RFQ / Bid No. 2026-DB-01 DESIGN-BUILD SERVICES Phase One and Phase Two - Archer-Newberry Wastewater Interconnect

CITY OF ARCHER, FLORIDA REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND COST PROPOSALS RFQ / Bid No. 2026-DB-01 DESIGN-BUILD SERVICES Phase One and Phase Two - Archer-Newberry Wastewater Interconnect Accelerated Wastewater Force Main, Interconnection, Lift Station Integration, SCADA, Odor Control, and Related Improvements Issued by: City of Archer 16870 SW 134th Avenue | P.O. Box 39 Archer, Florida 32618 Phone: (352) 495-2880 Anticipated Advertisement Date: May 14, 2026 Response Deadline: Fifteen (15) calendar days after first publication, anticipated May , 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time Required Delivery: One (1) original, three (3) hard copies, and one (1) USB drive containing the complete electronic response. Cost Proposal Required: Respondents must include a separate sealed Cost Proposal / Bid Schedule inside the response package. Construction Completion Requirement: All construction work included in the awarded design-build scope must be substantially complete no later than September 30, 2026. This solicitation is intended to comply with applicable City, State of Florida, federal grant, DEP, ARPA, and other funding requirements. Respondents are responsible for reviewing all solicitation documents, addenda, grant conditions, and applicable laws before submitting.   LEGAL NOTICE / INVITATION TO SUBMIT QUALIFICATIONS AND COST PROPOSALSThe City of Archer, Florida (the "City") invites sealed Statements of Qualifications and separate sealed Cost Proposals from experienced and qualified design-build firms for accelerated design-build delivery of Phase One and Phase Two of the Archer-Newberry Wastewater Interconnect. The City seeks a single design-build team with demonstrated experience in water/wastewater infrastructure, force main construction, trenchless/railroad crossing coordination, lift station and pumping systems, SCADA integration, odor control, state and federal grant compliance, and accelerated project delivery. Sealed responses must be received by the City Clerk or designated procurement representative at City Hall, 16870 SW 134th Avenue, Archer, Florida 32618, no later than the deadline stated in this RFQ or any issued addendum. Late responses will not be accepted. Responses shall be submitted in a sealed package clearly marked: RFQ / BID NO. 2026-DB-01 - DESIGN-BUILD SERVICES - ARCHER-NEWBERRY WASTEWATER INTERCONNECT - DO NOT OPEN The City reserves the right to reject any or all responses, waive informalities, request clarification, conduct interviews or presentations, negotiate with the highest-ranked firm, issue one or more notices to proceed, cancel this solicitation, or take any action in the best interest of the City and consistent with applicable law and funding requirements. 1. PROCUREMENT SCHEDULE
Milestone Anticipated Date / Requirement RFQ advertised / issued May 14, 2026, or date of first public advertisement Question deadline No later than five (5) calendar days before the response deadline Final addendum, if any No later than two (2) calendar days before the response deadline, unless the City extends the deadline Responses due Fifteen (15) calendar days after first publication; anticipated May 29, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time Public opening / receipt Immediately following the response deadline or as posted by the City Evaluation period Approximately ten (10) calendar days after receipt Shortlist / interviews, if held During evaluation period or immediately thereafter Commission award / authorization to negotiate At the earliest available regular or special City Commission meeting Contract execution / Notice to Proceed As soon as practicable after award and required approvals Construction completion deadline September 30, 2026 Dates are anticipated and may be modified by written addendum. The September 30, 2026 construction completion deadline is a material requirement of this solicitation. 2. BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEThe City of Archer is participating in a regional wastewater infrastructure effort with the City of Newberry. The project is connected to Archer’s allocated wastewater capacity at Newberry’s advanced wastewater treatment plant and is intended to provide regional wastewater service connectivity, advance grant-funded infrastructure obligations, and protect available state and federal funding. The City has determined that an accelerated design-build delivery method is necessary due to the required September 30, 2026 funding and construction deadline. Existing preliminary design information prepared by others may be made available for informational purposes. Such information is not represented as complete, signed, sealed, fully verified, or sufficient for construction. The selected design-build firm shall independently verify all existing information, perform all required professional design services, secure required approvals and permits, and construct the project in accordance with the final contract documents. The City intends this RFQ to obtain qualifications from design-build teams capable of delivering Phase One and Phase Two in a compressed timeframe while complying with applicable federal, state, DEP, grant, ARPA, procurement, labor, bonding, insurance, and public construction requirements. 3. PROCUREMENT METHOD AND LEGAL FRAMEWORKThis RFQ is intended to be conducted as a competitive design-build procurement under applicable Florida law and federal funding requirements. The City may use this RFQ to shortlist and select one or more of the most qualified design-build firms and may, consistent with applicable law and City procedures, negotiate a design-build agreement, guaranteed maximum price, lump sum, unit price schedule, or other City-approved contract structure that includes a guaranteed completion date. The City anticipates using a competitive design-build selection process that evaluates qualifications, schedule capability, compliance capacity, and a separate cost proposal/bid price. The City may open and consider cost proposals at the time and in the manner determined to be consistent with applicable law, grant requirements, and the City-approved procurement process. If required by City policy, Florida law, or funding agency requirements, the City may shortlist firms, request best and final offers, negotiate a lump sum or guaranteed maximum price, or issue a supplemental request before final award. At a minimum, the selected firm must comply with the following, as applicable: Section 287.055, Florida Statutes, including design-build procurement requirements and the use of a design criteria package and qualified design criteria professional where applicable. Section 255.20, Florida Statutes, concerning competitive award of local government public construction projects and recognized design-build contract arrangements. Section 255.05, Florida Statutes, concerning public construction payment and performance bonds. Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, concerning public records; Chapter 286, Florida Statutes, concerning public meetings; and applicable conflict-of-interest and ethics requirements. 