March 2010

Opportunities for KY DBEs- Right-of-Way

With the authorization of $100 million in bonds in Kentucky, right-of-way progress has increased on the Ohio River Bridges Project. Right-of-way is the acquisition process for properties affected by the Project. While limited acquisitions began in 2007 with the acquisition of a few residential properties in Louisville’s east end, the recent financing has resulted in an increase in activities.

While the appraisal and acquisition contract services have already been secured, additional services will be required which will provide opportunities for qualified KY Disadvantaged Business Enterprises.

Residential Abatement and Demolition
The opportunities relating to the residential right-of-way, predominantly related to the East End section of the Project, will be exclusively low-bid contracts for the demolition of residential properties, most of which have basements. Demolition includes filling in any holes to full compaction requirements. Seeding or sodding and other erosion control measures will also be required. The contractor must demonstrate experience in handling demolition in the indicated manner. Contracting opportunities for residential right-of-way contracting opportunities will be listed on the KYTC website at http://transportation.ky.gov/contract.

Contractors experienced in the abatement of hazardous materials, most commonly asbestos, will also be needed for the residential portion of right-of-way. Pre-construction prequalification will be required for hazardous materials and must be applied for through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Division of Professional Services prior to bidding on the work. Contact Mike Hill (502) 564-4555.

Downtown Demolition Projects
Brett Theiss, the Ohio River Bridges Right-of-Way Manager, explains that the downtown demolition will require more specialized qualifications and experience. “Razing structures so close to highways, roads and other structures present many safety and environmental issues that make performance standards high.” Asbestos abatement for these structures is also required before any demolition occurs for these buildings.

KYTC’s Division of Purchases
The KYTC web page will be posting right-of-way contracts. See the KY DBE eNewsletter article in this Issue for information about the eMars Vendor Self Service System that allows extended access to Vendor Registration, Browsing Current Bidding Opportunities, Viewing Recent Awards and Online Bidding as permitted.

Inquiries about opportunities for right-of-way can be addressed to the KY DBE Program Manager or the Ohio River Bridges Project Manager, Community Transportation Solutions’ John Sacksteder.