ESBD_492611_1772044652888_127SD400-6408.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

FOR

CONTINUED NEAR ROAD AIR QUALITY

MONITORING SERVICES DURING

CONSTRUCTION FOR NORTH HOUSTON

HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (NHHIP)

CSJ 0912-00-146

RFP No: 127SD400-6408 Solicitation No: 601CT0000006408

Proposal due date: April 2, 2026, 12:00 noon

(Central Time in Houston, Texas)

Posting Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026

DEFINITIONS/ACRONYMS

(Commonly used throughout the term of the contract)

1. AASHTO – American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

2. ACEC – American Council of Engineering Companies

3. AJD – Approved Jurisdictional Determination

4. ANSI – American National Standards Institute

5. APE – Area of Potential Effects

6. CE – Categorical Exclusion

7. CFR – Code of Federal Regulations

8. CIA – Community Impact Assessment

9. CMBL – Certified Master Bidders List

10. CR – County Road

11. CRM – Environmental Affairs Division Cultural Resource Management

12. CSJ – Control Section Job

13. CWA – Clean Water Act

14. Delineation of waters of the U.S., including wetlands (Delineation) – Demarcation of the boundaries of a

WOTUS in accordance with USACE and EPA requirements, which currently include the 1987 USACE Wetland Delineation Manual (Technical Report Y-87-1), appropriate Regional Supplements, USACE Regulatory Guidance Letters, and other published regulatory guidance (Standard Operating Procedures, templates, forms, etc.)

15. Deliverables – Reports for environmental services

16. Department – Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and/or the State of Texas

17. Determination – Preliminary study to determine whether a water of the U.S. is present.

18. Division – Environmental Affairs Division of TxDOT (ENV)

19. EA – Environmental Assessment

20. EIS – Environmental Impact Statement

21. ENV – Environmental Affairs Division of TxDOT

22. ERM – Environmental Affairs Division Environmental Resource Management

23. Environmental Services – Environmental documents, studies, research, permit applications, public involvement, training and other activities for completion of an environmental document or permit

24. EPA – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

25. ESA – Endangered Species Act

26. FEMA – Federal Emergency Management Agency

27. FONSI – Finding of No Significant Impact

28. FHWA – Federal Highway Administration

29. FM – Farm-to-Market

30. FPPA – Farmland Protection Policy Act

31. GIS – Geographic Information Systems

32. GPS – Global Positioning System

33. H-GAC- Houston-Galveston Area Council

34. HABS/HAER – Historic American Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering Record

35. HASP- Health and Safety Plan

36. HOU – Houston District

37. HSP – HUB Subcontracting Plan

38. HUB – Historically Underutilized Business

39. ICI – Indirect and Cumulative Impact Analysis

40. IP – Individual Permit

41. ISA – Initial Site Assessment

42. LPST – Leaking Petroleum Storage Tank

43. MAPO – Meeting with Affected Property Owners

44. MOU – Memorandum of Understanding

45. MSAT – Mobile Air Source Toxics

46. NAAQS- National Ambient Air Quality Standards

47. NEPA – National Environmental Policy Act

48. NHPA – National Historic Preservation Act

49. NRHP – National Register of Historic Places

50. NRCS – Natural Resources Conservation Service

51. NRM – Environmental Affairs Division Natural Resource Management

52. NTE – Not to Exceed

53. NTP – Notice to Proceed

54. NWI – National Wetlands Inventory

55. NWP – Nationwide Permit

56. PAR (HUB) – Progress Assessment Report

57. PCN – Pre-Construction Notification

58. PCR – Project Coordination Request

59. PJD – Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination

60. PM – The Proposer’s designated Project Manager

61. POC – Point of Contact

62. Proposer – Any institution, firm, or individual submitting a proposal for this RFP. An institution, firm, or individual may submit a proposal on behalf of a partnership, joint venture, or other teaming arrangement in which the Proposer is the prime provider

63. QA/QC – Quality Assurance, Quality Control

64. QAPP- Quality Assurance Project Plan

65. RM – Ranch to Market

66. RFP – Request for Proposal

67. ROD – Record of Decision

68. ROE – Right of Entry

69. ROW – Right of Way

70. SGCN – Species of Greatest Conservation Need

71. SHPO – State Historic Preservation Office

72. SH – State Highway

73. SL – State Loop

74. SME – Subject Matter Experts

75. SOP – Standard Operating Procedure

76. SOW – Statement/Scope of Work

77. State – Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and/or State of Texas

78. Study Area – The geographic area to be discussed in an environmental document

79. SWF – USACE Fort Worth District

80. SWG – USACE Galveston District

81. SWT – USACE Tulsa District

82. TAC – Texas Administrative Code

83. TARL – Texas Archeological Research Laboratory

84. TCEQ – Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

85. Team Member – Any institution, firm, or individual, including the Proposer, who is explicitly incorporated in the proposal to contribute staff or resources to perform work

