org. This page contains the full details, including the statement of work, reference number, and closing date. The posting page will also provide specific instructions on how to obtain bid documents and how to submit your response. Bids will be received and accepted by M.A. Mortenson via their SmartBid system. Ensure you follow all instructions precisely before the September 14, 2026, deadline.

Remember to attend the mandatory virtual pre-bid meeting on August 4, 2026, and submit any questions by August 28, 2026. Also, confirm your prequalification status and ensure it meets the specified requirements well in advance of the bid due date.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Given the prequalification requirement, ensure your firm's prequalification status is current and meets the $15 million threshold for Heavy Civil category 1A. If you need to apply or renew, do so at least ten calendar days before the bid due date. Pay close attention to the 15% MWBE goal and plan how your firm will meet or exceed this requirement, potentially through partnerships or subcontracting.

Thoroughly review all bid documents, including any plans available via SmartBid. Clearly understand the scope of work, especially what is included in the base bid versus the add alternates. Prepare detailed cost estimates for both the base bid and each add alternate. Attend the mandatory pre-bid meeting to gain insights and ask clarifying questions. Ensure your submission through SmartBid is complete, accurate, and submitted well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.