2 CFR Part 200, including procurement standards, full and open competition, written procurement procedures, cost/price documentation, suspension and debarment, contract provisions, records retention, and audit access, as applicable to federal awards. 2 CFR Part 184 and the Build America, Buy America Act requirements for infrastructure projects, as applicable to the funding source and award conditions. Florida Department of Environmental Protection grant agreement terms, ARPA-related requirements, SRF or state grant requirements, and any other state or federal funding conditions applicable to the project. E-Verify, public entity crimes, scrutinized companies, lobbying restrictions, civil rights, nondiscrimination, environmental, permitting, trench safety, OSHA, and other applicable laws and regulations.This RFQ does not waive, modify, or supersede any federal or state funding condition. In the event of conflict between this RFQ and a mandatory grant or legal requirement, the mandatory requirement shall control. Respondents are responsible for identifying any procurement, grant, cost, pricing, domestic preference, or schedule requirement that could affect eligibility, reimbursement, or timely completion. 4. PROJECT DESCRIPTIONThe project consists of accelerated design-build services for Phase One and Phase Two of the Archer-Newberry Wastewater Interconnect. The City’s intent is to issue a single procurement that allows efficient delivery of the immediate interconnect force main and closely related interconnection work. The City may issue separate notices to proceed, work authorizations, or funding authorizations for Phase One and Phase Two depending on grant approvals, interlocal coordination, permitting, material availability, and City Commission action. 4.1 Phase One - Primary Force Main Interconnect
Design, permitting, procurement, construction, testing, and closeout of an approximately 8-inch wastewater force main extending approximately 8.5 miles, or approximately 42,000 linear feet, generally connecting Archer to Newberry wastewater infrastructure. The alignment is anticipated to run generally north-south between the Archer and Newberry systems, subject to final survey, geotechnical evaluation, utility coordination, right-of-way/easement verification, permitting, design criteria review, and City approval. The selected design-build team shall provide final design; signed and sealed engineering documents; utility coordination; maintenance of traffic where required; erosion and sediment controls; trenching, boring, or other installation methods; valves, air release, cleanouts, fittings, restraints, appurtenances, markers, and all necessary tie-ins; pressure testing; disinfection or flushing as applicable; restoration; as-builts; and closeout documentation. The City expects the design-build team to evaluate and use existing preliminary design information where useful, but the selected firm remains fully responsible for final design, constructability, permitting, and compliance.
4.2 Phase Two - Interconnection, Lift Station, SCADA, Odor Control, and Related Improvements
Design and construction, or design and preconstruction services with construction under separate authorization if required, for related interconnection components necessary to complete the regional connection. Anticipated Phase Two elements include railroad crossing coordination and connections on both ends where required; integration with lift stations; electrical and control work; SCADA systems; odor control measures on the Archer side; pumps, switchboards, fixed generators where authorized; and other appurtenances necessary for a complete and operational interconnect. The City reserves the right to directly purchase certain long-lead equipment, including but not limited to pumps, switchboards, and fixed generators, when doing so is determined to be in the best interest of the City and allowable under applicable grant conditions. Mobile generators are not anticipated as eligible fixed infrastructure under the current project approach unless otherwise approved in writing by the funding agency. The selected firm shall identify long-lead components, procurement risks, alternative compliant materials, and any recommendations for owner-direct purchase within the proposed schedule and critical path plan.
4.3 Phase Three ExcludedThe development of Archer’s internal wastewater collection system within City limits is not included in this RFQ unless added by written amendment, separate procurement, or future City authorization. Respondents should not include Phase Three work in their proposed scope except to identify coordination points, capacity considerations, future tie-in locations, or constructability issues that may affect Phase One or Phase Two. 5. DESIGN CRITERIA AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTSThis RFQ includes preliminary design criteria for qualifications and schedule evaluation. A detailed design criteria package, including available existing drawings, prior engineering materials, utility information, survey information, geotechnical information, grant conditions, interlocal requirements, and agency comments, will be made available to shortlisted firms or the selected firm as applicable. The selected design-build firm shall produce all final design documents necessary for permitting and construction. 5.1 General Performance Criteria
Provide a complete, operable, maintainable, and code-compliant wastewater interconnect suitable for public utility service and consistent with the City’s capacity, funding, schedule, and operational requirements. Meet or exceed all applicable FDEP, Alachua County, City of Archer, City of Newberry, railroad, utility, right-of-way, and environmental requirements. Coordinate with the City of Archer, City of Newberry, DEP, funding agencies, design criteria professional, utilities, railroad representatives, property owners, and other stakeholders as required. Design all facilities for long-term municipal operation, resilience, reliability, maintainability, ease of access, and compatibility with future Archer collection system phases. Provide quality assurance/quality control procedures for design and construction, including independent checks of critical calculations, constructability review, field verification, shop drawing review, inspection, testing, and closeout. Provide a schedule that includes realistic delivery dates for design, permitting, materials, mobilization, construction, testing, restoration, substantial completion, and closeout.
5.2 Force Main Requirements
Confirm final pipe material, pressure class, diameter, alignment, bury depth, appurtenance spacing, restraint, air release, valve locations, testing standards, and connection points based on final engineering and permitting requirements. Evaluate constructability and installation rates needed to meet the September 30, 2026 deadline, including multiple crews or work fronts if necessary. Identify all utility conflicts, right-of-way constraints, easements, environmental constraints, maintenance of traffic needs, railroad crossing requirements, and permitting issues that could affect schedule or cost. Provide final record drawings, GPS/as-built data, asset data, valve schedules, equipment manuals, testing reports, warranties, and grant closeout documentation.