86. Technical Expert – An institution, firm, individual, or team awarded a contract for this RFP

87. THC – Texas Historical Commission

88. TPDES – Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

89. TPWD – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

90. Transportation Activity - A construction or other project performed by the State or under its jurisdiction

91. TxDOT-ENV – Texas Department of Transportation – Environmental Affairs Division

92. TXNDD – Texas Natural Diversity Database

93. TXRAM – Texas Rapid Assessment Method

94. USACE – United States Army Corp of Engineers

95. USC – United States Code

96. USCG – United States Coast Guard

97. USFWS – United States Fish and Wildlife Service

98. USGS – United States Geological Survey

99. WA – Work Authorization

100. WOTUS – Waters of the U.S., jurisdictional limits of the USACE under the CWA, as defined in 22 CFR

§328

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 1 of 30 127SD400-6408

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

TxDOT HOUSTON DISTRICT

CONTINUED NEAR ROAD AIR QUALITY MONITORING SERVICES DURING CONSTRUCTION FOR

NORTH HOUSTON HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (NHHIP)

RFP Number: 127SD400-6408 Solic. ID No. 601CT0000006408 Thursday, February 26, 2026

TxDOT’s HOU District will receive proposals until 12:00 noon, April 2, 2026, for Continued Near Road Air Quality Monitoring during construction for North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP), CSJ 0912-00-146.

TxDOT will award one (1) specific deliverable contract for no more than $1,200,000.00. The anticipated term of this contract is September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2030.

Prospective Proposers who have received this document must notify TxDOT of their interest in the RFP by submitting a Letter of Interest which must contain the RFP Number, Proposer’s name, point of contact, mailing address, voice and fax numbers, and an email address. Proposers who have not notified TxDOT of their interest waive all claims to redress if they submit proposals that receive reduced scores because the proposals do not incorporate or respond to clarifications or amendments to the RFP package. Letters of Interest must be submitted via Bonfire in Messages under Vendor Discussions.

Throughout this solicitation process, all questions or requests for clarifications must be submitted in the Vendor Notifications Section of Bonfire. Prospective Proposers are highly encouraged to submit their questions and requests for clarifications early. The deadline to submit questions/clarification requests is 5:00 PM, Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Point of Contact:

Carmen Staicu Phone No.: (713) 802-5139 Leeza Clark Phone No: (713) 802-5906 E-Mail: HOU_Contracts_Scientific@txdot.gov

TxDOT encourages Proposers to utilize Texas Certified HUB vendors. Additional HSP guidelines may be found in Part IV of this RFP. Proposers may have HSP forms reviewed and conditionally approved prior to submission.

HSP forms must be submitted to the point of contact noted in this RFP. Proposers are encouraged to submit requests as early as possible, but no later seven calendar days prior to the proposal due date.

This RFP is divided into four major parts as follows:

Part I: General Information and Proposal Guidelines Part II: Evaluation Plan Part III: Proposal Submittal Part IV: HUB Subcontracting Plan Part V: Attachments to the RFP

This RFP is issued under rules governing procurement of scientific services and other services (43 TAC §§9.80- 9.89). Contract award will be made on the basis of qualifications and costs. TxDOT reserves the right to hold discussions with qualified Proposers to obtain their best and final offers.

Because this RFP differs from previous solicitations, Prospective Proposers must familiarize themselves with the entire RFP package to maximize their potential award and successful performance, if awarded a contract.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 2 of 30 127SD400-6408

PART I

GENERAL INFORMATION AND PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

1. SCOPE

TxDOT Houston District is soliciting proposals for Continued Near Road Air Quality Monitoring Services during construction for North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP), CSJ 0912-00-146. These services are required to fulfill TxDOT’s obligations under the Voluntary Resolution Agreement (VRA) between Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and TxDOT, the Community Impacts Assessment from Final Environmental Impact Statement/Record of Decision (FEIS/ROD) and for transportation activities under federal and state statuses as set forth under MOU dated December 9, 2019, and executed by FHWA and TxDOT and other regulations related to compliance with federal and state environmental standards, pursuant to 23 U.S. Code (U.S.C.) 327.

2. BACKGROUND

The State will award one (1) specific deliverable contract. Services will be purchased with State funds and performed under work authorization issued by the Houston District. Services will be performed on a cost reimbursement basis limited to a cap established in work authorization.

3. STATEMENT OF WORK

This RFP describes the services that may be requested by TxDOT. Specifications for the work to be performed are contained in the contract attached to this RFP as Attachment B.

4. IMPORTANT DATES

Deadline for Questions/Requests for Clarification 5 PM, Thursday, March 12, 2026 Proposal Submission Date 12:00 noon, Thursday, April 2, 2026 Notice of Award Upon approval of Houston District Engineer or designee Kickoff Meeting 14 calendar days or less after award of contract

5. ACCEPTANCE OF PROPOSAL

The State reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals or to waive any technicalities. Failure to comply with the requirements of this RFP will eliminate the proposal from further consideration. This RFP may be cancelled and any or all proposals may be rejected in whole or in part when it is in the best interest of the State.

6. AWARD SELECTION

The Proposer selected for the award will be chosen on the basis of the proposal deemed to provide the best value and greatest benefit for the State, not necessarily on the basis of lowest price.

7. PROPOSAL PREPARATION COSTS

The Proposer shall wholly absorb all costs incurred in the preparation and presentation of the proposal. All supporting documentation, reports, and/or manuals submitted with the proposal(s) will become the property of the State.

8. CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The selected Proposer will be considered as prime contractors and shall assume the total responsibility for the services described. Proposal contents of the selected Proposer shall be considered as contractual obligations.

