Calling All Contractors: Submit Your Proposal to Build the Trail Conference’s New Learning Pavilion

Lake Welch Education Center
The Trail Conference’s Welch Trail Education Center field campus, where our new Learning Pavilion will take shape

Are you a skilled builder, craftsperson, or contractor ready to take on a meaningful project? If so, join us in shaping the future of outdoor education in Harriman State Park!

The New York–New Jersey Trail Conference is currently seeking qualified general contractors for a new construction project: the Learning Pavilion at our Welch Trail Education Center, located in Harriman State Park, Orange County, New York.

This exciting project will create a three-season structure for outdoor education and training set within Harriman’s scenic natural environment. We welcome inquiries and encourage all qualified firms, including MWBE-certified contractors, to review the opportunity and submit a proposal.

The RFQ is now live on the New York State Contract Reporter website.

CLICK HERE TO REVIEW THE FULL RFQ ON NYSCR.NY.GOV

*Please note that you’ll need to create a free account with Contract Reporter in order to view the RFQ.

Read on for key dates, a preview of the project’s scope, and essential contact information.

Key dates:

  • Site visit: July 1, 2025 (strongly encouraged – RSVP required)
  • Deadline for questions: July 11, 2025, by 4:00 PM
  • Bid submission deadline: July 28, 2025, by 2:00 PM (no late bids accepted)
  • Target construction start date: September 2025
  • Construction completion deadline: Within 5 months of start date (reasonable extensions for weather delays may be granted)

A preview of the project’s scope:

  • Site preparation – The lot is already cleared of trees.  There are only some small boulders to move out of the way before beginning foundation work for pier installation.
    • Boulders will be stockpiled for the Trail Conference at the direction of the project representative.
  • Structural construction – Wood framing, roofing, and exterior finishing.
    • Live edge wood siding will be provided and primed by the Trail Conference; the contractor will install the siding.
  • There is no insulation, heating or cooling within the building.
  • Flooring & decking – Installation of wooden floor.
  • Windows & doors – Three-season appropriate materials made of all wood and glass.
  • Electrical & lighting – Electrical system.
  • Water supply and waste line – The Park will make all water connections and waste lines to and from the building. The building will be un-heated, and all plumbing lines must be provided with valves and layout to allow for seasonal drainage and shut down.
  • ADA accessibility features – Ramps, pathways, and entrances compliant with ADA standards. Site preparation and grading for concrete two ADA parking spots.
  • Final inspection & project closeout – Submittal of as-built drawings, compliance documentation, and operation and maintenance manuals.

Contact information:

If you have any questions or would like to attend the July 1 site visit, please contact Conservation Corps Program Coordinator Nancy Krause [email protected].

The Welch Trail Learning Pavilion project, located at our Welch Trail Education Center and set within Harriman State Park, is funded in part by a grant from the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) through Title 9 of the Environmental Protection Act of 1993. Since 2017, the Trail Conference has successfully completed three grants and is currently working on two grant projects in partnership with the OPRHP, enhancing trails and parks to provide lasting benefits for public enjoyment and connection with nature. 

REVIEW THE FULL RFQ ON NYSCR.NY.GOV

Thank you for your interest in joining us on this exciting new project. We look forward to hearing from you!

A view of Lower Twin Lake at the site of our Welch Trail Education Center