2025 HQ401651R RAC installation.docx

Request for Quotations and Qualifications: 2025 Remote Avalanche Control System Installation RFQQ Number: HQ401651R

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), issues this Request for Quote and Qualifications (RFQQ) under the authority of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 39.26. WSDOT reserves the right to modify dates and times. Any changes will be sent electronically as amendments to all users of Washington’s Electronic Business Solution (WEBS) who downloaded this RFQQ.

Posting Date………………….………….Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Question Period Ends Thursday, July 3, 2025

Answer Period Ends Monday, July 7, 2025

Bids are due Friday, July 11, 2025 – 2:00 pm

Evaluation Period……………………..Monday, July 14, 2025

Announce Apparent Successful Bidder…………………….. Thursday, July 17, 2025

Procurement Coordinator Rita Swart (360) 570-6715; rita.swart@wsdot.wa.gov

IMPO

RTANT: Purpose of Procurement The purpose of this RFQQ is to receive competitive bids and award a WSDOT contract for the installation of 6 Remote Avalanche Control Systems for Interstate 90 in the Snoqualmie Pass area. By responding to this Request for Quotations and Qualifications (RFQQ), proposer agrees that they have read and understand all documents within this RFQQ package.

Specifications. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a qualified and responsive bidder to install 6 already acquired Wyssen LS-12 Remote Avalanche Control System (RACS) towers on Denny and Granite Mountains above I-90 Snoqualmie Pass. WSDOT requires the installation at the six locations can meet the following specifications and functionality after installation:

1. Must be able to perform avalanche mitigation from a location in or near the starting zone.

2. Be remotely operated by cellular with a radio backup

3. Have sufficient solar panels and battery capacity for low-light conditions

4. Ability to shed heavy snow build up

5. Remotely deploy a large high explosive charge 5kg or greater with two igniter system

6. Deploy 5kg explosive charge at a minimum distance of 1.5m above the snowpack surface as an air blast detonation

7. Must be able to deploy a minimum of 12 explosives charges before resupply

8. Remote unit must confirm explosive detonation

9. Meet ATF/WA State L&I requirements for secure storage of explosives or have variance from ATF/WA St L&I

10. RAC must be deployable and retrievable by a helicopter at 7,000’ ft. Individual units cannot weigh more than 1200 lbs. fully loaded.

11. RAC must be deployable and retrievable by a helicopter

12. Explosive effect on the snowpack must be 360 degrees

13. See Appendix A for the installation Scope of work

The RFQQ, its appendices, attachments, amendments and any incorporated documents will comprise the entire RFQQ which will become the resulting contract between WSDOT and the awarded bidder upon execution of Appendix D: Bidders Authorized Offer and Contract Signature Page.

Contract Information The Standard Contract Terms and Conditions is in Appendix F to this RFQQ which contains general provisions and terms for solicitations issued by WSDOT. Should a term within this document conflict with a term elsewhere in the solicitation, the latter will prevail.

WSDOT reserves the right to amend and modify this RFQQ. Only bidders who have properly registered and downloaded the original RFQQ directly via WEBS will receive notifications of amendments to this RFQQ, which bidders must download, and other correspondence pertinent to this procurement. To be awarded a Contract, bidders must be registered in WEBS. Visit https://fortress.wa.gov/ga/webs to register.

A bid becomes a contract only when awarded and accepted by signature of WSDOT and bidder on the Bidder’s Authorized Offer and Contract Signature Page included in Appendix C. The signatories to this contract represent that they have the authority to bind their respective organizations to this contract.

Conflict. To the extent possible, the terms of the contract must be read consistently.

In the event of a conflict in such terms, or between the terms and any applicable statute or rule, the inconsistency will be resolved by giving precedence in the following order:

a. Applicable Federal and State of Washington statutes and regulations

b. Mutually agreed written amendments to the resulting contract

c. The contract, including all documents incorporated in the subsection immediately above.

Project Manager – Bidder. After bid is awarded, the awarded Vendor shall designate a competent Project Manager who shall represent the Vendor in matters pertaining to the Agreement. Communications given to the Vendor’s Project Manager, in writing, from WSDOT’s Project Manager, shall be as binding as if given to the Vendor.

Project Manager – WSDOT. A WSDOT project manager will be identified at the time a purchase order is issued for this project. The WSDOT project manager will have overall responsibility for the successful initiation, execution, monitoring, controlling and closure of the project.

PRICING. Bid prices must include all cost components needed for the purchase of the goods and/or services as described in this RFQQ and submitted on the provided form Appendix B. A bidder’s failure to identify all costs in a manner consistent with the instructions in this RFQQ is sufficient grounds for disqualification.

Bidder Communication Responsibilities. During the RFQQ process, all bidder communications about this RFQQ must be directed to the Procurement Coordinator. Any questions related to this procurement must be submitted in writing, via e-mail, to the WSDOT Procurement Coordinator Rita Swart at rita.swart@wsdot.wa.gov no later than 4:00 PM Pacific Time, Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Answers to questions will be provided, via addendum to the original solicitation, no later than 4:00 PM on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 if any questions are received.