Proposer shall assume a contractual obligation to the State to provide the services of all institutions, firms, or individuals named in the proposal as subproviders. Failure to meet obligations may result in cancellation of the contract.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 3 of 30 127SD400-6408

PART II

EVALUATION PLAN

1. PROPOSAL EVALUATION: Proposal evaluation will be based on two sets of criteria: the Proposer’s qualifications and the cost to the State for completing the services, not to exceed $1,200,000.00. Each of the criteria will be scored separately. The State will award one proposer with the highest combined scores and deemed to be the best value to the State.

90% Qualifications and Experience of the Proposing Firm/Team 5% Supervisor Past Performance 5% Pricing/Cost to the State

A Proposer or team member may be listed as a team member on more than one proposal. A Proposer awarded a contract may serve as a subprovider on any of the remaining contracts.

2. PROPOSER QUALIFICATIONS: Award will be based in part on the qualifications listed in this section. The State reserves the right to audit proposer and Technical Expert qualifications.

2.1. Mandatory Provider Requirements. Proposers shall demonstrate that they meet the following qualifications. Failure to meet the mandatory provider requirements below shall result in disqualification of the proposal.

2.1.1. Key Staff Qualifications. The Proposer shall name key staff to fill the positions and list experience of the named individual in the format requested in Attachment 3.

2.1.1.1. Field Scientist Experience: The Field Scientist requires an associate or bachelor’s degree.

Experience in collecting and handling air quality samples, maintaining equipment, and following EPA protocols is needed.

2.1.2. Technical Proposal. The Proposer shall submit a Technical Proposal in the format requested in Attachment 8 and Attachment 9.

2.2. Proposer Qualifications and Firm Experience

2.2.1. Key Staff Qualifications

2.2.1.1. Field Scientist Qualifications. Field Scientist Experience shall be submitted in the format requested in Attachment 3.

2.2.1.2. Supervisor Qualifications. Supervisor Experience shall be submitted in the format requested in Attachment 4.

2.2.1.3. Air Quality Scientist Qualifications. Air Quality Scientist Experience shall be submitted in the format requested in Attachment 5.

2.2.2. Firm Qualifications

2.2.2.1. Award will be based in part on the qualifications in this section. To document qualifications, the Proposer shall discuss projects conducted within the last ten years in the format requested in Attachment 6. The documentation provided must document the Proposer’s ability to perform the technical work identified in this RFP.

3. VERIFICATION OF PROPOSER QUALIFICATIONS

At the State’s option, verification of Proposer qualifications may be conducted in any of the methods listed below:

3.1 Verification of successful completion and client satisfaction may be conducted via contact with the client representative listed for the project. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to provide information that clearly establishes to the Selection Committee the necessary qualifications and/or successful project completion.

3.2 The State reserves the right to limit verification of Proposer qualifications to the proposals with the highest overall scores. If verification shows that the overall score of the highest scoring proposals must be reduced below the overall scores of other proposals, then qualifications for the next highest proposal will be verified. The verification process will continue in like fashion until the State identifies the proposals for which verification does not reduce the overall score below that of all other proposals with verified or unverified qualifications. The State will be the sole judge of the acceptability of information provided for verification.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 4 of 30 127SD400-6408

4. TIE BREAKERS:

In the event of a tie, the managing officer will break the tie using the following method:

4.1 The first tie breaker, if needed, will be the proposer’s evaluation history.

4.2 The second tie breaker, if needed, will be the score for the Key Staff Qualifications.

4.3 The third tie breaker, if needed, will be the proposer’s total score for price.

4.4 If there is still a tie, the provider will be chosen by random selection.

5. COST TO THE STATE:

Cost to the State will be scored on basis of the Proposer’s price schedule. Price will be scored from lowest to highest with the lowest price receiving the maximum score.

6. SUPERVISOR PAST PERFORMANCE:

Supervisor past performance will be based on evaluation information in PS-CAMS. Scoring criteria is outlined in the Attachment 7 Evaluation Matrices. No Evaluation Score Average (ESA) will be less than 20. If the prime’s Supervisor does not have a past performance score in PS-CAMS, the department will assign an ESA score of 3.5.

7. READABILITY

The evaluation team may consider the following while scoring:

• how well information is presented; and

• the ability for reviewers to determine the adequacy of the response.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 5 of 30 127SD400-6408

PART III

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL

Houston District has opted to only accept electronic proposals submitted via the Bonfire Procurement Portal.

There are specific instructions to ensure that the proposal is received and considered; however, deviations from these instructions may be grounds for disqualification. Review the instructions completely. All issues, questions or concerns with proposal submissions must be addressed no later than 72 hours prior to proposal due date.

Contacts below are available for assistance Monday through Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm CST.

Carmen Staicu, 713-802-5139, Carmen.Staicu@txdot.gov Leeza Clark, 713-802-5906, Leeza.Clark@txdot.gov

1. PROPOSAL OUTLINE

Configurations within Bonfire will not allow submission of a proposal if all required documents are not submitted as instructed. Failure to include all mandatory documents in the prescribed formats will result in rejection.

Altering or changing any substantive language in the attachments prior to submission of proposals may result in rejection of the proposal. The Proposer must use the formats provided in the attachments to this RFP for all documentation submitted. MS Word formats of these attachments are available for download from ESBD. The tables in later pages of this RFP are for informational purposes only. Proposers must use the downloadable files. Only requested information in the formats provided will be considered.