5.3 Lift Station, Electrical, Controls, SCADA, and Odor Control Requirements
Evaluate and design improvements required for reliable pumping, control, telemetry, alarming, backup power, odor control, and integration with existing or planned Archer and Newberry systems. Identify equipment lead times and propose compliant alternatives when needed to protect the project schedule. Provide controls narratives, SCADA integration plan, electrical one-lines, standby power plan, startup/testing protocol, and operator training plan. All fixed generators, pumps, panels, switchboards, controls, and related equipment shall comply with applicable grant, domestic preference, electrical, building, environmental, and utility requirements.
6. REQUIRED COMPLETION DATE AND BENCHMARK SCHEDULETime is of the essence. The selected design-build firm shall be required to execute the project on an accelerated schedule. All construction work included in the awarded scope must be substantially complete no later than September 30, 2026. The selected firm shall include a guaranteed completion date in the final contract. Failure to meet required schedule milestones may be grounds for rejection, non-award, default, withholding, or other contract remedies. Respondents must include a proposed project timeline with specific benchmarks. The proposed schedule must identify design milestones, permit milestones, equipment/material procurement, railroad and utility coordination, mobilization, construction production assumptions, testing, startup, restoration, and closeout documentation. The City expects the selected firm to maintain a schedule that allows grant documentation and reimbursement closeout immediately after construction completion. Benchmark Minimum Required / Expected Performance Contract execution / Notice to Proceed As soon as practicable after City Commission award and required approvals Initial kickoff and document review Within 3 calendar days after Notice to Proceed Field verification and critical path risk register Within 7 calendar days after Notice to Proceed Preliminary / 30% design validation package Within 30 calendar days after Notice to Proceed, or faster if proposed Permit matrix and agency coordination plan Within 10 calendar days after Notice to Proceed Long-lead equipment and material procurement plan Within 10 calendar days after Notice to Proceed 60% design / constructability package By date proposed by respondent; must support September 30 completion Final signed and sealed construction documents By date proposed by respondent; must support September 30 completion Mobilization / start of construction No later than date proposed by respondent; City preference is early July 2026 or sooner Force main installation production Respondent shall state daily production assumptions, number of crews, and ability to sustain schedule 25% installed milestone Respondent shall propose a date that protects final completion 50% installed milestone Respondent shall propose a date that protects final completion 75% installed milestone Respondent shall propose a date that protects final completion 100% installed and ready for testing No later than a date that allows testing, startup, restoration, and correction before September 30 Substantial completion of construction No later than September 30, 2026 Final closeout, as-builts, pay documentation, and grant support Immediately after substantial completion; no later than the date established in the final contract
7. SCOPE OF DESIGN-BUILD SERVICESThe selected design-build firm shall provide all labor, professional services, materials, equipment, supervision, management, construction, testing, documentation, and related services necessary to deliver the project. Services may include, but are not limited to: Project management, scheduling, coordination, progress meetings, minutes, reporting, and critical path schedule updates. Review and validation of existing studies, preliminary drawings, Kimley-Horn design materials, utility information, survey data, alignment assumptions, permitting information, and grant requirements. Survey, subsurface utility exploration, geotechnical services, environmental review, right-of-way/easement coordination support, railroad coordination support, and permitting support as needed. Final signed and sealed engineering design documents prepared by Florida-licensed professionals. Value engineering that does not compromise durability, regulatory compliance, capacity, grant eligibility, maintainability, or the September 30 deadline. Permitting and agency coordination with FDEP, local governments, utility owners, railroad representatives, FDOT or county right-of-way authorities if applicable, and other regulatory agencies. Procurement and installation of force main pipe, valves, appurtenances, fittings, restraints, air release assemblies, markers, and related improvements. Railroad crossing planning, permitting, installation support, observation, and documentation where required. Lift station, pumping, electrical, standby power, telemetry, SCADA, controls, odor control, and related improvements within the authorized project scope. Traffic control, erosion and sediment control, site safety, trench safety, utility protection, bypass pumping if needed, restoration, and public coordination support. Testing, startup, commissioning, operator training, warranties, operations and maintenance manuals, as-built drawings, record documents, and grant closeout documentation. Coordination with City staff and designated representatives to support reimbursement requests, DEP documentation, audit files, procurement files, and closeout.
8. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSA respondent must demonstrate that the design-build team has the capacity, credentials, experience, and availability necessary to complete this project under the accelerated schedule. At a minimum, the respondent shall demonstrate the following: Legal authority to conduct business in the State of Florida and to contract with the City. A Florida-certified or registered contractor qualification appropriate for the work and/or a design-build entity meeting applicable Florida design-build firm requirements. Florida-licensed professional engineer(s) responsible for design of wastewater force mains, lift stations, electrical/control systems, and related public utility infrastructure. Demonstrated completion of at least three comparable water/wastewater utility infrastructure projects within the last seven years, with preference for force main projects of substantial length and accelerated schedules. Demonstrated experience with public-sector design-build, alternative delivery, or fast-track utility construction. Demonstrated ability to obtain 100% payment and performance bonds for the project value and maintain required insurance coverage. Experience with federally or state-funded infrastructure projects, including grant documentation, audit support, procurement compliance, domestic preference requirements, and funding agency coordination. A project manager, design manager, construction manager/superintendent, scheduler, quality manager, and compliance lead assigned to the project with availability through completion. No active suspension, debarment, public entity crimes disqualification, or other legal impediment to public contracting.