Unauthorized contact regarding this RFQQ with other state employees involved with the RFQQ may result in disqualification. All oral and written communications will be considered unofficial and non-binding on WSDOT. Bidders should rely only on written amendments issued by the Procurement Coordinator.

Bid Submittal:

Bidders wishing to submit a quote must do so no later than the date and time shown on the cover page of this solicitation.

Bid Submittal Checklist. The following checklist identifies the submittals which will comprise a bid. Any bid received without all of the items identified in this checklist and designated as REQUIRED will be rejected as being non-responsive. Please identify each page of the submittals and any supplemental materials with your company name or other identifiable company mark.

· Request for Quote and Qualifications form (Price Worksheet): Complete and sign and return with your response. Failure to complete this submittal as instructed may result in a bid being rejected for lack of responsiveness, Appendix B. (REQUIRED).

· Bidders Certifications and Assurances: Complete as instructed and return signed copy with your response, Appendix C. (REQUIRED)

· Bidder Profile: Complete as instructed and return a copy with response, Appendix E. (REQUIRED)

· Wage Theft Certification, Appendix H. (REQUIRED)

· Executive Order 18-03 Workers Rights, Appendix I. (REQUIRED)

Bids and required materials must be submitted to WSDOT via email to rita.swart@wsdot.wa.gov with the Subject line: Remote Avalanche Control System RFQQ # HQ401641R.

BID EVALUATION

WSDOT will evaluate bids for this RFQ as described below.

RESPONSIVENESS. WSDOT will review bids – on a pass/fail basis – to determine whether the bid is ‘responsive’ to this RFQ. This means that WSDOT will review each bid to determine whether the bid is complete – i.e., does the bid include each of the required bid submittals, are the submittals complete, signed, legible. WSDOT reserves the right – in its sole discretion – to determine whether a bid is responsive. Additionally, WSDOT may contact bidders for clarification or additional information to determine that a bid is responsive and qualified.

OVERVIEW. WSDOT will evaluate bids for this Competitive Solicitation as described below.

· Bidder responsiveness, performance requirements, price factors, and responsibility will be evaluated based on the process described herein.

· Any Bidder whose bid is determined to be non-responsive will be rejected and will be notified of the reason(s) for this rejection.

· WSDOT reserves the right to: (1) Request clarification regarding any bid; (2) Waive any informality; (3) Reject any or all bids, or portions thereof; (4) Accept any portion of the bid unless the bidder stipulates all or nothing in their bid; (5) Cancel the Competitive Solicitation and, if desired, re-solicit bids; and/or (6) Negotiate with the lowest responsive and responsible Bidder(s) to determine if such bid can be improved.

· WSDOT will use the following process and evaluation criteria to determine eligibility for an award of a Contract:

Bid Responsiveness

Bid Evaluation

State Procurement Priorities and Preferences

Responsible Bidder

Contract Negotiations

BID RESPONSIVENESS (STEP 1). WSDOT will review bids – on a pass/fail basis – to determine whether the bid is ‘responsive’ to this Competitive Solicitation. This means that WSDOT will review each bid to determine whether the bid is complete – i.e., does the bid include each of the required bid submittals, are the submittals complete, signed, and legible. WSDOT reserves the right – in its sole discretion – to determine whether a bid is responsive – i.e., to determine a bidder’s compliance with the requirements specified in this Competitive Solicitation and to waive informalities in a bid. An informality is an immaterial variation from the exact requirements of the Competitive Solicitation, having no effect or merely a minor or negligible effect on quality, quantity, or delivery of the goods or the quality, capability, or performance of the goods being procured, and the correction or waiver of which would not affect the relative standing of, or be otherwise prejudicial, to bidders. Responsive bids will be evaluated as set forth herein.

REQUIRED SPECIFICATIONS (STEP 2). WSDOT will review each bid to ensure that Bidders meet the required specifications set forth in Addendum #2 – Required Specifications. WSDOT reserves the right to request additional information before selecting the Apparent Successful Bidders. A Bidder’s failure to provide the requested information to WSDOT within five (5) business days may result in disqualification.

PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS EVALUATION (STEP 3). WSDOT will evaluate performance requirements as set forth in Addendum #2 – Performance Requirements. WSDOT reserves the right to request additional information before selecting the Apparent Successful Bidders. A Bidder’s failure to provide requested information to WSDOT within five (5) business days may result in disqualification.

BID PRICING EVALUATION (STEP 4). WSDOT will evaluate bid prices – to identify the lowest evaluation total – by reviewing and comparing the submitted bid prices provided in Bid Price. It is imperative that Bidders read all of the instructions found in the Bid Price and follow them precisely. The Bidder with the lowest total evaluation price will receive 500 total points. Those bids with a higher evaluation price will receive a proportionately lesser number of evaluation points based upon the lowest Bid, using the following formula:

Lowest total bid evaluation cost divided by a higher total bid evaluation cost (bid that is being evaluated) multiplied by number of available points equals the cost factor evaluation points. Points will be rounded to two places to the right of the decimal point using standard rounding method.

Sample Calculation using Bidder A = $100,000 and Bidder B = $110,000 Bid B calculation: $100,000(A) / $110,000(B) = 0.91 x 500 (max points available) = Cost points (rounded to two places to the right of the decimal point using standard rounding).

