Progressive Design-Build Services for Lee S. Dukes WTP Expansion

The City of Charlotte is soliciting Progressive Design-Build services for the Lee S. Dukes Water Treatment Plant Expansion Project under solicitation FY27-DB-01. The primary objective is to triple the plant's treatment capacity from 18 MGD to 54 MGD, with a high rate capability of up to 75 MGD, while also implementing distribution system upgrades in the 978 Zone. The project is structured in two phases: Phase 1 covers design and pricing, and Phase 2 encompasses procurement, construction, commissioning, and warranty services. Key performance milestones require the project to be operational by the end of 2031 for the interim milestone and by December 31, 2034, for final completion. The procurement follows a qualifications-based selection process conducted without regard to fee or project price. Proposers must submit Statements of Qualifications by September 3, 2026, via the Bonfire Procurement Portal. Evaluation is based on weighted factors including key personnel experience, cashflow management, and CBI participation, alongside a pass/fail gate for mandatory responsiveness. The contract utilizes an open-book pricing arrangement for the Cost of the Work, with Phase 2 pricing potentially structured as a lump sum, a fee plus cost, or a Guaranteed Maximum Price. Required security includes performance and payment bonds, and minimum insurance coverages are set at 2 million dollars for professional and commercial general liability and 1 million dollars for automobile liability.