Ferguson Avenue Study RFP

110 East State STREET, P. O. BOX 8246

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA 31412-8246

Phone 912-651-1440 www.thempc.org

Date: May 1, 2026

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSALS

RFP NO. 2026-01

PI NO. 0021573

Qualified Proposers are invited to submit sealed proposals, subject to conditions and instructions as specified, for the furnishing of:

FERGUSON AVENUE STUDY FROM DIAMOND CAUSEWAY TO SKIDAWAY

ROAD

All Proposers must be prequalified by the Georgia Department of Transportation

(GDOT).

GENERAL SCOPE The Chatham County – Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) on behalf of the

Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (CORE MPO) and Chatham County is requesting proposals to provide Engineering Design Consultant Services for the FERGUSON

AVENUE STUDY, FROM DIAMOND CAUSEWAY TO SKIDAWAY ROAD.

The Study will evaluate the Ferguson Avenue corridor to determine the feasibility of incorporating pedestrian and bicycle facilities while maintaining roadway safety and functionality. The approximately 2.3-mile minor arterial connects residential areas, schools, and commercial destinations and currently experiences pedestrian safety concerns and gaps in multimodal infrastructure. The Study will assess existing and future capacity, operations, and safety conditions from Diamond Causeway to Skidaway Road using updated traffic counts, projections, and crash data, with consideration for access management and operational improvements. The analysis will include freight, commuter, and local traffic, as well as pedestrian and bicycle (active transportation) conditions. It will also evaluate tree canopy, environmental context, safety trends, and roadway features such as drainage and utility constraints. Anticipated regional growth will also be considered. The result will be a multimodal, pedestrian-focused, and freight supportive improvement strategy that enhances safety, improves drainage, preserves the tree canopy, and supports overall corridor mobility.

DUE DATE June 1, 2026 - 5:00 PM (Eastern)

Proposals must be received, and date/time stamped on or before the due date by the MPC, located at 110 East State Street, Savannah, Georgia, 31401. Late submissions shall not be accepted.

Chatham County – Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission

INSTRUCTIONS

TO OBTAIN RFP

SPECIFICATIONS

THIS SHEET DOES NOT REPRESENT RFP SPECIFICATIONS

If interested in receiving a complete copy of the specifications, please go to our website at https://www.thempc.org/Core/RFP2026. To receive RFP specifications by mail, please complete the information below and mail to MPC, Attn: Kieron Coffield, Administrative Assistant.

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Company Name Attention of:

Complete Mailing or Delivery Address

Email Phone Number Fax Number

Specifications may also be picked up from the MPC’s offices between 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday.

COMMUNICATION ONCE AN RFP HAS BEEN ISSUED

All questions, clarifications and communication concerning this solicitation shall be submitted in writing via e-mail to the Executive Director & CEO of the MPC (hereafter referenced as EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO). MPC will not orally or telephonically address any question or clarification regarding specifications or procedures. If a Proposer visits or calls MPC with such questions, he or she will be instructed to submit the questions in writing.

All contact concerning this solicitation unless otherwise directed shall be made through the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO. Firms shall not contact department heads or staff persons with questions about the solicitation. You must submit the written question to the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO through Kieron Coffield at coffieldk@thempc.org. If it is necessary that a technical question be addressed, the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO will place an addendum containing all questions and written responses on the MPC’s website, https://www.thempc.org/Core/RFP2026. The EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO will not respond individually to questions.

If it becomes necessary to revise any part of this solicitation, a written addendum will be posted on the website. It is the responsibility of each firm to review the MPC website for any new information that is posted.

The MPC is not bound by any oral representations, clarifications, or changes made to the written specifications by MPC staff, unless such clarification or change is provided in written addendum posted on the website from the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO.

Any request by firms after a solicitation has been opened and pending award must also be submitted in writing to the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO.

CHATHAM COUNTY – SAVANNAH

METROPOLITAN PLANNING COMMISSION

QUESTIONS/CLARIFICATION FORM

DATE:

TO: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO, through Kieron Coffield, Administrative Assistant Email coffieldk@thempc.org

RE: RFP NO. 2026-01

PI NO. 0021573

Ferguson Avenue Study

I have the following concerns/questions about the specifications:

(Add additional pages as necessary)

From:

Company Name Website

Representative Email Address

Complete Address City State Zip Code

Telephone Number Fax Number

CHATHAM COUNTY – SAVANNAH

METROPOLITAN PLANNING COMMISSION

GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Chatham County – Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) on behalf of the Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (CORE MPO) and Chatham County is requesting proposals to provide Engineering Design Consultant Services for the FERGUSON AVENUE STUDY, FROM DIAMOND CAUSEWAY TO SKIDAWAY ROAD. Proposer must be a prequalified firm with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).

