0092-0689 0167-0108 RFQ.pdf

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CONSTRUCTION MANAGER/GENERAL CONTRACTOR

PROCUREMENT

STATE PROJECT NUMBERS 0092-0689 & 0167-0108

ROUTE 15 INTERCHANGE 46

IMPROVEMENTS AND HEROES

TUNNEL PROJECT

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

August 26, 2026

HAMDEN, WOODBRIDGE, AND

NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT

Construction Manager/General Contractor

Request for Qualifications

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1 – GENERAL ______________________________________________________2

1.1 Project Overviews and Goals 6

1.2 Project Information Website 8

1.3 Prequalification Requirements 8

1.4 Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) Goal 10

1.5 Insurance Requirements 11

1.6 State Campaign Contribution Solicitation Limitations 11

1.7 Affirmative Action 11

1.8 Office of Policy and Management (OPM) Forms 11

1.9 Prevailing Wage Rates 11

SECTION 2 – PROCUREMENT PROCESS _____________________________________12

2.1 Selection Process 12

2.2 Procurement Schedule 13

2.3 Contact Information 13

2.4 Submission of a Request for Information (RFI) 14

SECTION 3 – SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS __________________________________15

3.1 SOQ Submission and Location Instructions 15

3.2 SOQ Submission Requirements 15

3.3 RFQ Amendment 21

3.4 Property of Connecticut Department of Transportation 22

3.5 Confidentiality of SOQs 22

3.6 Non-Commitment 22

3.7 SOQ Preparation Costs 22

3.8 Conflict of Interest and Unfair Competitive Advantage 22

SECTION 4 – EVALUATION PROCESS AND CRITERIA ________________________26

4.1 Evaluation of SOQ 26

4.2 Qualifications Scoring Criteria 26

APPENDIX A: Submission Forms ______________________________________________30 Appendix A.01 - Form SOQ C255

Appendix A.02 - Conflict of Interest and Unfair Competitive Advantage Certification

Appendix A.03 - Certificate of Authority (Sample)

Appendix A.04 - Past Performance Form

August 26, 2026 0092-0689 & 0167-0108

SECTION 1 – GENERAL

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) invites responses from Proposers to provide

Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) services for CTDOT Project Nos. 0092-0689: Route

15 Interchange 46 Improvements and 0167-0108: Heroes Tunnel Project in Hamden, Woodbridge, and New

Haven, CT (collectively, the Projects) as further described in Section 1.1 below.

The Best Value Construction Manager/General Contractor (BVCM/GC) Procurement Process is being used for the Projects. This BVCM/GC Procurement Process is authorized under Connecticut General Statute

(CGS) sections 13a-95b “Designation of projects using construction-manager-at-risk or design-build contracts”, and 13a-95c “Commissioner's duties re construction-manager-at-risk and design-build contracts. Use of department employees and consultants”.

The following are common terms used in this document:

Advance Notice: Constitutes the legal advertisement for these Projects. The Advance Notice provides preliminary project information and will not contain all the project information and requirements for the

Proposers. This information is contained in this RFQ. If there is any conflicting information between the

Advance Notice and this RFQ, the RFQ will take precedence.

Best Value Construction Manager/General Contractor (BVCM/GC) Procurement Process: A two-step selection process in which Step 1 consists of creating a Shortlist of qualified Proposers in response to a Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Step 2 consists of the submission and evaluation of Technical Proposal and Price Proposals, and Oral Presentations by Proposers on the Shortlist in response to a Request for

Proposal (RFP).

Commissioner: State of Connecticut Transportation Commissioner acting directly or through a duly authorized representative.

Conflict Situation: This term shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3.8 hereof.

Constructability Review: A process that integrates the Contractor’s build/assembly skill sets into the design phase of a project. By active/early involvement, the Contractor provides its expertise and experience, as the design is being finalized, to do all of the following where possible: identify problems, provide details, provide clarity, optimize methods, evaluate construction phasing, and reduce complexity. These evaluations are beneficial in reducing critical schedule delays, reducing requests for information (RFIs), and reducing change orders and/or construction claims.

Construction Phase: The second phase of the Projects when the Contractor performs the Work defined under the Construction Contract. The time begins upon the issuance of a notice to proceed pursuant to the

Construction Contract.

Contract: Collectively, the agreements and documents governing the performance of CM/GC services for the Projects. The Preconstruction Services Agreement and the Construction Contract are separate agreements that collectively establish the contractual relationship between CTDOT and the Contractor for the performance of CM/GC services. The Contract consists of:

(a) Preconstruction Services Agreement: the agreement between CTDOT and the Contractor authorizing and governing the performance of Preconstruction Services, including all exhibits, attachments, amendments, and other documents incorporated therein.

(b) Construction Contract: the agreement, including all documents incorporated therein, between

CTDOT and the Contractor authorizing and governing the performance of Construction Services following acceptance of the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP).

Contractor: The Proposer that offers the best value to CTDOT as determined based on the requirements of the RFP and meets all other requirements for contracting with the State of Connecticut, who enters into a Preconstruction Agreement with CTDOT for the Projects.

Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC): This is a contracting method that involves

CTDOT executing a Preconstruction Services Agreement with a contractor to provide, among other services, input regarding constructability, risk, cost, and schedule during the Preconstruction Phase of a project. During this Preconstruction Phase, the contractor performs a construction manager role, serving as an advisor to CTDOT and CTDOT’s Designer. Once the Preconstruction Phase of the project reaches the appropriate stage, the contractor is given an opportunity to provide a proposed cost (“GMP Proposal”) to construct the project. CTDOT then evaluates the acceptability of the contractor’s GMP Proposal by comparing the contractor’s price with the estimate prepared by a firm hired by CTDOT to provide an independent cost estimate for the project. If the Contractor and CTDOT are able to reach an acceptable

GMP Proposal and all conditions of award have been satisfied, CTDOT will execute a construction contract, in form and substance satisfactory to CTDOT, with the contractor to construct the project as per the plans and specifications within the GMP.

Construction Services: The activities conducted by the Contractor during the Construction Phase pursuant to the Construction Contract.

CTDOT or the Department: The Connecticut Department of Transportation.

Designer: The design engineer(s) who is (are) responsible for signing and sealing the plans for the Projects and related documents, and who are contracted separately with the CTDOT.

Experience Modification Rate (EMR): a numerical system used by insurance companies to set workers’ compensation premiums.

GMP Authorization: A written addendum to the Construction Contract that establishes, revises, or adjusts the Guaranteed Maximum Price for the Construction Phase of the Projects and incorporates the terms upon which the GMP is based in accordance with the Preconstruction Agreement and Construction Contract. A separate notice to proceed must be issued by CTDOT prior to the Contractor commencing any construction work under the Construction Contract.

Guaranteed Maximum Price (“GMP”): The total itemized dollar amount agreed upon between the

Contractor and the CTDOT for constructing the Projects, excluding the fee for the Preconstruction Phase services. It includes, but is not limited to, all direct and indirect contractor costs associated with the construction, self-performed work, contracting, permitting approvals, sub-contractors, suppliers, construction engineering, and management of the Projects, work restrictions, the preparation of the construction schedules, shop drawing preparation, construction labor, material costs, equipment costs, coordination and monitoring of third-party utilities, sub-contractor management, all traffic control, quality testing, survey, replacement of rejected work or materials, all punch-list work, operation manuals, certain public information and coordination costs, all overhead costs, general condition costs, incidental costs, and fees. The Contractor is required to provide all of the back-up estimate detail to CTDOT as part of the GMP

‘Open Book Estimating’ submittal process. The GMP will include a multiplier to compensate the

Contractor for its profit and home office overhead expenses attributable to the Projects. No additional home/office overhead or profit will be allowed in the GMP. Once the GMP is finalized by the CTDOT and the Contractor, the CTDOT will issue a GMP Authorization and a notice to proceed pursuant to the

Construction Contract. Should CTDOT and the Contractor be unsuccessful in agreeing to a GMP, the

Contractor will lose the rights to perform the work associated with the Projects, which, at CTDOT’s option, will be competitively re-bid or re-let by any other lawful procurement method selected by the CTDOT. The

Contractor will be prohibited from participating on the re-procured work.

Independent Cost Estimator (ICE): An independent firm hired by CTDOT to perform a series of detailed cost estimates independent of the Contractor. These estimates are an important tool to set up, compare, and approve the GMP. These estimates will be held “in the blind” (i.e., not visible to the Contractor) and only used to determine if the proposed GMP for any piece of the work is within one hundred-ten percent (110%) of the estimates for recommendation to award.

Joint Venture (JV): A contractual arrangement or legal entity that has or will be formed by two (2) or more entities (each, a “JV Member”) for collective engagement for the Work.

Key Personnel: Contractor’s personnel in the roles described in Sections 3.2.4 hereof and identified as such in Form SOQ C255 Section D included in Proposer’s SOQ. Key Personnel may not be removed or changed without written permission from CTDOT.

Key Subcontractors: A subcontractor is one who is identified by the Proposer in its SOQ as part of its team, to assist in ensuring the team meets the prequalification requirements. If a subcontractor is identified as a Key Subcontractor in the Proposer’s SOQ, that subcontractor may not be later revised without the written consent of CTDOT. A Key Subcontractor(s) identified for prequalification of Group No. 9

(Intermediate Bridges) and Group No. 15 (Intelligent Transportation Systems [ITS]) need not be exclusive to the Proposer’s team. In addition, during the GMP negotiation process, the work and costs to be performed by a named Key Subcontractor are exempt from the requirement to be competitively bid; however, the Key

Subcontractor shall participate in the same Open Book Estimating, cost transparency, and GMP development process applicable to the Contractor.

Open Book Estimating: Full detail of the Contractor's estimates that it is required to provide during all estimate submissions, change orders and proposals, including direct costs, production rates, crew compositions, labor, materials, waste factors, equipment, small tools and supplies, indirect costs, mark-ups, profits, waste factors, and all other add-ons. The estimates shall be generated in a work breakdown structure that has been approved by CTDOT. The estimates shall be shared openly with CTDOT as the estimate is being developed and at any time CTDOT considers the need to reconcile with the Independent Cost

Estimator.

Preconstruction Phase: The first phase of the Projects when the Contractor performs the activities defined under the Preconstruction Services Agreement in collaboration with the Designer and CTDOT.

