DEEP-2026-018-MM_Jun_29_26_solicitation_doc.pdf

This is a Request for Proposal (RFP) solicitation document issued by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Boating Division for the 2027 Federal Clean Vessel Act Grants program. The solicitation seeks proposals for federally funded grants supporting the development and operation of boat sewage disposal facilities, both fixed and mobile structures, to provide free pumpout services to recreational boaters. The RFP was released on June 25, 2026, with an optional bidders' conference available on July 9, 2026. The deadline for submitting questions is July 17, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. EST, with answers released by August 3, 2026. Training sessions are offered on July 22 and 23, 2026. Proposals are due on September 4, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. EST, with proposer selection targeted for September 18, 2026, and contract negotiations beginning September 28, 2026. The contract period runs from January 1 through December 31, 2027, with the boating season requiring minimum service from May 15 through October 30.

Grant reimbursement covers up to 75 percent of eligible project costs, requiring applicants to provide a minimum 25 percent non-federal matching contribution. Eligible project activities include new construction, upgrades to existing facilities, and annual operation and maintenance expenses; project design costs are ineligible. Approximately $1 million in federal Clean Vessel Act funding is available distributed across 35 to 45 variable awards. Eligible applicants include state and public marine facilities, nonprofits, businesses, municipalities, and tribal governments. All applicants must register with the Connecticut State Contracting Portal, provide proof of liability insurance naming DEEP as an additional insured, submit signed Statements of Assurances, and disclose conflicts of interest. Work must comply with the Federal Clean Vessel Act Program Rules (50 CFR Part 85), 2 CFR Part 200, the Build America Buy America Act, and the Clean Air Act and Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Evaluation criteria include geographic service area alignment, operational priorities, match percentage with preference for 50 percent or greater, hours of operation, prior CVA administration performance, and facility location characteristics such as proximity to fuel docks and adequate water depth.