Professional Services for the Orme Road Dirt to Black Project

Yavapai County is soliciting qualified consulting firms to provide professional services for the Orme Road Dirt to Black Project, a comprehensive roadway improvement initiative aimed at upgrading the existing dirt road to a paved surface. This solicitation follows a qualifications-based selection process authorized under Arizona law (A.R.S. § 34-603). The scope of work spans initial data collection, surveying (including drone topographic surveys), design development, drainage and geotechnical analysis, permitting, right-of-way acquisition, utility coordination, public involvement, and support through construction advertising anticipated by January 2028. Deliverables include detailed design plans, technical reports, legal descriptions for right-of-way, construction specifications, engineer’s estimates, public outreach materials, and sealed record drawings, all conforming to County, MAG, ADOT, and FEMA standards. The contract term will extend for two years from award with up to three optional one-year renewals. The selection process emphasizes technical qualifications and expertise over cost; firms must submit Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) by March 26, 2026, via an electronic procurement portal. Evaluation factors prioritize project understanding and approach (40%), firm experience (20%), project manager qualifications (15%), key personnel experience (15%), and schedule and cost control ability (10%). Cost proposals are excluded from SOQ submissions and negotiated only with the highest-ranked firm. Key contractual requirements include adherence to strict timelines ("time of the essence"), warranty and quality guarantees, compliance with non-discrimination and immigration-related laws, and maintenance of specified insurance coverage. There are also certifications mandating prohibition of forced labor, specifically concerning Uyghur exploitation, with required reporting measures. Contract administration requires electronic invoicing and a net 45-day payment term, with the County retaining inspection and acceptance authority over deliverables. The award is contingent on approval by the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors, and the County reserves the right to negotiate, modify, or cancel based on funding availability. Overall, the contract demands comprehensive professional engineering and project management services to ensure successful roadway upgrading while maintaining regulatory, environmental, and community engagement standards.