1.1. Proposal Cover Sheet. A signed cover sheet identifying each member of the Proposer team, including institutions, firms, and unaffiliated individuals (Attachment 1).

1.2. Team Commitment Letter. Team Commitment Letters from each subcontractor submitted in the proposal (Attachment 2).

1.3. Field Scientist Qualifications (Attachment 3).

1.4. Supervisor Qualifications (Attachment 4).

1.5. Air Quality Scientist Qualifications (Attachment 5).

1.6. Firm and Team Experience (Attachment 6).

1.7. Price Schedule /Final Cost Proposal. Instructions for the price schedule are included as Attachment

8 and Attachment 9/E, not to exceed $1,200,000.00.

1.8. HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) Form. This form, along with any continuation sheets that may be needed, can be downloaded at the following internet link: See Part IV – HUB Subcontracting Plan.

HUB Subcontracting Plan Form.

2. DELIVERY

The proposal must be signed and submitted via Bonfire. Proposals will be accepted until the deadline specified in this RFP. Consider submitting proposals early. Proposals received after the deadline will be rejected.

3. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

3.1. Proposers are highly encouraged to become familiar with Bonfire and FAQs

3.2. Register as a Vendor.

3.3. Once registration is complete, review all tutorials and instructions available in the links on the left of the screen.

3.4. Complete your forms and qualifications outside of Bonfire, save as pdf files (specified filename in the footer of each document), and upload documents where instructed.

3.5. Complete the Bid Table in Bonfire.

3.6. Review the uploaded files for accuracy.

3.7. Submit the proposal. If there are any errors in the upload process, Bonfire will display an error message. When all errors are corrected, submit again.

3.8. Bonfire will send a confirmation email to your registered email address.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 6 of 30 127SD400-6408

PART IV

HUB SUBCONTRACTING PLAN

The mission of the TxDOT HUB Program Office is to encourage the good faith effort of Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) in TxDOT contracts, through the administration and management of the HUB Program in accordance with Texas Government Code 2161 and Texas Administrative Code Title 34, Rule

20.10 – 20.28.

In accordance with Texas Government Code §2161.252, a proposal that does not contain a HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) is non-responsive and will be rejected without further evaluation. In addition, if the Department determines that the HSP was not developed in good faith, it will reject the proposal for failing to comply with material RFP specifications. The HUB Subcontracting Plan may be found on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts website at: https://comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/docs/hub-forms/hsp-allfms.pdf

1. INTRODUCTION

The Department is committed to promoting full and equal business opportunities for businesses in state contracting in accordance with the goals specified in the State of Texas Disparity Study. The Department encourages the use of Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) through race, ethnic and gender-neutral means. Pursuant to Texas Government Code §2161.181 and §2161.182, and the Department’s HUB policy and rules, the Department is required to make a good faith effort to increase HUB participation in its contracts. The Department may accomplish the goal of increased HUB participation by contracting directly with HUBs or indirectly through subcontracting opportunities.

2. DEPARTMENT’S ADMINISTRATIVE RULES

The Department has adopted the CPA’s HUB rules as its own. The Department’s HUB rules are located in Title 43, Part 1, Chapter 9, Subchapter L of the TAC, and the CPA rules are located in Title 34, Part 1, Chapter 20, Subchapter B. If there are any discrepancies between the Department’s administrative rules and this RFP, the rules shall take priority.

3. HUB PARTICIPATION GOAL

The CPA has established statewide HUB participation goals for different categories of contracts in past five (5) years. In order to meet or exceed the HUB participation goals, the Department encourages outreach to certified HUBs. Contractors shall make a good faith effort to include certified HUBs in the procurement process. This contract is classified as another services contract under the CPA rule, and therefore has a HUB Annual Procurement Utilization Goal of 26% per fiscal year.

4. REQUIRED HUB SUBCONTRACTING PLAN

In accordance with Government Code, Chapter 2161, Subchapter F, each state agency that considers entering into a contract with an expected value of $100,000 or more over the life of the contract (including any renewals) shall, before the agency solicits bids, proposals, offers, or other applicable expressions of interest, determine whether subcontracting opportunities are probable under the contract. In accordance with 34 T.A.C.

§20.14(a),(1),(C) of the HUB Rules. State agencies may determine that subcontracting is probable for only a subset of the work expected to be performed or the funds to be expended under the contract. If an agency determines that subcontracting is probable on only a portion of a contract, it shall document its reasons in writing for the procurement file. The Department has determined that subcontracting opportunities are probable for this RFP. As a result, the respondent must submit an HSP with its proposal. The HSP is required whether a respondent intends to subcontract or not. In the HSP, a respondent must indicate whether it is a Texas certified HUB. Being a certified HUB does not exempt a respondent from completing the HSP requirement. The Department shall review the documentation submitted by the respondent to determine if a good faith effort has been made, in accordance with solicitation and HSP requirements. During the good faith effort evaluation, the Department may, at its discretion, allow clarifications or enhancements to information submitted with the HSP.

If the Department determines that the respondent’s HSP was not developed in good faith, the HSP will be considered non-responsive and will be rejected as a material failure to comply with the advertised specifications.

