Revitalization Along the Mad River RFP.pdf

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND PROPOSALS (RFQ/RFP)

Northwest Hills Council of Governments (NHCOG)

Brownfield Area Revitalization (BAR) Planning Grant Revitalization Along the Mad River – Winsted, Connecticut

RFQ/RFP: EDC 25 -12-01

The Northwest Hills Council of Governments (NHCOG) is soliciting Qualifications and Proposals (RFQ/RFP) from experienced and multidisciplinary consulting teams to prepare the Revitalization Along the Mad River Study in Winsted, Connecticut.

This project is funded through a Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Brownfield Area Revitalization (BAR) Planning Grant and will develop a comprehensive redevelopment strategy for the designated project area, as delineated in Appendix A: BAR Program Planning Area Map.

The purpose of this study is to create an actionable, long-term revitalization and investment framework that guides both public and private redevelopment efforts. The plan should identify opportunities to stimulate new economic growth, encourage private investment, support environmental restoration and remediation, and align redevelopment activities with the Town of Winchester’s long-term vision while protecting environmentally sensitive areas.

The NHCOG seeks a qualified, multidisciplinary consultant team with demonstrated experience and capacity in the following areas: Planning and Urban Design, Civil and Structural Engineering, Environmental Assessment and Analysis, and Market and Economic Research

The selected consultant or consulting team will be responsible for preparing a feasible, phased, and implementable redevelopment plan that achieves the objectives outlined in Section IV – Scope of Work.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND PROPOSALS (RFQ/RFP)

Northwest Hills Council of Governments (NHCOG)

Brownfield Area Revitalization (BAR) Planning Grant Revitalization Along the Mad River – Winsted, Connecticut

RFQ/RFP: EDC 25 -12-01

This request for Qualifications and Proposals includes the following:

Section I - General Conditions and Submittal Requirements Section II - Schedule, Selection Process & Evaluation Criteria Section III - Project Background & Goals Section IV - Scope of Work

Appendix A - Bar Program Area Map and Property Summary Appendix B - Insurance Requirements Appendix C - Acceptance of Terms of Proposal Appendix D – Non-Collusion Agreement

Section I : General Conditions and Submittal Requirements

General Conditions:

The Respondent’s submittal shall include an original, eight (8) copies (in addition to the hard copy) and shall be delivered to the NHCOG Offices, 355 Goshen Rd, PO BOX 832, Litchfield CT during normal office hours by no later than 11:00 AM January 23, 2026. Submittals received after this date and time will not be accepted.

Sealed envelope(s) should be clearly marked: ”RFQ/RFP EDC 25 -12-1 Revitalization Along the Mad River Study ”.

Firms mailing proposals should allow for normal delivery time to ensure timely receipt of their proposals. In the case where the NHCOG Office is closed for weather related or some other emergency related circumstance, then submittals shall be due the next day when the office reopens for business, no later than 11:00 AM on that day. No fax or e-mail Bids will be accepted.

All questions must be submitted by 8:00 AM, January 9, 2026. Questions must be submitted by email to the Director of Economic and Community Development, Rista Malanca at rmalanca@nhcogct.gov.

All questions determined to be of interest to all prospective firms will be answered in writing by an addendum which will be posted on the NHCOG and state web sites within a week of the question deadline. It is the responsibility of potential bidders to check these websites for addendum(s). Interested firms should check the website 48 hours before the closing date.

This RFQ/RFP does not commit the NHCOG to select any Respondent or enter into any contract agreement. The NHCOG reserves the right to accept or reject any or all RFQ/RFP’s; to waive any informalities, and if it is deemed to be in the public’s best interest, to enter directly into negotiations with one or more Respondents based on responses to the RFP, to request additional information from some or all Respondents. NHCOG reserves the right or to accept any bid deemed in the best interests of the

NHCOG.

The NHCOG will not be liable for any costs incurred by a firm in the preparation or submission of a proposal. The information provided herein is not intended to and shall not bind the NHCOG to any of the statements or assumptions set forth herein.