Bidder A is the lowest total bid evaluation cost, so it would be assigned the full 500 points. Bidder B would be assigned 455.00 points based on the formula above.

WASHINGTON STATE PROCUREMENT PRIORITIES & PREFERENCES (STEP 5). WSDOT will apply the following Washington State procurement priorities and preferences, as set forth below, to this Competitive Solicitation:

Procurement Preference for Executive Order 18-03 (Firms without Mandatory Individual Arbitration for Employees). Pursuant to RCW 39.26.160(3) (best value criteria) and consistent with Executive Order 18-03 – Supporting Workers’ Rights to Effectively Address Workplace Violations (dated June 12, 2018), WSDOT will evaluate bids for best value and will provide a bid preference in the amount of 50 points to any Bidder who certifies, pursuant to – Bidder’s Certification, that their firm does NOT require its employees, as a condition of employment, to sign or agree to mandatory individual arbitration clauses or class or collective action waivers.

BIDDER RESPONSIBILITY ANALYSIS (STEP 6). For responsive bids, WSDOT must determine whether the Bidder is a ‘responsible Bidder.’ Accordingly, WSDOT will make reasonable inquiry to determine bidder responsibility on a pass/fail basis. In determining Bidder responsibility, WSDOTwill consider the following statutory elements:

· Bidder’s ability, capacity, and skill to perform the contract or provide the service required;

· Bidder’s character, integrity, reputation, judgment, experience, and efficiency;

· Bidder’s ability to perform the contract within the time specified;

· Bidder’s performance quality pertaining to previous contracts or services;

· Bidder’s compliance with laws relating to the contract or services;

· Whether, within the three-year period immediately preceding the date of the Competitive Solicitation, bidder has been determined by a final and binding citation and notice of assessment issued by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries or through a civil judgment entered by a court of limited or general jurisdiction to have willfully violated, as defined in RCW 49.48.082, any provision of chapter 49.46, 49.48, or 49.52 RCW; and

· Such other information as may be secured having a bearing on the decision to award a Contract.

See RCW 39.26.160(2)(a)-(g). In addition, WSDOT may consider the following:

· Financial Information: WSDOT may request financial statements, credit ratings, references, record of past performance, clarification of Bidder’s bid, on-site inspection of Bidder's or subcontractor's facilities, or other information as necessary to determine Bidder’s capacity to perform and the enforceability of Bidder’s contractual commitments. Failure to respond to these requests may result in a bid being rejected as non-responsive.

References: WSDOT reserves the right to use references to confirm satisfactory customer service, performance, satisfaction with service/product, knowledge of products/service/industry and timeliness. Any negative or unsatisfactory reference can be reason for rejecting a Bidder as non-responsible.

ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPARENT SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS. WSDOT will determine the Apparent Successful Bidders (“ASB’s”). The ASB’s will be the responsive and responsible Bidder(s) who best meet(s) the Competitive Solicitation requirements and presents the best total value, including price, and other factors as set forth in this Competitive Solicitation, including any applicable state procurement priority or preference.

· ASB designation does not imply that WSDOT will issue an award, rather, this designation allows WSDOT to perform further analysis and ask for additional documentation. Bidders must not construe ASB designation as an award, impending award, attempt to negotiate, etc. If a Bidder acts or fails to act as a result of such notification or designation, it does so at its own risk and expense. WSDOT reserves the right to award on an all-or-nothing consolidated basis. Following the award of the Contracts, all bidders registered in WEBS will receive a Notice of Award delivered to the Bidder’s email address provided in the Bidder’s profile in WEBS.

· Upon announcement of ASB(s), Bidders may request a debrief conference as specified..

AWARD. Subject to protests, if any, WSDOT and the ASB will enter into Contracts. An award is made and a contract formed by signature of WSDOT and awarded Bidder on the Contract.

BID INFORMATION AVAILABILITY. Upon WSDOTs’ announcement of the ASB, all bid submissions and all bid evaluations are subject to public disclosure pursuant to Washington’s Public Records Act. See RCW 39.26.030(2). Upon WSDOTs’ announcement of ASBs, WSDOT will post bid tabs to WEBs

Complaint, Debrief, and Protest This RFQ offers a complaint period for bidders wishing to voice objections to this solicitation. The complaint period ends five (5) business days before the bid due date. The complaint period is an opportunity to voice objections, raise concerns, or suggest changes that were not addressed during the Question & Answer Period. Failure by the bidder to raise a complaint at this stage may waive its right for later consideration. Department of Transportation will consider all complaints but is not required to adopt a complaint, in part or in full. If bidder complaints result in changes to the RFQ, written amendments will be issued and posted on WEBS. Refer to Complaint, Debrief and Protest Procedures, Appendix G.

Appendices Appendix A: Statement of Work

Appendix B: Price Worksheet

Appendix C: Bidders Certifications and Assurances and Signature

Appendix D: Nondiscrimination Assurances

Appendix E: Bidder Profile

Appendix F: Standard Contract Terms and Conditions

Appendix G: Complaint, Debrief and Protest Procedures

Appendix H: Wage Theft Certification

Appendix I: Executive Order 18-03 Workers Rights.

