The City of Knoxville is seeking proposals to lease a temporary, seasonal ice rink for its annual holiday event. The lease agreement is for five years and includes installation, dismantling, ice-making equipment, rink, skates, and ancillary equipment. The event typically runs from after Thanksgiving through mid-January. The city will provide a custom base. Proposals are due August 19, 2026. Key evaluation criteria include firm qualifications, design/schedule, and cost.
The vendor is required to complete installation of the equipment at least seven (7) days prior to opening to the public, allowing sufficient time for the creation of the ice surface. All equipment is to be removed within five (5) days of closure.
Invoices for services will be submitted to the city in accordance with the contract terms.
The vendor shall provide a repair kit for minor repairs caused by skaters. Major repairs shall be performed by the vendor or vendor representative at no additional cost to the city, assuming proper precautions are taken. Skates that do not pass inspection at the end of each season shall be replaced prior to the following year's opening.
Proposals will be evaluated on qualifications/experience of firm (30 points), proposed ice making/rink design and project schedule (30 points), and pricing/cost (40 points).
Proposals must provide the names, titles, and current contact information for no fewer than three (3) references. The proposing entity's experience and qualifications with regard to designing, installing, and dismantling ice-making equipment during the last 24 months for events of similar size and scope will be evaluated.
The evaluation committee may request a site visit from the submitting entity.
Questions deadline is August 12, 2026.
Failure to comply with any declarative statements (must, shall, will) may result in disqualification. Unauthorized contact with city representatives after solicitation posting may also lead to disqualification.