The MPC intends to award a contract for work by the end of September 2026 with a completion date of no later than September 30, 2028. MPC anticipates that available funds for the project will be no more than $200,000. Any contract award for this project is contingent upon MPC receiving the adequate funds from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).

A. PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL DATE:

All consulting services will be procured using competitive sealed proposals. THE SEALED PROPOSALS ARE DUE at the location below on: JUNE 1, 2026, NO LATER THAN 5:00 PM (Eastern Time). Submit five (5) paper copies of the proposal and one (1) electronic copy in PDF format. For proper identification, the firm’s complete name and address shall appear on the exterior of the proposal package.

The proposal shall be hand delivered or mailed to the following address:

The Chatham County – Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission RE: RFP No. 2026-01, Ferguson Avenue Study RFP

Mail: P.O. Box 8246 Savannah, Georgia 31412-8246

Delivery: 110 East State Street

Savannah, Georgia 31401

If the proposal does not reach the MPC on or before June 1, 2026 at 5:00 PM, the proposal shall not be considered and shall be returned to the firm unopened. It is the firm’s responsibility to ensure the proposal is mailed or delivered and received by the due date and time. The MPC shall not be held responsible for proposals delayed by the US Mail or any other courier.

The MPC shall not be held liable for any expenses incurred by the Proposer in preparing and submitting its proposal and/or attendance at any presentations, final contract negotiations or applicable site visits. The MPC reserves the right to award this project or to reject any and all proposals; whichever is in the best interest of the MPC.

B. RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS:

Unless otherwise stated in the technical specifications of the RFP, the MPC will accept one, and only one, proposal per firm. In the event a team of firms is entering into a joint venture to respond to the RFP, one firm shall be named the prime contractor, and the proposal shall be submitted in the name of the prime contractor. All correspondence concerning the RFP will be between MPC and the prime contractor.

C. SUBCONTRACTING:

Should the firm intend to subcontract all, or any part, of the work specified, name(s) and address(es) of subcontractor(s) must be provided in the proposal response. The firm shall be responsible for all subcontractors’ full compliance with the requirements of the RFP specifications. If awarded the contract, payments will only be made to the firms submitting the proposal. The MPC shall not be responsible for payments to subcontractors.

D. QUESTIONS ABOUT THE RFP:

Communication concerning any proposal currently advertised must take place in writing and addressed to the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO. For more information, please see page titled “COMMUNICATION ONCE AN RFP HAS BEEN ISSUED” within this solicitation package.

E. PUBLIC INFORMATION:

All information and materials submitted will become the property of the MPC; and shall be subject to the provisions of the Georgia open records law. If awarded the contract, applicable sections of the proposal submission will be included as part of the contract documents and filed, as public record, with the MPC.

F. ADDENDA:

The firm shall include acknowledgment of receipt of addenda (if any) in their sealed proposal. The firm should include an initialed copy of each addendum in the proposal package. It is the firm’s responsibility to contact MPC for copies of addenda if they receive the proposal document from any source other than the MPC.

G. SELECTION PROCESS:

The members of the MPC Proposal Review Committee shall evaluate all proposals received based upon the criteria stated in the RFP. The Proposal Review Committee will consist of transportation planning professionals from the CORE MPO Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC) and Chatham County. Each Committee member shall grade each submitted proposal based upon the evaluation criteria. The Proposal Review Committee may recommend at least the three (3) highest ranked firms to the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO to be invited to make presentations. The Proposal Review Committee will evaluate the firms’ presentations and provide a final ranking and recommendation to the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO.

H. NEGOTIATION:

After proposals have been evaluated, negotiations may begin with the highest ranked firm.

