Stabilization and Restoration of the Lightship Ambrose

The New York City Department of Design and Construction is seeking proposals for the stabilization and restoration of the historic Lightship Ambrose, aiming to return it to its 1907 appearance for educational use.

New York DEPARTMENT OF DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION


General
Open
85026B0073
Request for Proposal (RFP)
Local
Contact
DDC ACCO Office
Description

This project involves the comprehensive stabilization and restoration of the historic Lightship Ambrose to its original 1907 appearance. The work scope includes transporting the vessel to a qualified shipyard for hull stabilization and waterproofing, installing a new composite wood deck, restoring deckhouses and masts, rehabilitating portlights, and installing new climate control and monitoring systems. The goal is to reactivate the lightship as an educational platform for the South Street Seaport Museum. Key aspects of the restoration include addressing structural deficiencies, such as corrosion and decay, and implementing stabilization techniques for the hull plating and framing. Specific tasks involve localized plate replacement, repair of pack rust, and epoxy stabilization for pitted areas. The restoration will also encompass various ship systems, including the steering system, electrical distribution, command and communication systems, auxiliary systems like ventilation and air conditioning, and the sanitary sewer system. The project emphasizes preserving the historic fabric of the vessel while ensuring functionality for its intended museum use. Proprietary items specified include Enecon Metalclad Duralloy, Enecon Enecrete DuraQuartz, Accoya Acetylated Wood, Dynel Cloth & West System Epoxy, Toplicht Brass Skylight Stay, Baselite Jelly Jar Lights, W.T. Kirkman Lamps, Rane Zonetech control hub, Atlas speakers, Daikin VRV T-Series, Ebara pumps, CR Laurence Blumcraft glass door system, Nabrico Marine portlights, Le Tonkinois Varnish, Kirby Paint System, PPG Paint System, Serge Ferrari Precontraint, and Traditional Rigging products.

Classification Codes
NAICS336611Ship Building and Repairing
PSCJ019Maintenance, Repair and Rebuilding of Equipment: Ships, Small Craft, Pontoons, and Floating Docks
Smart Codes
marine vessel restorationhistoric ship repairmaritime museum services
Timeline
Mar 20, 2026 12:00 AM-Release Date
Apr 09, 2026 12:00 AM-Questions Due Date
May 21, 2026 12:00 AM-Bid Opening Date
May 21, 2026 12:00 AM-Due Date
Jul 01, 2026 12:00 AM-Anticipated Contract Start Date
Mar 22, 2028 12:00 AM-Anticipated Contract End Date