The reasons for rejection shall be recorded in the procurement file.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 7 of 30 127SD400-6408

5. CPA’S CENTRALIZED MASTER BIDDERS LIST

Respondents may search for HUB subcontractors in the CPA’s Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL)/HUB Directory. For this procurement, the Department has identified the following class and item codes for potential subcontracting opportunities:

NIGP Class/Item Code:

918-32 Consulting Services (Not otherwise classified) 918-43 Environmental Consulting 926-42 Environmental Services (Not otherwise classified)

Respondents are not required to use, nor limited to using, the class and item codes identified above, and may identify other areas for subcontracting. The State does not endorse, recommend nor attest to the capabilities of any company or individual listed on the CPA’s CMBL. The list of certified HUBs is subject to change, so respondents are encouraged to refer to the CMBL often to find the most current listing of HUBs.

6. HUB SUBCONTRACTING PROCEDURES

If a Respondent Intends to Subcontract An HSP must demonstrate that the respondent made a good faith effort to comply with the State’s HUB policies and procedures. The following subparts outline the items that the State will review in determining whether an HSP meets the good faith effort standard. A respondent that intends to subcontract must complete the HSP to document its good faith efforts.

6.1 Identify Subcontracting Areas and Divide Them into Reasonable Lots A respondent should first identify each area of the contract work it intends to subcontract. Then, to maximize HUB participation, it should divide the contract work into reasonable lots or portions, to the extent consistent with prudent industry practices.

6.2 Notify Potential HUB Subcontractors

The HSP must demonstrate that the respondent made a good faith effort to subcontract with HUBs. The respondent’s good faith efforts shall be shown through utilization of all methods in conformance with the development and submission of the HSP and by complying with the following steps:

6.2.1 Divide the contract work into reasonable lots or portions to the extent consistent with prudent industry practices. The respondent must determine which portions of work, including goods and services, will be subcontracted.

6.2.2 Use the appropriate method(s) to demonstrate good faith effort. The respondent can use either method(s) 1, 2, 3, or 4.

6.3 Methods to Demonstrate Good Faith Efforts

6.3.1 Method 1: Respondent Intends to Subcontract with only HUBs:

The respondent must identify in the HSP the HUBs that will be utilized and submit written documentation that confirms 100% of all available subcontracting opportunities will be performed by one or more HUBs;

or,

6.3.2 Method 2: Respondent Intends to Subcontract with HUBs and Non-HUBs (Meet or Exceed the Goal): The respondent must identify in the HSP and submit written documentation that one or more HUB subcontractors will be utilized; and that the aggregate expected percentage of subcontracts with HUBs will meet or exceed the goal specified in this solicitation. When utilizing this method, only HUB subcontractors that has existing contracts with the respondent for five years or less may be used to comply with the good faith effort requirements. When the aggregate expected percentage of subcontracts with HUBs meets or exceeds the goal specified in this solicitation, respondents may also use non-HUB subcontractors; or,

6.3.3 Method 3: Respondent Intends to Subcontract with HUBs and Non-HUBs (Does Not Meet or Exceed the Goal). The respondent must identify in the HSP and submit documentation regarding both of the following requirements:

Written notification to minority or women trade organizations or development centers to assist in identifying potential HUBs of the subcontracting opportunities the respondent intends to subcontract.

Respondents must give minority or women trade organizations or development centers at least seven

(7) working days prior to submission of the respondent's response for dissemination of the subcontracting opportunities to their members. A list of minority and women trade organizations is located on the CPA’s website under the Minority and Women Organization link.

Written notification to at least three (3) HUB businesses of the subcontracting opportunities that

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 8 of 30 127SD400-6408 the respondent intends to subcontract. The written notice must be sent to potential HUB subcontractors prior to submitting proposals and must include:

a description of the scope of work to be subcontracted, information regarding the location to review project plans or specifications, information about bonding and insurance requirements, required qualifications and other contract requirements, and a description of how the subcontractor can contact the respondent.

6.3.4 Method 4: Respondent Does Not Intend to Subcontract

When the respondent plans to complete all contract requirements with its own equipment, supplies, materials and/or employees, it is still required to complete an HSP. The respondent must complete the “Self-Performance Justification” portion of the HSP, and attest that it does not intend to subcontract for any goods or services, including the class and item codes identified in Section 5. In addition, the respondent must identify the sections of the proposal that describe how it will complete the Scope of Work using its own resources or provide a statement explaining how it will complete the Scope of Work using its own resources. The respondent must agree to comply with the following if requested by the State:

provide evidence of sufficient respondent staffing to meet the RFP requirements, provide monthly payroll records showing the respondent staff fully dedicated to the contract, allow the State to conduct an onsite review of company headquarters or work site where services are to be performed, and, provide documentation proving employment of qualified personnel holding the necessary licenses and certificates required to perform the Scope of Work.

Respondents must give potential HUB subcontractors a reasonable amount of time to respond to the notice, at least seven (7) working days prior to submission of the respondent's response unless circumstances require a different time period, which is determined by the agency and documented in the contract file; Respondents must also use the CMBL, the HUB Directory, and Internet resources when searching for HUB subcontractors. Respondents may rely on the services of contractor groups; local, state and federal business assistance offices; and other organizations that provide assistance in identifying qualified applicants for the HUB program.

