1_04A7042_-_Request_for_Qualifications_(RFQ)_Notice.pdf

June 5, 2024 RFQ Number 04A7042

STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS NOTICE

NUMBER 04A7042

Read carefully as the following revisions have been made to this document:

Add date and section(s) to be revised

• On 03/16/23, GENERAL the Fee & Escalation table has been revised

• On 04/01/22, GENERAL, Ukraine-Russian-related Sanctions

Requirement added

• On 04/01/22, SUBMISSION OF STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

(SOQs), the electronic submittal time changed to 10:00am

Note: Questions concerning this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) must be submitted in writing to the attention of Vanessa Usanmaz at Vanessa.Usanmaz@dot.ca.gov. Questions must be received no later than seven (7) business days after the RFQ advertisement.

Consultants contacting the District or Division directly seeking information about this RFQ will be disqualified from consideration in the selection process.

Proposers are advised that Caltrans has established a federally mandated overall annual DBE goal comprising both race neutral and race conscious elements to ensure equal participation of DBE groups specified in 49 CFR 26.5. In compliance with 49 CFR 26, Caltrans set a contract goal for DBEs participating in this solicitation expressed as a percentage of the total dollar value of the resultant Agreement. The DBE participation goal for this solicitation is twenty-two percent (22%). See section I.H. in this RFQ for requirements.

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. Caltrans is soliciting Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) from qualified firms that may lead to the award of a contract for Environmental Generalist Services, District 4. In submitting your SOQ, you shall comply with the instructions found herein. In addition to those programs that are specified in this solicitation, prospective consultants are encouraged to consider programs that are available, such as those for the use of small businesses, disadvantaged businesses, disabled veteran businesses, new emerging firms, and other businesses covered by State and Federal programs.

B. The estimated contract amount is $ 18,800,000 - $ 30,550,000.

C. The estimated contract term is 3 years.

D. Interviews will be held via WebEx on July 22, 2024. Confirmation letters will be sent to those firms short-listed.

mailto:Vanessa.Usanmaz@dot.ca.gov

E. The most highly qualified consulting firm will be required to submit an electronic copy of the financial documents listed on the appropriate Financial Documents Submittal Checklist available on the AE Contract Information website. The most highly qualified consulting firm will be notified of their selection and receive instructions for the electronic submission of the financial documents.

The most highly qualified consulting firm must submit a complete financial documents package no later than four (4) days after notification of selection. The prime consultant must submit the complete financial documents package in order for Caltrans to have the information necessary to engage in negotiations. The prime consultant is solely responsible for timely and complete submission of financial documents on behalf of the entire proposed team; financial documents will not be accepted from proposed subconsultant firms. Failure to submit a complete financial documents package by the specified due date may result in termination of negotiations with the most highly qualified consulting firm.

F. Negotiations will be held with the top-ranked firm by teleconference/WebEx during the week of August 28, 2024. The fee for profit shall be ten percent, and the escalation shall be as follows:

Year Period Escalation 1 07/08/2024 – 07/30/2025 2.08% 2 08/01/2025 – 07/30/2026 4.17% 3 08/01/2026 - 07/30/2027 4.17% 4 08/01/2027 - 10/31/2027 4.17% Notes:

1. Partial year will only occur on the last year of the contract term. All other periods are full years.

2. Increases to the loaded billing rates after contract execution is not authorized for any reason per Article IV, Section 17 and Article XVI, Section 6 of the California Constitution.

G. The scheduled date to complete cost negotiations and submit final cost proposal is September 11, 2024.

H. Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program

1. This solicitation and resultant Agreement is financed in whole or in part with federal funds and therefore subject to Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 26 (49 CFR 26) entitled "Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Department of Transportation Financial Assistance Programs." To ensure equal participation for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) groups specified in 49 CFR 26.5, Caltrans specifies a contract goal for DBE participation. The required goal for DBE participation in this solicitation is not less that twenty-two percent.

https://dot.ca.gov/programs/procurement-and-contracts/ae-contract-information

2. Only participation by certified DBEs will count toward the contract goal for this solicitation. In order to count toward a contract goal, a firm must be certified as a DBE by the California Unified Certification Program (CUCP) and possess the NAICS and work codes applicable to the type of work the firm will perform on the Agreement by the SOQ submittal due date. NAICS and Work codes are provided by the Office of Civil Rights website.

3. It is the proposer’s responsibility to verity that the DBE firm is certified as a DBE by the specified SOQ submittal due date and time. The list of DBEs certified by the CUCP are located on the Office of Civil Rights website.

4. A DBE must perform a commercially useful function (CUF) for the type of work it will perform on the Agreement as provided in 49 CFR 26.55I(1)-(4). A DBE performs a CUF when it is responsible for the execution of a distinct element of the work of the Agreement and is carrying out its responsibilities by actually performing, managing, and supervising the work involved.

5. See “Statement of Qualifications Submittal Instructions and General Contract Process Information” for detailed information and references to the required forms. Required forms will be made a part of the Agreement. Failure to meet the DBE goal or Good Faith Effort requirements and provide required DBE participation at due date and time of SOQ submittal may result in the SOQ submittal being rejected as non-responsive.