To facilitate negotiations, the firm may be asked to submit detailed scope and fee proposals or hourly rates at the request of the Proposal Review Committee. The EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO shall consider the estimated value, scope, and complexity of the nature of services required. The EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO will negotiate a contract price with the highest ranked firm. Should such negotiations fail to reach an agreement, the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO will close those negotiations and open negotiations with the next highest ranked firm. Should this process not yield an agreement, the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO will begin negotiations with the third firm in order of their ranking. The EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO shall continue negotiations in accordance with this section until an agreement is reached with a qualified firm. If negotiations with the third firm does not yield an agreement, the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO has the option to cancel the solicitation and reopen the RFP process.

I. CONTRACT AWARD:

Each proposal is received with the understanding that an acceptance in writing by the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO of the offer to furnish any or all of the services and materials described will constitute an offer to enter into a contract between the firm and MPC. The negotiated contract shall bind the firm to furnish and deliver the services and materials quoted, at the prices stated and in accordance with the terms of said contract. The contract file shall contain all negotiation results and the basis on which the award is made.

After negotiations have resulted in an agreement with the highest ranked firm, a contract based on the negotiated terms will be drafted and submitted to the MPC’s Planning Commission for approval and execution by all necessary parties.

It is agreed that the successful firm will not assign, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of the contract or its right, title or interest in or to the same, or any part thereof, without previous written consent of the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO.

J. NON-COLLUSION:

The firm affirms that the proposal has not been made in connection with any other firm submitting a proposal for the same commodity or commodities, and that the proposal is bona fide and is in all respects fair and without collusion or fraud.

K. INDEMNITY:

The successful firm agrees, by entering into a contract, to defend, indemnify and hold MPC harmless from any and all claims, liability, losses and causes of action arising from or under the contract.

The successful firm hereby agrees to indemnify, hold free and harmless the MPC, it’s agents, servants, employees, officers, directors and elected officials or any other person(s) against any loss or expense including attorneys’ fees, by reason of any liability imposed by law upon MPC, except in cases of MPC’s sole gross negligence, for damage because of bodily injury, including death at any time during the term of the contract sustained by any person or persons, on or account of damage to property arising out of or in the work performed under the contract. It is further understood and agreed that the firm shall (at the option of the MPC) defend the MPC with appropriate counsel and shall further bear all costs and expenses, including expenses of counsel, in the defense of any suit or legal action arising hereunder.

L. SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTIONS:

The specifications detailed herein represent the quality of the services required by the MPC. Whenever in this solicitation any particular process, service or equipment is indicated or specified by patent, proprietary or brand name of manufacturer/developer/inventor, such wording will be deemed to be used for the purpose of facilitating descriptions of the process, service or equipment desired by the MPC. It is not meant to eliminate offerors or restrict competition in any RFP process. Proposals that are equivalent or surpass stated specifications will be considered. Determination of equivalency shall rest solely with the MPC.

M. TAXES:

The MPC is exempt from State Retail Tax. The costs proposed for the RFP shall be exclusive of taxes. Tax Exemption No. 6541648-IV, GA Code Sec. 48-8-3, Federal ID No.

586005252.

N. DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE:

In compliance with Federal and State Drug Free Workplace Acts, the MPC has adopted a drug free Workplace Policy. Consequently, any firm providing goods or services to the MPC must comply with all applicable Federal and State Drug Free Workplace Acts.

O. FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL LAWS:

All firms shall comply with all Federal, State and Local laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations relative to conducting business in Savannah, Georgia and performing the prescribed service. Ignorance on the part of the firm shall not, in any way, relieve the firm from responsibility for compliance with said laws and regulations or any of the provisions of these documents.

P. INSURANCE:

All firms shall maintain, and if requested, show proof of insurance applicable for services described in these specifications under “General Requirements, Section II, Insurance” of this RFP.

Q. TERMINATION OF CONTRACT:

1. Default: If the firm refuses or fails to perform any of the provisions of the contract with such diligence as will ensure its completion within the time specified, or any extension thereof, or otherwise fails to timely satisfy the contract provisions, or commits any other substantial breach of the contract, the MPC may notify the firm in writing of the delay or nonperformance and if not cured within ten (10) days or any longer time specified in writing, the MPC may terminate the contract or such part of the contract as to which there has been delay or a failure to properly perform.

In the event of termination in whole or in part, MPC may procure similar supplies or services, from other sources, in a manner and upon terms deemed appropriate by MPC. The firm will continue performance of the contract to the extent it is not terminated and will be liable for excess costs incurred in procuring similar goods or services.

