RFQ - 1,4 Dioxane Removal Pilot Project

The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority is seeking highly qualified engineering consulting firms to execute a pilot-scale treatment project aimed at removing 1,4-Dioxane from drinking water at the Sweeney Water Treatment Plant in Wilmington, North Carolina. This Request for Qualifications focuses exclusively on technical expertise and past performance, not price, with selection governed by the North Carolina Mini Brooks Act. Offerors must demonstrate proven experience in planning, designing, permitting, and supporting the implementation of innovative drinking water treatment systems, particularly those involving biological treatment or bioremediation of 1,4-Dioxane. The selected firm will be responsible for developing a pilot system integrated with existing plant operations, producing complete engineering plans and specifications, securing all required regulatory approvals, and providing construction and startup support if authorized. Key deliverables include design submittals at 30%, 60%, and 90% milestones, final contract documents, permits, and comprehensive technical reports. The period of performance runs from September 16, 2026, through May 28, 2027, with all work performed on-site in North Carolina. Proposals must be submitted as a single PDF not exceeding 20 pages, excluding cover, tabs, resumes, and appendices, with a maximum file size of 25MB, and must be received by September 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM. Evaluation is weighted across four equally important categories: project understanding and approach (30%), relevant firm experience (25%), overall staff experience and team location (25%), and record of success in managing project budgets and delivering results (20%). The evaluation emphasizes qualitative assessment rather than cost, with the best-qualified firm selected first, followed by negotiation of scope and fee. Specific insurance requirements include $1 million in general liability and $2 million in professional liability coverage, and firms must be registered with the North Carolina Secretary of State. No federal contract clauses, representations, certifications, or accounting codes are applicable; the procurement operates entirely under state law with no set-asides or socioeconomic preferences. All inquiries must be directed to the CFPUA Procurement Manager via email, and no physical packaging or delivery terms are relevant as this is a services-based engagement.