9. RESPONSE FORMAT AND CONTENTResponses should be concise, complete, and organized in the order shown below. The City may reject responses that do not provide sufficient information to evaluate the respondent. Unless modified by addendum, responses should not exceed fifty (50) single-sided pages, excluding required forms, licenses, insurance certificates, bonding letters, tabs, cover letter, resumes, and financial/bonding documentation. Tab 1 - Cover LetterProvide a signed cover letter identifying the respondent, primary contact, legal structure, acknowledgment of the September 30, 2026 construction completion requirement, and commitment to comply with all RFQ and grant requirements. Tab 2 - Executive Summary and Project UnderstandingDescribe the team’s understanding of the Archer-Newberry Wastewater Interconnect, Phase One force main, Phase Two interconnection/lift station/SCADA/odor control elements, funding urgency, grant compliance needs, and schedule risks. Tab 3 - Firm Qualifications and Team StructureIdentify the design-build entity, contractor, engineer of record, major subcontractors, key personnel, organizational chart, office locations, Florida licenses, and roles/responsibilities. Tab 4 - Relevant ExperienceProvide at least five relevant project examples, including owner, location, project description, delivery method, contract value, linear feet/pipe size, lift station or SCADA components, schedule, completion date, change order history, grant/federal funding experience, and owner contact. Tab 5 - Accelerated Delivery ApproachDescribe how the team will meet or improve the required deadline, including design strategy, permitting strategy, material procurement, crew plan, production rates, quality control, safety, multiple work fronts, weather risk, and railroad/utility coordination. Tab 6 - Proposed Timeline with BenchmarksProvide a detailed schedule from Notice to Proceed through final closeout. Include design, permitting, procurement, construction, testing, startup, restoration, and closeout benchmarks. The schedule must show substantial completion of construction by September 30, 2026. Tab 7 - Compliance and Grant Administration PlanDescribe experience and procedures for 2 CFR Part 200, BABA/Buy America or other domestic preference requirements, DEP documentation, ARPA or grant-funded infrastructure, debarment checks, E-Verify, public records, records retention, audit support, and reimbursement documentation. Tab 8 - Quality, Safety, and Risk ManagementProvide QA/QC plan, field inspection approach, trench safety and OSHA approach, risk register, mitigation plan, claims/change order control approach, and warranty/service response approach. Tab 9 - ReferencesProvide at least five references using the form included in this RFQ. References should include owners of comparable public utility projects and at least one reference for a grant-funded or federally assisted project if available. Tab 10 - Required Forms and CertificationsSubmit all required certifications, including acknowledgment of addenda, conflict-of-interest statement, public entity crimes statement, scrutinized companies certification, E-Verify certification, non-collusion statement, federal compliance certification, lobbying certification if applicable, and any other forms required by addendum. Tab 11 - Insurance, Bonding, and Financial CapacityProvide evidence of current insurance, letter from surety confirming bonding capacity, proposed insurance limits, and a statement of financial capacity to perform the project. 10. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
Submission Address City of Archer, City Hall, 16870 SW 134th Avenue, Archer, Florida 32618 Attention City Manager / City Clerk / Procurement Contact - RFQ No. 2026-DB-01 Delivery Format Sealed package. Responses delivered by mail, courier, or hand delivery are accepted. Respondent is responsible for timely delivery. Required Copies One (1) original signed response, three (3) additional hard copies, and one (1) USB drive containing the complete response in searchable PDF format. Package Label RFQ No. 2026-DB-01 - Design-Build Services - Archer-Newberry Wastewater Interconnect - Do Not Open Late Responses Late responses will not be accepted and may be returned unopened. Questions All questions must be submitted in writing to the procurement contact identified by the City. Oral interpretations are not binding. Addenda Only written addenda issued by the City are binding. Respondents are responsible for confirming receipt of all addenda.
10.1 COST PROPOSAL / BID PRICE SUBMISSIONRespondents shall submit a separate sealed Cost Proposal / Bid Schedule inside the response package. The envelope shall be clearly labeled "Separate Sealed Cost Proposal - RFQ/Bid No. 2026-DB-01 - Archer-Newberry Wastewater Interconnect." The City may open and evaluate the cost proposal at the time and in the manner determined to be consistent with Florida law, the City-approved procurement process, and all applicable funding requirements. The Cost Proposal shall include all pricing necessary for the City to evaluate the proposed design-build price, cost reasonableness, grant eligibility, construction schedule, and funding risk. The cost proposal shall include, at a minimum, Attachment G - Cost Proposal / Bid Schedule and Attachment H - Unit Price and Allowance Schedule. Respondents shall provide pricing by phase, by major work category, and by bid item. Pricing shall identify the proposed lump sum, guaranteed maximum price, allowance items, unit prices, alternates, owner-direct purchase credits, assumptions, exclusions, contingencies, bonds, insurance, mobilization, design fees, permitting, testing, startup, restoration, record drawings, grant compliance documentation, and closeout costs. The City will not accept a cost-plus-a-percentage-of-cost or percentage-of-construction-cost contracting method. Any reimbursable, allowance, contingency, or unit-price item must be defined, supported, and subject to City written approval before use. The City may require supporting cost detail, subcontractor/vendor quotes, equipment lead-time documentation, labor/equipment rates, material assumptions, and value-engineering alternatives to support the City’s required cost or price analysis and grant documentation. The Cost Proposal must remain valid for at least ninety (90) calendar days after the response deadline unless extended by mutual written agreement. The City may reject any proposal that is materially unbalanced, incomplete, inconsistent with the required September 30, 2026 construction completion deadline, or not in the best interest of the City. 11. EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCESSAn evaluation committee designated by the City will review timely responses. The City may rank firms based on the written responses alone or may invite shortlisted firms to interviews, presentations, discussions, or technical meetings. The City may verify references, investigate qualifications, request clarifications, or request supplemental information. The City intends to select the most qualified firm whose qualifications, team, approach, schedule, compliance plan, and experience best serve the City’s interests and the required deadline. The City may negotiate with the highest-ranked firm. If the City is unable to negotiate an agreement that is fair, competitive, reasonable, legally compliant, and in the City’s best interest, the City may terminate negotiations and proceed to the next-ranked firm or take any action permitted by law. The City reserves the right to qualify fewer than three firms if fewer than three responsive and qualified firms submit, subject to applicable law and funding agency requirements. If required under applicable design-build procurement rules, the City may shortlist no fewer than three qualified firms where available and request additional technical and/or price proposals from those firms. 12. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND SCORING SHEETThe following scoring sheet will be used by evaluators unless modified by written addendum. Evaluators may assign partial points. The City may consider interviews and reference checks as part of the final score or ranking. Evaluation Category Maximum Points Evaluation Considerations Project understanding and approach 12 Understanding of Archer-Newberry interconnect, phasing, urgency, regulatory environment, constructability, stakeholder coordination, and funding risks. Accelerated schedule and ability to meet September 30 deadline 20 Realistic critical path, benchmarks, production rates, crew plan, permitting strategy, material procurement, weather risk mitigation, and ability to guarantee completion. Comparable design-build and wastewater infrastructure experience 15 Relevant force main, lift station, SCADA, odor control, railroad crossing, public utility, and fast-track project experience. Team qualifications and availability 12 Florida-licensed professionals, contractor qualifications, project manager, superintendent, design manager, scheduler, compliance lead, and availability through completion. Cost proposal / bid price, price reasonableness, and cost control 15 Separate sealed cost proposal, phase pricing, unit prices, value engineering, allowance control, compliance with grant cost principles, and reasonableness of proposed price in relation to schedule and scope. Grant, federal, state, DEP, and procurement compliance 10 Experience with 2 CFR Part 200, BABA/Buy America, DEP grants, ARPA/SRF or similar funding, documentation, audit support, and records retention. Quality assurance, safety, and risk management 6 QA/QC, inspection, testing, safety, trench safety, utility conflict management, change control, and claims avoidance. References and past performance 5 Owner satisfaction, schedule performance, change orders, cooperation, responsiveness, closeout, and warranty performance. Financial capacity, bonding, insurance, and workload 5 Bonding ability, insurance, current workload, financial capacity, and ability to mobilize resources immediately. Total 100   Evaluator Name: ____________________________________   Date: __________________ Evaluator Notes: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 13. REQUIRED CREDENTIALS, LICENSES, AND REFERENCESRespondents shall include copies or documentation of all licenses, registrations, and credentials necessary to perform the work. The City may independently verify all information. Florida contractor license or other qualifying license/certification appropriate for the construction work. Florida professional engineering registration for the engineer of record and discipline leads. Corporate registration with the Florida Division of Corporations and authority to do business in Florida. Current certificate(s) of insurance or statement of ability to meet required limits. Surety letter confirming ability to provide 100% payment and performance bonds for the project. UEI/SAM registration or ability to register if required by funding source. Evidence of no active suspension or debarment. At least five references with direct owner contacts and comparable project descriptions.
14. CONTRACT REQUIREMENTSThe selected firm will be required to enter into a City-approved design-build agreement. The final agreement may include, as applicable, a lump sum, guaranteed maximum price, unit prices, allowances, contingencies, schedule of values, milestone payment schedule, liquidated damages or other schedule remedies, change order procedures, insurance requirements, bond requirements, indemnification, grant clauses, audit rights, warranty requirements, and other terms acceptable to the City and funding agencies. 14.1 Guaranteed Completion DateThe selected firm shall provide and contractually commit to a guaranteed completion date. Substantial completion of all construction included in the awarded scope shall be no later than September 30, 2026. The City may require liquidated damages, milestone damages, recovery of funding loss, or other remedies in the final contract if the completion deadline is not met. 14.1.1 GRANT DEADLINE, LOSS OF FUNDING, AND DELAY DAMAGESTime is of the essence. The September 30, 2026 construction completion deadline is a material condition of this procurement, the award, and the final design-build contract. The selected design-build firm shall plan, staff, procure, construct, test, document, and close out the work so that the City can satisfy all applicable grant, reimbursement, audit, and closeout requirements. The selected design-build firm acknowledges that failure to meet the required construction completion date, failure to provide required testing or closeout documentation, failure to maintain compliant records, or failure to satisfy applicable grant-related construction requirements may result in loss of grant funds, denial of reimbursement, audit findings, repayment obligations, penalties, increased financing costs, or other damages to the City. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the selected design-build firm shall be responsible for, reimburse, indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its elected officials, officers, employees, agents, and representatives from and against any and all losses, damages, costs, expenses, repayments, disallowances, deductions, offsets, audit findings, clawbacks, penalties, interest, administrative costs, engineering costs, accounting costs, legal fees, consultant fees, financing or bridge-loan costs, reprocurement costs, completion costs, and other amounts arising from or related to the loss, reduction, denial, repayment, or delayed receipt of grant funding caused in whole or in part by the selected firm’s failure, or the failure of its subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, or lower-tier entities, to meet the September 30, 2026 deadline or any related grant compliance, documentation, construction, testing, or closeout obligation. The foregoing obligation is in addition to, and not in limitation of, the City’s rights to liquidated damages, actual damages, specific performance, withholding of payment, setoff, termination for cause, use of performance bond remedies, recovery under insurance, or any other remedy available at law, in equity, under the contract, or under the bond documents. Because the damages associated with missed grant deadlines, delayed reimbursement, disruption to public utility service, regulatory consequences, and administrative impacts are difficult to calculate in advance, the final contract may include daily liquidated damages for delay in an amount established by the City before award or during final negotiation. Such liquidated damages shall not be deemed a penalty. Liquidated damages shall not limit the City’s right to recover actual loss of grant funding, repayment of grant proceeds, audit disallowances, penalties, interest, legal/accounting/engineering costs, or other grant-related losses described in this section. No schedule extension, waiver, force majeure claim, weather delay, material delay, permit delay, railroad delay, utility delay, change order, substitution, or other event shall relieve the selected firm of these obligations unless approved in writing by the City through a duly authorized contract amendment or change order and, when required, approved by the applicable funding agency. Ordinary seasonal weather, ordinary supply-chain risk, and ordinary construction coordination issues shall be considered foreseeable risks unless expressly stated otherwise in the final contract. If the selected firm determines that any activity may threaten the September 30, 2026 deadline or grant eligibility, the firm shall notify the City in writing within twenty-four (24) hours and submit a written recovery plan within forty-eight (48) hours. The recovery plan shall identify added crews, extended work hours, alternative materials, alternate suppliers, revised sequencing, owner-direct purchase recommendations, permitting actions, and all other measures necessary to protect the deadline. The City’s review of a recovery plan shall not waive any right or remedy. The payment bond, performance bond, insurance, indemnity, warranty, and closeout obligations required by the final contract shall secure the selected firm’s obligations under this section to the maximum extent permitted by law. The selected firm shall require subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and lower-tier entities to comply with all schedule, grant, recordkeeping, domestic preference, testing, documentation, and closeout obligations necessary to protect grant funding. 