24CRDEBPPAYT-0062 RFP.pdf

Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP COVER SHEET

Administrative Information:

TITLE OF RFP: Volga River SRA - Hill Road Bridge Replacement RFP Number: 24CRDEBPPAYT-0062

DNR seeks to purchase:

Engineering services from a qualified engineering consulting firm for the design for a bridge replacement project on Hill Road at Volga River State Recreation Area.

The selected firm will prepare final designs, including drawings, specifications and cost estimates. The firm will be responsible for coordinating the process with DNR staff, obtain all permits, perform needed survey (including any necessary archaeological and wetland delineation), prepare bid documents, develop addenda, answer pre-bid questions, conduct one onsite preconstruction meeting, conduct onsite construction inspection at critical construction milestones, and will also be retained during construction for any clarification from the DNR Field Engineer by phone. The bid information, addenda, drawings and specifications will be distributed by the DNR.

Number of mos. or yrs. of the initial term of the contract:

21 Months Number of possible annual extensions: 0

Tentative Contract term start date: May 1, 2024 Tentative Contract term end date: September 30, 2025

DNR Issuing Officer:

Name: Philip Payton

Phone and e-Mail: (515) 361-0743, Philip.Payton@dnr.iowa.gov

Mailing Address: 502 E 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50319

DNR PROCUREMENT TIMETABLE—Event or Action: Date/Time (Central Time):

Posts Notice of RFP on TSB website February 7, 2024, 11:00 am Issues RFP and Posts Notice of RFP on DAS Bid Opportunities website February 11, 2024, 11:00 am Proposals Due Date:

Proposals Due Time:

Date: February 28, 2024 Time: 11:00 am

Anticipated Date to issue Notice of Intent to Award: April 12, 2024

Anticipated Date for NRC Commission Approval April 11, 2024

Anticipated Date to execute contract: May 1, 2024

Relevant Websites: Web-address:

Internet website where Addenda to this RFP will be posted:

IMPACS Electronic Procurement System https://bids.sciquest.com/apps/Router/PublicEvent?CustomerOrg=DASIowa

Internet website where contract terms and conditions are posted:

https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms% 20services.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms% 20goods.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/Terms%20and%20 Conditions%20for%20Federal%20Compliance.pdf

Internet website where Respondents can learn more about the DNR:

https://www.iowadnr.gov/

Number of Copies of Proposals Required to be Submitted: 1 emailed original

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to solicit proposals from Responsible Respondents to provide the goods and/or services identified on the RFP cover sheet and further described in Section 5 of this RFP to the DNR identified on the RFP cover sheet. The DNR intends to award a Contract(s) beginning and ending on the dates listed on the RFP cover sheet, and the DNR, in its sole discretion, may extend the Contract(s) for up to the number of annual extensions identified on the RFP cover sheet.

1.2 Definitions

For the purposes of this RFP and the resulting contract, the following terms will mean:

“DNR” means the DNR identified on the RFP cover sheet that is issuing the RFP and any other DNR that purchases from the Contract. In this case, the DNR is DNR.

“Contract” means the contract(s) entered into with the successful Respondent(s) as described in Section 7.1.

“Contractor” means the successful Respondent to this RFP.

“General Terms and Conditions” means the General Terms and Conditions for Services Contracts as referenced on the RFP cover page.

“Proposal” means the Respondent’s proposal submitted in response to the RFP.

“Respondent” means a vendor submitting a Proposal in response to this RFP.

“Responsible Respondent” means a Respondent that has the capability in all material respects to perform the scope of work and specifications of the Contract. In determining whether a Respondent is a Responsible Respondent, the DNR may consider various factors including, but not limited to, the Respondent’s competence and qualifications to provide the goods or services requested, the Respondent’s integrity and reliability, the past performance of the Respondent and the best interest of the DNR and the State.

https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms%20services.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms%20services.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms%20goods.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/050116%20terms%20goods.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/Terms%20and%20Conditions%20for%20Federal%20Compliance.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/procurement/pdf/Terms%20and%20Conditions%20for%20Federal%20Compliance.pdf https://www.iowadnr.gov/

“Responsive Proposal” means a Proposal that complies with the material provisions of this RFP.

“RFP” means this Request for Proposals and any attachments, exhibits, schedules or addenda hereto.

“State” means the State of Iowa, the DNR, and all state agencies, boards, and commissions, and any political subdivisions making purchases from the Contract as permitted by this RFP.

1.3 Overview of the RFP Process

This RFP is designed to provide Respondents with the information necessary for the preparation of competitive Proposals. The RFP process is for the DNR’s benefit and is intended to provide the DNR with competitive information to assist in the selection process. It is not intended to be comprehensive. Each Respondent is responsible for determining all factors necessary for submission of a comprehensive Proposal.

Respondent should review Attachment 3, Form 22 Request for Confidentiality, for more information if its Proposal contains confidential information. Any Proposal marked “Confidential” or “Proprietary” on every page may be disqualified.

Respondents will be required to email their Proposals. It is the DNR’s intention to evaluate Proposals from all Respondents that submit timely Responsive Proposals, and award the Contract(s) in accordance with Section 6, Evaluation and Selection.