Preconstruction Services: The activities conducted by the Contractor pursuant to the Preconstruction

Services Agreement during the advancement of preliminary design and final design phases in the

Preconstruction Phase.

Price Proposal: A set of documents developed by the Proposer and submitted to CTDOT that contains the price submittals required by the RFP.

Projects: Collectively, CTDOT Project Nos. 0092-0689: Route 15 Interchange 46 Improvements and 0167-

0108: Heroes Tunnel Project in Hamden, Woodbridge and New Haven, CT.

Proposal: A set of documents requested by CTDOT in the RFP that includes the Technical Proposal and the Price Proposal.

Proposer: An entity prequalified to participate in the BVCM/GC Procurement Process (prior to contract award). The Proposer shall be the entity on the Shortlist submitting the Technical Proposal and Price

Proposal.

Qualitative Rating Criteria: Those qualitative scoring components described in Section 4.2 hereof.

Request for Information (RFI): A formal request from a Proposer for information related to the Projects submitted through Bid Express®.

Request for Proposal (RFP): The document(s) issued by CTDOT, soliciting Proposals from the Shortlist seeking to be selected to act as the Contractor for the Projects.

Request for Qualifications (RFQ): This document issued by CTDOT, requesting that contractors wishing to be selected to act as the Contractor for these Projects submit a description of their qualifications for evaluation by CTDOT.

Selection Panel: A committee established by CTDOT to review and score SOQs based on pre-determined scoring criteria set forth in this RFQ.

Shortlist: Proposers that are invited to submit Technical Proposals and Price Proposals based on their submitted Statement of Qualifications.

Solicitation Letter: The document which constitutes direct advertisement for the Projects. The Solicitation

Letter will not contain all the project information and requirements for the Proposers. Required information is contained in the RFQ document (this document), which supplements the Solicitation Letter.

Statement of Qualifications (SOQ): A group of documents that contain information regarding the

Proposer’s team. Interested Proposers must submit an SOQ as described herein. Each SOQ submitted must meet the requirements stipulated in order for CTDOT to consider the Proposer for the Shortlist.

Substantial Completion: The date at which the performance of all work on the Projects has been completed except minor or incidental items, final cleanup, work required under a warranty, and repair of unacceptable work, as determined by CTDOT.

Technical Proposal: A set of documents developed by the Proposer and submitted to CTDOT pursuant to the RFP that describes the Proposer’s technical approach for the Projects.

Work: When capitalized herein, this refers to the furnishing by the Contractor of all labor, materials, tools, equipment, and other incidentals necessary or convenient for the successful completion of the Projects, and the carrying out of any and all other duties and obligations imposed upon the Contractor by the Contract.

The Work includes any such labor or items provided by Subcontractors, Sub-subcontractors, material suppliers or any other party for whom the Contractor is responsible under or pursuant to the Contract or the

Contractor’s contracts with such parties for the Projects. For purposes related to the performance under the

Contract by the Contractor and its agents, CTDOT's Designer will have exclusive authority to determine the intent and meaning of the usage of the term "Work" wherever it appears in the Contract.

1.1 Project Overviews and Goals

1.1.1 Project Construction Overview

The Projects’ scope will include, but is not limited to, Preconstruction Services and Construction

Services to deliver and construct the Projects, including improvements to correct existing deficiencies, enhance safety, improve travel, and facilitate long-term maintenance at the Heroes

Tunnel and Interchange 46. During the Preconstruction Phase, the Contractor will support the design effort led by CTDOT and its two (2) Designers through Constructability Reviews, means and methods input, Open Book Estimating, scheduling, risk identification and management, and recommendation/evaluation of innovative approaches to delivery.

Currently the major items of work during the Construction Phase related to the Projects’ description above, are anticipated to include the following:

• Structural o Full replacement of the concrete liner (partial depth or full depth).

o Preservation work on two (2) bridges (Bridge Nos. 00774A and 00774B) carrying

Route 15 over Wintergreen Avenue.

▪ Bridge rail repairs and upgrades.

▪ Concrete patching, installation of waterproofing membrane and new bituminous overlay.

o Bridge No. 00771 will be replaced with a new structure.

o Bridge No. 00772 will undergo superstructure replacement and widening.

o Construction of ancillary building to house power distribution and control equipment, including fire and life safety systems near CTDOT maintenance facility.

o Concrete repairs to the central shaft.

• Site / Civil / Utilities / Drainage o Full-depth reconstruction of Route 15 roadway within the tunnel and approaches.

o Groundwater drainage improvements.

o Replacement of tunnel lighting and electrical systems.

o Install new catch basins.

o Construction of a temporary access road to the ventilation building.

o Relocation of existing Route 15 northbound on-ramp to a new loop ramp.

o Profile adjustment on Route 15 in vicinity of Bridge No. 00771.

o Widening of Route 15 to improve acceleration and deceleration lanes.

• Mechanical o Installation of a new ventilation system consisting of jet fans attached to the tunnel barrel ceilings.

o Correction of mechanical deficiencies.

• Electrical / Communications o Installation of emergency egress signage and lighting.

o Installation of new variable message signs (VMS) and over height detection systems.

o Installation of new tunnel lighting o Correction of electrical deficiencies.

o Installation of incident command posts.

o Installation of CCTV cameras.

