Ashley River Scenic Blue Trail Obstruction Clearing

Dorchester County is seeking a qualified contractor to clear woody debris and other natural obstructions from a 4‑5 mile stretch of the Ashley River Scenic Blue Trail to restore safe, continuous motorized recreational navigation. The contractor must provide all labor, supervision, equipment (boats, barges, chipping gear, etc.), safety measures, and debris handling/disposal in compliance with South Carolina DNR best‑management practices and all applicable environmental permits. Work must be completed within 180 calendar days of the Notice to Proceed, with final completion 30 days thereafter. The project is partially funded by the Federal Recreational Trails Program, and the County will pay for approved quantities of navigation clearing, debris removal, and a fixed $5,000 disposal/processing allowance. • Scope: cut, trim, reposition, and secure woody debris; clear logjams; chip and remove material when authorized; protect bridges, utilities, and river ecology. • Location: Ashley River between Ashley River Park/Bacons Bridge Road (SC 165) and Highway 17A (≈4‑5 river miles). • Required assets: vessels, barges, floating platforms, chainsaws, chippers, rigging, safety gear, and disposal logistics within 30 road‑mile radius of Ashley River Park. • Minimum qualifications: ≥3 similar waterway‑clearing projects in past 7 years, a Project Manager with ≥3 years relevant experience, and all necessary state/federal permits. • Bid submission: electronic via OpenGov portal; questions due Oct 27 2026; bid opening Nov 5 2026; no pre‑bid meeting.