Bid guide
How to bid on ferry service operation and maintenance at Randall's Island Park, NYC Parks
What NYC Parks is buying and why it matters
The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) is looking for a vendor to operate and maintain a ferry service at Randall's Island Park in Manhattan. This is an opportunity for businesses to provide essential transportation services, connecting the park to other areas, which can enhance park accessibility and visitor experience.
This solicitation is a Request for Proposals (RFP), meaning NYC Parks is seeking detailed plans and qualifications from potential operators, not just a price quote. The agency is looking for a partner to manage the full scope of ferry operations and maintenance.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The Request for Proposals (RFP) documents are available from July 31, 2026, through September 4, 2026. A recommended remote proposer meeting will be held on August 6, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. Attending this meeting is strongly advised if you plan to submit a proposal.
All proposals must be submitted no later than Friday, September 4, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. Late submissions will not be accepted, so ensure your proposal is complete and submitted well in advance of the deadline.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms with experience in operating and maintaining ferry services or similar transportation systems. Companies specializing in marine operations, public transit, or concession management with a strong operational track record would be well-suited.
The relevant category for this work is facilities management, specifically concerning transportation infrastructure within a park setting. Vendors should be prepared to demonstrate their capability to manage all aspects of a public ferry service, including safety, scheduling, and vessel maintenance.
How to respond to this RFP
To access the solicitation documents, you can view the original source on NYC's Current Solicitations list. Find this specific solicitation by its PIN or title. Hard copies of the RFP can be obtained at no cost by contacting Andrew Coppola, Deputy Director of Concessions, at (212) 360-3454 or [email protected], starting July 31, 2026.
The RFP is also available for download from July 31, 2026, through September 4, 2026, on the NYC Parks website. To view documents or submit your proposal, you will need to search the PIN on City Record Online or register a free vendor account in PASSPort and respond before the due date.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When preparing your proposal, clearly outline your experience in operating and maintaining ferry services, including details on your fleet, personnel qualifications, and safety protocols. Highlight any innovative approaches you can bring to enhance the service or visitor experience at Randall's Island Park.
Pay close attention to all instructions in the RFP. Ensure your proposal addresses every requirement and is organized clearly. A well-structured proposal that directly answers all questions and provides supporting documentation will stand out. Consider attending the recommended remote proposer meeting to gain insights and ask questions directly to the agency.
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 NYC Parks and Recreation; the original posting controls.