I. Federal and/or State prevailing wage rates may apply. This requirement, if applicable, will be specified in the draft Agreement.

See SOQ Submittal Instructions, Section I., H. regarding the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) Consultant/Contractor Registration Program on the AE Contract Information website.

J. Caltrans does not guarantee, either expressly or by implication, that any work or services will be required under any contract issued as a result of this RFQ.

K. A Pre-award or Post-award Audit will be performed on any contract issued as a result of this RFQ.

L. Contract boilerplate can be obtained on the AE Contract Information website.

M. Pursuant to Executive Order (EO) N-6-22 issued March 4, 2022, persons identified in the list established by the US Department of the Treasury are ineligible to bid on, submit a proposal for, enter into, or renew any Agreement with the State for any goods and/or services.

Any person who submits a bid or proposal to Caltrans certifies that it is not identified in the most current lists located https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/ukraine-russia-related-sanctions.

If applicable, any person who submits a bid or proposal to Caltrans certifies that its subcontractors are not identified in the most current lists located https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/ukraine-russia-https://dot.ca.gov/programs/civil-rights https://dot.ca.gov/programs/civil-rights https://dot.ca.gov/programs/civil-rights https://dot.ca.gov/programs/procurement-and-contracts/ae-contract-information https://dot.ca.gov/programs/procurement-and-contracts/ae-contract-information https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/ukraine-russia-related-sanctions https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/ukraine-russia-related-sanctions https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/ukraine-russia-related-sanctions https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/ukraine-russia-related-sanctions related-sanctions

II. SCOPE OF WORK/DELIVERABLES

The work to be performed for this RFQ is described in the Scope of Work/Deliverables and is hereby incorporated as Attachment 1.

III. CONFLICT OF INTEREST

A. Conflicts of interest may occur due to direct or indirect financial or business interests in the work to be performed or in any real property acquired for such project. Conflicts of interest can include, but are not limited to, past, existing or planned activities or because of relationships with other persons or firms. If there is a conflict of interest, the proposed team, including both the prime consultants and subconsultants, and individual employees of team members would actually or potentially be unable to render impartial assistance or advice to Caltrans. The proposer’s objectivity or availability in performing the contract work may be impaired due to actual or potential conflicts of interest.

B. If the proposed team determines that any actual or potential conflicts of interest exists, it must identify and describe in detail each conflict of interest to Caltrans, using the Disclosure of Potential Conflict of Interest Form, which can be found on the AE Contract Information website. Along with the description of the actual or potential conflicts of interest, the proposed team shall also offer measures to avoid, neutralize, or mitigate all listed conflicts. The list of conflicts, including conflicts that apply to individuals as well as firms, and the mitigation measures on the Disclosure of Potential Conflict of Interest Form must be submitted as a separate section in the Statement of Qualifications.

Disclosure of information will not disqualify a proposed team from competing for a contract. The existence of actual or potential conflicts of interest will be used as a criterion to evaluate team availability during the evaluation and selection process. Caltrans reserves the right to terminate negotiations with the first selected firm and begin negotiations with the next selected firm or to cancel the procurement prior to execution if Caltrans learns that the selected team failed to disclose any actual or potential conflicts, which it knew or should have known about, or if the proposed team provided or omitted information on the disclosure form that results in the information being false or misleading.

C. After award, conflict of interest guidelines and policies shall continue to be monitored and enforced by the Caltrans Contract Manager.

Additional information about Conflict-of-Interest issues can be found in the SOQ Submittal Instructions and General Contract Process Information document (Section V. Post Government Employment Restrictions and Section VI. Conflict of Interest Concerning Consultant(s)) found on the AE Contract Information website (see link below). The State and Federal contract boilerplates on DPAC’s website also contain information on conflict-of-interest issues (Exhibit D) and can be found on the AE Contract Information website (see link below).

D. The prime consultant and subconsultants may be proposed on SOQs for other Caltrans A&E on-call contracts; however, the Caltrans https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/ukraine-russia-related-sanctions

Contract Manager may prohibit work on specific project(s) where Caltrans determines that a conflict of interest exists.

IV. SUBMISSION OF STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS (SOQs) A. IMPORTANT: Download “Statement of Qualifications Submittal

Instructions and General Contract Process Information” from the AE Contract Information website (Dated Rev. 10/07/2020) .

Failure to follow these instructions may result in rejection of your SOQs.

B. SOQ Package Submittal Instructions Read instructions below carefully. You will be required to submit an electronic SOQ file to Sacramento.

1. The electronic submission of a single unprotected (i.e. not password protected) PDF file of the SOQ is required. The electronic submittal will be accepted until 10:00 a.m. on 7/8/2024. Hard copies of the SOQs are NOT required. Fax copies or copies transmitted by email will not be allowed.

2. You will be required to create a Novell Filr account with Caltrans.

Send an email message to the Contract Analyst, Usanmaz, at Vanessa.Usanmaz@dot.ca.gov containing the information listed below for a link and instructions to complete the self-registration page and submit the SOQ electronically.

