Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Connecticut Partnership in Parks Initiative Notice of Draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for Operation of Paddlecraft Rental Services in State Parks

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) invites public comment on a draft Request for Proposals (RFP), developed under the Partnerships in Parks Initiative. This draft RFP seeks partners to operate canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rental services at any or all of the following locations:

  • Hopeville Pond State Park, Griswold
  • Indian Well State Park, Shelton
  • Mount Tom State Park, Litchfield
  • Pattaconk Reservoir/Lake Recreation Area, Cockaponset State Forest, Chester/Haddam
  • Squantz Pond State Park, New Fairfield

Draft RFP Title & Link: Operation of Paddlecraft Rentals in Multiple State Parks

1.     PUBLIC COMMENT & FEEDBACK REQUESTED

DEEP will accept written comments on the draft RFP until November 7, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. DEEP welcomes any general comments related to the draft RFP and invites responses via email. Submit comments by email to Tenia Seay at DEEP.parksdivisionRFP@ct.gov with the subject line “Paddlecraft Rentals Draft RFP Comments.”

Optional Feedback Prompts

  • How will paddlecraft rentals at these locations enhance your experience at the relevant state park?
  • What qualifications or experience should be required of vendors?
  • What factors should be added or removed from the evaluation criteria?
  • How could DEEP make it easier for small and local businesses to apply, qualify and compete for the final RFP?
  • Are there any other locations DEEP should consider adding to the RFP?
  • Do you have other comments on the draft (e.g., scope of services, terms, or selection process)?

2.    PURPOSE OF THE DRAFT RFP

Posting the draft RFP for comments provides both the public and potential bidders an opportunity to comment on the objectives, scope of services, terms, evaluation criteria, selection process, and other elements before a final RFP is released. Additionally, DEEP will not be responding to comments provided, but may adjust the final version based on comments received.  

  • This draft RFP attempts to achieve the goals of the Partnerships in Parks Initiative which are:
  • Enhance outdoor recreation experiences and services in State Parks;
  • Expand equitable access to the outdoors; and
  • Strengthen Connecticut’s tourism destinations.

3.    ACCOMMODATIONS NOTICE

DEEP is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to complying with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact us at 860-418-5910 or DEEP.accommodations@ct.gov if you seek a communication aid or service, have limited proficiency in English and may need information in another language, require some other accommodation, or wish to file an ADA or Title VI discrimination complaint. Any person needing hearing accommodation may call the State of Connecticut relay number at 711. Requests for accommodation must be made at least two weeks prior to any agency hearing, program, or event.