RFP_AR19 East_West Connector Corridor Improve.pdf

COBB COUNTY

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

1890 County Services Parkway

Marietta, Georgia 30008-4014

(770) 528-1600 • Fax: (770) 528-1601

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Date: August 30, 2024

To: Qualified Transportation Planning and Engineering Consulting Firms

Re: Request for Proposals for Transportation Planning Consulting Services East-West Connector Corridor Improvements Scoping Study Cobb County Project No. AR19

The Cobb County Department of Transportation is requesting non-cost technical proposals for Transportation Planning and Engineering Consulting Services for the above referenced project in support of further planning to address operational safety and traffic congestion along the corridor.

Selection Process 1, Competitive Negotiations, as defined in the Cobb County Policy for the Procurement of Professional Services, will be used to select the highest qualified consultant submitting a proposal for this project. A copy of the Procurement Policy can be found on the Cobb County DOT web site at https://www.cobbcounty.org/transportation/policies-permitting/procurement-bidding

The Study is funded by transferred funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA).

Accordingly, the successful proposer will be required to comply with all applicable State and Federal rules and regulations, as well as those of Cobb County.

All transportation planning and engineering services shall be in accordance with applicable guidelines and standards of the Cobb County Department of Transportation, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the Georgia Department of Transportation. All project deliverables must be submitted to Cobb County Department of Transportation for review and approval.

PROJECT COMMUNICATION RESTRICTION

Consultants shall not communicate or request information about this project with any Cobb County employee staff members or Board of Commission members except during the written question/comment period, or as provided by any existing consultant agreements. This restriction is in effect beginning from the advertisement date until the project is awarded by the Board of Commissioners.

PREQUALIFICATION CRITERIA

All Consultants, including subconsultants, should be pre-qualified with Georgia Department of Transportation OR Cobb County Department of Transportation for service provided within the scope of services. Prequalification with Georgia Department of Transportation is accepted as prequalification with Cobb County, and no additional submission is necessary. For those firms without Georgia Department of Transportation prequalification, Cobb County Department of

Request for Proposals East-West Connector Corridor Improvements Study

Project No. AR19 August 30, 2024

Transportation prequalification is required. Additionally, prequalification will be required prior to contract award but not prior to proposal submittal.

Prime Consultant and/or Subconsultants – Area Class Required 1.06(a) NEPA Documentation 1.06(b) History 1.06(c) Air Quality Studies 1.06(e) Ecology 1.06(d) Noise 1.06(f) Archaeology

1.07 Attitude, Opinion, Community Value Studies

1.10 Traffic Studies

3.02 Two-lane or Multi-lane Urban Roadway Design

3.06 Traffic Operations Studies

3.07 Traffic Operations Design

3.08 Landscape Architecture Design

3.13 Bicycles and Pedestrians Facility Design

4.02 Minor Bridge Design

5.01 Land Surveying

5.02 Engineering Surveying

6.01(a) Soil Survey Studies

PROJECT LIMITS AND OVERVIEW

The purpose of the scoping study is to develop viable, safe, connected, and cost-effective solutions to the project and to study the feasibility of alternatives in improving the efficiency, operations, and safety along the East-West Connector Corridor, while also preparing projects for advancement to preliminary engineering phases in future Atlanta Regional Commission Transportation Improvement Project (TIP) project solicitations.

The planned project will maximize safety and connectivity, provide congestion relieve for all users along the corridor with the potential to provide connections to neighboring communities, public recreational facilities and other destinations. The maximum project budget is $625,000.00.

PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE

A non-mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference will be held at Cobb County Department of Transportation, and virtually on Monday, September 16, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Virtual option will be via Microsoft Teams as the following link:

Click Here To Join Teams Meeting Meeting ID: 252 859 153 541 Passcode: r5jHdr

Project No. AR19

SCOPE OF WORK

I. General:

The request for proposals is to perform a Scoping Study for the proposed East-West Connector Corridor Improvements.

Planning and Engineering consulting services shall be furnished in accordance with the Cobb County DOT’s Consultant Services Agreement (CSA).

II. Area Covered:

The East-West Connector serves as a principal arterial roadway that serves as a significant east-west regional connection to employment opportunities, recreational facilities, emergency services, retail and shopping districts and connects south Cobb County to Interstate 285. The corridor is connected to Interstate 285 via Atlanta Road. The corridor consists mostly of two lanes in each direction, with occasional segments featuring a third auxiliary lane between major intersections. The speed limit along most of the corridor is set at 45 miles per hour. The East-West Connector connects with Barrett Parkway in the west and Cumberland Parkway in the east. Additional transit is planned on the corridor. A Project Location Map is attached for reference.