Responses must set forth accurate and complete information for each of the items listed below. At the NHCOG's discretion, failure to do so could result in disqualification.

The successful respondent will be expected to be able to commence services as soon as possible upon award, as determined by the NHCOG. Any contract entered into by the NHCOG and the successful bidder shall provide that the NHCOG may terminate the contract upon thirty (30) days’ notice to the bidder. The information provided herein is not intended to and shall not bind the NHCOG to any of the statements or assumptions set forth herein.

There will not be a public opening of this bid MBE’s, WBE’s and SBE’s ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Submittal Requirements:

Firms or consultant teams responding to this Request for Qualifications and Proposals (RFQ/RFP) must provide the following information to enable a complete and fair evaluation of their qualifications and approach. Proposals that do not contain all required elements may be considered non-responsive.

1. Cover Letter A cover letter signed by an authorized representative of the primary firm, binding the firm to all commitments made in the proposal.The letter must include: Identification of the prime consultant and all subconsultants,Contact information for the primary point of contact (name, title, address, phone, and email).

Note: NHCOG will contract solely with the primary consultant/firm. All subconsultants will be considered subcontractors under the executed agreement.

2. Project Team Project Management Plan and Qualifications Provide the names, business addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of all firms and individuals proposed to participate in each task identified in the Scope of Work. Clearly indicate each team member’s role and area of responsibility.

Submit a detailed Project Management Plan that identifies key personnel and their roles in performing the integrated services described in the Scope of Work.

Demonstrates the team’s ability to manage a multidisciplinary project effectively and deliver high-quality results within schedule and budget.

Includes a summary of each firm’s qualifications and resumes for all key personnel (limited to two pages each).

4. References Provide three (3) references for projects of similar scope and complexity. Each reference must include:

Project name and brief description,Project period and total cost, and Client name, primary contact person, title, and current phone number.

5. Technical Approach and Methodology Provide a clear and concise narrative outlining the proposed Scope of services, Approach, methodology, and process used to develop the scope, and Strategies for implementing the project tasks effectively. This narrative should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the project goals, opportunities, and constraints.

6. Proposed Timeline Include a detailed timeline or project schedule identifying major tasks, milestones, deliverables, and anticipated completion dates. The timeline should correspond with the Scope of Work and demonstrate the consultant’s ability to meet project deadlines.

7. Proof of Insurance Submit proof of insurance and liability coverage in accordance with the requirements outlined in Addendum A – Insurance and Indemnification.

8. Fee Proposal Provide a detailed Fee Proposal for the Scope of Services. The total project budget is $220,000.

The proposal must include:

Either a lump sum or hourly allocation by task, A schedule of hourly rates and reimbursable expenses, and A statement confirming that all proposed fees are valid for a minimum of ninety (90) days from the date of submission.

A statement confirming that if awarded, fees will remain valid for the length of the project.

9. Required Forms Include all required forms and certifications, including Non-Collusion Affidavit, Appendices A and B.

10. Additional Information Firms may include any additional information relevant to this RFP that demonstrates unique qualifications, specialized expertise, or innovative approaches that would assist NHCOG in evaluating the proposal

Section II : Schedule, Selection Process & Evaluation Criteria

Schedule Applicants are to respond to this request by 11:00 AM, January 23, 2026

All questions must be sent in by 8:00 AM, January 9, 2026

The NHCOG will develop a short list of candidates based on the stated selection criteria to interview for the project. The short-listed firms will be notified via email and will be provided sufficient notice of the interview date and time.

A decision is expected by the end of February, with a project Kick-Off in March/ April 2026.

Consultant Team Composition The NHCOG seeks a multidisciplinary consulting team with demonstrated experience in brownfield redevelopment, community planning, and infrastructure design. At a minimum, the team should include expertise in:

Urban planning and design Civil and/or structural engineering Environmental assessment (Licensed Environmental) Market and economic analysis Architecture and/or landscape architecture

Consultants may propose an alternative composition of disciplines; however, proposals must clearly demonstrate how the team’s combined expertise and experience align with the goals of this study and ensure efficient, coordinated project delivery.