• Your firm’s name

• Your email address

• The solicitation number for which you would like to submit a SOQ The file name shall include the contract number, consultant name (max. 25 characters) separated by an underscore (_), ending with the “.pdf” extension.

Example A: 50A0694_JohnDoeConsulting.pdf Example B: 50A0694_aaa1234engineer.pdf

3. SOQ submittals will be considered non-responsive if the electronic submittal is not received by the date and time specified in this RFQ.

C. Request for RFQ Copies Copies of this RFQ may be obtained on the CaleProcure website.

mailto:Vanessa.Usanmaz@dot.ca.gov https://www.caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/index.aspx

Attachment 1

Template version 7/06/2018

SCOPE OF WORK/DELIVERABLES

Environmental Generalist Services for Caltrans, Division of Environmental, Environmental Program/Project Management Program, District 4 North Counties Projects

On-Call Contract

FOR ENVIRONMENTAL - GENERALIST: (Environmental Generalist) FOR ENVIRONMENTAL - GENERALIST: AIR (Air Quality) FOR ENVIRONMENTAL - GENERALIST: BIOLOGICAL (Biological) FOR ENVIRONMENTAL - GENERALIST: NOISE (Noise) FOR ENVIRONMENTAL - GENERALIST: PALEONTOLOGICAL (Paleontological Resource)

A. Purpose of Work.

The Consultant shall perform consultation, research, professional and technical services required for Environmental Generalist Services, including, but not limited to, preparing environmental studies, reports, documents, and permit application and conducting environmental field observations, studies, data collection, and inventories on an “as-needed” basis to support the Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 4, Division of Environmental Planning and Engineering, Capital Outlay Support (COS) Program, from Phase 0 Project Approval and Environmental Document (PA&ED) phase, Phase 1 Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E), and Phase 3 Construction Outlay Support phase of District 4 north counties (Counties of Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma) projects. The Caltrans Contract Manager shall assign specific work to the Consultant to assist the Caltrans work force through the issuance of Task Orders describing in detail the services to be performed. The Consultant shall only perform work that is assigned in an authorized Task Order. The Contract does not guarantee that a Task Order shall be issued. The Consultant may provide services to Caltrans including, but not limited to, the preparation of various levels of Environmental Documents and Documentations and any incidental related environmental technical studies and deliverables such as Environmental Impact Reports (EIR), Environmental Impact Statements (EIS), Initial Study (IS)/Negative Declaration (ND)/Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND), Environmental Assessments (EA)/Finding of No Significant Impacts (FONSI), or Categorical Exemptions (CE)/Categorical Exclusions (CE) as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance with Clean Water Act (CWA) section 401 and 404 water quality certification, Environmental Documentation (ED), and any supporting environmental technical studies and deliverables as applicable to federal, states, and local statutes, laws, regulations, and policies and as required to ensure compliance with environmental review and approval pursuant to biological, water quality, air quality, and other natural resource and regulatory requirements. Provide support in obtaining environmentally related permits, licenses, agreements, and certifications (PLACs) from various Federal, State, or Local Resource Agencies or entities; conducting short and long-term environmental mitigation monitoring prior to, during, and after construction projects; providing support for environmental public hearings, community scoping meetings and other professional public awareness/outreach activities as required for and needed to support project approval under Federal and State environmental statutes, laws, regulations, and policies.

Complete technical studies and analysis required to obtain environmental and project approval, including but not limited to the following: Community Impact Assessments (CIA); Socioeconomic Impact Analyses; Section 4(f)/6(f) Evaluations; Air Quality;

Natural Environment Studies; Biological Services; Paleontological Services; Generalist Environmental Services;

1. Exclusion of Work.

The following disciplines are excluded from the Contract:

a. Cultural Resource.

b. Water Quality Studies except for 401 and 404 permit related support.

c. Visual Impact Analysis.

d. Hazardous Waste.

e. Existing Environmental Support - The Consultant shall not provide support for any elements completed by other consultants.

f. For additional exclusions refer to "Location of Work".

The Consultant for the Contract shall perform the services above after the contract authority for Contract 04A6509 is terminated or exhausted (expected no later than January 31st, 2025. The Consultant shall plan accordingly to meet the timing of and the volume of work load needs.

B. Location of Work.

The work shall be performed on projects to improve the State transportation system throughout the counties of Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma in California within the limits of District 4 geographic boundary. The other specific location within the above described geographical limits of the work to be performed within this geographic area shall be identified in each Task Order. It may become necessary for Caltrans, Division of Environmental Planning and Engineering, COS Program, District 4, projects to extend into another adjoining Division of Environmental Planning and Engineering, COS Program, District 4/County line. Certain California County projects may also require studies/work that extends into adjacent counties adjoining Caltrans’ District 4 outside of the boundary of Caltrans’ District 4. In some instances, data collection may involve regional analysis beyond the counties identified or into adjoining states to properly assess the context and intensity of impacts to the concerned resources. In such instances, the project work shall not extend more than a ten(10)-mile radius from the District/County, Division of Environmental Planning and Engineering, COS Program, District 4 geographic boundary. These services shall be required to be provided domestically within the continental U.S.A.. The Consultant shall be capable of delivering the Environmental Generalist Services primarily in the USA.. The Environmental Generalist Services work shall be performed at Division of Environmental Planning and Engineering, COS, and PPM Program, District 4 Office.

