Allyssa Downs

Allyssa Downs serves as the primary procurement lead for the Vermont Department of Economic Development, overseeing the acquisition of critical infrastructure services that advance statewide resilience and community development. She manages a portfolio centered on engineering design and construction of public works projects, ensuring alignment with the agency’s mission to modernize water, sewer, and transportation systems. Her responsibilities include planning, soliciting, evaluating, and awarding contracts for technical services and capital infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on compliance with state and federal procurement regulations. Downs plays a pivotal role in translating long-term infrastructure goals into actionable procurement strategies that prioritize safety, sustainability, and long-term operational efficiency. While no specific contractor relationships are currently documented, Downs engages with a broad spectrum of qualified vendors specializing in civil engineering and utility construction. Her procurement process emphasizes competitive bidding and technical merit, fostering partnerships with firms possessing demonstrated expertise in hydraulic modeling, stormwater management, and underground utility installation. She consistently seeks contractors with proven track records in public infrastructure delivery, prioritizing experience in federally funded state projects and adherence to environmental and safety standards. Downs’ procurement activity is entirely non-set-aside, with 100% of awards issued under open competition. This reflects a strategic focus on maximizing technical capability and value rather than socioeconomic preferences, though small businesses remain eligible and actively encouraged to compete. Her approach aligns with Vermont’s broader infrastructure priorities, where project complexity and performance outcomes take precedence over socioeconomic set-asides. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541330 (Engineering Services) and 237110 (Water and Sewer Line and Related Structures Construction). She routinely procures services including hydraulic design, geotechnical analysis, construction management, and pipeline rehabilitation. Her technical expertise centers on municipal utility modernization, stormwater infrastructure, and corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring that acquisitions meet rigorous engineering and environmental benchmarks.