Appendix J: Environmental Policies

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Appendix A Satement of Work sm.docx HQ401651R Wyssen LS12-5 Remote Avalanche Control System tower and foundation installation for reducing avalanche hazard on Interstate 90, Snoqualmie Pass, WA.

Overview

The Remote Avalanche Control System (RACS) project is designed to replace artillery for avalanche risk mitigation in avalanche terrain above Interstate 90 (I-90), Snoqualmie Pass, WA. This critical transportation corridor, which experiences an Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) volume exceeding 30,000 vehicles, requires reliable avalanche hazard reduction equipment for avalanche control to enhance public safety and maintain year-round accessibility. Bidders must be authorized to install the Wyssen LS12-5 towers and bases in Washington State and in order to retain our warranty.

Objectives

The key objective is to replace existing avalanche control methods, dependent on surplus military artillery, with advanced technologies to improve safety and reduce highway closures.

This last phase of the RACS involves installing the RACS equipment; 2 on Denny Mountain and 4 on Granite Mountain above I-90, Snoqualmie Pass.

Installation Specifications for Wyssen LS12-5 Remote Avalanche Control System Towers

1. The contract is for installing six (6) Wyssen LS12-5 Remote Avalanche Control System towers on the terrain above Interstate 90, Snoqualmie Pass, site map below.

2. The construction site is in remote, steep technical terrain accessible by hiking or helicopter.

3. Where applicable, the Contractor shall utilize a concreteless foundation, as described by Wyssen Avalanche Control AG see LS12-5 Instruction manual.

4. Maximum construction footprint shall not exceed 1 square meter per unit.

5. The Contractor shall be responsible for all aspects of the installation, including but not limited to helicopter scheduling, staging, and costs. Towers located at: the Hyak Maintenance Facility 4850 SR906 Snoqualmie Pass, WA 98068

6. The construction and installation performed by the Contractor shall meet all specifications outlined in the USFS Decision Memo see attached

7. The Contractor will complete tower foundation construction and installation by October 1, 2025.

8. The Contractor shall bear all risk of equipment loss until WSDOT accepts the system installation.

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Decision Memo.pdf

Decision Memo – WSDOT Avalanche Control Towers on I-90

Decision Memo WSDOT Avalanche Control Towers on I-90

PALS # 66468

USDA Forest Service Snoqualmie Ranger District, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

King County, Washington

Background The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) performs avalanche risk mitigation, including the intentional release of avalanches (avalanche control) for the safety of highway travelers and workers, and to maintain the critical transportation route for the Pacific Northwest.

Interstate 90 (I-90) is the main trans-mountain crossing in Washington State and serves as the primary route for freight, passenger, recreation, and military transportation. Snoqualmie Pass (921m) is the highest point along I-90 through the Cascade Mountains. Although the pass is relatively low for the mountains, the area receives abundant snowfall. More than 30 individual avalanche paths affect the highway through the mountain corridor. The WSDOT performs avalanche hazard reduction, including the intentional release of avalanches (avalanche control) above and along I-90 in the Snoqualmie Pass area. Areas above I-90 on Denny Mountain and Granite Mountain have limited access, therefore the WSDOT uses surplus military artillery to release avalanches.

Artillery use began in the late 1970’s beginning with a 105mm recoilless rifle that fired a 4-5lb warhead. The US Army discontinued the recoilless rifle in the early 2000s due to age and lack of maintenance support. An M-60 tank replaced the recoilless rifle and provided an upgrade to avalanche release since the weapon fired a larger warhead (7lb). Again, the US Army discontinued the WSDOT’s use of this system due to age and lack of maintenance support. Presently the only artillery available for avalanche use is the M-101 howitzer, which fires a smaller warhead like the recoilless rifle.

The howitzer program is nearing the end of life, and the US Army has again alerted users that age and lack of maintenance will bring this program to an end within the next few years. As a result, no surplus artillery exists as a replacement for avalanche control. There are, however, viable and preferable systems available from the private sector. These systems, known collectively as Remote Avalanche Control Systems (RACS), offer several advantages over traditional artillery. To replace the artillery system, the WSDOT proposes the installation of two avalanche control towers on Denny Mountain and a tower-based automated tram system on Granite Mountain.

Decision I have decided to allow WSDOT to implement the installation of these towers along Interstate 90.

WSDOT will install Remote Avalanche Control Systems (RACS) above Interstate 90 on Denny Mountain and Granite Mountain to replace the aging artillery-based avalanche control system. The proposed RACS system will utilize the Wyssen tower system, which consists of an approximately one-meter square and one- to three-foot-thick concrete foundation with five micropiles, each foundation supporting a steel tower approximately 11 meters tall.

The Granite Mountain location is located across T22N R11E and includes the SE ¼ of Sec 06 and the NE ¼ of Sec 07 and will utilize five towers. The Denny Mountain location is T22N R11E SW ¼ Sec 32 and will utilize two towers. All installations are within King County, Washington. See attached maps.

