RFQ Design Engineering Services - Essex Complex

The Town of Essex is seeking qualified engineering firms to provide comprehensive design and permitting services for public infrastructure improvements at 80-90 Upper Main Street in Vermont, with work required to be completed by June 30, 2028. The scope includes surveying, traffic analysis, and full design phases for roadway, pedestrian, stormwater, sewer, water, lighting, utilities, landscaping, signage, traffic enhancements, and emergency access systems, with deliverables progressing from conceptual (30%) to contract-ready (100%) stages. A LiDAR topographic survey of the entire 30-acre property and detailed surveys of the designated project area are required, along with two detailed traffic studies: one evaluating municipal property build-out and another assessing full site development impacts. The selected consultant must lead monthly project meetings, provide informal monthly updates, attend at least five public meetings including the initial Selectboard kick-off, two community outreach events, and presentations at the 60% and final design stages, and support public communication with renderings and materials. All designs must comply with Northern Borders Regional Commission grant requirements and Vermont land use regulations. Submission of a Statement of Qualifications is required by July 2, 2026, and must include team composition with subconsultants, three similar municipal project examples, experience navigating Vermont and federal laws, references, and a quarterly schedule. Proposals must be submitted via email or mail to Karen Adams, and interested firms must express interest by June 17, 2026. Evaluation is based on a weighted ranking system prioritizing staff qualifications (30%), project understanding (20%), past performance on similar projects (20%), availability of technical disciplines (20%), and local knowledge (10%). The top three firms may be interviewed, with negotiations for scope and cost beginning only with the highest-ranked firm, followed by the next-ranked if needed. Prior to contract execution, the firm must register with the Vermont Secretary of State, secure insurance naming the Town of Essex as an additional insured on acceptable forms, and commit to good faith efforts in soliciting disadvantaged business enterprise subconsultants. All submitted statements become property of the Town, which reserves the right to reject proposals, waive formalities, or cancel the RFQ. Contract award is expected by the end of August 2026.