III. Project Background & Objectives:

The East-West Connector Corridor Improvements project encompass 9.3 miles from Powder Springs Road to Cumberland Parkway at the Interstate 285 overpass. The project must also include Atlanta Road between Interstate 285 and Cumberland Parkway. Corridor improvements and capacity segments are included in the Cobb County’s CobbForward Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP 2050) and the Atlanta Regional Commission’s (ARC’s) Regional Transportation Plan (RTP).

The East-West Connector was constructed as a limited access corridor as part of a larger project known then as West Cobb Loop through Cobb County to complete a transportation link between two major metro activity centers at the east and west of the County. Over the years, development growth on the corridor has increased traffic and attracted more businesses that benefited from the elevated traffic exposure. As evidenced, development along the corridor occurred independent of a cohesive plan with businesses and residential properties granted driveways from the corridor which was constructed as a limited access roadway. This contributed to access management, congestion, operational safety and pedestrian access and connectivity issues along the corridor.

In addition, the East-West Connector Corridor is challenging for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists with lack of bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, high traffic volumes and high collision intersections. The corridor is increasingly congested and operational safety issues are a major concern with high vehicular volumes intensified by high traffic destinations, weaving, U-turns, and bike/pedestrian traffic which result in a high number of crashes and congestion throughout the day along the corridor. There are also bottlenecks and delays at all intersections along the corridor which backs up during morning and evening peak hours. There are limited public transit options on the corridor. However, future transit is planned to improve transportation options on the corridor to benefit all users.

The purpose of the Scoping Study for East-West Connector Corridor Improvements is to develop a project concept that improves operational safety, congestion, access management and pedestrian connectivity for all roadway users, while also preparing the proposed project for advancement to the Preliminary Engineering phase.

Project No. AR19

The objectives of this study are to develop viable, safe, connected, and cost-effective solutions to the project and to study the feasibility of alternatives. The study will make project recommendations based on the following criteria and considerations:

Consistency with the vision and goals set forth in the County’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan, Greenway and Trail Master Plan, Safety Action Plan and the Atlanta Region’s Plan.

Broad public and stakeholder support.

Maximize safety, connectivity, and efficiency along the corridor.

Potential to address the existing and future needs for all users.

Prepare data and materials for the future federal funding eligibility of all project phases.

The concept report process will include community outreach and public involvement, study the project areas’ existing and future condition, assess the environmental and cultural resources, develop feasible alignment and concept design alternatives, and identify the preferred alternative to achieve safe, connected, and cost-effective solutions for the project.

IV. Work Tasks:

The work to be accomplished under this contract is divided into the following tasks:

Task 1 – Project Management County shall establish a Project Management Team (PMT) that includes, at a minimum, County project manager, consultant team members, other key DOT staff from Planning, Pre-Construction and other relevant departments, City of Smyrna and City of Mableton. A kick-off meeting will be held with the project management team to discuss the goal of the study and finalize the scope. The consultant will develop a Project Management Plan to identify approaches for communication, coordination, QA/QC, and schedule management after the kick-off meeting. The project management team will meet with the consultant monthly, at a minimum. Additional representatives and County staff may be included, as needed.

Deliverables:

- Kick-off meeting and meeting summary

- Project Management Plan

- Meeting minutes for PMT meetings

Task 2 – Stakeholder and Public Engagement The goal of this task is to develop a planning outreach process that promotes the involvement of all stakeholders in the study area and, more specifically, any potential partners identified for future implementation. A concerted effort to reach out to senior, low-income and minority stakeholder populations should be made. The consultants will be responsible for designing an effective and innovative public involvement program.

Stakeholder and Public Engagement Strategy (SPES) o The SPES shall provide recommendations for notifying the public and surrounding communities about outreach opportunities, including surveys, public meetings, and other engagement opportunities to provide feedback on the project, with special attention to ensuring residents and businesses along the project corridor are notified.

o The SPES shall provide a recommended schedule of activities, and detail roles, responsibilities, strategies, likely participants, and notification details.

Project No. AR19 o The SPES schedule must be approved by the PMT and shall include outreach and coordination with targeted stakeholders and agency partners, as well as broad outreach to the public.

