Cross-Connection Control Specialist and Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Services for Cross-Connection Control Program Support

The Zone 7 Water Agency is soliciting proposals under RFP-2026-010 for a qualified consultant to provide professional services supporting its Cross-Connection Control Program. The primary objective is to ensure compliance with the State Water Resource Control Board's Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook to protect the public water system from backflow and back-siphonage. The scope of work includes the testing, repair, and replacement of backflow prevention assemblies, as well as annual visual inspections of up to 30 air gaps at agency facilities, including the Patterson Pass Water Treatment Plant. The selected consultant must provide a revised draft of the agency's implementation plan and develop standard operating procedures with final deliverables due by December 1, 2027. The contract is anticipated to run from January 2027 through December 31, 2029, with an option to extend for an additional two years through 2031. A critical requirement of the contract is the ability to respond to emergency requests for critical work within three hours and provide a resolution within eight hours. All field services must be performed by testers with certifications recognized by the State Water Resource Control Board. Consultants are required to maintain comprehensive insurance, including Commercial General Liability of at least 2 million dollars per occurrence and Professional Liability coverage. Selection will be based on a two-step process involving a written proposal and potential interviews, with a maximum score of 110 points. Evaluation criteria heavily weight project understanding, technical approach, and team experience. Proposers must submit their bids by September 4, 2026, including a cost matrix and fee schedule. The agreement also mandates compliance with the California Prevailing Wages Act and registration with the Department of Industrial Relations.