2. Compensation: Payment for completed supplies or services delivered and accepted by the MPC will be at the contract price. The MPC may withhold from amounts due the firm such sums as the MPC deems to be necessary to protect it against loss because of outstanding liens or claims of former lien holders and to reimburse MPC for the excess costs incurred in procuring similar goods and services.

3. Excuse for Nonperformance or Delayed Performance: Except with respect to defaults of subcontractors, the firm may not be held to in default by reason of any failure in performance of the contract in accordance with its terms (including any failure by the firm to make progress in the prosecution of the work thereunder which endangers such performance) if the firm has notified the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO within fifteen (15) days after the cause of the delay and the failure arises out of causes such as: acts of God; acts of public enemy; acts of the MPC and any other governmental entity in its sovereign or contractual capacity;

fires; floods; epidemics; quarantine restrictions; strikes or other labor disputes;

freight embargoes; or unusually severe weather. If the failure to perform is caused by the failure of a subcontractor to perform or to make progress, and if such failure arises out of causes similar to those set forth above, the firm may not be deemed to be in default, unless the supplies or services to be furnished by the subcontractor was reasonably obtainable from other sources in sufficient time to permit the contractor to meet the contract requirements.

Upon request of the firm, the MPC shall ascertain the facts and extent of such failure, and, if the MPC determines that any failure to perform was occasioned by anyone or more of the excusable causes, and that, but for the excusable cause, the firm’s progress and performance would have met the terms of the contract, the delivery schedule may be revised accordingly.

R. TIME FOR CONSIDERATION:

Due to the evaluation process, proposals must remain in effect for at least ninety (90) days after date of receipt.

S. REQUEST FOR EVALUATION RESULTS:

In compliance with the Georgia Open Records Act, proposals submitted, and evaluation results cannot be disclosed until after the award of the contract. After contract award, firms desiring to review documents relevant to the RFP evaluation results will be afforded an opportunity to do so by appointment.

NOTICE TO PROPOSERS

The MPC prohibits any business that is owned by any member of the Planning Commission, employs a Planning Commission member, or staff, or any business in which any member of the Planning Commission has a substantial financial interest from submitting a proposal for goods or services to the MPC.

Likewise, no business which is owned by any Chatham County employee or Commissioner, any member of any board, authority or commission, subordinate or independent entity, or any business in which any member of any board, authority or commission, subordinate or independent entity has substantial pecuniary interest may submit a proposal to MPC if such proposal pertains to the board, authority, or commission.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS PROJECT SCOPE

Ferguson Avenue Study

RFP NO. 2026-01

PI# 0021573

Background and Purpose

Ferguson Avenue, from Diamond Causeway to Skidaway Road, is an approximately 2.3-mile corridor that functions as a neighborhood-serving minor arterial connecting residential communities, schools, and commercial destinations within Chatham County. The corridor has experienced increasing safety concerns, particularly involving pedestrians, including a history of pedestrian-involved crashes and recent fatalities. Existing roadway characteristics, such as vehicle speeds, limited crossing opportunities, drainage issues, and gaps in pedestrian infrastructure, do not fully reflect the corridor’s residential context. The corridor also accommodates local freight and delivery activity while accompanying a significant tree canopy.

Ferguson Avenue has not previously been evaluated through a comprehensive, corridor-wide study.

The corridor has been identified through local and regional safety efforts as a high-priority area for improvements, particularly related to pedestrian safety and multimodal accessibility. Several planning efforts have noted the corridor such as in the Mobility 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A). They provided context for freight movement, safety, and future growth. However, these efforts do not provide a single focused evaluation of the Ferguson Avenue corridor between Diamond Causeway and Skidaway Road.

Given these conditions, a comprehensive corridor study is needed to evaluate the capacity, safety, and multimodal operations of Ferguson Avenue. This study will build upon prior regional plans and available data to develop a corridor-specific understanding of safety, operations, freight activity, and multimodal needs. The study will establish a data-driven framework to address existing deficiencies, enhance safety for all users, and guide future planning and programming efforts, including incorporation of recommended improvements into the CORE MPO’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

Previous Work

This is a new project.