No roads will be created for access; project equipment and personnel will be transported to each location by foot and helicopter. The project will utilize the Alpental Ski Area parking lot as a staging and landing area. As the towers are dispersed across the avalanche prone slopes, a “project area” is difficult to explain. Assuming a 45’ radius “work area” around each of the seven tower locations and a one acre staging area give an approximately two-acre total project area.

WSDOT will hire a qualified contractor to install the towers procured from the Wyssen company.

Construction is planned for the summer of 2025, but site preparation work may start as soon as allowable. Construction is expected to be completed in one season but may need to be paused and finished the following summer. Unforeseen circumstances could push construction to 2026 or later.

Wyssen estimates that each tower location requires 12 helicopter flights to complete. These flights anticipate using a single rotor helicopter with hoist line and will be spread over about four flight days during the different stages of construction. See attached maps for proposed flight paths.

To construct each tower, anticipated equipment includes hand tools, rock drill, compressor, pneumatic tools, chainsaw, small explosives, and mixer. Some vegetation may need to be trimmed to allow for safe aerial hoist line use but impacts to trees over 6” dbh are not anticipated. Due to the rocky substrate anticipated at several sites, some small and mitigated rock blasting may need to be used to flatten and prepare foundation locations.

Foundation slabs typically need to be constructed up to a foot below the surrounding ground level, necessitating ground disturbance in the immediate area with hand tools, pneumatic tools, and possibly small drilling/blasting. Four vertical and one angled tie-back micropiles are drilled and installed to a depth dependent on subgrade conditions. The typically one-meter square, one to three-foot deep, concrete foundations are formed and poured. Once cured, the tower sections are then brought in by helicopter, placed, and bolted. Reinforcing cables and ground anchors may be required.

There are no anticipated changes to the access to area as tower locations are generally inaccessible due to terrain and towers will not impede access. During avalanche control conditions, the towers will not change the current access restrictions required for artillery avalanche control.

Once installed, the Wyssen system remotely releases an explosive charge from the tower that hangs from a cord for detonation approximately 2-3 meters above the snow. The deployment box holds 12 charges; up to 12 avalanche releases are possible before reloading. The deployment box is removed and installed using a helicopter and long-line. Avalanche control at the locations is infrequent enough that a 12-shot deployment box should meet the needs of the WSDOT without mid-winter replenishment. However, the deployment box requires yearly maintenance, and the WSDOT plans to remove the boxes at the end of the winter season. At that time, the WSDOT returns any remaining explosives to secure storage for the off-season. The process reverses in the fall with explosives loaded into the box before a helicopter returns the box to the respective tower.

This action is categorically excluded from documentation in an environmental impact statement (EIS) or an environmental assessment (EA). The applicable category of actions is identified in agency procedures as “Approval, modification, or continuation of special uses that require less than 20 acres of NFS lands, 36 CFR 220.6(e)(3)”. This category of action(s) is applicable because the requested special use permit is for an estimated 2 acres of land.

I find that there are no extraordinary circumstances that would warrant further analysis and documentation in an EA or EIS. I took into account resource conditions identified in agency procedures that should be considered in determining whether extraordinary circumstances might exist:

Federally listed threatened or endangered species or designated critical habitat, species proposed for Federal listing or proposed critical habitat, or Forest Service sensitive species– o Wildlife:

ESA consultation completed by WSDOT through their programmatic BO and a LOC was received from USFWS. All related documents are herein incorporated by reference.

WSDOT determined the project May affect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect the northern spotted owl, marbled murrelet, gray wolf, and California wolverine. The project would have No Effect on the Canada lynx, grizzly bear, Mount Rainier white-tailed ptarmigan, and the critical habitat of the northern spotted owl and marbled murrelet.

Region 6 Sensitive: The project May impact Individuals but will not contribute to a trend toward federal listing for the American Goshawk and Mountain Goat. Project would have no impact on the remaining Region 6 Sensitive Species.

Management Indicator Species: The project would not contribute to a negative trend in the viability of management indicator species on the Forest.

Survey and Manage: The three survey triggers for pre-disturbance surveys under the Northwest Forest Plan were not met, therefore pre-disturbance surveys were not required for “Survey & Manage” salamander or mollusk species.

o Fisheries:

ESA-listed fish and designated critical habitats are all downstream of Snoqualmie Falls, over 28 miles away from the project. Project activities would have “No Effect” on Puget Sound Chinook, Puget Sound steelhead, or bull trout, or on any of their designated critical habitats.

Essential Fish Habitat for Chinook, coho and pink salmon are downstream of Snoqualmie Falls. Project activities “Would Not Adversely Affect” EFH for Chinook, coho or pink salmon.

The MBS has one sensitive fish species. Pacific lamprey are not in the action area;

project activities would have “No Impact” on Pacific lamprey.

MIS: Project activities would not affect the productivity or viability of MBS management indicator fish species at the Forest-level.

ACS: The project as proposed would not prevent, retard, or contribute significantly to the achievement of the Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives at the scale the ACS objectives were described; the project would be consistent with the Aquatic Conservation Strategy.

o Botany:

Threatened & Endangered: No Effect. Habitat is Unsuitable for Whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis).

Region 6 Sensitive: Locations are inaccessible for surveys currently and in the past.