1.4 Background Information

Volga River State Recreation Area in scenic northeast Iowa is often referred to as “Little Switzerland” because of its rugged topography. Old steel bridges cross the Volga River and striking rock formations, prairie areas and natural woodlands characterize the 5,700-acre area. A variety of wildlife, including deer, red fox and beavers are often spotted in the park, which is open to public hunting during hunting season.

The bridge is located on Hill Road north of the Albany Equestrian Campground.

SECTION 2 ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

2.1 Issuing Officer

The Issuing Officer identified in the RFP cover sheet is the sole point of contact regarding the RFP from the date of issuance until a Notice of Intent to Award the Contract is issued.

2.2 Restriction on Communication

From the issue date of this RFP until a Notice of Intent to Award the Contract is issued, Respondents may contact only the Issuing Officer. The Issuing Officer will respond only to written questions regarding the procurement process. Questions related to the interpretation of this RFP must be submitted as provided in Section 2. Oral questions related to the interpretation of this RFP will not be accepted. Respondents may be disqualified if they contact any State employee other than the Issuing Officer about the RFP except that Respondents may contact the State Targeted Small Business Office on issues related to the preference for Targeted Small Businesses.

This section will not be construed as restricting communications related to the administration of any contract currently in effect between a Respondent and the State.

2.3 Downloading the RFP from the Internet

The RFP document and any addenda to the RFP will be posted at IMPACS Electronic Procurement System. The Respondent is advised to check the website periodically for Addenda to this RFP, particularly if the Respondent downloaded the RFP from the Internet as the Respondent may not automatically receive addenda. It is the Respondent's sole responsibility to check daily for addenda to posted documents.

2.4 Procurement Timetable

The dates provided in the procurement timetable on the RFP cover sheet are provided for informational and planning purposes. The DNR reserves the right to change the dates. If the DNR changes any of the deadlines for Respondent submissions, the DNR will issue an addendum to the

RFP.

2.5 Questions, Requests for Clarification, and Suggested Changes Respondents are invited to email written questions and requests for clarifications regarding the RFP. Respondents may also email suggestions for changes to the specifications of this RFP. The questions, requests for clarifications, or suggestions must be in writing and received by the Issuing Officer on or before the date and time listed on the RFP cover sheet. Oral questions will not be permitted. If the questions, requests for clarifications, or suggestions pertain to a specific section of the RFP, Respondent should reference the page and section number(s). The DNR will email written responses to questions, requests for clarifications, or suggestions received from Respondents on before the date listed on the RFP cover sheet. The DNR’s written responses will become an addendum to the RFP. If the DNR decides to adopt a suggestion that modifies the RFP, the DNR will issue an addendum to the RFP.

The DNR assumes no responsibility for oral representations made by its officers or employees unless such representations are confirmed in writing and incorporated into the RFP through an addendum.

2.6 Amendment to the RFP

The DNR reserves the right to amend the RFP at any time using an addendum. The Respondent must acknowledge receipt of all addenda in its Proposal. If the DNR issues an addendum after the due date for receipt of Proposals, the DNR may, in its sole discretion, allow Respondents to amend their Proposals in response to the addendum.

2.7 Amendment and Withdrawal of Proposal

The Respondent may amend or withdraw and resubmit its Proposal at any time before the Proposals are due. The amendment must be in writing, signed by the Respondent and received by the time set for the receipt of Proposals. Electronic mail and faxed amendments will not be accepted. Respondents must notify the Issuing Officer in writing prior to the due date for Proposals if they wish to completely withdraw their Proposals.

2.8 Submission of Proposals

The DNR is requiring each Respondent to EMAIL its Bid Proposal to procurement@dnr.iowa.gov so that it is received by the Issuing Officer no later February 28, 2024 at 11:00 AM Central Time.

The Respondent must ensure the subject line of the email includes the RFP number as identified in the solicitation document. This is a mandatory specification and will not be waived by the DNR. Any Bid Proposal received after this deadline will be rejected. It is the Respondent’s responsibility to ensure that the Bid Proposal is received prior to the deadline.

Respondents must furnish all information necessary to enable the DNR to evaluate the Proposal.

Oral information provided by the Respondent will not be considered part of the Respondent's Proposal unless it is reduced to writing.

2.9 Proposal Opening

The DNR will open Proposals after the deadline for submission of Proposals has passed. The Proposals will remain confidential until the DNR has issued a Notice of Intent to Award a Contract.

See Iowa Code Section 72.3. However, the names of Respondents who submitted timely Proposals will be publicly available after the Proposal opening. The announcement of Respondents who timely submitted Proposals does not mean that an individual Proposal has been deemed technically compliant or accepted for evaluation.

2.10 Costs of Preparing the Proposal

The costs of preparation and delivery of the Proposal are solely the responsibility of the Respondent.

2.11 No Commitment to Contract

The DNR reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals received in response to this RFP at any time prior to the execution of the Contract. Issuance of this RFP in no way constitutes a commitment by the DNR to award a contract.