Study Goals

The goal of this study is to determine the feasibility of incorporating pedestrian and bicycle facilities along Ferguson Avenue while maintaining safe and efficient roadway operations. This will be achieved through the valuation of traffic volumes, crash history, roadway characteristics, land use, freight activity, drainage conditions, and multimodal needs. Emphasis will be placed on access management and design to identify improvements for pedestrian safety, strengthen multimodal connectivity, address existing drainage issues, and preserve the existing tree canopy while minimizing conflicts with existing utilities. The study will produce a phased implementation strategy with planning-level cost estimates to support decision-making and facilitate inclusion of recommended improvements in the CORE MPO’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

Tasks and Deliverables

The work shall be broken into two phases, Project Management and Study Development.

Task 1. Project Management and Coordination

This section briefly describes the general management approach and project coordination for the study.

Project Management Plan - A Project Management Plan (PMP) needs to be prepared at the start of the project to identify work organization, program, outreach plan, responsibilities, coordination and communication procedures, team meetings, document format, report format, technical memorandum schedules, graphic production standards, and other important operational information pertaining to the team activities.

Project Schedule - The Consultant Team needs to develop a detailed project schedule which will be used to manage and disseminate project progress within the team and to CORE MPO and Chatham County. The schedule will indicate tasks, subtasks, critical dates, milestones, deliverables, and review requirements.

Quality Assurance/Quality Control Program – The Consultant Team shall develop a formal approach to quality management to ensure all products meet the high standards of quality and scope attainment.

Progress Reports - The PMP needs to outline the timing and format for progress reports. At a minimum, it will include:

Activities, ongoing or completed, during the reporting period;

Activities planned for the following quarter;

Problems encountered and actions to remedy them; and Overall status, including a tabulation of percent complete by task, management schedule showing study progress, and supporting documentation.

The Consultant Team is expected to provide quarterly invoices to the CORE MPO and Chatham County Project Managers for work completed in the prior quarter no later than the 10th day after each quarter ends. As a part of the invoice, the Consultant Team shall provide the monthly progress reports to the Project Managers.

Project Meetings and Coordination - The PMP needs to outline the timing of meetings with the CORE MPO and Chatham County Project Managers. The Consultant Team will produce the support material needed for the meetings, as well as taking all meeting notes, summarizing the discussions, and outlining decisions and action items.

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC) - the Consultant Team will develop the Ferguson Avenue Study under the guidance of and in coordination with CORE MPO’s TCC.

Outreach Efforts – in addition to coordination with TCC, the Consultant Team will need to perform extensive outreach to the various stakeholders including the Chatham County Board of Commissioners and the CORE MPO Board as outlined in a Public Outreach Plan.

Project Coordination – the PMP needs to outline the coordination work expected with other ongoing studies and projects.

Deliverables

Project Management Plan - Following an initial meeting between Chatham County, CORE MPO, and GDOT, the Consultant Team shall produce a Project Management Plan (PMP) and submit it to Chatham County and CORE MPO for review and approval within thirty (30) days of the Notice to Proceed. The PMP shall detail the personnel organization, project scope, project schedule with deliverable deadlines, project fee breakdown, quality control and assurance plan, and project controls.

Public Outreach Plan - Following an initial meeting between Chatham County, CORE MPO, and GDOT, the Consultant Team shall produce a Public Outreach Plan and submit it to Chatham County and CORE MPO for review and approval within thirty (30) days of the Notice to Proceed.

The Public Outreach Plan will identify all community groups and design the appropriate methods (community engagement, stakeholder collaboration, etc.) to get input.

Task 2. Study Development

Task 2.1 Existing Conditions Assessment

The Consultant Team shall evaluate existing conditions along Ferguson Avenue from Diamond Causeway to Skidaway Road to establish a comprehensive understanding of the corridor operations, safety, and multimodal needs. This task will evaluate existing traffic operations, existing pedestrian facilities, freight activity, and crash history of all road users to identify deficiencies, high-risk locations, and recurring patterns, with attention to pedestrians and bicyclists’ safety. Speed patterns, access conditions, and corridor context will also be evaluated to support recommendations that enhance safety while maintaining the corridor’s neighborhood-serving function.

The task shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Study Area, Corridor Characteristics, and Field Observations.

2. Traffic Operations and Multimodal Activity Analysis

3. Freight Movement Evaluation

4. Safety Crash Analysis

Deliverables: The primary deliverables from this task should be 1) an existing conditions memorandum; and 2) the project dataset consisting of compiled information in both tabular and GIS format.