Selection Process Proposals will be evaluated by a Selection Committee composed of NHCOG staff, municipal representatives, and other designated stakeholders. The committee will review all eligible proposals and may conduct interviews with shortlisted teams prior to final selection.

Evaluation will be based on both the technical merit of the proposal and the consultant’s qualifications, with particular emphasis on demonstrated experience with similar projects in Connecticut and familiarity with state and federal brownfield programs.

Evaluation Criteria Each proposal will be evaluated according to the following criteria:

1. Project Understanding and Approach o Demonstrated understanding of the project goals, opportunities, and constraints within the study area.

o Creativity, thoroughness, and clarity of the proposed methodology, scope, and work plan.

o Quality and feasibility of the proposed project schedule and management plan.

2. Team Qualifications and Experience o Relevant experience of key personnel and subconsultants assigned to the project.

o Demonstrated success on similar multidisciplinary planning and brownfield redevelopment projects.

o Familiarity with Connecticut environmental regulations and brownfield remediation processes.

o Quality and performance of past services provided to public-sector clients.

3. Capacity and Availability o Ability to meet project deadlines within the proposed schedule.

o Demonstrated capacity to manage tasks efficiently and deliver high-quality work within budget constraints.

4. Cost Proposal o Reasonableness and clarity of the proposed fee schedule, including hourly rates and reimbursable expenses.

o Overall cost-effectiveness in relation to the proposed scope and deliverables.

5. References and Past Performance o Quality and relevance of references from similar projects.

o Evidence of client satisfaction and successful implementation of past plans.

Final Selection Following the evaluation process, the Selection Committee will identify the highest-ranked firm or team. NHCOG reserves the right to:

Conduct interviews or request additional information before making a final selection.

Negotiate scope, schedule, and fees with the selected consultant prior to contract award.

Reject any or all proposals if deemed in the best interest of the NHCOG or the Town of

Winchester.

Section III – Project Background & Goals

Project Background The Northwest Hills Council of Governments (NHCOG), in collaboration with the Town of Winchester, is seeking proposals from qualified multidisciplinary consulting teams to conduct the Revitalization Along the Mad River Study.

The Mad River corridor represents a historically industrial area that has experienced decades of underutilization, vacancy, and environmental degradation. The study area includes several brownfield and former industrial properties that offer significant potential for revitalization and economic development once environmental, infrastructural, and market challenges are addressed.

This project will result in a comprehensive, phased redevelopment plan that integrates land use, environmental remediation, infrastructure, economic feasibility, and community engagement. The plan will serve as a catalyst for attracting private investment, supporting public infrastructure improvements, and creating a cohesive vision for a revitalized riverfront district.

Project Goals As with most brownfield sites, there are numerous challenges—both real and perceived—that deter investment and redevelopment. This study will provide a holistic understanding of current site conditions, identify feasible future land uses, and determine public investments that can leverage and support private redevelopment.

The outcomes of this study will guide a cohesive vision and strategic plan to:

Attract Private Investment – Identify redevelopment opportunities that are economically viable and market-supported.

Provide Community Benefit – Create public spaces, recreational opportunities, and neighborhood amenities that enhance quality of life.

Reduce Blight – Address vacant and deteriorated properties to improve aesthetics and property values.

Encourage Grand List Growth – Increase taxable value through reinvestment and reuse.

Eliminate Contamination – Advance environmental remediation and reuse of brownfield sites.

Protect Environmentally Sensitive Areas – Ensure redevelopment aligns with sustainable practices and protects natural resources.

The Revitalization Along the Mad River Study will take a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to balance neighborhood needs, community goals, and market realities. The consultant team will integrate expertise across planning, engineering, environmental science, architecture, and economic development to create a plan that is both visionary and implementable.

Section IV– Scope of Work

Technical Advisory Committee and Engagement NHCOG will establish a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) comprised of NHCOG staff, municipal officials, property owners, and other key stakeholders. The consultant will:

Participate in regular TAC meetings throughout the project.

Present findings, options, and recommendations for review and feedback.