• Safety and Security o Installation of new fire hydrants, fire detection, and life safety systems using National

Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 502 as guidance.

• Architectural o Architectural repairs to the ventilation building.

o Exterior masonry repairs to portal walls.

CONSTRUCTION PHASE DURATION: Approximately 5 Years (Construction Notice to

Proceed to Substantial Completion of the overall Projects)

ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST: $250 to $300 Million

PROJECT LABOR AGREEMENT (PLA): It is anticipated that a Project Labor Agreement will be required as part of this Contract.

SELF-PERFORMANCE: The Contractor selected for these Projects must self-perform at least forty percent (40%) of the total contract amount. For purposes of determining compliance with this requirement, work performed by the Contractor, including the work of any JV Members comprising the Contractor, shall be credited toward self-performance, while work performed by subcontractors, including Key Subcontractors, shall not.

1.1.2 Preconstruction Services

The Contractor shall work collaboratively with CTDOT, the Designers, and the Independent Cost

Estimator (ICE) to perform the preconstruction tasks identified in the Preconstruction Agreement.

For Preconstruction Services, aspects of the Projects’ scope are subject to change prior to acceptance of the SOQ. It is anticipated that the Contractor will provide Preconstruction Services including, but not limited to, the following:

• Project management

• Management plans

• Contract package definitions

• Cost estimating

• Constructability Reviews

• Review of potential long lead items

• Scheduling and phasing coordination, including coordination with third parties

• Reviewing production rates and Maintenance and Protection of Traffic (M&PT) impacts

• Development and maintenance of a project schedule (critical path method [CPM] and 4D scheduling models)

• Risk analysis

• Cost optimization inputs

• Contractor requested field investigation(s) as approved by CTDOT

• Bid packaging and subcontractor bid solicitations

• Development of a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) proposal

• Projects team partnering

• Projects meetings

1.1.3 Construction Services

If a GMP is agreed upon and the Construction Contract is executed, the Contractor shall construct the Projects in accordance with the requirements of the Contract, except for work that is specifically indicated in the Contract to be the responsibility of others.

1.1.4 Project Goals

CTDOT has developed the following goals for these Projects – Proposers should consider these goals when formulating their team and preparing their SOQs:

• Address structural deficiencies and improve safety within Heroes Tunnel and at Route 15

Interchange 46 while meeting current design and safety standards.

• Minimize impacts to the traveling public, adjacent property owners, and businesses during construction.

• Optimize the construction schedule to reduce overall duration to the extent practical.

• Collaborate with CTDOT and the Designers during design development to control construction costs and minimize change orders.

• Deliver the Projects within the established budget.

• Engage a Contractor with demonstrated experience delivering complex tunnel, bridge, roadway, and traffic management improvements.

• Achieve successful collaboration and communication between CTDOT, the Contractor, Designers, ICE and key third parties and stakeholders throughout the Preconstruction

Phase and Construction Phase.

• Maximize cost-effective solutions.

• Provide recommendations and innovations that improve the life cycle performance of the

Projects.

• Achieve incident-free completion of the construction work.

• Adhere to the Projects’ quality requirements to reduce CTDOT need for oversight.

• Increase value to CTDOT through integrated involvement, proactive problem solving, and input to the decision-making process throughout all phases of the Projects.

• Deliver the Projects on or ahead of the planned schedule.

1.2 Project Information Website

RFQ information including addenda is located on the Bid Express® website at (www.bidexpress.com).

Navigation of the Bid Express® service is free until you elect to submit your SOQ (see Fee Schedule here).

1.3 Prequalification Requirements

CTDOT has established prequalification requirements for construction firm(s). The following sections contain specific requirements for the Projects.

http://www.bidexpress.com/ https://www.infotechinc.com/bid-express-fee-schedule

1.3.1 Prequalification of Contractor(s)

In accordance with the provisions of the CTDOT Construction Contract Bidding and Award

Manual, bidders must be prequalified for Group No. 7 (Road Construction and Rehabilitation:

Limited Access Highways/Freeways) to be eligible to bid on this Contract. Bidders that are not prequalified for this work classification will not be approved to bid on this Contract. In addition, if the lead entity of a proposer team is a Joint Venture, then both (or all) JV Members must be fully prequalified in Group No. 7.

In view of the complexity of these Projects, and in accordance with the provisions of the CTDOT

Construction Contract Bidding and Award Manual, bidders and/or subcontractors must also be prequalified for Group No. 9 (Intermediate Bridges) and Group No. 15 (Intelligent Transportation

Systems [ITS]) to be eligible to work on this Contract. The firm which performs work under these work classifications shall be CTDOT prequalified for that classification as part of the bidder and/or subcontractor approval.

If the prime entity is relying on a subcontractor to meet the prequalification of Groups No. 9 and/or

15, the subcontractor is considered a Key Subcontractor and must be named and submitted in the

SOQ as part of the Proposer team. The prime entity or the Key Subcontractor, as applicable, shall either be prequalified or shall submit a sworn and fully complete Contractor’s Prequalification

Statement (CON 16) to CTDOT’s Contract Section prior to submission of the SOQ. Contractors seeking prequalification specifically for the Projects shall include in their prequalification submission, a cover letter directed to the Manager of Contracts stating the following:

“Prequalification submission for the Construction Manager / General Construction Project No’s.