No compensation will be provided to for non-A&E Services (including incidental services that are not actual A&E Services) that exceed 10% of the total expenditures under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the Department of General Services (DGS).

1. Throughout the terms of the Contract, the Consultant and its Subconsultants shall disclose and briefly describe any financial, business or other relationship with Caltrans, governmental agencies (e.g. California Transportation Commission – CTC, Bay Area Toll Authority – BATA, Metropolitan Transportation Commission – MTC, and other) that relates to or concerns the Caltrans San Francisco Toll Bridge contracts and projects which may have a potential conflict of interest with the contract, in the Statement of Qualifications.

C. Required Services.

1. Pursuant to an authorized Task Order, the Consultant shall provide Environmental Generalist Services within the geographical jurisdiction of the Contract set forth in “Location of Work” Section, and all necessary personnel, material, transportation, lodging, instrumentation, and the specialized facilities and equipment necessary to satisfy all appropriate agencies and required to ensure compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and Local statutes, laws, codes, regulations, policies, procedures, ordinances, standards, specifications, performance standards, and guidelines, applicable to the Consultant’s services and work product. The Consultant shall assist Caltrans, Division of Environmental, Environmental Planning and Engineering, COS Program, District 4, to produce a plan by developing a complete and biddable Plans, Specifications and Estimate (PS&E) package.

2. Provided in Attachment A is a list of proposed Caltrans projects; Division of Environmental and Engineering, COS Program, District 4, however, this list is not exclusive and it does not constitute a commitment that the projects will be initiated or completed or work assigned to the Consultant. Caltrans reserves the right to add or delete from this list of projects that are within the geographical jurisdiction of the Contract set forth in “Location of Work” Section within the Division of Environmental Planning and Engineering, COS Program, District 4 north counties jurisdiction.

Caltrans intends to utilize the Contract to complete a specific piece of work as long as it is located within the geographical jurisdiction of the Contract set forth in the “Location of Work” for each of the projects listed in the Contract utilizing the services described in this Scope of Work and as described in a Task Order. In the future, Caltrans may find it necessary to create a separate contract (or contracts) that involves a specific project listed in the Contract and includes part of the work contained in the Contract. Caltrans reserves the right to procure Architectural and Engineering (A&E) services involving the listed projects or unlisted projects (within the geographical jurisdiction of the Contract set forth in “Location of Work” Section) involving in whole or in part the same work using a project-specific agreement if the schedule to complete performance of the specific project extends beyond the term of the Contract or the cost to complete the specific project exceeds the dollar balance remaining in the Contract after accounting for amounts due to the Consultant for work previously performed and for work that is scheduled to be performed in executed task orders.

Should a project-specific agreement be procured under these provisions, the parties mutually agree that, in accordance with Exhibit D, Section III, Termination of the Contract, Caltrans shall terminate for convenience the portion of the Contract that includes the common scope of work identified in the project-specific agreement per Exhibit D, Section III, Termination of the Contract. Such partial termination for convenience shall be processed by amendment to the Contract. Unless otherwise required by law, regulation, or Caltrans policy or procedure, the Consultant may compete for these project-specific Contracts.

3. In the Contract is a list of proposed personnel classifications for which services are anticipated to be needed by Caltrans during the term of the Contract; however, this is not an exclusive list of the personnel classifications of Environmental Generalist Services that may be requested. Caltrans reserves the right to add/or delete personnel classifications from this list. Consultant personnel will work under the general direction of a Caltrans Senior.

Environmental Scientists Environmental Planners Transportation Engineers

4. Consultant agrees that:

a. The Consultant Contract Manager or designee shall manage, instruct and supervise all Consultant employees and subcontractors, and shall not allow any other party to manage, instruct and supervise such parties.

b. Consultant shall employ and discharge its own employees and subcontractors.

c. Unless approved in writing by the Caltrans Contract Manager, Consultant shall not hire employees or subcontractors to exclusively and only work on Caltrans matters. Consultant may hire employees and subcontractors for a specific Caltrans matter provided such party has the skills and knowledge to work on other matters and they are assigned to other matters from time to time.

d. The work performed by Consultant, its employees and its subcontractors shall be a regular part of Consultant’s regular and established business.

e. Consultant shall make all of its own business (including personnel) decisions and bear the risk for its decisions.

f. Consultant shall provide its own tools, equipment and supplies, and Consultant shall not rely on Caltrans to provide such tools, equipment and supplies. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Caltrans may, during the term of the Agreement, allow Consultant to access selected items of equipment;

provide non-employee user identifications and related access to Caltrans computer systems to Consultant employees and subcontractors; and provide non-employee access cards and other such forms of identification to Consultant employees and subcontractors.

g. Consultant shall provide its own training to its employees and subcontractors, and Consultant shall not rely upon Caltrans to provide such training.