14.2 Payment and Performance BondsThe selected firm shall provide payment and performance bonds in the full amount required by Florida law, grant conditions, and the final contract. Bonds shall be issued by a surety authorized to do business in the State of Florida and acceptable to the City. 14.3 InsuranceThe selected firm shall maintain insurance acceptable to the City, which may include commercial general liability, automobile liability, workers’ compensation, employer’s liability, professional liability, contractor’s pollution liability, builder’s risk or installation floater, umbrella/excess liability, railroad protective liability if required, and any other insurance required by the City, right-of-way owner, railroad, or funding agency. 14.4 Change Orders and Funding Agency CoordinationNo change order, substitution, allowance use, contingency use, schedule extension, or scope revision shall be valid unless approved in writing by the City in accordance with the final contract and applicable grant conditions. Any change order affecting grant eligibility, funding obligations, or interlocal responsibilities must be reviewed and approved by the City before submission to DEP or any other funding agency, unless otherwise required by law. 14.5 Owner-Direct PurchasesThe City reserves the right to directly purchase selected materials or equipment where allowed by law and funding requirements and where such purchase would reduce cost, shorten delivery time, preserve grant eligibility, or otherwise benefit the City. The selected firm shall cooperate with owner-direct purchase procedures, including specifications, submittals, delivery coordination, storage, inspection, installation, warranty coordination, and documentation. 15. FEDERAL, STATE, AND GRANT COMPLIANCEBecause this project may include state and federal financial assistance, the selected firm shall comply with all applicable grant, procurement, contracting, labor, civil rights, domestic preference, environmental, documentation, audit, and closeout requirements. The respondent shall include a compliance plan identifying how the team will manage documentation from procurement through closeout. 15.1 Federal Procurement and Records
Maintain records sufficient to detail the history of procurement, contract administration, costs, payments, change orders, materials, domestic preference compliance, subcontractor documentation, testing, and closeout. Permit access by the City, DEP, state agencies, federal agencies, auditors, inspectors general, and their authorized representatives to records and work sites as required by grant conditions and law. Comply with applicable suspension and debarment requirements and certify that the respondent and its principals are not suspended, debarred, or otherwise excluded from federally assisted work. Comply with applicable lobbying restrictions and submit required certifications if federal funding thresholds require them. Comply with applicable small business, minority business, women’s business enterprise, veteran-owned business, and labor surplus area firm outreach requirements where required by 2 CFR Part 200 and the funding source.
15.2 Build America, Buy America / Domestic PreferenceTo the extent applicable to the funding source and grant agreement, the selected firm shall comply with Build America, Buy America Act requirements, Buy America preferences, American Iron and Steel requirements, or other domestic preference requirements. Respondents shall describe their domestic preference compliance process, including supplier certifications, material classification, waiver avoidance, substitution tracking, and recordkeeping. Any waiver request must be disclosed immediately and may not be relied upon unless approved by the appropriate federal agency in writing. 15.3 Labor, Safety, and Civil Rights
Comply with OSHA, trench safety, site safety, traffic control, utility protection, and all applicable construction safety requirements. Comply with Davis-Bacon or other federal labor standards if required by the funding source, grant agreement, or final contract. Comply with Title VI, equal employment opportunity, nondiscrimination, accessibility, and other civil rights requirements applicable to federally assisted public infrastructure projects. Comply with E-Verify requirements and flow down required employment eligibility obligations to subcontractors.
15.4 DEP and Grant Closeout DocumentationThe selected firm shall support the City in preparing documentation required for DEP review, reimbursement, audit, and closeout. Required documentation may include selection records, notice of selection, executed contract, bonds, insurance, pay applications, certified material documentation, testing results, as-built drawings, photographs, daily reports, schedules, invoices, proof of payment, change orders, startup reports, and final closeout package. The City intends to provide DEP written documentation of the design-build selection to satisfy applicable bidding and contractor selection requirements in the grant file. 16. PUBLIC RECORDS, CONFIDENTIALITY, AND CONE OF SILENCEResponses submitted to the City are public records subject to Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, unless a specific statutory exemption applies. Respondents shall not mark an entire response confidential. Any claimed exemption must be narrowly identified by page, section, and statutory basis. The City does not guarantee that any claimed exemption will be accepted or upheld. To preserve the integrity of the procurement, respondents shall direct all communications through the City’s designated procurement contact. Unauthorized lobbying, contact with City Commissioners or evaluation committee members concerning this RFQ, or attempts to influence the procurement outside the stated process may result in disqualification. 17. RESERVATION OF RIGHTSThe City reserves all rights available under law, including the right to: Reject any or all responses. Waive minor informalities or irregularities. Request clarifications or supplemental information. Conduct interviews, presentations, reference checks, or site visits. Negotiate scope, price, schedule, and contract terms with the highest-ranked firm. Terminate negotiations and proceed to another firm if an acceptable agreement cannot be reached. Shortlist firms and request technical or price proposals if required or advantageous. Cancel, revise, or reissue this RFQ. Issue separate notices to proceed or work authorizations for phases, components, or funding segments. Award in the manner determined to be in the best interest of the City and consistent with applicable law and funding requirements.