Task 2.2 Future Conditions Analysis

The Consultant Team shall evaluate future (horizon year, 20+ year) conditions along the Ferguson Avenue corridor to assess long-term performance and identify anticipated needs. This task will include development of future traffic volumes using available regional models, growth projections, and land use assumptions. The analysis shall consider projected changes in vehicle demand, freight activity, and pedestrian and bicycle usage to understand impacts on corridor functionally and safety from potential decencies and operational constraints.

Deliverables: The primary deliverables from this task should be 1) a technical memorandum detailing the future conditions; and 2) data and analysis results in both tabular and GIS format.

Task 2.3 Tree Canopy and Wetland/ESAs Assessment

The Consultant Team shall evaluate the existing tree canopy and environmental conditions along the corridor to inform context-sensitive design solutions. This task will include mapping and an assessment of canopy coverage, identification of environmentally sensitive areas, including wetlands and other ecological resources, and development of strategies to protect the tree canopy during future improvements.

Deliverables: The primary deliverables from this task should be 1) a technical memorandum detailing the tree canopy and ESA assessment; and 2) the tree canopy and environmental assessment results in both tabular and GIS format.

Task 2.4 Drainage and Utility Assessment

The Consultant Team shall evaluate the existing drainage infrastructure and utility constraints to identify potential limitations and opportunities for improvements. This task will include stormwater drainage systems, drainage impact patterns, and the identification of areas with existing drainage issues. Existing utilities, including underground and overhead infrastructure, will be identified for potential conflicts with proposed pedestrian, bicycle, and roadway improvements.

The goal of this task is to determine the feasibility of implementing improvements while addressing drainage needs and minimizing utility conflicts.

Deliverables: The primary deliverables from this task should be 1) a technical memorandum detailing the drainage and utility assessment report; and 2) the drainage features and utility constraints in both tabular and GIS format.

Task 2.5 Community Analysis and Public Outreach

The Study shall include identification of underserved and vulnerable populations along the Ferguson Avenue corridor and evaluate potential disparities in safety, accessibility, and mobility.

The Consultant Team shall also conduct and implement a public outreach strategy to engage stakeholders, gather community input, and incorporate data and feedback obtained through outreach ensuring the study recommendations reflect local needs and priorities.

Deliverables: The primary deliverables for this task should be 1) a technical memorandum summarizing the community analysis and public outreach efforts; and 2) the community analysis findings in both tabular and GIS format.

Task 2.6 Alternatives Development

The Consultant Team shall develop conceptual improvement alternatives that address identified deficiencies and support the study goals. Alternatives will incorporate multimodal and pedestrian-focused improvements, freight-compatible design considerations, and context-sensitive roadway concepts. Conceptual layouts, typical sections, and design strategies will be developed with an emphasis on safety, avoiding utility conflicts, accessibility, and preservation of the existing tree canopy.

Deliverables: The primary deliverables from this task should be 1) a technical memorandum detailing the various alternatives; and 2) the concept drawings for the alternatives in paper and digital format.

Task 2.7 Recommendations and Cost Estimates

The Consultant Team will produce a final, detailed set of recommendations that identifies and prioritizes short-term (0–5 years), mid-term (6–10 years), and long-term (10+ years) projects to improve safety, operations, and multimodal accessibility along the Ferguson Avenue corridor. The Study will help justify the future programming of projects in the CORE MPO’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

The Consultant Team shall also provide cost estimates for all recommended improvements.

Recommendations shall reflect existing and future land use patterns and enhance overall corridor functionality along Ferguson Avenue.

Deliverables: The primary deliverables from this task should be 1) a technical memorandum detailing the infrastructure improvements and land use recommendations; and 2) a table summarizing recommended improvements and their cost estimates.

Task 2.8 Final Report

The Consultant Team shall provide a final comprehensive report consisting of the necessary technical detail that includes study findings and recommendations as well as a concise Executive Summary and compilation of all task deliverables. The Consultant Team will be responsible for an electronic version of the report suitable for printing and inclusion on the website.

The Consultant Team will also provide an implementation plan that outlines how the Study recommendations will be incorporated into the CORE MPO’s MTP and TIP (infrastructure recommendations) as well local plans and ordinances (land use recommendations) and outline the role of all stakeholders involved.

