DEP Puts Park Concessions Out to Bid

TRENTON — The Department of Environmental Protection is offering interesting opportunities for businesses to operate concessions in state parks, forests and recreation areas that attract more than 18 million visitors every year.
State facilities in Cape May County include the Belleplain State Forrest and the Corson’s Inlet and Cape May Point State Parks. There are currently mobile food concessions available in the Cape May Point and Corson’s Inlet facilities. Cape May Point also has a mobile bicycle concession available.
“There’s no better time than right now to embrace these opportunities to become a concessionaire. Not only is it a chance to launch a rewarding and lucrative business, concessions add something extra special to the experiences millions enjoy in New Jersey’s parks and other recreation areas,” Acting DEP Commissioner Mark N.Mauriello said in a March 25 release. “What’s more, we’re always interested in exploring new ideas for business opportunities and partnerships.”
The DEP’s State Park Service is seeking proposals from private and nonprofit sectors to operate 23 concessions in state parks, forests, recreation areas and marinas, beginning Memorial Day weekend. Business opportunities range from food services to boat and bicycle rentals.
Concession opportunities are available through a public bidding process. Bids will be accepted until April 29 at 10 a.m. Businesses or individuals interested in submitting bids must first prequalify. Prequalification applications must be received by April 17 at 11 a.m.
To help interested people learn more about concessions, how to become a state park concessionaire and find a full listing of business opportunities in parks, forests and recreation areas, the DEP today also launched a new Web site, which can be easily accessed by visiting: www.njparksandforests.org
The State Park Service currently manages some 40 seasonal concessions that generate $1.3 million annually.
Concessionaires offer the public services and goods that the state could not otherwise provide. Through partnerships with concessionaires, the State Park Service also enhances its educational mission by providing historic re-enactments and public programs.