18. NO OBLIGATION AND COSTS OF RESPONSEThis RFQ does not obligate the City to award a contract or pay any cost incurred by a respondent in preparing, submitting, or presenting a response. All costs of response preparation are the responsibility of the respondent. 19. PROTESTSAny protest or challenge to this solicitation, the evaluation process, ranking, intended award, or award must be submitted in accordance with applicable City procurement procedures, ordinances, rules, and Florida law. The respondent is responsible for determining and complying with any applicable deadlines. Failure to timely file a protest may constitute a waiver of protest rights. 20. ATTACHMENTSThe following attachments are part of this RFQ: Attachment A - Response Checklist Attachment B - Scoring Sheet Attachment C - Proposed Timeline and Benchmark Schedule Template Attachment D - Reference Form Attachment E - Compliance Certification Attachment F - Non-Collusion, Conflict, and Addenda Acknowledgment Attachment G - Cost Proposal / Bid Schedule Attachment H - Unit Price and Allowance Schedule Attachment I - DEP Grant Agreement WG019  ATTACHMENT A - RESPONSE CHECKLISTRespondents should include this checklist with the response. Failure to include a checklist does not waive any requirement. Included Checklist Item [  ] Signed cover letter acknowledging September 30, 2026 construction completion deadline [  ] One original signed response, three hard copies, and one USB drive [  ] Executive summary and project understanding [  ] Firm qualifications and design-build team structure [  ] Florida licenses and corporate registrations [  ] Key personnel resumes and availability statement [  ] Relevant project experience [  ] Accelerated delivery approach and critical path plan [  ] Detailed proposed timeline with benchmarks [  ] Grant and compliance plan [  ] Quality, safety, and risk management plan [  ] Five references [  ] Insurance evidence or statement of ability to comply [  ] Surety letter confirming bonding capacity [  ] E-Verify certification [  ] Public entity crimes certification [  ] Scrutinized companies certification if applicable [  ] Suspension/debarment certification [  ] Lobbying certification if applicable [  ] Non-collusion statement [  ] Conflict-of-interest disclosure [  ] Acknowledgment of all addenda [  ] Separate sealed Cost Proposal / Bid Schedule - Attachment G [  ] Unit Price Schedule and Allowance Schedule - Attachment H [  ] Signed acknowledgment of September 30 grant deadline, grant-funding-loss responsibility, and delay damages provisions [  ] Statement of all assumptions, exclusions, owner-direct purchase credits, alternates, and proposed value-engineering options affecting price   ATTACHMENT B - SCORING SHEETEvaluator: _____________________________________________    Date: ____________________ Category Max Points Score Evaluator Notes Project understanding and approach 12     Accelerated schedule / September 30 deadline 20     Comparable design-build/wastewater experience 15     Team qualifications and availability 12     Cost proposal / bid price / cost control 15     Grant/federal/state/DEP compliance 10     Quality, safety, and risk management 6     References and past performance 5     Financial capacity, bonding, insurance, workload 5     TOTAL 100     Ranking Recommendation: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Additional Comments: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   ATTACHMENT C - PROPOSED TIMELINE AND BENCHMARK SCHEDULE TEMPLATERespondents must submit a detailed schedule. The following minimum benchmarks shall be addressed. Respondents may add additional activities and dates. Activity / Benchmark Proposed Date Responsible Party Critical Assumptions / Notes Kickoff meeting       Existing information review complete       Field verification complete       Survey/SUE/geotechnical complete       Permit matrix complete       Agency coordination initiated       Long-lead equipment list complete       Owner-direct purchase recommendations submitted       30% design validation package       60% design / constructability package       Final signed/sealed design documents       All required permits secured or construction-authorized       Materials procured / available       Mobilization       Force main installation begins       25% installed       50% installed       75% installed       100% installed       Pressure testing / startup / commissioning       Restoration complete       Substantial completion of construction No later than September 30, 2026   Mandatory Final as-builts and closeout package         ATTACHMENT D - REFERENCE FORMRespondent shall provide at least five references. Duplicate this page as needed. Project Name   Owner / Agency   Owner Contact Name   Owner Contact Phone and Email   Project Location   Delivery Method   Contract Amount   Final Amount   Start Date / Completion Date   Pipe Size / Linear Feet / Major Components   Lift Station / SCADA / Odor Control / Railroad Crossing Components   Funding Source / Grant Requirements   Was the project completed on schedule?   Description of Respondent’s Role  
ATTACHMENT E - COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATIONThe undersigned certifies that the respondent has reviewed the RFQ and will comply with all applicable federal, state, local, DEP, ARPA, grant, procurement, public records, labor, safety, civil rights, domestic preference, bonding, insurance, and contracting requirements if selected. The respondent further certifies that neither the respondent nor its principals are presently suspended, debarred, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, voluntarily excluded from participation, or otherwise prohibited from receiving a public contract or federally assisted contract, except as disclosed in writing with this response. The respondent certifies that it will comply with E-Verify requirements, public entity crimes requirements, scrutinized companies requirements, non-collusion requirements, conflict-of-interest disclosure requirements, and all other certifications required by law, grant conditions, and the final contract. Firm Name: ________________________________________________________________ Authorized Representative: _________________________________________________ Title: ____________________________________________________________________ Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ______________   