2.12 Rejection of Proposals

The DNR may reject outright and not evaluate a Proposal for reasons including, without limitation:

2.12.1 The Respondent fails to email the Proposal by the due date and time.

mailto:procurement@dnr.iowa.gov

2.12.2 The Respondent acknowledges that a mandatory specification of the RFP cannot be met.

2.12.3 The Respondent's Proposal changes a material specification of the RFP or the Proposal is not compliant with the mandatory specifications of the RFP.

2.12.4 The Respondent’s Proposal limits the rights of the DNR.

2.12.5 The Respondent fails to include information necessary to substantiate that it will be able to meet a specification of the RFP as provided in Section 3 of this RFP.

2.12.6 The Respondent fails to timely respond to the DNR's request for information, documents, or references.

2.12.7 The Respondent fails to include Proposal Security, if required.

2.12.8 The Respondent fails to include any signature, certification, authorization, stipulation, disclosure or guarantee as provided in Section 3 of this RFP.

2.12.9 The Respondent presents the information requested by this RFP in a format inconsistent with the instructions of the RFP or otherwise fails to comply with the specifications of this RFP.

2.12.10 The Respondent initiates unauthorized contact regarding the RFP with a State employee other than the Issuing Officer.

2.12.11 The Respondent provides misleading or inaccurate responses.

2.12.12 The Respondent’s Proposal is materially unbalanced.

2.12.13 There is insufficient evidence (including evidence submitted by the Respondent and evidence obtained by the DNR from other sources) to satisfy the DNR that the Respondent is a Responsible Respondent.

2.12.14 The Respondent alters the language in Attachment 1, Certification Letter or Attachment

2, Authorization to Release Information letter.

2.12.15 The Respondent is a “scrutinized company” included on a “scrutinized company list” created by a public fund pursuant to Iowa Code section 12J.3.

2.12.16 The Respondent has defaulted or had a similar contract terminated for cause in the last

24 months.

2.13 Nonmaterial Variances

The DNR reserves the right to waive or permit cure of nonmaterial variances in the Proposal if, in the judgment of the DNR, it is in the State’s best interest to do so. Nonmaterial variances include but are not limited to, minor failures to comply that: do not affect overall responsiveness, are merely a matter of form or format, do not change the relative standing or otherwise prejudice other Respondents, do not change the meaning or scope of the RFP, or do not reflect a material change in the specifications of the RFP. In the event the DNR waives or permits cure of nonmaterial variances, such waiver or cure will not modify the RFP specifications or excuse the Respondent from full compliance with RFP specifications or other Contract specifications if the Respondent is awarded the Contract. The determination of materiality is in the sole discretion of the DNR.

2.14 Reference Checks

The DNR reserves the right to contact any reference to assist in the evaluation of the Proposal, to verify information contained in the Proposal and to discuss the Respondent’s qualifications and the qualifications of any subcontractor identified in the Proposal.

2.15 Information from Other Sources

The DNR reserves the right to obtain and consider information from other sources concerning a Respondent, such as the Respondent’s capability and performance under other contracts, the qualifications of any subcontractor identified in the Proposal, the Respondent’s financial stability, past or pending litigation, and other publicly available information.

2.16 Verification of Proposal Contents

The content of a Proposal submitted by a Respondent is subject to verification. If the DNR determines in its sole discretion that the content is in any way misleading or inaccurate, the DNR may reject the Proposal.

2.17 Proposal Clarification Process

The DNR reserves the right to contact a Respondent after the submission of Proposals for the purpose of clarifying a Proposal. This contact may include written questions, interviews, site visits, a review of past performance if the Respondent has provided goods and/or services to the State or any other political subdivision wherever located, or requests for corrective pages in the Respondent’s Proposal. The DNR will not consider information received from or through Respondent if the information materially alters the content of the Proposal or the type of goods and/or services the Respondent is offering to the DNR. An individual authorized to legally bind the Respondent must sign responses to any request for clarification. Responses must be submitted to the DNR within the time specified in the DNR's request. Failure to comply with requests for additional information may result in rejection of the Proposal.

2.18 Disposition of Proposals

All Proposals become the property of the State and will not be returned to the Respondent. Once the DNR issues a Notice of Intent to Award the Contract, the contents of all Proposals will be public records available for inspection by interested parties, except for information for which Respondent properly requests confidential treatment according to exceptions provided in Iowa Code Chapter 22 or other applicable law.

2.19 Public Records and Requests for Confidential Treatment

The DNR’s release of public records is governed by Iowa Code chapter 22. Respondents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Chapter 22 before submitting a Proposal. The DNR will copy and produce public records upon request as required to comply with Chapter 22 and will treat all information submitted by a Respondent as non-confidential records unless Respondent requests specific parts of the Proposal be treated as confidential at the time of the submission as set forth herein AND the information is confidential under Iowa or other applicable law.

2.20 Form 22 - Request for Confidentiality

FORM 22 MUST BE COMPLETED AND INCLUDED WITH RESPONDENT’S PROPOSAL. COMPLETION

AND SUBMITTAL OF FORM 22 IS REQUIRED WHETHER THE PROPOSAL DOES OR DOES NOT

CONTAIN INFORMATION FOR WHICH CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT WILL BE REQUESTED. FAILURE

TO SUBMIT A COMPLETED FORM 22 WILL RESULT IN THE PROPOSAL BEING CONSIDERED NON-

RESPONSIVE AND ELIMINATED FROM EVALUATION.