Stakeholder Steering Committee (SSC):

o Agency coordination with relevant Cobb County departments, GDOT offices, Atlanta

Regional Commission, City of Smyrna, City of Mableton, Cumberland Community Improvement District Wellstar Cobb Heath System, Path Foundation, other agency partners and identified neighborhood/community organizations as needed.

o The PMT with consultants shall identify individuals and agencies to approve the SSC members in advance of notification.

o The SSC will be convened at least four (4) times over the project schedule and will assist the PMT with methodologies, background, outreach strategy, needs assessment, implementation plans, and other milestones as needed.

Public Engagement and Outreach:

o Outreach shall be completed to connect with key stakeholders, including business owners, property owners, schools, churches, residents and tenants adjacent to the study area. The format may include, but not limited to, meetings (in person, phone or web-conference), onsite focus groups and/or walking tours, and/or individual stakeholder interviews.

o A demonstrable effort shall be made to include persons or organizations that are or represent low-income, minority, persons with disabilities, or other disadvantaged stakeholders within reasonable proximity to the proposed study area.

o Engagement with the public at large will include identifying needs, educating about design alternatives and potential impacts, as well as, seeking input and consensus on preferred concept, typical sections or improvements.

o A variety of tools and approaches should be used, including social media, surveys, and hosting outreach activities in the study area (e.g. at schools, churches or businesses along the corridor).

o A minimum of three (3) public open house meetings shall be held; however, the length and complexity of the project corridor may warrant more. Format and timing in project schedule will be determined as part of the SPE Strategy.

Project information shall be uploaded to a project website (hosted by the County) to provide project information to the public and shall include project materials, public event notifications, and design alternatives. The website shall also provide the opportunity for the public to leave feedback.

Deliverables:

- Stakeholder and Public Engagement Strategy (SPES)

- Project website and communication materials

- Meeting exhibits and materials

- Public Outreach Meeting and Activities Summary Report

- Summary report of outreach efforts and feedback received from each meeting and important criteria and factors identified by stakeholders and the public.

Task 3 – Existing Conditions The consultant shall conduct a thorough review and assessment of previous plans and existing conditions in the study area. The focus of the assessment will include the following:

Project No. AR19

Conduct a review of relevant previous plans and studies, including but not limited to CobbForward Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP), Safety Action Plan, Greenways and Trails Master Plan, and other relevant Plans/documents.

o Identify any recommendations or approved concepts for improving operations, safety, and active transportation, including but not limited to, widening/median divided cross section, interchange designs, and continuous flow intersection.

A review of current land use or transportation regulations or policies that impact the study area, and developments and projects underway, permitted or programmed in the study area.

Collect the existing data, including vehicle collision history, conduct site visit(s), and review the adjacent connections, roadways, vehicular access, transit stops and pedestrian/bike facilities.

Collect data for traffic operations, including:

o Bicycle, pedestrian, and vehicle counts at Hicks Road/Hurt Road, Floyd Road/Hurt

Road, South Cobb Drive/Cooper Lake Road SE and other intersections to be approved by Cobb DOT Traffic Operations Team o Vehicle speeds at specific locations to be identified and approved by Cobb DOT Traffic Operations Team o Vehicle queue lengths and travel times throughout the corridor o Origin and destinations of travelers in the corridor Please refer to the current East-West Connector Traffic Report (2024) http://docs.cobbegov.org/East-WestConnectorReport2024

Conduct preliminary environmental screening survey along the intersections and other relevant locations. Survey shall include identification of natural and cultural resources, The consultant will summarize the challenge and opportunities of the project based on the existing condition and growth factor. This summary should provide an understanding of the needs for the improvements, challenges to feasibility, deliverability and constructability, etc.

Deliverable:

- Existing Conditions Analysis Document

Task 4 – Issues and Deficiencies

Evaluate the traffic operations by creating a microsimulation model. The models shall be calibrated to reflect the data collected in Task 3. The evaluation should identify locations with:

o Long vehicle delays and travel times o Long queues blocking intersections

Evaluate roadway safety by identifying locations with high collision rates. Identify potential conflict points along the corridor

Evaluate missing bicycle, pedestrian, and transit facilities and connections based on Cobb County, GDOT, and ARC’s Complete Street policy.