0092-0689 and 0167-0108.”

The CTDOT prequalification link can be found below:

https://contractorprequalification.dot.ct.gov/

Construction firms and/or teams interested in participating in the selection process that do not hold the required prequalifications should initiate the relevant prequalification processes as soon as possible so that they obtain the required prequalifications no later than September 24, 2026. Firms that have not obtained the required prequalifications by September 24, 2026, may be deemed non-responsive and may not be considered for further participation in the selection process.

If information that the CTDOT Office of Contracts obtained in the course of the prequalification process raises serious questions about a contractor’s responsibility, as that term is understood in the context of traditional CTDOT contracting, the CTDOT Office of Contracts will call that fact to the attention of the Commissioner. Typical matters that may call into question a Contractor's responsibility are identified (though not exhaustively) in Section XI (G)(2) of the CTDOT

Construction Contract Bidding and Award Manual. If in CTDOT's opinion, a particular Proposer should be deemed non-responsible as a potential recipient of the Contract award, CTDOT may at any step of the BVCM/GC Procurement Process inform that Proposer of such.

Contractors must also provide an active Major Contractor’s License as part of their Proposal. The

Connecticut Major Contractor’s License is issued by the Connecticut Department of Consumer

Protection (DCP) and more information can be obtained here:

https://contractorprequalification.dot.ct.gov/ https://portal.ct.gov/DCP/License-Services-Division/All-License-Applications/Major-

Contractor-Registration-Application.

The Contractor must obtain prequalification in the categories and the Estimated Construction Cost specified above and have an active Major Contractor’s License prior to the SOQ submission deadline.

Prior to the contract award, the selected Proposer, including all Joint Venture Members, shall have a current corporate registration with the Connecticut Secretary of State.

The CTDOT prequalification certificate(s) or updated prequalification certificate(s) and Major

Contractor’s License should be attached as shown in Section 3.2.9.

1.3.2 Joint Ventures

Formation of Joint Ventures (JV) will be allowed for these Projects to satisfy the requirements of the Proposer. Where a JV is the Proposer, all JV Members will collectively be considered to be the

Proposer and shall be liable on a joint and several basis such that each and every obligation or undertaking stated to be fulfilled or performed by the JV will be the joint and several obligation or undertaking of each JV Member for the performance of the entire contract as a JV in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract.

Each participant in a JV must submit a letter with the JV’s SOQ, stating the participants’ agreement to bid as a JV with the other named JV Member(s), and indicating the respective percentage(s) of the Projects’ Work (“the Responsibility Percentage”) which would be the responsibility of each of the JV Member(s).

Any information that must be submitted by the Proposer with the SOQ must also be submitted with respect to the JV itself and by each JV Member unless otherwise expressly provided herein.

The JV shall not change its Joint Venture composition at any time during this RFQ nor at any time while under consideration for selection without the prior written consent of CTDOT, which may be granted in its sole discretion. If a Proposer is a JV, the lead firm must be prequalified in the

CTDOT Construction Classification Category stated above.

1.4 Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) Goal

Please be advised that there may be a DBE goal assigned for the Projects’ Construction Phase. It will be determined as the design progresses. There is no DBE goal for Preconstruction Services. Compliance with this provision may be fulfilled when an approved DBE or any combination of approved DBEs perform work under the Contract in accordance with the Contract specifications and the Connecticut

General Statutes as revised.

CTDOT will not exclude any person from participation in, deny any person the benefits of, or otherwise discriminate against anyone in connection with the award and performance of any contract or concession opportunity. CTDOT shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the award and performance of any CTDOT-assisted contract or in the administration of its DBE programs or the requirements of 49 CFR Part 26 and 23. CTDOT shall take all necessary and reasonable steps under 49 CFR Part 26 and 23 to ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of

CTDOT-assisted contracts and concession opportunities.

https://portal.ct.gov/DCP/License-Services-Division/All-License-Applications/Major-Contractor-Registration-Application https://portal.ct.gov/DCP/License-Services-Division/All-License-Applications/Major-Contractor-Registration-Application

1.5 Insurance Requirements

The Contractor will be required to secure and maintain several different insurance policies, at no direct cost to the State of Connecticut. Insurance requirements, which must be satisfied prior to the award of the Contract will be detailed in the Preconstruction Agreement and Construction Contract included with the Request for Proposals (RFP).

1.6 State Campaign Contribution Solicitation Limitations

For all State of Connecticut contracts, as defined in CGS § 9-612(f)(1)(C) having a value in a calendar year of $50,000 or more or a combination or series of such agreements or contracts having a value of

$100,000 or more, the authorized signatory to this submission in response to the State of Connecticut's solicitation expressly acknowledges receipt of the State Elections Enforcement Commission's Notice titled "Notice to Executive Branch State Contractors and Prospective State Contractors" (Notice) advising State contractors of State of Connecticut campaign contribution and solicitation prohibitions, and will inform its principals of the contents of the Notice. The State Elections Enforcement

Commission’s Notice can be found online at www.ct.gov/SEEC by clicking on the “Forms and

Templates" link and then the “Contractor Reporting Forms” link. The Notice is hereby made a part of this RFQ.