2.21 Copyright Permission

By submitting a Proposal, the Respondent agrees that the DNR may copy the Proposal for purposes of facilitating the evaluation of the Proposal or to respond to requests for public records.

By submitting a Proposal, the Respondent consents to such copying and warrants that such copying will not violate the rights of any third party. The DNR will have the right to use ideas or adaptations of ideas that are presented in Proposals.

2.22 Release of Claims

By submitting a Proposal, the Respondent agrees that it will not bring any claim or cause of action against the DNR based on any misunderstanding concerning the information provided in the RFP or concerning the DNR's failure, negligent or otherwise, to provide the Respondent with pertinent information in this RFP.

2.23 Evaluation of Proposals Submitted

Proposals that are timely submitted and are not rejected will be reviewed and evaluated in accordance with Section 6 of the RFP. The DNR will not necessarily award a Contract resulting from this RFP to the Respondent offering the lowest cost. Instead, the DNR will award the Contract(s) to the Responsible Respondent(s) whose Responsive Proposal the DNR believes will provide the best value to the DNR and the State.

2.24 Award Notice and Acceptance Period

Notice of Intent to Award the Contract(s) will be sent to all Respondents submitting a timely Proposal and may be posted at the website shown on the RFP cover sheet. Negotiation and execution of the Contract(s) must be completed no later than thirty (30) days from the date of the Notice of Intent to Award or such other time as designated by DNR. If the successful Respondent fails to negotiate and deliver an executed Contract by that date, the DNR, in its sole discretion, may cancel the award and award the Contract to the remaining Respondent the DNR believes will provide the best value to the State.

2.25 No Contract Rights until Execution

No Respondent will acquire any legal or equitable rights regarding the Contract unless and until the Contract has been fully executed by the successful Respondent and the DNR.

2.26 Choice of Law and Forum

This RFP and the Contract will be governed by the laws of the State of Iowa. Changes in applicable laws and rules may affect the award process or the Contract. Respondents are responsible for ascertaining pertinent legal requirements and restrictions. Any and all litigation or actions commenced in connection with this RFP will be brought in the appropriate Iowa forum.

2.27 Restrictions on Gifts and Activities

Iowa Code Chapter 68B restricts gifts which may be given or received by State employees and requires certain individuals to disclose information concerning their activities with State government. Respondents are responsible to determine the applicability of this Chapter 68B to their activities and to comply with its requirements. In addition, pursuant to Iowa Code section 722.1, it is a felony offense to bribe or attempt to bribe a public official.

SECTION 3 FORM AND CONTENT OF PROPOSALS

3.1 Instructions

These instructions prescribe the format and content of the Proposal. They are designed to facilitate a uniform review process. Failure to adhere to the Proposal format may result in the rejection of the Proposal.

3.1.1 The Proposal will be divided into two parts: (1) the Technical Proposal and (2) the Cost

Proposal that must be emailed to procurement@dnr.iowa.gov no later than February 28, 2024 at 11:00 AM Central Time. This is a mandatory specification and will not be waived by the DNR. Any Proposal received after this deadline will be rejected.

Technical Proposal Contents Original Technical Proposal Public Copy (if submitted)

Cost Proposal Contents Original Cost Proposal

3.1.2 If the Respondent designates any information in its Proposal as confidential pursuant to

Section 2, the Respondent must also submit one (1) copy of the Proposal from which confidential information has been excised as provided in Section 2 and which is marked “Public Copy”.

3.1.3 Proposals should not contain promotional or display materials.

3.1.4 Attachments are to be referenced in the Proposal.

3.1.5 If a Respondent proposes more than one solution to the RFP specifications, each must be labeled and submitted in a separate Proposal and each will be evaluated separately.

3.2 Technical Proposal

The following documents and responses must be included in the Technical Proposal in the order given below. Items listed in Section 3.2 will be considered in the evaluation and scoring of the Technical Proposals:

3.2.1 Transmittal Letter (Required)

An individual authorized to legally bind the Respondent must sign the transmittal letter.

The letter must include the Respondent’s mailing address, electronic mail address, fax number, and telephone number.

The Respondent must prepare an executive summary and overview of the goods and/or services it is offering, including all of the following information:

3.2.1.1 Statements that demonstrate that the Respondent has read, understands and agrees with the terms and conditions of the RFP including the Contract provisions in Section 7.

mailto:procurement@dnr.iowa.gov

3.2.1.2 An overview of the Respondent’s plans for complying with the specifications of this RFP.

3.2.1.3 Any other summary information the Respondent deems to be pertinent.

3.2.2 Mandatory Specifications and Scored Technical Specifications The Respondent must answer whether or not it will comply with each specification in Section 5 of the RFP. Where the context requires more than a yes or no answer or the specific specification so indicates, Respondent must explain how it will comply with the specification. Merely repeating the Section 5 specifications may be considered non-responsive and result in the rejection of the Proposal. Proposals must identify any deviations from the specifications of the RFP or specifications the Respondent cannot satisfy. If the Respondent deviates from or cannot satisfy the specification(s) of this section, the DNR may reject the Proposal.