6.4 Written Justification of the Selection Process. The State will make a determination if a good faith effort was made by the respondent in the development of the required HSP. One or more of the methods identified in the previous sections may be applicable to the respondent’s good faith efforts in developing and submission of the HSP. The State may require the respondent to submit additional documentation explaining how the respondent made a good faith effort in accordance with the solicitation. A respondent must provide written justification of its selection process if it chooses a non-HUB subcontractor. The justification should demonstrate that the respondent negotiated in good faith with qualified HUB bidders, and did not reject qualified HUBs who were the best value responsive bidders.

7. POST-AWARD HSP REQUIREMENTS

The HSP shall be reviewed and evaluated prior to contract award and, if accepted, the finalized HSP will become part of the contract with the successful respondent(s). After contract award, the State will coordinate a post-award meeting with the successful respondent to discuss HSP reporting requirements. The contractor must maintain business records documenting compliance with the HSP, and must submit monthly subcontract reports to the State by completing the HUB Subcontracting Plan and Progress Compliance Forms (PAR). This monthly report is required as a condition for payment to report to the agency the identity and the amount paid to all subcontractors. As a condition of award the Contractor is required to send notification to all selected subcontractors as identified in the accepted/approved HSP. In addition, a copy of the notification must be provided to the agency’s Contract Manager and/or HUB Program Office within 10 days of the contract award.

During the term of the contract, if the parties in the contract amend the contract to include a change to the scope of work or add additional funding, the State will evaluate to determine the probability of additional subcontracting opportunities. When applicable, the Contractor must submit an HSP change request for the State’s review. The requirements for an HSP change request will be covered in the post-award meeting. When making a change to an HSP, the Contractor will obtain prior written approval from the State before making any changes to the HSP.

Proposed changes must comply with the HUB Program good faith effort requirements relating to the development and submission of a HSP. If the contractor decides to subcontract any part of the contract after the award, it must follow the good faith effort procedures outlined in Section 6 of this section (e.g., divide work

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 9 of 30 127SD400-6408 into reasonable lots, notify at least three (3) vendors per subcontracted area, provide written justification of the selection process, or participate in the Mentor Protégé Program). For this reason, the State encourages respondents to identify, as part of their HSP, multiple subcontractors who are able to perform the work in each area the respondent plans to subcontract. Selecting additional subcontractors may help the selected contractor make changes to its original HSP, when needed, and will allow the State to approve any necessary changes expeditiously. Failure to meet the HSP and post-award requirements will constitute a breach of contract, and will be subject to remedial actions. The State may also report noncompliance to the CPA in accordance with the provisions of the Vendor Performance and Debarment Program (see 34 T.A.C. §20.108 relating to Debarment) and (see 34 T.A.C. §20.586 relating to Procedures for Investigations and Debarment).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 10 of 30 127SD400-6408

PART V

ATTACHMENTS TO THE RFP

Attachment 1 Proposal Cover Sheet Attachment 2 Team Commitment Letter Attachment 3 Field Scientist Qualifications Attachment 4 Supervisor Qualifications Attachment 5 Air Quality Scientist Qualifications Attachment 6 Firm and Team Experience Attachment 7 Evaluation Matrices Attachment 8 Final Cost Proposal Attachment 9 Format for Schedule of Rates and Budget Attachment 10 Voluntary Resolution Agreement (VRA), dated March,6, 2023 (for informational purposes only) Attachment 11 Final Environmental Impact Statement/Record of Decision (FEIS/ROD) of the Community

Impact Assessment for the NHHIP, dated August 2020 (for informational purposes only) Attachment 12 Draft Contract (for informational purposes only)

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ATTACHMENTS 1-6

1. Use Arial, Franklin Gothic Book, Tahoma, or Helvetica Font in 12-point, adhere to page limits, do not alter substantive language in attachments and, fill in all fields in all tables or mark N/A if not applicable.

2. Attachments provided in ESBD/Bonfire must be used when submitting a response to RFP.

3. For Attachment 2 (Team Commitment Letter) please use the template provided. If not applicable, please leave template blank and note “Not Applicable in the template’s footer.

4. All positions shall exhibit knowledge pertaining to TxDOT standards specific to this RFP.

5. All position requirements are in Attachment B, Appendix-1.

6. All project examples must include completed deliverables that were accepted and/or approved by the client and/or a regulatory agency within the past ten years from the issue date of this RFP. No projects with ongoing work that is not part of a complete and accepted deliverable or incomplete/ongoing monitoring at the issue date of this RFP will be counted. All dates must include Month and Year.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 11 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 1

PROPOSAL COVER SHEET

(Printed on Proposer’s letterhead)

RFP # 127SD400-6408 Continued Near Road Air Quality Monitoring Services During Construction for North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP)

Proposing Firm, Institution, or Individual

Proposer __________________________________________

Address __________________________________________ Telephone __________________________________________

E-mail __________________________________________

Proposer’s Supervisor

Name __________________________________________

Title __________________________________________

Subproviders for this Proposal (use additional pages, if necessary). Enter “N/A” if no subprovider is proposed.

