Trestle Bridge Rehabilitation - Pedestrian Bridge over Jabish Brook

The Town of Belchertown is seeking sealed bids for the rehabilitation of an existing 61-foot, 5-span timber former railroad trestle carrying a pedestrian and snowmobile trail over Jabish Brook.

The work includes the demolition of the existing bridge deck, curbs, and chainlink fence, followed by minor repairs to the timber substructure. Abutment seats and piers will be extended under the existing stringers, and new cross-bracing will be installed at each pile bent. Upon completion of the substructure work, a new timber deck, curbing, and chainlink fence will be installed.

The trestle is located in a remote setting and all materials must be delivered via the existing trail without damaging it. The trail will be closed for the duration of construction. Work must be completed by November 1, 2026 in time for the winter snowmobile season. A turtle monitoring program will be required during construction per Conservation Commission conditions.

Invitation to Bid - Trestle Bridge Rehabilitation - Pedestrian Bridge over Jabish Brook

Cover - Invitation to Bid - Trestle Bridge Rehabilitation - Pedestrian Bridge over Jabish Brook

Consulting Engineer:
Dan Whittemore, Fuss & O'Neill
Email: Daniel.Whittemore@fando.com

2) Experience — Must provide a list of three recent projects similar in character, including references, to demonstrate experience, skill, and business standing. References must be for projects carried out in Massachusetts.

3) Financial capacity — Must demonstrate sufficient capital and resources to complete the work on time.

4) OSHA Training — All employees must have completed a 10-hour OSHA construction safety and health course before beginning work.

5) Labor harmony — Must certify ability to furnish labor that works in harmony with all other elements of labor on the project.

6) Not debarred — Must certify they are not presently debarred from public construction work in Massachusetts.

2) Turtle Monitoring Program — Required during construction as a condition of the Conservation Commission approval. The engineer will create the plan and train the contractor's team, but the contractor is responsible for execution. No separate payment for this.

3) Stream Protection — No contractor, personnel, or equipment may enter the stream limits of Jabish Brook at any time. Temporary work platforms must attach to the existing trestle and not extend to the ground below. A temporary debris shield is required.

4) Work Schedule — Restricted to daylight hours, Monday through Friday only. No weekend or holiday work without prior written town approval.

5) Completion Deadline — Work must be completed by November 1, 2026 for the winter snowmobile season. Contractor must submit a schedule demonstrating they can meet this deadline.

6) Conservation Commission Conditions — The full Order of Conditions (DEP File #104-1131) applies, including a Wood Turtle Protection Plan that must be submitted to Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program before work begins, or work must not occur between April 15 and October 15.

7) Trail Closure — The trail must be signed closed at the nearest trailheads in both directions for the duration of construction.

8) Materials Ordering — Written evidence of ordered shop drawings and materials must be submitted within 14 days of contract award.

2) Notice to Proceed — Anticipated to be issued around July 2026.

3) Questions Deadline — Written questions must be submitted by Wednesday, May 6, 2026, emailed to both:

4) Engineer Dan Whittemore at Fuss & O'Neill: Daniel.Whittemore@fando.com
Town Manager Steve Williams: swilliams@belchertown.org

5) Electronic Documents — Drawings and contract documents are available for pickup at the Town Manager's office, or electronic copies can be requested by emailing Daniel.Whittemore@fando.com.

6) Prevailing Wages — Massachusetts prevailing wage rates apply per MGL Chapter 149, Sections 26 and 27D. Weekly payroll reports must be submitted to the awarding authority.

7) Governing Law — The contract is subject to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 30, Section 39M.

8) Late Bids — Will not be accepted under any circumstances. Postmarks are not considered.