Deliverables:

A final report and documentation, executive summary.

ESTIMATED PROJECT BUDGET

$200,000

ESTIMATED SCHEDULE

The anticipated completion date of the Ferguson Avenue Study is no later than September 30, 2028.

Schedule

Request for Proposals Announced: 5/1/2026

Deadline to Submit Questions: 5/15/2026 Deadline to Respond to Submitted

Questions

5/22/2026

Deadline for Submittal of Proposal: 6/1/2026

Proposal Review 6/8/2026 – 7/6/2026

Interviews (week of): 7/20/2026 (subject to confirmation) Consultant Selection and Notification

(week of):

8/24/2026 (subject to confirmation)

Project Start - End: 10/1/2026 – 9/30/2028

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

I. FIRM QUALIFICATIONS

The firm (and subcontractors) shall be GDOT pre-qualified, demonstrate knowledge and experience, and shall not be debarred from working on any federally funded contract.

II. INSURANCE

The firm shall provide a Certificate of Insurance for each category listed below and carry each in force if awarded this contract for the duration of the project:

(1) General liability property damage insurance

(2) General liability bodily injury insurance

(3) Automotive/truck insurance covering all owned, hired, and non-owned vehicles used in the project

(4) Workman's compensation insurance

(5) Employer's liability insurance

(6) Professional Liability Insurance ($1,500,000 per occurrence)

III. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

The firm shall be an independent contractor and not an employee of MPC or Chatham County.

IV. PROPOSAL PREPARATION AND SUBMISSION

The complete proposal shall contain the following information and shall be submitted in the order shown below. Please address each section in your proposal submission and divide each section of your proposal with identifying tabs.

A firm who submits a proposal that does not address each of the sections specified below will be deemed non-responsive, and the proposal submission deemed incomplete.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PROPOSAL

Section 1: Transmittal Letter (1 page)

Transmittal letter on company letterhead shall introduce the firm, provide a brief history, describe the ownership, include complete address, phone, and fax numbers, and include the name and email address of contact person (s) during this RFP process. An authorized agent must sign the transmittal letter.

Section 2: Firm’s Qualifications/Experience of Key Personnel (2 pages)

Submit statements or evidence that demonstrate the knowledge and experience of the firm in the development of corridor studies described in the RFP scope. The proposed project personnel should have similar experience, preferably as a team. An organizational chart displaying duties of team members shall be included.

Section 3: Project Understanding (5 pages)

Provide a written description of how your firm proposes to complete the Ferguson Avenue Study for the MPC and Chatham County. The description must be consistent with the scope of work or explain why it is different and beneficial.

The Project Understanding section should not exceed five (5) pages in length, including any illustrations, and should include an overview of how the firm proposes to complete the project.

The Project Understanding section should outline the project tasks or elements and a time schedule for completion of each task and the entire project.

Section 4: Insurance and Certification (2 pages)

Provide proof of insurance as per “General Requirements, Section II, Insurance” and complete attached affidavit found in Appendix I indicating that the firm is qualified to do work in Georgia and not debarred from working on a Federally funded contract.

Section 5: References (2 pages)

The firm shall provide a list of at least five (5) client references for which similar services have been performed. Reference information shall include entity name, address, description of services provided, contact name, telephone number, and fax number. The firm shall identify any client relationships that may be in conflict with the successful completion of this project.

Section 6: Resumes (up to 20 pages)

The firm shall include resumes of all proposed project team members up to 20 pages.

Section 7: Notice of Non-Discrimination (1 page)

The firm shall submit the Notice of Non-Discrimination found in Appendix II with their proposal.

V. RFP EVALUATION

The evaluation and selection process will involve reviewing the proposals and conducting in-person presentations with the finalist firms. The written proposal is the only measurement that will be used to identify firms that will be invited to make a presentation. The Proposal Review Committee will evaluate the proposals and make a recommendation to the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO regarding the short-listed firms and ranked to be invited to make a presentation. Proposals and presentations will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Criteria Weight

Proposal/Presentation A. Comprehensively demonstrates the firm has the knowledge and experience to address the scope of work. The proposed project personnel should have similar experience, preferably as a team. The quality of references will also be a factor in determining selection. Team members must also show availability to this project.

40%

B. Demonstrates understanding of the scope of work and local factors. Shows how the firm proposes to approach and complete the project. Shows an implementable outline of project tasks or elements and a time schedule for completion of each task and the entire project.