Subprovider Service(s) to Be Provided

% of Work

Address

By signing this Proposal Cover Sheet, the Proposer’s representative agrees that the Supervisor named in the proposal are currently employed by the proposing firm, that if awarded a contract pursuant to this RFP, the Supervisor will be managing the work conducted under the contract, and that the Supervisor and key staff may not be replaced without prior written consent of the State. The Proposer’s representative certifies that they have qualified staff to fill the positions listed in this RFP and contract, and that the Proposer (1) agrees to the teaming arrangement of all subproviders, (2) is aware of and agrees to the specified rate structure, and (3) is aware of and agrees to the terms of the proposed contract. The Proposer’s representative also agrees that the Proposer, Proposer’s staff, and Proposer’s subproviders (team members of the proposing firm, if applicable) have no financial, personal, or business-related conflict of interest in conducting scientific services for the State of Texas.

Proposer’s Representative’s Signature Date

Proposer’s Representative’s Printed Name and Title

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 12 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 2

TEAM COMMITMENT LETTER

INSTRUCTIONS

The following format must be printed on team member’s letterhead. It must be signed by an individual empowered to execute contracts for the team member. This team commitment letter must be submitted in the proposal utilizing the format requested below.

Date

Texas Department of Transportation, Houston District 7600 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007

Ms. Leeza Clark, This letter is to certify that we as a subprovider (team member) of the prime Proposer have no conflict of interest and have agreed to provide the staff and services named in the accompanying proposal by (Proposer) for Continued Near Road Air Quality Monitoring During Construction for North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP). If awarded the contract, we (1) agree to the teaming arrangement with the Proposer, (2) are aware of, and agree to abide by, the specified rates structure, and (3) are aware of and agree to the terms of the proposed contract contained in the proposal. We further agree that we have no financial, personal, or business-related conflict of interest in conducting scientific services for the State of Texas.

Sincerely, (Authorized Signatory for Team Member)

Subprovider Signature Date

Printed Name and Title

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 13 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 3

FIELD SCIENTIST QUALIFICATIONS

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Complete the template in the format below with Field Scientist qualifications and project experience as listed in Attachment B, Appendix -1 of the RFP.

2. Project duties/responsibilities must demonstrate successful field services including maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting sampling equipment (in the field and lab).

3. List certifications and/or training courses related to air quality/emissions monitoring, provide the entity which awarded each certification and/or training course, and the expiration date (if applicable).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 14 of 30 127SD400-6408

Name Current Employer

Proposed for: Field Scientist Education (list a minimum high school diploma or GED) Diploma or GED High School Date of completion Associate/Bachelor’s Degree/Major University Date of completion

Degree/Major University Date of completion

Certifications:

Work Experience Years of Professional Experience Related to this Position Provide a description of relevant employment experience for which the named individual performed field services involving collecting and handling air quality samples following EPA protocols to assess emissions for health and compliance. Describe the role, type of work performed, equipment used, how often samples were collected (i.e.

weekly, daily), and include safety protocols that were adhered to. Not to exceed 500 words per project (2 pages).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 15 of 30 127SD400-6408

Project Experience (repeat this section for each project) Project Number for this submission (1-3) Project Name Project Location (limits or description, City, County, State) Client Name and Contact (email/phone) Project Duties/Responsibilities Outline the role and actions that the proposed field scientist took during past work experience, as described that contributed to the successful completion of the projects. Limit 250 words per project (1 page).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 16 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 4

SUPERVISOR QUALIFICATIONS

1. Complete the template in the format below with Supervisor qualifications and project experience as listed in Attachment B, Appendix -1 of the RFP.

2. Project duties/responsibilities must demonstrate management and completion of projects submitted by clearly describing the Supervisor’s control over the scope, schedule, budget and quality of work completed

3. Only one person shall be proposed as Supervisor

4. The Supervisor must be employed by the Proposer.

5. The Supervisor cannot hold the role of Air Quality Scientist.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 17 of 30 127SD400-6408

Proposed for: Supervisor Education Bachelor’s Degree/Major University Date of completion Degree/Major University Date of completion Degree/Major University Date of completion Work Experience Years of Professional Experience Related to this Position Provide a brief statement that demonstrates your experience managing multiple complex tasks, deliverables, and projects and completing work on schedule within a specified budget. Include a statement of experience with government contracts. Limit 500 words (2 pages).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 18 of 30 127SD400-6408

Job Title for the Project:

Project Name Project Location (limits or description, City, County, State) Client Name and Contact (email/phone) Transportation Related ☐ Yes ☐ No CSJ (if TxDOT project)

Project Duties/Responsibilities:

Provide a description of the project, Supervisor responsibilities, and communication protocols utilized during each project. Limit 250 words per project (1 page).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 19 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 5

AIR QUALITY SCIENTIST QUALIFICATIONS

1. Complete the template in the format below with Air Quality Scientist Qualifications and Project Experience as listed in Attachment B, Appendix -1 of the RFP.

2. All projects submitted to demonstrate the Air Quality Scientist’s experience must be within the last ten years.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 20 of 30 127SD400-6408

Proposed for: Air Quality Scientist Education Bachelor’s Degree/Major University Date of completion Degree/Major University Date of completion Degree/Major University Date of completion Work Experience Years of Professional Experience Related to this Position Provide a description of relevant employment experience, including employer(s), job title(s), employment date(s), and project related job duties. Not to exceed 500 words (2 pages).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 21 of 30 127SD400-6408

Job Title for the Project:

Project Name Project Location (limits or description, City, County, State) Client Name and Contact (email/phone) Transportation Related ☐ Yes ☐ No CSJ (if TxDOT project) Project Duties/Responsibilities:

Outline the role and actions that the proposed Air Quality Scientist took, for each project being submitted, that contributed to the successful completion of the project. Include how the proposed Air Quality Scientist analyzed and managed data that was collected from the field. If applicable, identify to what standards the data was compared (i.e. NAAQS), and discuss any reports written to support the project findings. Limit 500 words per project (2 pages).