Highlight issues identified during the public outreach task

Deliverable:

- Issues and Deficiencies Report

Task 5 – Alternative Analysis and Concept Plan Development Develop at least two alternatives to address issues and deficiencies identified in Task 4. Specific tasks include:

Identify alternatives to reduce delays, travel times, and queues

Project No. AR19

Identify safety countermeasures to reduce collision rates Identify improvements to enhance bicycle, pedestrian, and transit facilities Consider any recommendations or approved concepts from previous plans and studies Complete an Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE), per GDOT’s requirements, for the intersection of South Cobb Drive and East West Connector Preliminary layout and typical sections should be provided for each alternative.

Evaluation of relative cost, feasibility, and constructability of alternative alignments and sections in logical phases or segments.

Evaluation of transit, environment, utilities and right-of-way impacts of each alternative.

Evaluation of drainage, wall/structure/guardrail needs of each alternative Evaluation of a reversible toll lanes along the corridor that bypass major intersections Evaluation of a “Superstreet” type roadway where RCUTs are installed at intersections and side street traffic must u-turn midblock Evaluate the performance of each alternative. Based on the study on current AADT/LOS, the consultant should provide the projected approximately AADT or LOS for the alternatives and provide the evaluation of each alternative. The evaluation shall address safety, health or other community impacts, inter-jurisdictional coordination needs of each alternative.

Alternatives shall include solutions to address potential environmental issues, FHWA proven safety countermeasures, and ARC and GDOT Complete Streets principles, as applicable.

Identify existing utilities that could be impacted by any of the alternative concepts identified, and corresponding contact information of the utility owners.

Determine the number of parcels, driveways, easements, property owners, potential relocations and other impacts, and estimated costs for acquisitions including easements.

Quantify benefits of each alternative in terms of travel time, collisions, air quality, etc.

Based on the standard and evaluation, the study will identify at the preferred concept, or combine the alternatives into one optional concept. Justification and decision-making process for selecting the preferred concept shall be included in the study documentation.

Deliverable:

- Concept Report, per CCDOT requirements

- Memorandum shall summarize each alternative’s benefits, costs, pros, cons, feasibility, and meeting public’s preferences, etc.

- A benefit-cost analysis shall be completed to support selection of preferred alternatives

- Maps or exhibits of alternatives-Evaluation matrix of alternatives

Task 6 – Final Project Deliverables The following shall be developed and submitted in the format indicated below:

Final Report document: prepare a Scoping Study document summarizing the goals of the project, methodology, documentation of all efforts and feedback from the public involvement process, existing conditions, technical analysis, alternatives considered, environmental and ROW assessment, concept layout and typical sections for preferred alignment, and implementation and management plan.

Detailed cost estimate (engineering, right of way acquisition, utilities, construction, etc.) for the optimal and for the alternative with inflation rate.

Prepare an Implementation Plan that identifies the logical phases of implementation, potential implementation partners, responsibilities, cost estimates, timeline and potential sources of funding for each phase.

Format:

Project No. AR19

Single combined PDF file of the final report document which includes the summary report, concept layout, typical sections and the remaining full documentation as appendices (as described above).

In addition to the final report, please provide individual files of each of the following:

o Preferred and alternative concept plan layout and typical sections (PDF) o Environmental/historic resource scan memo or survey (PDF) o Cost Estimate (PDF & Excel)

One (1) printed final report document and appendices in 8.5”x11” and concept plan and typical sections in 11”x17”.

A USB thumb drive or cloud web link containing electronic files in their original formats with supporting graphics and GIS or other data files (Word, Excel, InDesign, CAD, etc.).

Cobb County DOT will make available the County Geographic Information System (GIS) data specific to this project for use in developing the concept and design to the successful proposer after the contract for this project is awarded to the successful proposer. Firms desiring to use Cobb County aerial photography in the preparation of their proposals can view and/or print copies of the photography from the online GIS website at https://www.cobbcounty.org/gis, or can purchase the data from the Cobb County GIS Core Group.

PROPOSAL FORMAT / SUBMITTING PROCEDURES

If your firm is interested in submitting a non-cost technical proposal for this project, please provide nine paper (9) copies (1 original and 8 copies are acceptable) of the technical proposal as indicated below. Proposals shall also be submitted on a USB drive containing all the submitted files in Adobe Acrobat (.PDF), Microsoft Excel (.XLS) and/or Microsoft Word (.DOC) formats. The technical proposal shall cover the following and be formatted in the listed order: 1) Staffing, 2) Experience and Performance, 3) Approach, 4) Availability, and 5) Financial Stability.

