Root Control Services / DPW&P

The City of Worcester solicited a one‑year contract for chemical root‑control services on its sanitary sewer system. The award went to Duke’s Root Control, Inc. for a total bid price of $132,035. The contractor must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Food & Agriculture, employ state‑certified pesticide applicators, carry $5 million pollution‑liability insurance, and provide guarantees for re‑treatment within six months and pipe blockage within two years. Work must commence within two days of notification and be reported with GIS‑derived data after each cycle. The contract may be renewed for two additional one‑year periods at the City’s discretion. • Scope: Apply Diquat‑based herbicide to various sewer pipe sizes (8‑20 in) covering ~58,250 ft. • Requirements: Licensed pesticide business, three certified applicators, extensive insurance, confined‑space certifications, and a wastewater‑impact study. • Evaluation: Lowest net price after allowable prompt‑pay discounts, with strict responsiveness criteria.