Pre-Qualification Pool for Professional Engineering Services

The City of Houston is establishing a pre-qualified pool of professional engineering firms to support the planning, design, and delivery of Houston Public Works infrastructure projects. This solicitation, RFQ-2026-0009, follows a two-step procurement process governed by Texas Government Code Chapter 2254. In the first step, firms are evaluated on a pass/fail basis regarding responsiveness, responsibility, professional registration with the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, and financial stability. Qualified firms can apply for up to six of the 22 available qualification categories. Once the pool is established, the City will use a weighted, points-based ranking system for project-specific selections, evaluating demonstrated project experience (30 points), technical approach (30 points), staffing and capacity (20 points), and schedule management (20 points). The highest-ranked firm for a specific project will enter exclusive negotiations. Submission requirements include a category selection form, professional staff lists, and three project sheets per category, with each project description limited to 500 words. Firms must provide proof of professional liability, workers compensation, and general liability insurance, as well as audited or unaudited financial statements depending on their entity type. The City also emphasizes the inclusion of Women and Small Business Enterprises and allows certified firms to request placement in the Certified Business Enterprise rotation group. Payment terms are set at 30 days following the receipt of an invoice or services, in accordance with the Texas Prompt Payment Act. The response deadline for this solicitation is November 19, 2026.