Coordinate closely with NHCOG staff to ensure all interests are represented and outreach is sufficient.

Develop and implement a robust community engagement plan, including public meetings (in-person and virtual), targeted stakeholder discussions, and digital outreach.

Work Plan and Deliverables Key objectives include:

Coordinated Brownfield Remediation – Address environmental contamination to enable reuse Infrastructure and Connectivity – Identify needed upgrades and expand pedestrian/bicycle networks (including the Sue Grossman Greenway connection), parking, roadway design, access and other infrastructure.

Market-Based Redevelopment – Align redevelopment potential with realistic market demand Community Integration – Incorporate public input, environmental protection, historical preservation, and economic feasibility into all recommendations.

Tasks 1 through 7 outlined below are intended to provide baseline guidance regarding the objectives and expectations of this study. Consultants are encouraged to apply their professional judgment, experience, and creativity in refining the approach, methodology, and level of effort for each task.

Task 1 – Market Analysis and Research Conduct a limited market study to identify current and future uses supportable by community demand and site conditions. Analyze findings to guide redevelopment initiatives.

Deliverables:

Report summarizing existing market conditions.

Written analysis identifying feasible uses, potential revenues, and prioritizing redevelopment phasing.

Goal: Provide data to support redevelopment planning, Pro Formas, and ROI analysis for potential investors.

Task 2 – Review of Existing Conditions Compile and evaluate all existing environmental, structural, and land-use data for the properties identified in Appendix A. Conduct site visits, review available plans (including the Sue Grossman Greenway extension and Bridge Street redesign), understand location and capacity of existing infrastructure (parking, water, sewer, fiber, etc…) and identify data gaps.

Deliverables:

Summary report of existing site conditions.

Identification of environmental, structural, or survey data gaps.

Project area base map showing key features and constraints.

Goal: Establish a foundation for future environmental, structural, and planning work.

Task 3 – New Data Collection Based on findings from Task 2, identify and collect additional data required to support informed decision-making. This may include title research, surveys, or historic and environmental information.

(Note: Phase I & II Environmental Site Assessments cannot exceed 25% of budget)

Deliverables:

As-needed data collection reports and updates to the base map.

Goal: Ensure sufficient data to create a feasible and cost-effective Master Redevelopment Plan.

Task 4 – Analysis of Current Conditions and Future Needs Analyze existing and required infrastructure (public and private) to support potential redevelopment uses. Address access, circulation, utilities, and environmental constraints.

Deliverables:

Report identifying infrastructure needs and potential improvements.

Assessment of regulatory and environmental barriers with proposed solutions.

Identification of floodplain, NDDB, and other regulatory limitations.

Goal: Define infrastructure and regulatory pathways necessary to enable redevelopment.

Task 5 – Master Redevelopment Plan Prepare a comprehensive, phased Master Redevelopment Plan incorporating findings from prior tasks. Include conceptual site plans, design guidelines, and cost estimates. This plan should include both public and private projects.

Deliverables:

Visuals, maps, and conceptual plans for 4–5 key public/private projects.

Cost estimates, permitting needs, and implementation steps.

Vision Board for design elements for streetscape, signage, lighting, and landscaping.

Goal: Create a visually compelling and actionable plan that can guide future investment and public funding requests. Plan should be relatable to investors, bankers, property owners, and local, state and federal agencies. The Plan should include a clear implementation plan.

Task 6 – Identification of Funding Sources Identify federal, state, and private funding sources to support both public infrastructure and private redevelopment projects. Recommend strategies to attract developers and investors.

Deliverables:

Comprehensive list of potential grant and loan opportunities.

Summary of relevant housing or redevelopment programs.

“Pitch packet” or developer marketing materials.

Optional: Host a “Developer Day” or similar outreach event.

Goal: Support implementation and attract investment.

Task 7 – Public Outreach and Engagement Develop and execute a public engagement plan that builds understanding, transparency, and consensus as well as builds excitement about the project area and attracts investment.

Deliverables:

Outreach plan outlining meeting schedule, methods, and target audiences.

Materials for public meetings, social media, and digital platforms.