Additionally, all addendum acknowledgement forms are to be signed and included in the proposal.

See the “Evaluation Criteria” section of this RFP for information to be included for each of these criteria areas.

The technical proposal shall be limited to twenty (20) pages, either 20 single-sided or 10 double-sided. Proposals submitted in excess of twenty (20) pages will not be reviewed. The following items will be considered part of the twenty (20) page limit: cover letter, resumes, promotional information, drawings or illustrations (i.e. typical sections), maps, reference letters, proposed concepts, pictures, project information sheets, and litigation history. Litigation History is only required for the Prime Firm. An 11" x 17" page folded to 8-1/2" x 11" will count as one page up to a maximum of five (5) 11" x 17" pages per proposal.

The following items DO NOT count toward the twenty (20) page limit: Proposal Cover, Table of Contents, Dividers, Financial Stability Information, consultant affidavit and agreements, subconsultant affidavit and agreements, immigration compliance certifications, DBE participation schedule, GDOT Pre-Qualification Notifications and Addendum.

The technical proposals shall be sealed in an envelope or box with your firm’s name and “PROPOSAL FOR East-West Connector Corridor Improvements Scoping Study, PROJECT NO. AR19” clearly marked on the front.

Project No. AR19

Pre-Proposal Conference September 16 , 2024, 2:00 p.m.

(non-mandatory) (Virtual Meeting – link provided above)

Deadline for Written Questions September 26, 2024 5:00pm Email: ProcurementServices@cobbcounty.org

Proposal Submittal October 10, 2024, 12:00 Noon Cobb County Procurement Services 122 Waddell Street Marietta, GA 30060

Proposal Opening October 10, 2024, 2:00 p.m.

Cobb County Procurement Services 122 Waddell Street Marietta, GA 30060

Proposals submitted after the 12:00 Noon deadline shall be considered non-responsive and will not be opened. DO NOT DELIVER PROPOSAL TO THE COBB COUNTY DEPARTMENT

OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE.

EVALUATION CRITERIA

The technical proposals will be evaluated and ranked, with the three top-ranked proposals presented to the Board of Commissioners for approval for the Cobb County Department of Transportation to negotiate the final scope of services and fee with the Consultant submitting the top-ranked proposal.

The evaluation of the technical proposals will be based on the following criteria:

1. Staffing – Evaluation of the list of personnel specifically assigned to the proposed project, including their qualifications, overall experience and recent experience on projects of similar scope and complexity to the proposed project. (25 points)

2. Experience/Performance – Review of past performance on Cobb County projects or other projects of similar nature and complexity as the proposed project; evaluation of client references whether included in the proposal response or not; evaluation of litigation history for the past five (5) years, including for each case: style of the case, parties to the litigation, court in which litigation was filed, and civil action number; nature of claims; whether the case is pending or resolved, and, if resolved, the date of and manner in which it was resolved (e.g., relief granted by court, settlement by or among parties, dispositive motion, trail verdict); overall responsiveness to County’s needs.

(25 points)

3. Approach – Evaluation of the overall understanding of the scope of the proposed project;

completeness, adequacy and responsiveness to the required information of the request for proposals. (35 points)

4. Availability – Evaluation of the workload of the proposing firm and the staffing to be assigned to the proposed project; time schedule of the proposer in relation to that of the proposed project location of the offices or facilities from which the services are to be provided to the County (10 points)

Project No. AR19

5. Financial Stability – Financial Stability of the top proposer(s) will be evaluated by the Finance Department in the following areas: Liquidity Ratios (1 point); Financial Leverage Ratios (2 points);

Profitability Ratios (1 point); and whether an audited or reviewed Financial Statement is submitted with the Proposal (1 point). A maximum of 5 points may be awarded. Finance will notify the selection committee of points to be awarded to the top proposers. (5 points)

The Proposer is to submit the following ratios (accompanied by a letter from a CPA verifying review of financial ratios), which will be used to rank Financial Stability:

Financial Evaluation of Bidder

Liquidity Ratios Current Ratio

Current Assets/ Current Liabilities

Cash Ratio 1 Cash and Cash Equivalents / Current Liabilities

Financial Leverage Ratios Debt Ratio Long Term Debt / Total Assets Debt to Equity Ratio

2 Long Term Debt / Total Equity

Profitability Ratios Return on Assets Net Income / Total Assets Return on Equity 1 Net Income / Total Equity

Audited or Reviewed

Total Points 5

If the Proposer provides a performance bond, the five (5) points associated with Financial Stability will automatically be awarded.