Disturbance would permanently shrink habitat in small areas, with temporary disturbances in “work areas”. Agoseris elata, Botrychium ascendens, Botrychium hesperium, Carex proposita, and Pellea breweri are Somewhat likely to occur in the project area, and project work is unlikely to move plant towards listing. Lycopodium dendroideum and Lycopodium lagopus are Likely to occur in the project area, and harm or elimination of these species could be considered to move them towards ESA listing.

Survey & Manage: Towers are in non-forested locations, but avalanche paths beneath Denny Mountain towers may run through old-growth (OSGI 200) forest. Assuming avalanche paths are already existing, open, non- forested areas, no effect to Survey & Manage species.

Revegetation not recommended as native vegetation is likely to move in naturally. If revegetation is needed, please consult USFS Botanist.

Flood plains, wetlands, or municipal watersheds – There are no floodplains, wetlands, or municipal watersheds located within the project area. Implementation of the project design criteria below would mitigate any potential impacts to these resources.

Congressionally designated areas such as wilderness, wilderness study areas, or national recreation areas – Project is close to Alpine Lakes Wilderness but is not within and would not affect the character of Wilderness or other Congressionally designated area.

Inventoried roadless areas or potential wilderness areas – Project is not within and would not affect any Inventoried Roadless Area or potential Wilderness area.

Research natural areas – Project is not within and would not affect any Research Natural Area or other special interest area.

American Indians and Alaska Native religious or cultural sites – There are no American Indian and Alaska Native religious or cultural sites known or identified in the project area.

Archaeological sites, or historic properties or areas – There are no archaeological sites or historic properties known or identified in the project area.

Tribal Consultation The Muckleshoot, Nisqually, Puyallup, Snoqualmie, Tulalip, and Yakama Tribes received consultation letters from the Forest on July 18, 2024 about this project and their input was requested in the development of the final action. The Snoqualmie Tribe responded to the initial consultation letter and indicated no further concerns with the proposed project.

Public Involvement This action was originally listed as a proposal on the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Schedule of Proposed Actions and updated periodically during the analysis. No public comments were received regarding the project.

Climate Change In accordance with the CEQ GHG Guidance, this document analyzes the effects of climate change on proposed activities, and the effects of proposed activities on climate change and GHG emissions.

There are two responses to climate change: mitigation and adaptation. Climate change mitigation involves actions that limit or prevent GHG emissions or enhance activities that remove these gases from the atmosphere. Climate change adaptation involves actions that adjust to actual or expected climate change and its effects. Both climate change adaptation and mitigation have been considered in developing the proposed action and action alternatives.

Climate change contributes to climate and weather variability over time. Avalanches are directly connected to weather patterns throughout winter, and the increasing variability and unpredictability of precipitation patterns and other weather events can create uncertainty in avalanche predictability, size, and frequency, and in mitigating avalanche danger for the traveling public on Interstate 90 and other highways. The population in the Seattle area and surrounding municipalities has grown rapidly in recent years, and the number of people traveling across Snoqualmie Pass on I-90 in the winter has increased as a result. Transitioning from the aging military ordinance system to a RACS system will enable WSDOT to adapt to changing weather patterns during mountain winters and allow them to better provide safe travel conditions for the thousands of motorists that cross this section of highway every day.

The effects of the proposed action on climate change are not expected to be significant because there will be no measurable GHG emissions due to the limited size, scope, and intensity of proposed activities.

Findings Required by Other Laws and Regulations This decision is consistent with the 1990 Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan as amended by the April 13, 1994 Record of Decision for Management of Habitat for Late Successional and Old-Growth Forest Related Species Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl. The project was designed in conformance with select Forest-wide standards and guidelines for the area:

Special use evaluation, permit issuance, fees and administration will be in accordance with Forest Service Manual 2700 or as revised, and 36 CFR 251. Forest Plan 4-137.

Land to be used will be suitable for the proposed use and kept as small as is consistent with the intended use. Forest Plan 4-137.

Operate, maintain, and/or close roads to meet established road management objectives and safety. Forest Plan 4-140.

The Clean Water Act of 1948 (as amended in 1972 and 1987) establishes as federal policy for the control of point and non-point source pollution and assigns the States the primary regulatory authority for enforcing the Act. Clean Water Act compliance will be achieved through the application of effective best management practices (BMPs) (USDA 2012). All activities are designed to protect water quality and aquatic resources through the use of BMPs, which are the primary mechanism to enable the achievement of state water quality standards and minimize non-point impacts. The bypass road would provide the ability to pump the toilet, reducing the existing risk of waste and introduction of contaminants into the floodplain.

The responsible official and/or applicable specialist(s) have determined the proposed action is in compliance with the following Executive Orders (EO), which were deemed pertinent based on the nature of the proposal:

EO 12898, Environmental Justice – identify and address disproportionately high and adverse effects on minority and low-income populations.

The effects of the proposed action on the human environment (including minority and low-income populations) are expected to be similar for all human populations regardless of nationality, gender, race, or income. No disproportionate adverse human health or environmental effects on minority populations, low-income populations, or any other protected group or class of people are expected because of implementing this project.

EO 13007, Indian Sacred Sites – avoid adversely affecting the physical integrity of these sites.