40%

C. Demonstrates how the firm will meet the Ferguson Avenue Study development schedule.

20%

Each of the above criteria (A-C) will be given a rating of 1 through 5 by each member of the Proposal Evaluation Committee. The ratings are as follows:

RATING

1 Poor 2 Fair 3 Average 4 Good 5 Excellent

The proposal score will be used to determine those invited for a presentation. The presentation will be scored based on its own merit aside from the original proposal score.

After the review and rating of proposals and presentations, team proposal and presentation scores will be combined based upon a weighting of 50% for the written proposal and 50% for the presentation. Firms will be ranked in descending order of numerical predominance.

Appendix I Affidavit of Certification

CERTIFICATION FORM

I, __________________________, being duly sworn, state that I am ______________________(title) of ________ ___________________________________(firm) and hereby duly certify that I have read and understand the information presented in the attached proposal and any enclosure and exhibits thereto.

I further certify that to the best of my knowledge the information given in response to the Request for Proposals is full, complete, and truthful.

I further certify that the proposer and any principal employee of the proposer has not, in the immediately preceding five (5) years, been convicted of any crime of moral turpitude or any felony offense, nor has had their professional license suspended, revoked, or been subjected to disciplinary proceedings.

I further certify that the proposer has not, in the immediately preceding five (5) years, been suspended, or debarred from contracting with any federal, state, or local government agency, and further, that the proposer is not now under consideration for suspension or debarment from any such agency.

I further certify that the proposer has not in the immediately preceding five (5) years been defaulted in any federal, state, or local government agency contract, and further, that the proposer is not now under any notice of intent to default on any such contract.

I further certify that the proposer is a prequalified firm with the Georgia Department of Transportation

(GDOT).

I acknowledge, agree, and authorize, and certify that the proposer acknowledges, agrees, and authorizes, that the Chatham County – Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) may, by means that either deems appropriate, determine the accuracy and truth of the information provided by the proposer and that the MPC may contact any individual or entity named in the Statement of Qualifications for the purpose of verifying the information supplied therein.

I acknowledge and agree that all of the information contained in the Statement of Qualifications is submitted for the express purpose of inducing the MPC to award a contract.

A materially false statement or omission made in conjunction with this proposal is sufficient cause for suspension or debarment from further contracts, or denial of rescission of any contract entered into based upon this proposal thereby precluding the firm from doing business with, or performing work for, the State of Georgia. In addition, such false statement or omission may subject the person and entity making the proposal to criminal prosecution under the laws of the State of Georgia of the United States, including but not limited to O.C.G.A. §16-10-20, 18 U.S.C. §§1001 or 1341.

Signature

Sworn and subscribed before me

This _____ day of ________, 20___.

NOTARY PUBLIC

NOTARY SEAL

My Commission Expires: _________________

Appendix II Notice of Non-Discrimination

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

The proposer certifies that:

(1) No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefit of, or otherwise discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, or gender in connection with any proposal submitted to the Metropolitan Planning Commission or the performance of any contract resulting there from;

(2) That it is and shall be the policy of this Company to provide equal opportunity to all businesspersons seeking to contract or otherwise interested in contracting with this Company, including those companies owned and controlled by racial minorities, cultural minorities, and women;

(3) In connection herewith, we acknowledge and warrant that this Company has been made aware of, understands, and agrees to take affirmative action to provide such companies with the maximum practicable opportunities to do business with this Company;

(4) That this promise of non-discrimination as made and set forth herein shall be continuing in nature and shall remain in full force and effect without interruption;

(5) That the promises of non-discrimination as made and set forth herein shall be and are hereby deemed to be made as part of and incorporated by reference into any contract or portion thereof which this Company may hereafter obtain and;

(6) That the failure of this Company to satisfactorily discharge any of the promises of nondiscrimination as made and set forth herein shall constitute a material breach of contract entitling the Metropolitan Planning Commission to declare the contract in default and to exercise any and all applicable rights and remedies including but not limited to cancellation of the contract, termination of the contract, suspension and debarment from future contracting opportunities, and withholding and or forfeiture of compensation due and owing on a contract.

Signature Title

Company Date

NOTARY PUBLIC

NOTARY SEAL

My Commission Expires: _________________