5. A wide range of Environmental Generalist Services tasks should be expected.

The Consultant shall perform and have the expertise, capability, and equipment necessary to perform this Scope of Work, including, but not limited to, any or all of the following types of tasks/reports/studies/activities/functions which will all be related to Environmental Generalist Services:

a. Studies of endangered, threatened, rare, proposed, and candidate species.

These studies shall include, but not be limited to, data collection, identifying, monitoring, sampling, transplanting, trapping, restoring and mitigation of impacts.

b. Wetland delineation.

c. Construction monitoring.

d. Mitigation implementation monitoring.

e. Environmental Impact Reports.

f. Environmental Impact Statements.

g. Initial Study/Negative Declaration/Mitigated Negative Declaration.

h. Environmental Assessments/Finding of No Significant Impacts.

i. Categorical Exemptions/Categorical Exclusions.

j. Notice of Determination.

k. Record of Decision.

l. Community Impact Analysis/Community Impact Assessments.

m. Land Use and Growth Studies.

n. Perform Environmental Re-evaluations.

o. Prepare and File Notices of Completion.

p. Economic Analysis.

q. Floodplain studies.

r. Sea Level Rise Analysis

s. Section 4(f)/6(f) Evaluations.

t. Prepare and File Notice of Preparation (NOP) and Notice of Intent (NOI).

u. Identify Responsible, Participating and Cooperating Agencies.

v. Prepare Exhibits.

w. Natural Environment Studies.

x. Community Impact Assessment.

y. Cumulative Impact Analysis

z. Public Outreach Activities related to preparation and processing of

CEQA/NEPA Environmental Documents and construction activities.

i. Create and implement a comprehensive Public Awareness

Campaign (PAC).

ii. Inform target audiences of the project purpose and need, description, general schedule, project benefits, future improvements, and other aspects of the project.

iii. Help the public understand construction activities, right of way acquisition, road closures, dust, noise, and other construction related impacts.

iv. Identify potential problems for early resolution, facilitate communication and problem resolution, and establish face-to-face rapport with merchants, large employers, emergency services providers, and residents.

v. Ensure the effective distribution and dissemination of information utilizing a variety of tools including cable television and the Internet.

vi. Integrate this PAC with other PACs and construction projects within the area.

aa. Create and implement a comprehensive PAC.

bb. Revegetation Plans.

cc. Environmental Mitigation Monitoring.

dd. Long Term Mitigation Monitoring.

ee. Digital Electronic document transfers, database updates, and digital electronic filing consistent with the Caltrans Division of Environmental Analysis standard practices and policies. Web posting, data entry, and filing may be entailed.

ff. Incidental land use analyses and Mapping to support NEPA/CEQA documentation.

gg. Air Quality Studies.

The Task Orders for Air Quality Studies may include, but are not limited to, project-level and Conformity Analysis, including CO, PM, and other HOT SPOT studies.

i. Health Risk Assessment.

ii. Baseline Emissions Development.

iii. Site Visits.

iv. Hot Spot Analysis, which may include, but not be limited to:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) analysis.

• Particulate Matter smaller than 10 microns (PM-10 AND PM-2.5) Analysis.

• Construction Emission Analysis.

hh. Biological Studies/Biological Technical Studies.

Biological study, assessment, survey, and monitoring of existing sensitive, candidate, threatened, and endangered species are major components of the Contract. These services are needed prior to, during, and after construction phase. The Consultant is expected to have a wide variety of experienced biologists to provide high quality services in the following areas:

i. Biological Assessment.

ii. Biological Studies.

iii. Wetlands Assessments.

iv. Wetlands Study/Delineation.

v. Environmental Permit Applications.

vi. Resource Agency Permit related Coordination.

vii. Natural Environment Study (NES) Report.

viii. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Permit (404/10).

ix. U.S. Forest Service PLACs.

x. Coastal Development Permit(s).

xi. Department of Fish and Wildlife 1600 Agreement(s)/2080.1/2081

Permit(s).

xii. Department of Fish and Wildlife California Endangered Species

Act (CESA) 2081 Incidental Take Permits.

xiii. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Section 7) Endangered Species Act

(ESA) Informal and Formal Consultation.

xiv. National Marine Fisheries Service (Section 7).

xv. Regional Water Quality Control Board (401) Permit.

xvi. Biological Mitigation Measures.

xvii. Construction Monitoring for identifying Best Management

Practices (BMP) lapses for 401 and 404 permits:

Caltrans and the construction contractor are both responsible for the identification and implementation of water quality BMPs per 401 and 404 permit requirements. However, the consultant construction monitor, during construction, is responsible for identifying any lapses in the BMPs so that they may be immediately remedied by the Resident Engineer.

xviii. Wildlife corridor analyses:

Consultant biologists and ecologists shall have a documented minimum three (3) years demonstrated experience acceptable to Caltrans, and shall be trained and qualified to conduct the tasks listed in the Contract. Personnel shall possess or obtain the necessary collecting and/or handling permits, and/or have species specific experience, in order to provide services as required for all sensitive, candidate, threatened, and endangered species. Resumes must be submitted to Caltrans prior to execution of the Contract and shall include permit information and shall be provided to resource agencies for their review and approval.

xix. Bat studies and placement of bat exclusions both on and off structure.

xx. Perform biological studies for plant species and vegetation mapping.

xxi. Perform biological studies for animal species including, but not limited to, birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates, and general wildlife.

xxii. Pre-construction data collection.

xxiii. Work in relation to the exclusion of wildlife from Caltrans structures.

xxiv. Observing construction activities to ensure compliance with environmental regulatory permits.

xxv. Observing construction activities to ensure compliance with environmental regulatory permits, such as hydro-acoustic monitoring for avian and marine mammal protection, special-status plant and animal species and endangered species.

xxvi. Perform California Department of Fish and Wildlife Service protocol inventories for listed birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates, and plant species.

xxvii. Conduct Hydrogeomorphology studies.

xxviii. Fish Passage Assessments.

xxix. Assessment of anadromous fish populations and fish passage per

DFG code Section 5901.

xxx. Wetlands Habitat Restoration studies and plans.

xxxi. Habitat Restoration studies and plans.

xxxii. Delineate Wetlands and other Federal and State jurisdictional waters.

xxxiii. Mitigation implementation monitoring.

xxxiv. Mitigation Plans.

xxxv. Provide recommendations for avoidance, minimization, and mitigation of project impacts.

xxxvi. Prepare Natural Environment Study Reports per Caltrans specifications.

xxxvii. Prepare Biological Assessments (BA) per Federal and State specifications.

xxxviii. Completing CWA Section 401 and 404 Water Quality

Certification/Permit and/or Waste Discharge Requirements, or NPDES permit applications: Coordinate with Project Engineer/ Project Biologist to: Obtain project impacts information including plans and description of impacts to Waters of the State, which include, but not be limited to, any surface water or groundwater, including saline waters, isolated wetlands, vernal pools, and stream channels without a riparian corridor that may be dry during most of the year.

xxxix. Establish mitigation goals using acceptable methods equivalent to California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM). CRAM may be used as a tool to provide information regarding the condition of a wetland or riparian habitat and the stressors that affect it. It may also be used as a guideline to qualitatively assess the existing and potential conditions, for use in planning protection and restoration activities.

xl. Develop conceptual Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (MMP) and ensure that mitigation proposal is consistent with the RWQCB/SWRCB policies including, but not limited to, the Water Quality Control Plans, Stream and Wetland Protection Policies and the draft Fact Sheet for reviewing Wetland and Riparian Projects by the RWQCB(s) per 401 and 404 permit requirements.

xli. Ensure that funds are allocated for mitigation related to impacts to Waters of the State in the early project development phases along with the completion of the Biological Assessment and/or the Natural Environmental Study Report.

xlii. Coordinate with Project Engineer to document avoidance and minimization measures: Proposed Construction Site Water Pollution Control BMPs proposed per 401 and 404 permit requirements.

xliii. Proposed Design Pollution Prevention/source control BMPs and BMPs proposed to address hydromodification impacts per 401 and 404 permit requirements.

xliv. Proposed Treatment BMP for post-construction storm water runoff per 401 and 404 permit requirements.

xlv. Coordinate with Environmental Generalist to obtain information on the CEQA documentation for the project.

xlvi. Prepare materials needed to present project water quality issues at a public hearing or meetings with SWRCB/RWQCB, other Federal, State, or Local Resource Agencies, and assist with preparing a response to comments/questions related to the project impacts and mitigation proposal.

xlvii. Upon obtaining the 401 and 404 certification/permits, review permit conditions to incorporate changes into RTL package.

Special provisions including, but not limited to, Earth Work, Order of Work, Water Pollution Control, Construction Site Management, Temporary Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) Fence, corresponding plans/details, and cost estimate to ensure compliance with permit and construction contract’s conformance with the special provisions.

ii. Noise and Vibration Studies.

The Consultant shall provide services to produce general noise and vibration studies for projects required by FHWA and the CEQA/NEPA process. The Consultant shall provide all necessary equipment and instrumentation to perform work as specified by Task Orders and based on the Caltrans Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) as follows:

i. Perform noise studies on state routes for new construction projects and retrofit projects. Determine if project-related noise impacts are anticipated and provide a recommendation of either abatement or mitigation measures warranted.

ii. Perform vibration studies for new transportation projects or existing transportation facilities. Studies will include measurement or prediction of source levels, propagation and potential impacts.