There are no Indian Sacred Sites known or identified in the project area. PDC’s are identified in Appendix A of this Decision Memo. The Mt Baker Snoqualmie Inadvertent Discovery Plan will be followed should a discovery occur.

EO 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments - agencies consult with Indian tribes and respect tribal sovereignty as they develop policy on issues that impact Indian communities.

Consultation with the Muckleshoot, Nisqually, Puyallup, Snoqualmie, Tulalip, and Yakama Tribes occurred as described above.

EO 13112, Invasive Species – prevent the introduction of invasive species and provide for their control and to minimize the economic, ecological, and human health impacts that invasive species cause.

Project design criteria (PDCs) are supplied in the below decision notice and will be followed to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species.

EO 13186, Migratory Birds – identify actions that may have a measurable negative effect on migratory bird populations.

Wildlife biologist has determined that there will be no measurable negative effect on migratory bird populations because of the limited size, scope, and intensity of proposed activities.

EO 14072, Strengthening the Nation's Forests, Communities, and Local Economies – conserve America’s Old Growth and Mature Forests.

The project areas were checked against Region 6 Old Growth Stand Index (OGSI) data regarding locations of potential mature and old growth forest conditions. Map exercises determined the proposed project areas are not within old growth.

Administrative Review and Implementation This decision is not subject to administrative appeal. Implementation of this decision may occur immediately following the date of this Decision Memo.

Contact For additional information concerning this decision, contact: Eric Ozog, Forest Special Uses Coordinator, at eric.ozog@usda.gov.

BRIAN MCNEIL Date Snoqualmie District Ranger

BRIAN

MCNEIL

Digitally signed by

BRIAN MCNEIL

Date: 2024.10.21 08:22:19 -07'00'

We make every effort to create documents that are accessible to individuals of all abilities; however, limitations with our word processing programs may prevent some parts of this document from being readable by computer-assisted reading devices. If you need assistance with any part of this document, please contact the Mt. Baker- Snoqualmie National Forest at 425-783-6000.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Appendix A: Project Design Criteria Wildlife:

Follow all Mitigation Measures that were provided by WSDOT in submittal for programmatic consultation (Project Notification Form), addendums, or referenced in the USFWS LOS (Where necessary paraphrased here). This includes but is not limited to:

o MM-7. No contractor staging areas will be allowed within 200 feet of potentially suitable wetland, stream, estuarine, river or marine drainage as identified by the project biologist, unless site specific review completed by the project biologist indicates that no impacts to the sensitive resource areas will occur due to topography or other factors.

o MM-21. Construction impacts will be confined to the minimum area necessary to complete the project.

o MM-91. If an active murrelet or northern spotted owl nest is discovered, the activity will cease immediately. A WSDOT and USFWS biologist will be notified immediately and all activities within the disturbance threshold distances (within 0.25 mile of an active nest tree for all activities except blasting, which is 1 mile) will be postponed until after the nesting season.

o MM-93. All activities that may result in visual or noise disturbance based on accepted thresholds, and have daytime work within suitable murrelet nesting habitat, will restrict activities to between two hours after sunrise and two hours before sunset during the murrelet nesting season (crepuscular LOP, April 1 to September 23).

o MM-94. If blasting is to occur in or adjacent to murrelet or northern spotted owl suitable habitat during the nesting season, no blasting will occur that may physically impact potential nest trees, the trees buffering the nest tree, the individual murrelets, northern spotted owls, and/or their eggs.

o Project activities such as blasting and helicopter use will occur outside of early nesting season for northern spotted owl (3/1 – 7/15) where withing disruption distance of suitable habitat.

o Helicopter will maintain greater than disruption distance (110 yards) from marbled murrelet habitat in flight and greater than the 50-yard injury distance from spotted owl or marbled murrelet suitable nesting habitat when hovering as detailed in addendum to USFWS.

o Any other agreed-upon mitigations for blasting and helicopter use as described in WSDOT project files.

In addition, the MBS imposes these additional PDC/MMs:

o Projects located within or adjacent to suitable nesting habitat for marbled murrelets will prohibit garbage or trash from being left within the project area.

o Nest sites actively being used by raptors or other bird species of special concern will be protected from human disturbance until nesting and fledging is completed. Roost areas will be evaluated for the need for additional protection. Determination of protection area and seasons should involve consultation with a Wildlife Biologist

(LRMP 4-124[3]).

o Helicopter will maintain greater than 0.25 mile from mountain goats wherever possible.

o Any exposed pipe should be capped or screened to prevent wildlife from becoming trapped and incapable of escape from such structures. All other types of structures capable of wildlife entrapment should be properly capped or screened.

o All ground-based cables, wires, and similar debris should be secured so that wildlife species such as deer, elk, and other smaller bodied mammals do not become entangled which may cause injury or death.

o Excavations such as holes or other barriers to wildlife movement should be barricaded or eliminated to avoid injury or death to wildlife.

Fisheries:

WSDOT’s existing described design criteria and BMPs are sufficient. Any proposed by hydrology/soils need to be followed.

Botany:

Minimize ground disturbance and rock blasting at all tower locations.