3.2.3 Respondent Background Information

The Respondent must provide the following general background information:

3.2.3.1 Name, address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address of the

Respondent including all d/b/a’s or assumed names or other operating names of the Respondent and any local addresses and phone numbers.

3.2.3.2 Form of business entity, e.g., corporation, partnership, proprietorship, limited liability company.

3.2.3.3 State of incorporation, state of formation, or state of organization.

3.2.3.4 The location(s) including address and telephone numbers of the offices and other facilities that relate to the Respondent’s performance under the terms of this RFP.

3.2.3.5 Type of business.

3.2.3.6 Name, address and telephone number of the Respondent’s representative to contact regarding all contractual and technical matters concerning the Proposal.

3.2.3.7 Name, address and telephone number of the Respondent’s representative to contact regarding scheduling and other arrangements.

3.2.3.8 Name, contact information and qualifications of any subcontractors who will be involved with this project the Respondent proposes to use and the nature of the goods and/or services the subcontractor would perform.

3.2.3.9 The successful Respondent will be required to register to do business in Iowa before payments can be made.

For vendor registration documents, go to:

https://das.iowa.gov/procurement/vendors/how-do-business

3.2.4 Experience

The Respondent must provide the following information regarding its experience:

3.2.4.1 Number of years in business.

3.2.4.2 Number of years of experience with providing the types of goods and/or services sought by the RFP.

3.2.4.3 The level of technical experience in providing the types of goods and/or services sought by the RFP.

3.2.4.4 A list of all goods and/or services similar to those sought by this RFP that the

Respondent has provided to other businesses or governmental entities.

3.2.4.5 Letters of reference from three (3) previous customers or clients knowledgeable of the Respondent’s performance in providing goods and/or services similar to the goods and/or services described in this RFP and a contact person and telephone number for each reference.

3.2.5 Personnel The Respondent must provide resumes for all key personnel who will be involved in providing the goods and/or services contemplated by this RFP. The following information must be included in the resumes:

3.2.5.1 Full name.

3.2.5.2 Education.

3.2.5.3 Years of experience and employment history particularly as it relates to the specifications of the RFP.

3.2.6 Termination, Litigation, Debarment

The Respondent must provide the following information for the past five (5) years:

3.2.6.1 Has the Respondent had a contract for goods and/or services terminated for any reason? If so, provide full details regarding the termination.

3.2.6.2 Describe any damages or penalties assessed against or dispute resolution settlements entered into by Respondent under any existing or past contracts for goods and/or services. Provide full details regarding the circumstances, including dollar amount of damages, penalties and settlement payments.

https://das.iowa.gov/procurement/vendors/how-do-business

3.2.6.3 Describe any order, judgment or decree of any Federal or State authority barring, suspending or otherwise limiting the right of the Respondent to engage in any business, practice or activity.

3.2.6.4 A list and summary of all litigation or threatened litigation, administrative or regulatory proceedings, or similar matters to which the Respondent or its officers have been a party.

3.2.6.5 Any irregularities discovered in any of the accounts maintained by the

Respondent on behalf of others. Describe the circumstances and disposition of the irregularities.

Failure to disclose these matters may result in rejection of the Proposal or termination of any subsequent Contract. The above disclosures are a continuing requirement of the Respondent. Respondent must provide written notification to the DNR of any such matter commencing or occurring after submission of a Proposal, and with respect to the successful Respondent, following execution of the Contract.

3.2.7 Acceptance of Terms and Conditions

By submitting a Proposal, Respondent acknowledges its acceptance of the terms and conditions of the RFP and the General Terms and Conditions without change except as otherwise expressly stated in its Proposal. If the Respondent takes exception to a provision, it must identify it by page and section number, state the reason for the exception, and set forth in its Proposal the specific RFP or General Terms and Conditions language it proposes to include in place of the provision. If Respondent’s exceptions or responses materially alter the RFP, or if the Respondent submits its own terms and conditions or otherwise fails to follow the process described herein, the DNR may reject the Proposal, in its sole discretion.

3.2.8 Certification Letter

The Respondent must sign and submit with the Proposal, the document included as Attachment #1 (Certification Letter) in which the Respondent must make the certifications included in Attachment #1.

3.2.9 Authorization to Release Information

The Respondent must sign and submit with the Proposal the document included as Attachment #2 (Authorization to Release Information Letter) in which the Respondent authorizes the release of information to the DNR.

3.2.10 Firm Proposal Terms

The Respondent must guarantee in writing the goods and/or services offered in the Proposal are currently available and that all Proposal terms, including price, will remain firm for the number days indicated on the RFP cover sheet following the deadline for submitting Proposals.

3.3 Cost Proposal

The Respondent must provide its Cost Proposal in a separately sealed envelope for the proposed goods and/or services. See Attachment #5.

3.3.1 Payment Methods

The State of Iowa, in its sole discretion, will determine the method of payment for goods and/or services as part of the Contract. The State Pcard and EAP are preferred payment methods, but payments may be made by any of the following methods: Pcard/EAP, EFT/ACH, or State Warrant. Respondents should indicate in their Cost Proposals all of the payment methods they will accept. This information will not be scored as part of the Cost Proposal or evaluated as part the Technical Proposal.