Pre and post damage assessments and respective documentation will be required.

iii. Perform noise and vibration studies of aircraft and rail when requested by the Caltrans Contract Manager.

iv. Perform all activities related to noise impact analysis for use in the Environmental Document and prepare a technical report documenting study results.

v. The Consultant’s reports shall comply with the content and format specified in the Annotated Noise Study Report Outline in the Forms and Templates of the Caltrans Standard Environmental Reference website (https://dot.ca.gov/programs/environmental-analysis/standard-environmental-reference-ser/forms-templates).

vi. Provide presentation and assistance to Caltrans staff to improve the quality of noise and vibration studies for transportation projects.

vii. All work under this portion of the Contract shall be conducted according to the terms, Provisions, and requirements of the California Department of Transportation “Traffic Noise Analysis protocol”, August 2006 (or the most recent version), the California Department of Transportation “Technical Noise Supplement”, November 2009, (or the most recent version), which can be found in the Caltrans Standard Environmental Reference website (http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/env/noise/index.htm) (https://dot.ca.gov/programs/environmental-analysis/noise-vibration), FHWA, and others.

jj. Paleontology Studies.

kk. Conducting field reviews.

ll. Perform visual inventory of the project area, including tree inventories.

mm. Perform viewshed analyses.

nn. Perform scenic resource(s) determination and studies.

oo. Assist in coordination with local agencies, citizen groups, and business groups related to community design and scenic issues.

pp. Prepare and distribute viewer assessments to determine viewer sensitivity and reaction to visual change.

https://dot.ca.gov/programs/environmental-analysis/standard-environmental-reference-ser/forms-templates https://dot.ca.gov/programs/environmental-analysis/standard-environmental-reference-ser/forms-templates http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/env/noise/index.htm https://dot.ca.gov/programs/environmental-analysis/noise-vibration https://dot.ca.gov/programs/environmental-analysis/noise-vibration

qq. Prepare conceptual mitigation plans and recommendations.

rr. Prepare abstract for inclusion in environmental document text.

ss. Prepare transmittal memo outlining study results, potential significance of impacts and significance criteria, and proposed mitigation measures.

tt. Prepare photo-realistic visual simulation graphics and exhibits.

uu. Perform 3D topographic modeling.

vv. Prepare public exhibits, including, but not limited to, large-scale imagery and graphics, handouts, and videos. Large-scale imagery shall be created using “Genuine Fractals,” or similar software as approved by Caltrans.

ww. Prepare required correspondence, meeting minutes, agendas, action items, invoices, and status reports.

xx. Prepare and maintain project files.

yy. Prepare and update project schedules.

zz. All final documents must be delivered in print and digital electronic media formats. Print size and numbers as stated in task orders. Digital Electronic format of documents must be in Microsoft Word format with simulations in editable format.

Task Orders may be assigned for the above work.

6. The Consultant shall provide standardized reports including, but not limited to, Natural Environment Studies (NES), Biological Assessments (BA), Wetlands Assessment, and Mitigation Monitoring Plan Reports (MMP) detailing all findings.

7. The work shall be performed pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), regional, local, and other applicable statutes, laws, codes, regulations, policies, procedures, ordinances, standards, specifications, performance standards, and guidelines.

8. The required information and documentation shall be prepared for project environmental clearance under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and other applicable statutes, laws, codes, regulations, and Federal and State policies, procedures, ordinances, standards, specifications, performance standards, and guidelines.

9. The Consultant shall also provide large-scale graphic presentations for public exhibits and design support in the development of environmental documents and project approval on Caltrans transportation facilities under the Contract.

10. At the sole discretion of Caltrans, Consultant may be required to provide the required services on safety projects, emergency projects, Emergency Storm Damage Projects, excess parcel assessments, or other current/future transportation projects, including minor projects not listed above, except for those specially excluded above, within the geographical jurisdiction of the Contract set forth in

“Location of Work” Section. However, the dollar value of the services not listed in the Contract shall not exceed 10% of the total value of services that are listed and performed in the Contract.

11. The potential projects may vary in scope and size, and may encompass any type of improvement for the State transportation system including, but not limited to, roadway rehabilitation, widening and/or realignment of existing facilities, relocation of existing facilities, and development of new facilities. The project location, project limits, purpose, expected results, project deliverables, period of performance, project schedule, and scope of work to be performed shall be described in each Task Order.

12. Consultant shall be available, on two (2) days’ written notice:

a. To meet with Caltrans; to participate in internal Project Development

Team (PDT) meetings or other Caltrans meetings.

b. To attend public meetings (day and evening) where an expert is required.

c. To participate in any public hearings necessary for a Project.

d. To provide technical expertise on an “as-needed” basis.

13. The Consultant may be expected to spend time for extended assignments to perform A&E services at Caltrans offices. At the sole discretion and convenience of Caltrans, Caltrans may permit Consultant to use office space, office equipment (such as copiers, printers and telephones) and furniture at various Caltrans field offices on a short-term, temporary basis. Consultant will provide its own computers, office supplies, and related work materials. The Consultant, including its Subconsultants, shall include the Field Office Indirect Cost Rate in its cost proposals and use the Field Office Indirect Cost Rate in billing Caltrans for those personnel utilizing Caltrans’ (field) office facilities. The cost rates will reflect the Consultant’s lower costs where Caltrans provides office space, office equipment and furniture. If the Consultant, including its Subconsultants, does not currently have a Field Office Indirect Cost Rate, it will develop and use a Field Office Indirect Cost Rate to reflect an equitable distribution of allowable costs to the contract (as specified in 48 CFR 31.203(f)). When working on-site in the Caltrans Facilities, the Consultant shall adjust its hours to meet the business needs of Caltrans and shall generally work and be present during Caltrans building business hours (which are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.). The business hours can be adjusted in different Task Orders.