If the top proposer receives two (2) points or less the County will hold 10% retainage until the project is 50% complete, 5% retainage until the project is 90% complete, and 2.5% retainage until the project is 100% complete. Vendors may submit their financials in a separate sealed envelope but that does not exempt the financials from public disclosure. All documents will be available for public inspection after the contract has been awarded.

GENERAL TERMS

The successful proposer shall be required to sign as part of the terms and conditions of their being engaged by the County the following statements regarding Conflict of Interest, Contingency Fees, and Certification of Subcontractors:

A. CONFLICT OF INTEREST -The Consultant certifies that, to the best of the Consultant’s knowledge, no circumstances exist which will cause a Conflict of Interest in performing the services required by this contract, that no employee of the County, nor any member thereof, nor any public agency or official affected by this Agreement, has any pecuniary interest in the

Project No. AR19 business of the Consultant or his Subcontractor(s), and that no person associated with the Consultant or the Consultant’s Subcontractor(s) has any interest that would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of the Agreement.

Should the Consultant become aware of any circumstances which may cause a Conflict of

Interest during the term of this contract, the Consultant shall immediately notify the County. If the County determines that a Conflict of Interest exists, the County may require that the Consultant take action to remedy the Conflict of Interest or terminate the agreement without liability. The County shall have the right to recover any fees paid for services rendered by the Consultant which were performed while a Conflict of Interest existed if the Consultant had knowledge of the Conflict of Interest and did not notify the County within one (1) week of becoming aware of the existence of the Conflict of Interest.

B. PROHIBITION AGAINST CONTINGENT FEES – The Consultant warrants that the Consultant nor the Consultant’s Subcontractor(s) have not employed or retained any company or person other than a bona fide employee working solely for the consultant or Subcontractor(s) to solicit or secure this Agreement and that the Consultant nor the Consultant’s Subcontractor(s) have not paid or agreed to pay any person, company, corporation, individual, or firm other than a bona fide employee working solely for the Consultant or the Consultant’s Subcontractor(s) any fee, commission, percentage, gift, or other consideration contingent upon or resulting from the award of this Agreement. For any breach or violation of this provision, the County shall have the right to terminate the Agreement without liability and, at its discretion, to deduct from the price, or otherwise recover, the full amount of such fee, commission, percentage, gift, payment, or consideration.

C. CERTIFICATION OF SUBCONTRACTORS. The Consultant shall require each of the

Consultant’s Subcontractor(s) to sign a statement certifying to and agreeing to comply with the terms and conditions of A. and B. above. Such signed statements shall be on forms provided by the County. The Consultant shall return such executed forms to the County and they shall be incorporated in and become a part of the Agreement. No compensation shall be payable to the Consultant until executed certifications are received by the County for all of the Consultant’s Subcontractors.

The Cobb County, Georgia, Department of Transportation, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 78 Stat. 252, 42 USC 2000d—42 and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such Act, hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or age in consideration for an award.

The Consultant and their subcontractor(s) are required to be in compliance with the "Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act." The Consultants must execute and submit Evidence of Compliance, Contractor Affidavit and Agreement, Subcontractor Affidavit and Agreement, if applicable, and Immigration and Compliance Certification forms (attached) as part of their proposal.

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Participation and Small Business Participation (SBP) in all DOT contracts is encouraged. Proposers are subject to the requirements of Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 26, Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Department of Transportation Financial Assistance Programs. Proposers must submit a DBE Participation Schedule

Project No. AR19 to the County with this RFP and a final DBE report must be submitted at the end of the project. Any subsequent changes and/or substitutions of DBE firms from the original DBE Participation Schedule must be submitted and approved by the County in advance. Monthly DBE reports must be submitted with each monthly invoice.

DBE Firms must be certified with the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) office.

No Small Business reports are currently required; however, this is subject to change at the County’s discretion.

Cobb County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals submitted, or, where it may serve the best interest of the County, to request additional information or clarification from proposers. The County, in its sole discretion, also reserves the right to waive any informalities or technicalities relative to any and all proposals. At the County’s discretion, presentations may be requested as part of the evaluation process. The County reserves the right to retain all proposals submitted, and to use any idea in any proposal regardless of whether the proposal is selected.