3.3.1.1 Credit card or ePayables

The State of Iowa’s Purchasing Cards (Pcards) and ePayable solution (EAP) are commercial payment methods utilizing the VISA credit card network. The State of Iowa will not accept price changes or pay additional fees if Respondent uses the Pcard or EAP payment methods. Pcard-accepting Respondents must abide by the State of Iowa’s Terms of Pcard Acceptance, as provided in Section 7 of the RFP. Respondents must provide a statement regarding their ability to meet the requirements I this subsection, as well as identifying their transaction reporting capabilities (Level I, II, or III).

3.3.1.2 Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) by Automated Clearing House (ACH)

Respondents should provide a statement regarding their ability to accept payment by EFT by ACH. Payments are deposited into the financial institution of the claimant's choice three working days from the issue date of the direct deposit.

https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/acct_sae/man_for_ref/forms/eft_a uthorization_form.pdf

3.3.1.3 State Warrant

The State of Iowa's warrant drawn on the Treasurer of State is used to pay claims against the departments of the State of Iowa. The warrant is issued upon receipt of proper documentation from the issuing department.

3.3.2 Payment Terms

Per Iowa Code 8A.514 the State of Iowa is allowed sixty (60) days to pay an invoice submitted by a Contractor.

3.3.3 Respondent Discounts

Respondents should state in their Cost Proposals whether they offer any payment discounts, including but not limited to:

3.3.3.1 Prompt Payment Discount

The State can agree to pay in less than sixty (60) days if an incentive for earlier payment is offered.

3.3.3.2 Cash Discount

The State may consider cash discounts when scoring Cost Proposals.

https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/acct_sae/man_for_ref/forms/eft_authorization_form.pdf https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/acct_sae/man_for_ref/forms/eft_authorization_form.pdf

SECTION 4 DESCRIPTION OF WORK AND STATEMENT OF WORK

Overview The successful Respondent must provide the services to the State in accordance with the requirements as provided in this Scope of Work.

4.1 Description of Work

4.1.1 The recreation area’s development began in the late 1960s when the Iowa Conservation Commission selected Volga River as one of three sites as part of the large lake initiative with the goal of creating more water-related recreation opportunities for Iowans. The bridge is located on Hill road north of the equestrian campground and was constructed in the late 1950s. The current condition of the bridge can be seen in Attachment #7.

This bridge is used by heavy vehicles with trailers and farm equipment. The 18’x24’ Precast Concrete Bridge needs to be replaced due to observed structural deficiencies. The original plans can be seen in Attachment #8.

4.2 Description of Statement of Work. Respondent is to provide a complete design for a replacement. The replacement is not limited to a bridge design, but should have a minimum design service life of 75 years. Construction staking will be the responsibility of the construction contractor.

Tree Removal must occur between October 1st and March 31st in accordance with the guidance for threatened and endangered bat species. Bridge demolition may not occur prior for June 15th to accommodate spring planting season and construction must be complete prior to September 15th for fall harvest unless single lane traffic access is available.

The Respondent shall meet on-site with the DNR to establish goals, objectives, and standards including but not limited to expectations, regulatory requirements, timelines, and communication protocols.

The Respondent shall perform needed surveys, which may include topographic, archaeological, or wetland surveys. Respondent shall submit 50% complete preliminary drawings showing the basic infrastructure layout in accordance with the state standards and the opinion of probable cost to the DNR. The Respondent shall schedule an in-person review meeting to go over plans, schedule, and estimated cost. DNR shall provide any comments within five (5) business days of receipt, which the Respondent shall incorporate or address in the 90% drawings.

The Respondent shall prepare applications and apply for construction permits as an agent of the DNR as necessary, including without limitation clearances required by the sovereign lands, construction permits, archeological clearances, state flood plain permits, and US Army Corp Section 404 permits.

The Respondent shall submit electronic copies of 80% complete design including drawings, technical specifications, and opinion of probable cost to DNR. Meet with DNR within five (5) business days of Respondent submitting the 80% complete design. DNR shall provide its review and comments to Respondent not more than five (5) business days from this meeting.

The Respondent shall incorporate DNR’s comments into the final version of the design contract documents. Deliver one electronic PDF format copy and one electronic DGN file format copy of the Contract Documents. This final submission shall be signed and sealed, suitable for permitting and bidding. The final design shall include detailed calculations, as appropriate. A final opinion of probable cost shall be included.

The Respondent shall develop addenda and answer questions from potential bidders.

The bid information, addenda and drawings and specifications will be printed and distributed by the

DNR.

The Respondent shall assist DNR during the bidding phase in answering technical questions about the plans and specifications developed by the Respondent upon request of the DNR.

Provide clarification on plans and specifications, if necessary and directed by DNR, during the bidding and construction phase of the Project. Nothing in this Task shall relieve the obligation of the Respondent to modify plans and specifications at no additional cost to the DNR to overcome any errors or omissions unknown at the final review but that may become evident thereafter, consistent with the warranties and representations provisions of the contract.