1.7 Affirmative Action

CTDOT requires each Contractor/consultant with contracts of $10,000.00 or more or with fifty (50) or more employees who are awarded a contract, to comply with all federal and state affirmative action and nondiscrimination requirements.

1.8 Office of Policy and Management (OPM) Forms

The successful Proposer shall be required to upload an OPM Form 1 Campaign Contribution

Certification to the vendor profile section of the CTSource website. The following link will guide you to the revised OPM Forms and the successful Proposer is responsible for following the guidelines on the following website:

https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms

The OPM Form 1 shall be filed once per year, with any updates required upon changes to information.

Updates are required within 30 Calendar Days of any change.

1.9 Prevailing Wage Rates

The minimum rates to be paid for labor of the various classifications shall be in accordance with current schedule of wages established by the State of Connecticut Labor Commissioner, including required annual adjustments as provided in the General Statutes of Connecticut and by the United States

Secretary of Labor as required by the Davis Bacon and Related Acts. If a conflict exists between the

Federal and State of Connecticut wage rates, the higher rate shall govern. The Contract wage certification form is to be submitted to the State of Connecticut Labor Commissioner before the award of the Contract.

Prevailing wage rates also apply to the work of any subcontractor or other party that performs work on the Projects sites. The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that each party meets said requirements.

http://www.ct.gov/SEEC https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms

SECTION 2 – PROCUREMENT PROCESS

2.1 Selection Process

Through the BVCM/GC Procurement Process, CTDOT will select the Proposer who provides the “best value” to CTDOT and the State of Connecticut. This determination will be based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, technical approach, project management, qualifications, quality control, innovation, schedule, partnering experience, and/or pricing factors that are expected to meet or exceed CTDOT requirements identified in the RFQ and RFP.

Step 1 of the process involves the solicitation of Statements of Qualifications, review of the SOQs by

CTDOT, and determination of a Shortlist of Proposers that will be allowed to participate in step 2.

CTDOT intends to shortlist no more than four (4) of the highest-ranked Proposers based on the criteria in Section 4 of this RFQ. Only the Proposers on the Shortlist will receive the RFP and be allowed to submit Proposals in step 2.

Step 2 of the process involves the solicitation and review of Technical Proposals and Price Proposals from the Shortlist and the determination of the “best value” proposal determined by the evaluation criteria set forth in the RFP.

This RFQ document contains information on step 1 of the procurement process.

2.1.1 CTDOT Committees

Two (2) separate committees (or panels) will be used during step 1 of the selection process. The following sections contain a description of each committee and the anticipated tasks for each committee.

Selection Panel:

SOQs and the Proposer’s team will be evaluated by a “Selection Panel” whose purpose will be to establish a Shortlist of Proposers that will be invited to participate in step 2 of the BVCM/GC

Procurement Process.

The Selection Panel is responsible for, but not limited to the following tasks:

1. Review SOQs from prospective Proposers.

2. Establish a recommended Shortlist of the top Proposers for the Commissioner to approve.

Technical Support Committee (TSC):

A Technical Support Committee will assist the Selection Panel during the RFQ and future RFP process.

2.2 Procurement Schedule

The following table provides the proposed schedule (Procurement Schedule) for the Projects for step

1:

RFQ Process – Procurement Schedule

Event Date

Advertise RFQ 08/26/2026

Final Date to Submit RFIs 09/10/2026

Deadline for Issuing RFQ Addenda 09/15/2026

Statements of Qualifications Due 09/24/2026

Establish Shortlist and Notify Proposers 10/15/2026

All submissions are due at 2:00 pm Eastern Time.

The following table provides the proposed schedule (Procurement Schedule) for the Projects for step

2:

Anticipated RFP Process – Procurement Schedule (subject to change)

Event Date

Advertise RFP 10/15/2026

Optional Pre-Bid Site Visit TBC

Deadline for Proposers to submit requested Key

Personnel changes regarding the RFP through email.

11/09/2026

Deadline for Proposers to submit RFIs regarding the

RFP through Bid Express® 11/09/2026

CTDOT will not issue RFP addenda after this date. 11/17/2026

Proposers must submit the Technical Proposal and

Price Proposal through Bid Express® by this date and time in order to be eligible for consideration by

CTDOT for award of Contract.

12/02/2026

Selection Panel Members conduct Proposer oral presentations and evaluations of the qualitative criteria components of Proposals.

12/17/2026

Public opening of sealed CM/GC Price Proposals. 12/21/2026

CTDOT estimated Award for Preconstruction Work to the CM/GC.

02/15/2027

2.3 Contact Information

Please refer to Section 1.3 for information related to the prequalification requirements for construction firms.

Please refer to Section 2.4 for submission of RFIs related to this solicitation.

If assistance is needed related to Bid Express®, call the Infotech® customer support team at 888-352-

2439, available Monday - Friday from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm (EST) or email at support@bidexpress.com.

Additionally, refer to the vendor resource page located here or Infotech’s knowledge center for the Bid

Express® service here.

2.4 Submission of a Request for Information (RFI)

Unauthorized communications or contact between Proposers, their employees, agents, or other related entities interested in submitting SOQs with CTDOT and any other person or entity participating on the

Selection Panel or Technical Support Committee with regard to the Projects are strictly prohibited.

