1026-002 Strong-Motion Data Interpretation: Ground Response

The California Department of Conservation is seeking a contractor to interpret and analyze strong-motion seismic data to advance understanding of ground response during earthquakes under the California Strong Motion Instrumentation Program. The solicitation, numbered 1026-002, requires proposers to deliver a comprehensive research plan that includes methodology, a detailed work schedule, a final report with dissemination strategies, and a cost breakdown, all aligned with state regulations and the GTC 02/2025 General Terms and Conditions. Proposals must not exceed a total cost of $100,000 and must be submitted by June 29, 2026, at 1:00 PM Pacific Time, either electronically via email to ServiceContracts@conservation.ca.gov or as a sealed physical package to the Department’s Sacramento office, with strict formatting rules requiring a single signed original and compliance with all nine required attachments, including certifications and references. Evaluation will be conducted on a best-value trade-off basis, weighted 69% toward technical merit—assessing approach, probability of success, data usage, team competence, and prior research performance—and 31% toward cost efficiency, with an additional preference awarded to certified Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises. All proposers must comply with California-specific certification requirements, including the Contractor Certification Clauses from April 2017, the California Civil Rights Laws Certification, and Drug-Free Workplace and Statement of Compliance requirements, with no allowed alternates to any clause language. Additional special provisions mandate adherence to the Sweatfree Code of Conduct, prohibition of expatriate corporate status, compliance with gender identity and domestic partner non-discrimination statutes, and a pro bono legal service requirement for contracts over $50,000. Offerors must also certify their business size classification, provide FEIN and documentation for any socioeconomic designations, and affirm compliance with the Darfur Act if operating outside the U.S. The Department holds final authority for acceptance of deliverables at its Sacramento office, and payment is contingent upon successful completion and approval, with invoices limited to once monthly and no specified electronic invoicing system identified. No contract type, FOB terms, or specific performance timeframe is defined, and key personnel substitutions require prior written approval. All submissions must be complete and properly signed, failure to do so risks rejection, and only proposals receiving electronic confirmation of receipt will be considered responsive.