Respondents are required to comply with N.J.S.A. 10:5-31, et seq., P.L. 1975, c. 127, N.J.A.C. 17:27-1 et seq., and all other applicable laws, regulations, or ordinances concerning affirmative action goals and equal employment opportunity. The City of Newark reserves the right to reject any and all proposals in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4, 40A:11-13.2 and 40A:11-23.2, and waive minor informalities not considered material defects under N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1, et seq. If there are any questions regarding the bid opening process, please contact the Division of Central Purchasing at 973-733-3776. The City of Newark has outlined strategies to address Newark's key environmental issues with the goal of creating a healthier, more prosperous future for the city. These strategies have been codified into a Sustainability Action Plan that involves commitments from municipal staff as well as community partners. The policy goals of the Plan include: driving down costs, improving public health and quality of life, and expanding green job and business opportunities for Newarkers. Tree canopy expansion has been identified as a major strategic priority under the Action Plan. Newark is approximately 70 percent impervious surface with a 15 percent tree canopy coverage. This creates challenges for the city in terms of heat, air quality, stormwater run-off, and quality of street life. To address these challenges, Newark aims to double its tree canopy coverage by planting trees in residential neighborhoods in collaboration with community partners. Tree planting will also serve as a platform for job training and employment for Newark jobseekers and environmental education for Newark youth. This RFP calls for proposals for three services needed to plant approximately 2,000 street trees in the fall and spring of 2023-24: landscaping, masonry, and nursery services. Each section of the following pages outlines the procedure to select a qualified contractor, select quality trees, locate appropriate sites to plant, and employ best management practices in the planting process, while securing the best possible price. Question Submission Deadline:August 10, 2023, 12:00pm