There is no expressed or implied obligation for Cobb County to reimburse any firm for any expense incurred in preparing or presenting a proposal in response to this request for proposals.

Any questions must be received by 5:00pm Tuesday, September 26, 2024. All questions should be sent via email to ProcurementServices@cobbcounty.org.

Sincerely, COBB COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Laura F. Beall, AICP Planning Division Manager Project Manager

Attachments: Project Location Map Exhibit A: Contractor Affidavit & Agreement Exhibit A-1: Subcontractor Affidavit & Agreement Exhibit A-2: Immigration Compliance Certification DBE Participation Schedule Affidavit Regarding Non-Debarment, Suspension and/or Ineligibility

Cc: Drew Raessler, P.E. Agency Director CCDOT (electronic copy) Michael Francis, P.E. Transportation Division Manager CCDOT (electronic copy) Rustavius Ford, P.E. Pre-Construction Engineer CCDOT (electronic copy) Juliane Dixon-Crump, CCDOT Planner III (electronic copy) Procurement Services (electronic copy & hard copy) Project File

PROJECT LOCATION MAP

CONTRACTOR AFFIDAVIT & AGREEMENT

(EXHIBIT A)

This affidavit must be signed, notarized and submitted with any proposal requiring the performance of physical services. If the affidavit is not submitted with the proposal, proposal will be determined non-responsive and will be disqualified.

By executing this affidavit, the undersigned contractor verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10- 91, stating affirmatively that the individual, firm or corporation which is contracting with Cobb County, Georgia, has registered with, is authorized to use, and is participating in a federal work authorization program (an electronic verification of work authorization program operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or any equivalent federal work authorization program operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to verify information of newly hired employees, pursuant to the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (IRCA)). The undersigned contractor further attests that it will continue to use the federal Employment Eligibility Verification (EEV) work authorization program throughout the contract period.

The undersigned further agrees that should it employ or contract with any subcontractor(s) or should its subcontractor(s) employ other subcontractor(s) for the physical performance of services pursuant to the contract with Cobb County, Georgia, the contractor or subcontractor will:

(1) Notify the County within five business days of entering into a contract or agreement for hire with any subcontractor(s);

(2) Secure from any subcontractor(s) and/or their subcontractor(s) verification of compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 on the attached Subcontractor Affidavit & Agreement (EXHIBIT E-2) prior to the commencement of any work under the contract/agreement;

(3) Secure from any subcontractor(s) and/or their subcontractor(s) a completed Immigration Compliance Certification (EXHIBIT E-3) prior to the commencement of any work under the contract/agreement;

(4) Provide the subcontractor(s) with legal notice that Cobb County, Georgia, reserves the right to dismiss, or require the dismissal of, any contractor or subcontractor for failing to provide the affidavit and/or for failure to comply with the requirements referenced in the affidavit;

(5) Maintain records of such compliance and provide a copy of each such verification to Cobb County, Georgia, at the time the subcontractor(s) is retained to perform such services or upon any request from Cobb County, Georgia; and

(6) Maintain such records for a period of five (5) years.

EEV (E-Verify) Program User ID Number EEV Program Date of Authorization

BY: Authorized Officer or Agent Contractor Business Name

[Contractor Name]

Printed Name Date

SWORN AND SUBSCRIBED BEFORE ME

ON THIS THE ____ DAY OF ____________, 20

Notary Public Commission Expires:

(Effective 9/20/2013 Supersedes All Previous Versions)

SUBCONTRACTOR AFFIDAVIT & AGREEMENT

(EXHIBIT A-1)

By executing this affidavit, the undersigned subcontractor verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13- 10-91, stating affirmatively that the individual, firm or corporation which is engaged in the physical performance of services on behalf of Cobb County, Georgia, has registered with, is authorized to use, and is participating in a federal work authorization program (an electronic verification of work authorization program operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or any equivalent federal work authorization program operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to verify information of newly hired employees, pursuant to the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (IRCA)). The undersigned subcontractor further attests that it will continue to use the federal Employment Eligibility Verification (EEV) work authorization program throughout the contract period.

