RFQ - Richardson WTP Membrane Pilot Project

The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority is soliciting a qualified engineering consulting firm to provide professional services for a pilot-scale reverse osmosis membrane treatment system at the Richardson Water Treatment Plant in Wilmington, North Carolina. The project aims to evaluate the performance of commercial RO membranes under real-world conditions to inform potential future full-scale implementation. The selected consultant will be responsible for designing and supplying a pilot skid, conducting comprehensive testing, collecting and normalizing operational data, and delivering a final technical memorandum with performance analysis, treatment efficacy findings, and lifecycle cost estimates. The work must be completed by September 27, 2027, with key milestones including membrane selection by December 2026, pilot startup by March 2027, and active testing beginning in August 2027. All activities are to be performed on-site at the Richardson WTP, and the consultant must comply with North Carolina’s Mini Brooks Act, which mandates qualifications-based selection without reliance on price in the initial award process. The solicitation requires a Statement of Qualifications limited to 20 pages, excluding cover pages, tabs, resumes, and appendices, and submitted as a single PDF under 25 MB via email to bids@cfpua.org by 2:00 PM on September 8, 2026. Proposals will be evaluated based on four weighted factors: project understanding and approach (30%), relevant firm experience (25%), overall staff experience and availability (25%), and project management and technical expertise (20%). Selection is based on best value through a trade-off process, not lowest price, and the top-ranked firm will enter into negotiations for scope and fee before contract execution. Failure to reach agreement will lead to discussions with the next best-qualified firm. Contractors must be registered with the North Carolina Secretary of State, carry minimum insurance including $2 million professional liability per claim and $1 million general liability per occurrence, and provide detailed credentials for the proposed project manager and technical staff. No formal FAR clauses, solicitation amendments, or federal contracting identifiers are included, and the procurement is strictly state-local level with no solicitation of socioeconomic status or UEI/CAGE requirements.