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 22 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 6

FIRM AND TEAM EXPERIENCE

1. The Proposer shall demonstrate firm and team experience by answering the questions.

2. If projects are mentioned as part of the firm experience, the projects must have been completed within ten years from the date of this RFP.

3. The same project can be discussed more than once if the project applies to all questions.

4. Respond to questions in specified format and limit responses to one page per project for Questions No. 2 through No. 7.

QUESTIONS

1. Describe your firm’s experience on completed projects that required long-term (two plus years), large-scale air monitoring efforts which required compliance with EPA regulatory monitoring protocols and a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP). Please include information regarding monitoring methodologies and monitoring conditions. If long-term project experience cannot be provided, please describe your firm’s experience on shorter-duration projects using the above criteria. Do not exceed three project examples, with at least one project completed within the last five years. Limit responses to one page per project.

2. Describe shutdown protocols that would be followed if emergencies occurred. What safeguards will be put in place to secure the equipment and prevent tampering from unauthorized access?

3. How is monitoring downtime prevented? What is the procedure for making up for monitor downtime?

4. How would the project team approach presenting technical air quality findings during public involvement?

5. Describe your methodology for determining likely sources of exceedance(s).

6. Describe your experience with identifying applicable monitoring locations.

7. Describe the roles and responsibilities of the project team in addition to the Supervisor, Air Quality

Scientist, and Field Scientist that you would assemble for this project.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 23 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 7

EVALUATION MATRICES

(For information purposes only – to be completed by TxDOT evaluators)

Provider Name: Evaluator:

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS MEETS

REQUIREMENTS

NOTES

MANDATORY PROVIDER QUALIFICATIONS Yes No Proposal Cover Sheet Attachment 1

Team Commitment Letter Attachment 2

Field Scientist Qualifications Attachment 3

Supervisor Qualifications Attachment 4

Air Quality Scientist Qualifications Attachment 5

Firm and Team Experience Attachment 6

Price schedule submitted with all rates filled in and in the Budget Provided (Attachment 9/E)

PROPOSER QUALIFICATIONS MATRIX

(For Information Purposes Only)

SUPERVISOR PAST PERFORMANCE MATRIX

(For Information Purposes Only)

ESA SCORE PAST PERFORMANCE SCORE

80+ 5 points 60 to 79 4 points No Past Performance 3.5 points 40 to 59 3 points 20 to 39 2 points

QUALIFICATION CRITERIA MAXIMUM POINTS

Field Scientist Qualifications 15 Supervisor Qualifications 10 Air Quality Scientist Qualifications 20 Firm and Team Experience 45

COST TO THE STATE

Labor Rates 3 Maximum Amount Payable 2 Supervisor Past Performance 5

Total (100 Possible) 100

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 24 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 8

FINAL COST PROPOSAL

1. In order to be considered responsive to this RFP, it is mandatory that the Proposer provide a complete Schedule of Rates and Budget in the provided format.

2. List the hourly rate for the key staff position.

a. All specified rates for labor must comply with federal minimum wage requirements.

b. All rates shall be fully burdened, including all costs of administration (including invoicing), overhead, profit, office management, facilities, equipment, utilities, office supplies, and all direct and indirect costs associated with performance of the position’s duties.

c. Include price even if proposer does not currently have a person on staff to fill the position.

3. List the hourly rates for all other listed staff positions.

a. All specified rates for labor must comply with federal minimum wage requirements.

b. All rates shall be fully burdened, including all costs of administration (including invoicing), overhead, profit, office management, facilities, equipment, utilities, office supplies, and all direct and indirect costs associated with performance of the position’s duties.

c. Include price even if proposer does not currently have a person on staff to fill the position.

4. Develop a budget, encompassing all tasks listed in Appendix -1, Tasks, Contract, Attachment B.

a. For purposes of this proposal, the budget must be structured as two groups of tasks.

i. The proposer shall estimate hours and direct costs for Tasks 1-12, as listed in Appendix-

1, Contract, Attachment B.

b. Travel costs. Lodging, meals, and mileage are reimbursed at State rates. Use the Federal GSA rates for lodging and meals for the area to which travel is anticipated (see https://fmx.cpa.texas.gov/fmx/travel/textravel/rates/current.php). The State rate for mileage reimbursement is currently $0.725 per mile.

c. Other direct costs. List all other anticipated direct costs associated with the completion of work under this contract.

5. Calculate the total estimated costs associated with Tasks 1-12.

6. Determine the total cost of the proposed budget from the sum of all tasks.

7. Proceed to Attachment E, Schedule of Rates to complete the pricing portion of this RFP.

Scientific SpecDelwWA Page 25 of 30 127SD400-6408

ATTACHMENT 9

FORMAT FOR SCHEDULE OF RATES AND BUDGET

Schedule of Rates:

STAFF POSITION HOURLY RATE

Key…