Summary of public feedback and responses.

Goal: Produce a community-supported, feasible redevelopment plan consistent with local and state regulations.

Budget and Deliverable Requirements The total project budget is $220,000. Respondents should clearly define their approach, methodology, allocation of funds, and expected deliverables for each task. The final scope must ensure the plan:

Is actionable and can be implemented in phases.

Attracts both public and private investment.

Builds community consensus and regulatory alignment.

Appendix A – BAR Program Area Map and Property Summary The BAR Program Planning Area includes eleven parcels located along Bridge Street, Willow Street, and Depot Street in the Town of Winchester. These sites reflect the town’s industrial heritage and its opportunity for adaptive reuse and revitalization along the Mad River corridor. The following table summarizes all properties within the BAR Program Planning Area. Sites marked with an asterisk (*) are anticipated to undergo structural and/or environmental review as part of this study.

No. Address / Site Name

Description & History

Building Size / Lot Area

Current Use / Condition

Access Status

Anticipated Study Activities

1 10A Bridge Street*

Former industrial complex (built 1887) consisting of two connected 5-story buildings adjacent to the Mad River.

77,856 SF on 0.78 acres

Vacant;

significant decay.

Access Granted

Conduct structural and environmental review in coordination with property owner.

2 10B Bridge Street*

Former industrial site (built 1880) with a 3-story structure partially occupied by the Mad River Lofts.

20,083 SF on 0.52 acres

Partial occupancy;

some remediation complete.

Access Granted

Review for reuse of vacant areas; integrate into master plan. No new environmental/structural review expected.

3 9 Willow Street

Former industrial building (built 1906) adjacent to the Mad River.

13,912 SF on 0.11 acres

Vacant. TBD Assess potential reuse;

incorporate into redevelopment plan.

4 13 Willow Street

Former industrial parcel;

0.19 acres

Vacant land along Mad River.

TBD Evaluate redevelopment or open-space potential.

buildings razed.

5 35 Willow Street*

Former Capital Products facility (built 1946), 3-story industrial structure.

27,894

SF

Vacant;

significant structural deterioration.

Access Granted

Conduct both structural and environmental review in coordination with property owner.

6 45 Willow Street

Former industrial site (built 1950), currently used for storage.

9,438 SF Active storage use.

TBD Engage property owner;

potential structural/environmental review if access is granted.

7 6 Willow Street

Active auto repair shop and former gas station (built 1967).

3,550 SF Active business.

N/A Engage owner to understand operations;

no review anticipated.

8 Willow St (M/B/L 111/071/015)

Former industrial parcel;

buildings razed.

1.03 acres

Undeveloped land.

TBD Evaluate for reuse potential; possible environmental review if access granted.

9 38 Depot Street

Former J.C.

Burwell industrial building (built 1830).

3,978 SF

on 1.2 acres

Vacant. TBD Evaluate reuse and integration into master plan; potential environmental review.

10 115 Willow Street

Active business (Marchi Memorials);

small modern structure (built 1976).

264 SF

on 0.1 acres

Active business.

N/A Limited or no review anticipated.

11 119 Willow Street

Active marina with boat storage and repair facilities.

8,902 SF

on 1.59 acres

Active business with river frontage.

Access Granted

Limited review; focus on trail connectivity and waterfront design.

APPENDIX B

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND PROPOSALS

Northwest Hills Council of Governments BAR Planning Grant Revitalization Along the Mad River, Winsted CT

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Certificate of Insurance: All insurance policies must include a Waiver of Subrogation whereby the insured waives its right to subrogate against NHCOG, its subsidiaries, employees, volunteers, directors and officers. Proof of proper insurance coverage, Workers Compensation Insurance, Liability and Property damage, and Vehicle Insurance shall be filed with the NHCOG within 10 days after the award of the bid. The Certificate of Insurance must name Northwest Hills Council of Governments, 355 Goshen Road, Litchfield CT 06759, its subsidiaries, employees, volunteers, directors & officers as the “Additional Insured” and filed with the Purchasing Agent prior to commencement of work. Renewal Certificates of Insurance must be mailed to the Purchasing Agent 10 days prior to the expiration of the required coverage.