Provide construction oversight and inspection assistance. Respondent shall attend one onsite pre-construction meeting hosted by the DNR with the selected construction contractor. For dates the Respondent is on site, the Respondent shall keep a daily job report and electronic photos of construction activities. Respondent shall provide the DNR with an electronic copy of all daily job reports and construction photos. In addition, the Respondent may be required to provide telephone consultation during construction for project oversight and review shop drawings for the Project.

Statement of Work. Contractor must perform the following Tasks by the Task Milestone Dates set out in the following table:

Deliverables Task Milestone Date

Task 1: Kickoff Meeting Description: The respondent shall meet on-site with the DNR to establish goals, objectives, and standards including but not limited to expectations, regulatory requirements, timelines, and communication protocols.

No later than May 14, 2024

Task 2: 50% Design Review Description: The respondent shall perform needed surveys, which may include topographic, archaeological, or wetland surveys. Respondent shall submit 50% complete preliminary drawings showing the basic infrastructure layout in accordance with the state standards and the opinion of probable cost to the DNR. The respondent shall schedule an in-person review meeting to go over plans, schedule, and estimated cost. DNR shall provide any comments within five business days of receipt, which the respondent shall incorporate or address in the 90% drawings.

No later than June 13, 2024

Task 3: Apply for Permits No later than August 3, 2024

Description: The respondent shall prepare applications and apply for construction permits as necessary, including without limitation clearances, state flood plain permits, and US Army Corp Section 404 permits.

Task 4: 80% Construction Bidding Documents Description: The Respondent shall submit electronic copies of 80% complete design including drawings, technical specifications, and opinion of probable cost to DNR. Meet with DNR within five (5) business days of Respondent submitting the 80% complete design. DNR shall provide its review and comments to Respondent not more than five (5) business days from this meeting.

No later than August 3, 2024

Task 5: 100% Construction Bidding Documents Description: The Respondent shall incorporate DNR’s comments into the final version of the design contract documents. Deliver one electronic PDF format copy and one electronic DGN file format copy of the Contract Documents. This final submission shall be signed and sealed, suitable for permitting and bidding.

The final design shall include detailed calculations, as appropriate. A final opinion of probable cost shall be included.

No later than October 3, 2024

Task 6: Project Bidding Description: The Respondent shall develop addenda and answer questions from potential bidders.

No later than November 11, 2024

Task 7: Construction Administration Description: The Respondent shall assist DNR during the bidding phase in answering technical questions about the plans and specifications developed by the Respondent upon request of the DNR.

Provide clarification on plans and specifications, if necessary and directed by DNR, during the bidding and construction phase of the Project. Nothing in this Task shall relieve the obligation of the Respondent to modify plans and specifications at no additional cost to the DNR to overcome any errors or omissions unknown at the final review but that may become evident thereafter, consistent with the warranties and representations provisions of the contract.

Provide construction oversight and inspection assistance. Respondent shall attend one onsite pre-construction meeting hosted by the DNR with the selected construction contractor. For dates the Respondent is on site, the Respondent shall keep a daily job report and electronic photos of construction activities. Respondent shall provide the DNR with an electronic copy of all daily job reports and construction photos. In addition, the Respondent may be required to provide telephone consultation during construction for project oversight and review shop drawings for the project.

No later than January 14, 2025

SECTION 5 RESERVED

SECTION 6 EVALUATION AND SELECTION

6.1 Introduction

This section describes the evaluation process that will be used to determine which Proposal(s) provides the greatest benefit to the State. DNR will not necessarily award the Contract to the Respondent offering the lowest cost to the DNR. Instead, the DNR will award to the Respondent whose Responsive Proposal the DNR believes will provide the best value to the State.

6.2 Evaluation Committee

The DNR will conduct a comprehensive, fair, and impartial evaluation of Proposals received in response to this RFP. The DNR will use an evaluation committee to review and evaluate the Technical Proposals. The evaluation committee will recommend an award based on the results of their evaluation to the DNR or to such other person or entity who must approve the recommendation.

6.3 Technical Proposal Evaluation and Scoring

All Technical Proposals will first be reviewed to determine if they comply with the Mandatory Specifications. The Technical Proposals will then be evaluated and scored on the Scored Technical Specifications described in Section 5.1 and 5.2. To be deemed a Responsive Proposal, the Proposal must:

• Answer “Yes” to all parts of Section 5.1 and include supportive materials as required to demonstrate the Respondent will be able to comply with the Mandatory Specifications in that section and

• Obtain the minimum score for the Technical Proposal.

• If section 5 has been marked “RESERVED” then only the criteria below will be used during evaluation.

Evaluation Criteria. Evaluation of proposals will be based on the following criteria, which are not listed in any particular order of importance. Criterion: (Possible 100 Points). Respondents scoring below 40 total points from technical proposal evaluation criteria 6.3.2, 6.3.3, 6.3.4, and

6.3.5 (Possible 75 Points); excluding, Cost Proposal evaluation criteria 6.3.1 will not be considered eligible to be awarded this contract or complete the Cost Proposal evaluation.