From the date of issuance of the RFQ, any Proposer or other associate thereof that initiates or participates in any unauthorized communication directly or indirectly with any member or employee of CTDOT or any member of the Selection Panel or Technical Support Committee in connection with the selection process for the Contract contemplated herein for the Projects, is subject to disqualification.

Questions must be submitted, and responses will be posted via the Bid Express® service at www.bidexpress.com from within each solicitation. Submitted questions should not be assumed to be confidential. The RFQ process focuses on qualifications, not technical issues; therefore, RFIs should not include Proposer strategies or approaches. Questions of this nature can be addressed during step 2 of the procurement process. If a response to a question requires a change to the RFQ, an addendum will be posted on Bid Express®. It is the responsibility of the Proposers to check the Bid Express® service for potential updates.

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SECTION 3 – SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 SOQ Submission and Location Instructions

The required SOQ forms and other attachments must be submitted in response to this RFQ using the

Bid Express® service at www.bidexpress.com, no later than the time and date specified in the

Procurement Schedule in Section 2.2. Registration and completion of a purchase fee (see Fee Schedule here) is required for submission of responses.

Late submissions will not be accepted. Preparation for and submission of the required documents shall be at the Proposer’s expense. The time of receipt shall be considered when the required documents are submitted through the Bid Express® service at www.bidexpress.com for the noted solicitation. The

Proposer is responsible for ensuring their final response time stamp in the Bid Express® service matches the emailed response receipt received by their business users. CTDOT accepts no responsibility for mislabeled or missing information in any Proposer submission documents. CTDOT accepts no responsibility for failure of electronic submissions.

3.2 SOQ Submission Requirements

All supporting documents as noted in the subsections below, with the exception of resumes (resumes to be provided as formatted in the course of normal business but limited to 2 pages), shall be written in the English language in either Arial or Times New Roman 11 point, single spaced, except for organizational charts which may contain smaller fonts (a minimum of 10 pt.) and be submitted on an

11” x 17” page layout. The pages shall be 8½” x 11” in size with 0.75” margins on all edges. Where page limits are specified, one (1) page shall be interpreted as one (1) side of a sheet (for example, 10 sheets paper that are double sided printing = 20 pages).

Submission of additional material beyond the information described below will not be considered.

Additional information such as corporate brochures and pamphlets will be discarded.

All signatures, whether electronic signatures or delivery of original signatures by electronic means, shall be deemed original signatures and shall have the same legal and binding effect as an original signature.

The Proposer must ensure that they use the latest RFQ and other documents and latest addenda (if applicable) to the RFQ or other documents, located on the Bid Express® website at

(www.bidexpress.com).

The Bid Express® service at www.bidexpress.com provides submission spaces for the required documents to upload in response to this RFQ. The documents are to be uploaded in the corresponding space provided under the “Required Document List”. This shall include the following content that shall be completed and uploaded as detailed below. Additional upload space is provided for submissions.

3.2.1 Cover Letter

A cover letter entitled “Statement of Qualifications” limited to one (1) page. The cover letter shall include the Projects numbers, Projects’ descriptions, Proposer name, Proposer mailing address, the primary contact person for the Proposer and primary contact person’s email address. The cover letter shall be addressed to “CTDOT Alternative Contracting Section”.

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3.2.2 Certificate of Authority

A Certificate of Authority naming the individual empowered to bind the Contractor and execute documents on its behalf (the Project Executive). This individual shall be granted the authority to certify the forms for the Statement of Qualifications.

If the Proposer is a Joint Venture, a separate Certificate of Authority from each of the JV Members must be submitted identifying the individual empowered to bind the Contractor and execute documents on its behalf (the Project Executive).

An example of a Certificate of Authority is included in Appendix A.

3.2.3 Statement of Qualification Form

The following SOQ submission form is required to be filled out by each Proposer. The form is located in Appendix A.

• Form SOQ C255 Statement of Qualifications for the Contractor

Proposers shall follow the guidance set forth in this RFQ and as indicated in the CTDOT

Construction Bidding and Award Manual regarding Joint Ventures.

The Form SOQ C255 is not to be altered in any way.

3.2.4 Key Personnel (Form SOQ C255 Section D)

A staffing narrative should be included in the Form SOQ C255 Section D, as a maximum of two

(2) pages (see requirements concerning organization charts for more information on the narratives.)

Each Proposer shall demonstrate that it has qualified personnel to perform all Work and identify individuals for positions listed below and submit up to a maximum of ten (10) resumes with a minimum of one (1) resume for each Key Personnel. Resumes shall not exceed two (2) pages per person. The staffing narrative shall describe the proposed staffing approach and demonstrate how the proposed organization satisfies the availability and in-person participation requirements identified in this Section 3.2.4. Assurance must be given that all Key Personnel will be available for work at the commencement of the applicable phase of work and as required through the duration of the phase of the Projects.