NON-DISCRIMINATION

The respondent agrees and warrants that in the performance of the contract pursuant to this solicitation he/she will not discriminate or permit discrimination against any person or group of persons on the grounds of sex, race, color, religion, age, marital status, ancestry, national origin, past history of mental disorder, mental retardation or physical disability or other basis in any manner prohibited by the laws of the United States, the State of Connecticut or NHCOG.

INDEMNIFICATION

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Firm shall indemnify and hold harmless NHCOG and their respective consultants, agents, and employees from and against all claims, damages, losses and expenses, direct, indirect or consequential (including but not limited to fees and charges of attorneys and other professionals and court and arbitration costs) arising out of or resulting from the performance of the Firm’s work, provided that such claim, damage, loss or expense is caused in whole or in part by any negligent act or omission by the Firm, or breach of its obligations herein or by any person or organization directly or indirectly employed or engaged by the Firm to perform or furnish services, or anyone for whose acts the Firm may be liable, regardless of whether or not it is caused in part by a party indemnified hereunder.

As to any and all claims against NHCOG or any of its consultants, agents or employees by any employee of Firm, by any person or organization directly or indirectly employed by Firm to perform or furnish any of the work, or by anyone for whose acts Firm may be liable, the indemnification obligation under this section shall not be limited in any way by any limitation on the amount of type of damages, compensation or benefits payable by or for Firm under worker’s or workman’s compensation acts, disability benefit acts or other employee benefit acts.

APPENDIX C

Acceptance of Terms of this Agreement Name of Proposer:

Contact Person:

Address:

City/State/Zip:

Telephone:____________________________________ Fax:__________________________________ E-mail: __________________________________________________________________________

Authorized Signature__________________________________ Title: _________________________

Name Printed:____________________________________________

Date:_______________________

It is agreed by the above signed proposer that the signature and submission of this proposal represents the proposer’s acceptance of all terms, conditions, and requirements of the proposal specifications, and, if awarded, the proposal will represent the agreement between the parties.

The proposer agrees that the cost of any work performed, materials furnished, services provided, or expenses incurred, which are not specifically delineated in the proposal documents, but which are incidental to the scope, intent, and completion of this contract, shall be deemed to have been included in the prices for the various items scheduled.

APPENDIX D

NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

STATE OF ___________________COUNTY OF ____________________________

I, ____________________________________________, being first duly sworn, deposes and says that:

1. I am ____________________________________________ of____________________________________________, the Bidder that has submitted the attached Bid for

2. I am fully informed respecting the preparation and contents of the attached Bid and of all pertinent circumstances respecting such bid;

3. Such Bid is genuine and is not a collusive or sham Bid;

4. Neither the said Bidder nor any of its officers, partners, owners, agents, representatives, employees or parties of interest, including this affiant, has in any way colluded, conspired, connived or agreed directly or indirectly with any other Bidder, firm or person to submit a collusive or sham Bid in connection with such Contract, for which the attached Bid has been submitted nor has it in any manner, directly or indirectly, sought by agreement or collusion or communication or conference with any other Bidder, firm or person to fix the price or prices in the attached Bid or of any other Bidder, or to fix any overhead, profit or cost element of the Bid price or the price of any Bidder, or to secure through any collusion, conspiracy, connivance or unlawful agreement any advantage NHCOG or any person interested in the proposed Contract; and

5. The price or prices quoted in the attached Bid are fair and proper and are not tainted by any collusion, conspiracy, connivance or unlawful agreement on the part of the Bidder or any of it agents, representatives, owners, employees, or parties in interest, including this affiant.

(Printed) (Signed) __________________________________

(Title) _____________________________________

Subscribed and sworn to before this________ day of ______________, 20__________.

Notary Public Printed Notary Public Signature

My Commission Expires _______________________________ (Notary Seal)

NOTE: Documents must be signed before and sealed by a Notary Public. Only documents bearing a notary seal will be accepted.