6.3.1 Cost. (25 Points)

6.3.2 Technical Expertise. The experience of the Respondent’s key individual(s) assigned to complete responsibilities described in the Statement of Work. (20 Points)

6.3.3 Past Performance. Respondent’s professional experience and performance record;

including three Letter(s) of Reference. Respondent’s actual examples of previous or current work similar to the goods and/services sought in the Statement of Work. (25 Points)

6.3.4 Capacity: The capacity of the Respondent and Project Team to complete responsibilities described in the Statement of Work; including, the Respondent’s proposed implementation timeline to complete responsibilities described in the Statement of Work (15 Points)

6.3.5 Work Plan: Compliance and thoroughness of Respondent’s response to the RFP Technical Proposal. Respondent’s work plan to complete responsibilities described in the Statement of Work. (15 Points)

6.4 Cost Proposal Scoring

The Cost Proposals will remain sealed during the evaluation of the Technical Proposals and any demonstrations. Only prospective Respondents who obtain the minimum score for their Technical Proposal will be considered during the cost evaluation phase of the review process. When a Technical Proposal does not meet the minimum score, the associated Cost Proposal will remain unopened and will be returned to the Respondent upon request after the Lead State issues a Notice of Intent to Award the Contract. After the Technical Proposals are evaluated and scored, the Cost Proposals will be opened and scored.

To assist the DNR in evaluating, Cost Proposals may be evaluated and points awarded as follows:

1) The Cost Proposals will be ranked from least to most expensive.

2) The least expensive Cost Proposal will receive the maximum number of points available.

3) To determine the number of points to be awarded to all other Cost Proposals, the least expensive Cost Proposal will be used in all cases as the numerator. Each of the other Cost Proposals will be used as the denominator per the example below.

4) The percentage will then be multiplied by the maximum number of available points and the resulting number will be the cost points awarded to other compliant Respondents.

Percentages and points will be rounded to the nearest whole value.

Example:

Respondent A quotes $35,000, Respondent B quotes $45,000, and Respondent C quotes

$65,000.

Respondent A: $35,000 = receives 100% of available points on cost.

$35,000

Respondent B: $35,000 = receives 78% of available points on cost.

$45,000

Respondent C: $35,000 = receives 54% of available points on cost.

$65,000

6.5 Total Score

The compliant Respondent’s Technical Proposal points will be added to its Cost Proposal points to obtain the total points awarded for the Proposal.

6.6 Tied Score and Preferences

6.6.1 An award will be determined by a drawing when responses are received that are equal in all respects and tied in price. Whenever it is practical to do so, the drawing will be held in the presence of the Respondents who are tied in price. Otherwise the drawing will be made in front of at least three non-interested parties. All drawings will be documented.

6.6.2 Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a tied score involves an Iowa-based Respondent or products produced within the State of Iowa and a Respondent based or products produced outside the State of Iowa, the Iowa Respondent will receive preference. If a tied score involves one or more Iowa Respondents and one or more Respondents outside the state of Iowa, a drawing will be held among the Iowa Respondents only.

6.6.3 In the event of a tied score between Iowa Respondents, the DNR will contact the Iowa Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) committee for confirmation and verification as to whether the Respondents have complied with ESGR standards.

Preference, in the case of a tied score, will be given to Iowa Respondents complying with ESGR standards.

6.6.4 Second preference in tied scores will be given to Respondents based in the United States or products produced in the United States over Respondents based or products produced outside the United States.

6.6.5 Preferences required by applicable statute or rule will also be applied, where appropriate.

SECTION 7 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

7.1 Contract Terms and Conditions

The Contract that the DNR expects to award as a result of this RFP will comprise the specifications, terms and conditions of the RFP, written clarifications or changes made by the DNR to the RFP through an amendment to the RFP in accordance with the provisions of the RFP, the General Terms and Conditions, the offer of the successful Respondent contained in its Proposal, and any other terms deemed necessary by the DNR. No objection or amendment by a Respondent to the provisions or terms and conditions of the RFP or the General Terms and Conditions will be incorporated into the Contract unless DNR has explicitly accepted the Respondent’s objection or amendment in writing.

The Contract terms and conditions in this Section 7 and the General Terms and Conditions will be incorporated into the Contract. The General Terms and Conditions may be supplemented at the time of contract execution and are provided to enable Respondents to better evaluate the costs associated with the RFP specifications and the Contract. All costs associated with complying with these specifications should be included in any pricing quoted by the Respondent.

By submitting a Proposal, Respondent acknowledges its acceptance of the terms and conditions of the RFP and the General Terms and Conditions without change except as otherwise expressly stated in its Proposal. If the Respondent takes exception to a provision, it must identify it by page and section number, state the reason for the exception, and set forth in its Proposal the specific RFP or General Terms and Conditions language it proposes to include in place of the provision. If Respondent’s exceptions or proposed responses materially alter the RFP, or if the Respondent submits its own terms and conditions or otherwise fails to follow the process described herein, the DNR may reject the Proposal, in its sole discretion.

The DNR reserves the right to either award a Contract(s) without further negotiation with the successful Respondent or to negotiate Contract terms with the successful Respondent if the best interests of the State would be served.

7.2 Contract Length

The term of the Contract is intended to begin and end on the dates indicated on the RFP cover sheet. The DNR will have the sole option to renew the Contract upon the same or more favorable terms and…