ATTACHMENT F - NON-COLLUSION, CONFLICT, AND ADDENDA ACKNOWLEDGMENTNon-Collusion. The respondent certifies that its response is made without prior understanding, agreement, or connection with any corporation, firm, or person submitting a response for the same services, and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud. Conflict Disclosure. The respondent shall disclose any actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest involving the City, City officials, City employees, City consultants, the design criteria professional, the City of Newberry, DEP, funding agencies, or any stakeholder that may affect this procurement or project. Addenda Acknowledgment. The respondent acknowledges receipt of the following addenda: Addendum No. Date Issued Initials                         Firm Name: ________________________________________________________________ Authorized Representative: _________________________________________________ Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ______________   ATTACHMENT G - COST PROPOSAL / BID SCHEDULERespondent shall complete this form and submit it in a separate sealed envelope. The City may request backup documentation, cost breakdowns, subcontractor/vendor quotes, and clarification to support cost or price analysis, negotiation, grant documentation, and award. Bid Item Description Quantity / Unit Proposed Amount Base Bid 1 Phase One design, permitting, survey/SUE, geotechnical, project management, grant compliance support, and final signed/sealed documents Lump Sum $______________ Base Bid 2 Phase One 8-inch force main construction, approximately 42,000 linear feet, including appurtenances, valves, fittings, testing, restoration, MOT, safety, and closeout Lump Sum / Approx. 42,000 LF $______________ Base Bid 3 Phase One startup, pressure/testing, record drawings, GPS/as-built data, operations documentation, and grant closeout support Lump Sum $______________ Base Bid 4 Phase Two design and preconstruction services for railroad crossings/connections, lift station integration, electrical, SCADA, controls, odor control, and backup power Lump Sum $______________ Base Bid 5 Phase Two construction for railroad crossing/connections and interconnection tie-ins, if authorized with initial award Lump Sum $______________ Base Bid 6 Phase Two lift station modifications, pumps, electrical, controls, SCADA, odor control, and fixed backup power improvements, if authorized with initial award Lump Sum $______________ Deduct/Credit 1 Owner-direct purchase credit for pumps, switchboards, fixed generators, controls, or other long-lead items, if directed by City Credit / Allowance $______________ Allowance 1 City-authorized contingency or allowance items only, subject to written approval before use Allowance $______________ Alternate 1 Respondent-proposed value-engineering or schedule-protection alternate; attach explanation Add/Deduct $______________ TOTAL PROPOSED PRICE / GMP Total of all authorized base bid items, alternates, allowances, credits, bonds, insurance, overhead, profit, and all costs needed to perform the proposed work Total $______________ The undersigned certifies that the proposed price includes all labor, materials, equipment, supervision, design, permitting, testing, bonds, insurance, overhead, profit, documentation, closeout, compliance, and all other costs necessary to complete the proposed scope by the required deadline, except only those items expressly identified as City responsibilities or owner-direct purchases. Respondent further acknowledges the September 30, 2026 construction completion deadline and the grant-funding-loss, indemnity, delay-damage, documentation, and recovery-plan obligations stated in this RFQ and to be included in the final contract. Firm Name: ________________________________________________________________ Authorized Representative: _________________________________________________ Title: ____________________________________________________________________ Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ______________ ATTACHMENT H - UNIT PRICE AND ALLOWANCE SCHEDULERespondent shall provide unit prices sufficient for the City to evaluate additions, deductive changes, value engineering, owner-direct purchase credits, and grant cost reasonableness. Add rows as needed. Unit prices shall include all labor, equipment, material, overhead, profit, bond, insurance, testing, documentation, and restoration costs unless expressly stated otherwise. Item Unit Unit Price Notes / Assumptions 8-inch force main installed Linear Foot $________ / LF Include pipe, fittings, trench, bedding, backfill, testing, restoration Directional drill / trenchless crossing Linear Foot $________ / LF Identify carrier/casing assumptions and depth assumptions Railroad crossing package Each $________ / EA Include permitting/coordination assumptions Air release valve assembly Each $________ / EA Include vault/box and appurtenances Isolation / plug valve assembly Each $________ / EA Include valve box/vault and fittings Lift station pump package Each $________ / EA Identify horsepower and lead-time assumptions SCADA/control panel integration Each $________ / EA Identify telemetry/control assumptions Fixed standby generator package Each $________ / EA Natural gas or other fixed infrastructure, if applicable Odor control unit/system Each $________ / EA Identify technology and operating assumptions Pavement/driveway restoration Square Yard $________ / SY Include base, asphalt/concrete, striping if applicable Sod/grass/site restoration Square Yard $________ / SY Include stabilization and erosion controls Maintenance of traffic Day $________ / Day Include signs, devices, flagging, plans as applicable Dewatering Day $________ / Day State assumptions Utility conflict allowance Allowance $______________ City-authorized use only Rock/unsuitable material excavation Cubic Yard $________ / CY State disposal/replacement assumptions Extended work hours / added crew recovery measure Day / Crew $________ / Day For City-authorized schedule recovery, if required Attach additional sheets for alternates, exclusions, assumptions, vendor/subcontractor quotes, owner-direct purchase recommendations, and long-lead equipment procurement schedules.
  ATTACHMENT I - DEP GRANT AGREEMENT WG019The following pages are attached for reference as Attachment I.



































  END OF ATTACHMENTS END OF RFQ