Utilize already-disturbed ground for staging area at Alpental parking lot. Do not stage on undisturbed ground or vegetation, and do not cut trees.

Consult USFS Botanist (myself) if revegetation at 1-acre Alpental staging area or elsewhere is needed.

Any previously undocumented Threatened, Endangered, or Region 6 Sensitive plants located before or during project implementation will be appropriately managed by active coordination between contractor, Forest Service Line officer, project administrator, and botanist. Mitigations may include buffering occurrences, avoidance of occurrences, salvage/storage and replanting or other measures determined through coordination with botanist.

Avoid ground disturbance and disturbance of tree boles, branches, and downed wood outside of the necessary disturbance footprint.

Invasive Species:

Any vehicles, tools, or heavy equipment used for ground disturbing work must be washed of soil and plant material prior to arriving on the MBSNF and before leaving the project area to reduce the spread of weeds.

Any imported material must be inspected/certified for weeds prior to being brought onto the Forest.

Any straw, hay, or mulch being brought onto the Forest must come from a source that has been certified by the Washington Weed Free Hay and Mulch Program (WWHAM).

Heritage:

Inadvertent Discovery & NAGPRA Protocol: Any person implementing this action shall comply with the provisions of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Inadvertent Discovery Plan for Cultural Resources developed for this undertaking, and the Native American Graves, Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Protocol.

If a previously unidentified cultural resource is discovered during implementation, or if an identified cultural resource is affected in an unanticipated way, stop work & secure find;

notify FS Heritage Specialist and follow inadvertent discovery protocols.

If human remains are discovered all work must stop in the area of the discovery and NAGPRA protocols must be followed.

Fire Management:

Follow WA DNR IFPL standards according to shutdown levels of zone 659N for chainsaw use and blasting.

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Appendix B Price Sheet HQ401651R.docx

Price Sheet

Request for Quotes # HQ401651R

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Provide unit prices. Extend the amount in the designated columns. Provide Subtotal.

1. All Unit Prices submitted are to be no more than two places to the right of the decimal point (on a per dollar basis).

1. Failure to address each line item as detailed may result in a bid being rejected for lack of responsiveness.

1. Enter prompt payment and purchasing card information in the space provided following the Price Sheet.

1. Indicate Make, Model in the space below description column.

Company Name:

Item

Description

Est. Qty.

Unit

Unit Price

Extended Price

(Unit Price X Est. Qty.)

Wyssen LS12-5 Remote Avalanche Control System tower and foundation installation (See scope of Work)

1.

Foundation Concreteless where applicable

EA

2.

Installation of LS12-5 towers

EA

3.

Warranty

EA

4.

Add On’s

EA

6.

Additional Items

EA

Location of existing 6 towers:

the Hyak Maintenance Facility 4850 SR906 Snoqualmie Pass, WA 98068 see site map for installation locations.

TIN #______________________

Email Address:

Subtotal

Delivery/Shipping fee if applicable

Preferences

Subtotal times Prompt Payment Discount % (see Payment Term below)

Evaluated Cost

Subtotal minus Preferences

Payment Term

Prompt Payment Discount % 30 days, or net 30 days.

Prompt payment discount periods equal to (or greater than) 30 calendar days will receive consideration and bid pricing will be reduced (for evaluation purposes only) by the amount of the discount. WSDOT will interpret the absence of an entry here to be 0%.

Purchasing Cards

|_| Visa |_| Master Card |_| American Express |_| Discover |_| Other:

A bidder accepting purchasing cards as a form of payment understands that there shall not be any separate fee for use of the purchasing card. WSDOT will interpret the absence of an entry here to mean that no purchasing card is accepted.

A bidder that offers (1) a prompt payment discount and (2) accepts purchasing cards as a form of payment agrees that the discount applies for payments made using a purchasing card during the discount time period.

RFQ – HQ401650R Page 1 of 2 image1.jpeg image5.emf

Appendix C Bidder Certs.docx

APPENDIX C – BIDDERS CERTIFICATION

Competitive Solicitation:

RFQQ HQ401641R– Remote Avalanche Control System

Bidder:

Type/print full legal name of Bidder

Bidder’s Address:

Type/print Bidder’s Address

Bidder Organization Type:

Check appropriate box

Corporation:

· Domestic

· Foreign

Limited Liability Company (LLC):

· Domestic

· Foreign

Partnership:

· Domestic

· Foreign

Sole Proprietorship:

State of Formation:

Type/print the state where the corporation, LLC, or partnership is formed – e.g., ‘Washington’ if domestic and the name of the state if ‘Foreign’ (i.e., not Washington)

Bidder, through the duly authorized undersigned, makes this certification as a required element of submitting a responsive bid. Bidder certifies, to the best of its knowledge and belief:

1. UNDERSTANDING. Bidder has read, thoroughly examined, and fully understands all of the provisions in the Competitive Solicitation (including all exhibits) and the terms and conditions of the Contract and any amendments or clarifications to the Competitive Solicitation, and agrees to abide by the same.

2. ACCURACY. Bidder has carefully prepared and reviewed its bid and fully supports the accuracy of the same. Bidder further understands that WSDOT shall not be responsible for any errors or omission on the part of Bidder…