14. The Consultant’s Environmental Generalist Services shall be in support of Federal and State environmental laws and regulations. Reports/Studies shall become part of the required documentation for project approval under Federal and State environmental laws and regulations. These formal environmental compliance documents and formal clearance may include Environmental Impact Reports (EIR), Environmental Impact Statements (EIS), Initial Study (IS)/ Negative Declaration (ND)/ Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND), Environmental

Assessments (EA)/ Finding of No Significant Impacts (FONSI), or Categorical Exemptions (CE)/ Categorical Exclusions (CE).

15. Responsibilities with regards to NEPA, in most cases, shall be that of Caltrans, since these responsibilities have been assigned to Caltrans by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Caltrans shall be the lead State agency or Responsible Agency for environmental compliance for these projects under

CEQA.

16. Personnel with expertise in Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Information System (GIS), GeoRef (http://www.agiweb.org/index.html), and Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) GIS software will also be needed.

17. The Consultant shall possess, or be capable of obtaining and actually obtain prior to conducting work, any necessary permits, or approvals for harassing, trapping, handling, or determining the presence and densities for those species as may be required by the various resource/regulatory agencies.

18. A wide range of Biological Services tasks should be expected. The Consultant shall be prepared to perform specialized services itself or via a Subconsultant including, but not limited to, the following:

a. Threatened and Endangered Species (For example, California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, Contra Costa goldfields, Vernal pool fairy shrimp).

i. Studies.

ii. Data collection (include any protocol requirements and provide a link to the Service website that details those).

iii. Mitigation planning and implementation.

b. Studies on endangered, threatened, rare, proposed, and candidate species.

These shall include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), National Marine Fisheries Service, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) protocol data collection/studies for plants and animals.

c. Protocol or Specialized Data Collection

i. California Rapid Assessment Method (include specific requirements on training, experience, area of expertise, and other).

ii. Fish Passage Assessment Protocol Level Studies (include link to

DFG protocol information).

iii. Botanical studies (include link to CDFW protocol information).

d. Specialized Reports and Studies.

i. Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Plans (HMMP).

ii. California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM).

iii. Wildlife Corridor Studies.

iv. Post Construction Monitoring Reports.

e. General Data Gathering and Studies.

http://www.agiweb.org/index.html

i. Wildlife Crossings and Corridor Studies, including GIS and least-cost path modeling analyses.

ii. Bio-acoustic/hydro-acoustic studies for fish, birds, and other.

iii. Vegetation mapping.

iv. Invasive species mapping.

v. eDNA sampling/data collection.

f. Mitigation/Restoration Planning and Monitoring (specify habitat types).

i. Mitigation Plan preparation.

ii. Monitoring of mitigation sites.

g. Permit Application Preparation (specify agencies).

h. Construction Monitoring.

i. Biological monitoring.

ii. Protocol level biological and ecological studies and handling (be specific).

i. Wetlands identification and delineation shall be in accordance with procedures described in the 1987 Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands and the Regional Supplement to the US Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region. Consultant shall have expertise in conducting assessment of wetland functions and values using published procedures such as the Habitat Evaluation Procedures (HEP) and/or the Wetland Evaluation Technique (Adamus et al, 1987). The level of evaluation, however, shall not be included in Consultant’s initial field studies. If a wetlands’ evaluation is warranted, as determined through consultation with Caltrans, Consultant shall develop a study plan for Caltrans’ review and approval;

subsequently, a separate Task Order, may be executed to cover the wetlands evaluation. This procedure does not preclude inclusion of normal qualitative evaluations typically found in NEPA/CEQA documents.

j. Completing CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification and/or Waste Discharge Requirements, or NPDES permit applications:

i. Coordinate with Project Engineer/ Project Biologist to:

• Obtain project impacts information including plans and description of impacts to Waters of the State, which include, but not be limited to, any surface water or groundwater, including saline waters, isolated wetlands, vernal pools and stream channels without a riparian corridor that may be dry during most of the year.

• Establish mitigation goals using acceptable methods equivalent to California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM). CRAM may be used as a tool to provide information regarding the condition of a wetland or riparian habitat and the stressors that affect it. It may also be used as a guideline to qualitatively assess the existing and potential conditions, for use in planning protection and restoration activities.

• Develop conceptual mitigation plan and Monitoring Plan (MMP) and ensure that mitigation proposal is consistent with the Regional Water Quality Control Board/Storm Water Resources Control Board (RWQCB/SWRCB) policies including, but not limited to, the Water Quality Control Plans, Stream and Wetland Protection Policies and the draft Fact Sheet for Reviewing Wetland and Riparian Projects by the RWQCB(s).

• Ensure that funds…