Key Personnel – Positions and Responsibilities:

i. Project Manager: The Project Manager shall have overall responsibility and accountability for the execution and quality of all Work during the Preconstruction

Services and Construction Services. The Project Manager shall manage and coordinate the activities of the Contractor and other Key Personnel of the Contractor’s staff. The Project

Manager will ensure adequate resources are available for the Projects, handle contractual matters, and be the main point of communication for CTDOT. The Project Manager shall be dedicated full-time, in person, to the Projects through the Preconstruction Phase and

Construction Phase.

ii. Construction Quality Manager: The Construction Quality Manager will be in charge of the Contractor’s quality program. During the Preconstruction Phase, the Quality Manager will develop the Contractor’s quality program and provide inputs to the design where appropriate to address quality-related concerns. During the Construction Phase, the Quality

Manager will oversee that the Projects are built to CTDOT’s and the Contractor’s quality standards. The Construction Quality Manager will report to the Project Executive. The

Construction Quality Manager shall be dedicated full time on-site during the Construction

Phase and shall be available as necessary during the Preconstruction Phase. This position may be filled by either the Contractor or a subcontractor, subject to CTDOT review and approval.

iii. Construction Manager: The Construction Manager shall oversee and coordinate all

Contractor activities during both the Preconstruction Phase and Construction Phase.

During the Preconstruction Phase, the Construction Manager shall be responsible for conducting and coordinating the Contractor's preconstruction activities, overseeing subcontractor procurement, supporting constructability reviews, phasing and sequencing development, value engineering and project optimization efforts, and coordinating development of the GMP. If the GMP Authorization is executed, the Construction Manager shall oversee construction activities and be responsible for ensuring that the Projects are constructed in accordance with the Contract. The Construction Manager shall be dedicated full-time on-site during the Preconstruction Phase, including in-person participation at key meetings and workshops, and dedicated full-time on-site during the Construction Phase.

The Construction Manager shall provide continuity between the Preconstruction Phase and

Construction Phase and serve as the Contractor's primary point of contact for execution of the Work.

iv. Lead Cost Estimator: Responsible for providing and ensuring the Open Book Estimating cost model to CTDOT and preparing cost estimates. This person shall be available in-person for all meetings deemed necessary.

v. Lead Scheduler: Responsible for all scheduling functions and scheduling staff, and oversight of development of schedules for Preconstruction Services and Construction

Services to ensure that milestones are achieved on a timely basis. This person shall be available in-person for all meetings deemed necessary, including schedule workshops. This position may be filled by either the Contractor or a subcontractor, subject to CTDOT review and approval.

vi. Safety Manager: Leads field safety management of all Construction Services. This person shall be on-site full-time during construction to appropriately monitor and enforce safety protocols.

The table below provides requirements for Key Personnel qualifications. Experience may only be counted for Key Personnel participation in a similar role on projects of similar size, type, and complexity.

Position Title

Minimum

Years of

Experience

Other Required Project

Experience Other Preferred Qualifications

Project

Manager

At least one (1) similarly sized project

CMCI Certified Construction Manager

(CCM) Certification Tunnel rehabilitation construction project

At least (1) similarly sized CM/GC project that has reached GMP agreement

Construction

Quality

Manager

At least 2 years of demonstrated successful experience implementing

ASQ Certified Construction Quality

Manager (CCQM) or ASQ Certified

Quality Auditor (CQA) or USACE

Position Title

Minimum

Years of

Experience

Other Required Project

Experience Other Preferred Qualifications construction quality control

(QC) programs

Construction Quality Management for

Contractors (CQM-C) or equivalent designation

Construction

Manager

At least one (1) similarly sized project

CMCI Certified Construction Manager

(CCM) Certification Tunnel rehabilitation construction project

At least one (1) similarly sized CM/GC project

Lead Cost

Estimator

At least one (1) Open Book

Estimating CM/GC, CMAR or Progressive Design-Build

[PDB] project

AACE Certified Estimating Professional

(CEP) or equivalent designation

Lead Scheduler 10

At least one (1) similarly sized project including demonstrated experience with Primavera P6 scheduling software, including resource and cost loading experience

AACE Project Scheduling Professional

(PSP) or equivalent

Safety Manager 5 At least one (1) similarly sized project

OSHA 30 Certification for Construction.

Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Construction Health and Safety

Technician (CHST) or equivalent designation

Tunnel rehabilitation construction project

The Proposer may put forth an individual to fill more than one (1) management role of the Key

Personnel positions, provided it can be demonstrated that the individual has the appropriate experience for both with the following exception:

• The Construction Quality Manager cannot fill the roles of the Project Manager, Construction Manager, or any other oversight or production related positions.

The identification of the Key Personnel by a Proposer will be deemed a binding commitment by the Proposer that if it receives the Contract, the Key Personnel will, in fact, play the principal roles on these Projects for the Contractor.

Any Proposer submitting a SOQ and designating its Key Personnel for the selection process will be precluded from later substituting, replacing, or removing any of its Key Personnel without the written consent of CTDOT. CTDOT will determine a Shortlist of Proposers that will be allowed to submit Technical Proposals and Price Proposals for these Projects during the RFP process (step 2).

If a Proposer is placed on the Shortlist, it shall be deemed to have acknowledged, by its identification of the Key Personnel, that CTDOT has relied upon the Proposer’s identification of the Key Personnel in determining that the Proposer should be included on the Shortlist.

For step 2, if a Proposer believes that any change to any Key Personnel identified in its SOQ is warranted prior to filing its Technical Proposal (due to an intervening event), the Proposer shall so notify CTDOT in writing, providing details of the proposed change(s) and the…