The undersigned further agrees that should it employ or contract with any subcontractor(s) or should its subcontractor(s) employ other subcontractor(s) for the physical performance of services pursuant to the contract with Cobb County, Georgia, the undersigned subcontractor will:

(1) Notify the County within five business days of entering into a contract or agreement for hire with any subcontractor(s);

(2) Secure from any subcontractor(s) and/or their subcontractor(s) verification of compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 on this Subcontractor Affidavit & Agreement (EXHIBIT E-2) form prior to the commencement of any work under the contract/agreement;

(3) Secure from any subcontractor(s) and/or their subcontractor(s) a completed Immigration Compliance Certification (EXHIBIT E-3) prior to the commencement of any work under the contract/agreement;

(4) Provide the subcontractor(s) with legal notice that Cobb County, Georgia, reserves the right to dismiss, or require the dismissal of, any contractor or subcontractor for failing to provide the affidavit and/or for failure to comply with the requirements referenced in the affidavit; and

(5) Maintain records of such compliance and provide a copy of each such verification to Cobb County, Georgia, at the time the subcontractor(s) is retained to perform such services or upon any request from Cobb County, Georgia; and

(6) Maintain such records for a period of five (5) years.

EEV (E-Verify) Program User ID Number EEV Program Date of Authorization

BY: Authorized Officer or Agent Subcontractor Business Name

[Subcontractor Name]

Printed Name Date

IMMIGRATION COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATION

(To be completed by Contractor and all Subcontractors)

(EXHIBIT A-2)

I certify to the Cobb County Board of Commissioners that the following employees will be assigned to:

(Project Name/Description)

I further certify to Cobb County, Georgia the following:

● The E-Verify program was used to verify the employment eligibility of each of the above-listed employees hired after the effective date of our contract to use the program;

● We have not received a Final Nonconfirmation response from E-Verify for any of the employees listed.

● If we receive a Final Nonconfirmation response from E-Verify for any of the employees listed above, we will immediately terminate that employee’s involvement with the project.

● I have confirmed that we have an I-9 on file for every employee listed above and that to the best of my knowledge all the I-9s are accurate.

● To the best of my knowledge and belief, all of the employees on the above list are legally authorized to work in the United States.

● If any other employee is assigned to this Cobb County project, a certification will be provided for said employee prior to the employee commencing work on the project.

To the best of my knowledge and belief, the above certification is true, accurate and complete.

Sworn to by: Employer Name & Address

Signature of Officer

Printed Name / Title

Date

DBE PARTICIPATION SCHEDULE

BIDDER'S COMPANY NAME:

Contract No. TBD Cobb County No. AR19

East-West Connector Corridor Improvements Study

BID DATE: October 10, 2024 TOTAL BID:

THE DBE GOAL ON THIS CONTRACT IS: XX%

I PROPOSE TO UTILIZE THE FOLLOWING DBE CONTRACTORS:

VENDOR

NUMBER

DBE NAME/

ADDRESS (CITY, STATE) TYPE OF WORK

*WORK

CODE Race Neutral Race Conscious

AMOUNT

TOTAL

*For Departmental use only. Do not fill in Work codes.

PLEASE NOTE: Only 60 % of the participation of a DBE Supplier who does not manufacture or install the product will be counted toward the goal. See below for further instructions.

State of Georgia

County of Cobb

Affidavit

Regarding Non-Debarment, Suspension, and/or Ineligibility

(Executive Order 12549 and Executive Order 12689)

Affiant, being over the age of 18, makes the following statements under oath or affirmation:

1.

Affiant is the <title> and duly authorized representative of <vendor’s legal name> (“Contractor”) and Affiant possesses the capacity, knowledge, and legal authority to make this Affidavit on behalf of Affiant and on behalf of Contractor.

2.

For purposes of this Affidavit, “Contractor” includes all persons or firms associated with Contractor in the capacity as owner, partner, director, officer, and/or manager.

3.

To the best of Affiant’s knowledge and belief, Contractor (check all that apply):

Is not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any Federal department or agency.

Has not, within a three-year period preceding this bid or proposal, been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against it for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (federal, state or local) transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of federal or state antitrust statues or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property.

Is not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (federal, state or local) with the commission of any offenses enumerated above.

Has not, within the past three years had one or more public transactions (federal, state or local) terminated for cause or default.

4.

Affiant acknowledges that Cobb County is relying upon the veracity of this Affidavit in potentially awarding a contract utilizing federal dollars, which is subject to federal laws and regulations on debarment and suspension.

5.

If Affiant later becomes aware of any information contradicting the above statements, Affiant acknowledges the responsibility to promptly provide such information to Cobb County.

<Name of Affiant> Date

Sworn or affirmed and signed before me on ____ day of _______________, 20__.

My commission expires: