RFP2025-06 LIBRARY ENGINEERING FIRM.pdf

County of Mercer McDade Administration Building, 640 South Broad Street

P.O. Box 8068, Trenton, NJ 08650-0068

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR

A QUALIFIED ENGINEERING FIRM TO PROVIDE BID & PERMIT READY

DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION

MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR WEST WINDSOR BRANCH LIBRARY

This project is being supported, in whole, by federal award number SLFRP4580 awarded to the

County of Mercer by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

To Be Received On

April 3,2025 at 11:30 A.M.

Prepared By:

Department of Purchasing

RFP2025-06

NOTICE OF SOLICITATION

Exempt Services

The County of Mercer is soliciting proposals through a fair and open process in accordance with

N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4 et seq.

Notice is hereby given that on April 3, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. (Prevailing time), electronically sealed bids will be opened and conducted in electronic platform in accord with N.J.A.C. 5:34-1 et. Seq., on BidNet Direct at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-jersey/mercercounty at which time and place the sealed bids will be opened publicly and read via live stream by the Purchasing Agent in the 640 S. Broad Street, Room 321, Trenton, New Jersey 08611 for:

RFP2025-06

A QUALIFIED ENGINEERING FIRM TO PROVIDE BID & PERMIT READY DRAWINGS

AND SPECIFICATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR WEST

WINDSOR BRANCH LIBRARY

NOTE:

It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that the bid package is uploaded by the bid opening date and time. Any bid document received after the deadline established by the Department of

Purchasing will not be accepted, regardless of the method of delivery. Bid documents may be obtained from the bid platform BidNet Direct at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-jersey/mercercounty.

BID/RFP SUBMISSIONS:

Bids shall be electronically uploaded through the BidNet Direct portal, no physical bids shall be received, opened or honored. Please contact BidNet for any questions or assistance with electronic bid submission 1800-835-4603 Option 2.

BID OPENING INFORMATION

Webinar link/password will be posted in a timely manner for the Live-Stream of opening a couple days before the bid opening date. During the bid opening process, the bidders will be announced as well as bid amounts. A bid review providing unit prices will not take place at the openings.

Any addenda will be issued on the BidNet website https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-jersey/mercercounty and processed in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:11-23(c)(1). All interested bidders should check the website from now through bid opening. It is the sole responsibility of the respondent to be knowledgeable of all addenda related to this procurement.

Respondents must comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A.10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27.

Mercer County, NEW JERSEY

Purchasing Department

609.989.6710

NOTICE OF SOLICITATION

REGISTER TO DO BUSINESS WITH THE County

The County is now using BidNet Direct as its electronic bidding service. All new bid opportunities will now be posted and available on the BidNet website.

REGISTER: https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-jersey/mercercounty

Registration with BidNet® is available at NO CHARGE and allows proposers access to view governmental bids posted on BidNet®; they offer an additional notification service option with an associated fee. It is the responsibility of the proposer to evaluate and select the service option of their choice.

Need assistance registering on the BidNet platform? Please follow:

http://www.mercercounty.org/home/showdocument?id=19770 or please contact BidNet's Vendor Support Department at 800-835-4603, Option 2.

*Please note registration is free to view, print, download and submit bids electronically for the City/County.

http://www.mercercounty.org/home/showdocument?id=19770

COUNTY OF MERCER

RESPONDENT DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

The following checklist is provided for the development of your Response. It in no way supersedes or replaces the requirements of the Bid/RFP. Please initial on the lines below for each document/section attesting to the fact that you have read and/or included the documents with your response.

Required

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS (IF CHECKED)

Initial

I. RESPONSE DOCUMENTATION – PROVIDE & SIGN

1. Acknowledgement of Receipt of Addenda

2. Qualification Cost Form/Signature Page

3. Pricing Consideration Hold / Continuity of Operation during Emergencies

4. SAM.gov / Non-Debarment Self-Certification Form

5. Insurance Requirements

6. References

7. Previous Experience

II. STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS – PROVIDE & SIGN

A. Required Evidence EEO/Affirmative Action Regulations Certificate or

Questionnaire- Submit Copy of State Certificate of Employee Information

Report

B. American with Disabilities Act of 1990

C. Statement of Ownership

D. Proof of Business Registration - New Jersey Business Registration Certificate

H. Non-Collusion Affidavit

I. Disclosure of Investment Activities in Iran

J. Federal Lobbying Certification & Disclosure

K. Signed Insurance and Indemnification Requirements

L. Assurances of Compliance with Title VI

M. Reporting Subaward and Executive Compensation Information

N. NJ Conscientious Employee Protection (Whistleblower) Act

O. Drug-Free Workplace

Q. Certification of Non-Involvement in Prohibited Activities in Russia or Belarus

III. REQUIRED READ ONLY DOCUMENTS – initialing acknowledges that you have read and will comply with the following:

ARPA Contract Provisions

Increasing Seat-Belt Usage & Reducing Text Messaging While Driving

Sexual Harassment Guidelines

Immigration and Naturalization Laws and Criminal Background Check

Feasibility Study completed for West Windsor Library

West Windsor Scope of Work

I CERTIFY THAT I HAVE REVIEWED THE QUALIFICATIONS CHECKLIST AND COMPLETED OR PROVIDED

ALL REQUESTED DOCUMENTS AND INITIALED TO INDICATE UNDERSTANDING OF COMPLIANCE

REQUIREMENTS.

Name of Respondent: Date:

By Authorized Representative:

Signature:

Print Name & Title:

1. INTRODUCTION

The County seeks proposals for: A QUALIFIED ENGINEERING FIRM TO PROVIDE BID & PERMIT READY

DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR WEST

WINDSOR BRANCH LIBRARY licensed to practice in the State of New Jersey. The County holds the right to award multiple contracts.

On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the U.S. Senate-amended H.R. 1319 (P.L. 117-2) known as the American Rescue Plan Act (hereinafter “ARPA”) and on May 10, 2021, the U.S.

Treasury issued the Interim Final Rule and on January 6, 2022, issued the Final Rule to implement

ARPA in Title 31, Part 35 of the Code of Federal Regulations (“CFR”). Under ARPA Section 603

(c)(1)(C) and the Interim Final Rule 31 CFR 35.6(b)(3) and (4) recipients may use Coronavirus

State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (“SLFRF”) for capital expenditures that help to address prevention of future viral or health disasters and to prepare for future emergencies.

The County has been awarded funds by the U.S. Department of the Treasury (“Treasury”) which are distributed to the County from ARPA for covered costs and eligible expenses to be incurred during the period which began on March 3, 2021 (the date ARPA became law) until December

31, 2024 (to be expended by December 31, 2026). The County has determined that it is in the best interest of the County to invest in HAVC and roof repairs to the Library – as it is used as a central location for the dissemination of information, as cooling or heating centers, as emergency shelters and (during the COVID-19 pandemic and for possible future, similar emergencies) as a location to disburse PPE and vaccinations.

2. ADMINISTRATIVE CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

The following items express the administrative conditions and requirements of the RFP. They will apply to the RFP process, the subsequent contract and the project’s production. Any proposed change, modification, or exception to these conditions and requirements may be the basis for the County to determine the qualification as non-responsive to the RFP and will be a factor in the determination of an award of contract. The contents of the qualification of the successful respondent, as accepted by the County will become part of any contract awarded as a result of this RFP.

2.1 SCHEDULE

A schedule has been established for respondent qualifications, qualification review, contractor selection, project initiation and completion. The following dates have been established:

RELEASE: March 17,2025

SITE VISIT (optional): March 20,2025 at 9:00 A.M. at the West Windsor Branch Library; a site visit is not a mandatory requirement, but it is strongly recommended. Failure to attend does not relieve the respondent of any obligations or requirements.

ALL QUESTIONS BY: March 25, 2025, via email to imaldonado@mercercounty.org by 4pm

QUESTIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE DEADLINE WILL HAVE NO BEARING ON THE RFP

SUBMISSIONS OPENED: April 3,2025 at 11:30 A.M.

2.2 QUALIFICATION SUBMISSION INFORMATION

2.2.1 Challenge of Specifications

Any consultant who wishes to challenge a specification shall file such challenge in writing.

2.2.2 Plan Review and Construction Documents Signed and Sealed

Architects and Engineers shall forward final drawings and specifications to the respective

State Agency or Municipal Building Official for approval prior to bid. Engineers and

Architects shall provide the required number of specifications and drawings for bid to the mailto:imaldonado@mercercounty.org

Purchasing Agent. All construction bid documents shall be signed and sealed prior to release for bid in one of two ways:

1. Sign and date the original documents, including tracings, reproducible drawings or those generated electronically, then affix the seal to opaque prints or reproductions of the originals; or

2. In lieu of signing and dating the original documents, sign, date, and seal the opaque copies of the originals.

All certifications that amend or clarify or modify construction documents prepared by the architect or engineer in responsible charge shall be dated, signed (hand written signature) and sealed prior to forwarding to a public agency. An engineer or architect shall seal documents only with seal presses. Bidding plans and construction plans are one in the same and must be signed and sealed prior to the issuance to prospective bidders.

2.2.3 Professional Service Contracts for Construction and Specifications

Specifications shall not reference "pre-approval" or "pre-qualification" of an equivalent product prior to the submission of bids.

Specifications for a contract item may include a specific manufacturer's brand and model number or equivalent. The product brand or brands referenced in the specifications shall be restricted to one brand produced or manufactured by a multi-brand commercial products manufacturer.

Consultants are prohibited from specifying a product line in which such consultant has an affiliation. As such, there shall be no affiliation between the consultant and product manufacturers referenced in the specifications, nor shall the consultant endorse those companies or manufacturers referenced in the specifications.

2.2.4 Engineer’s Unit Price Estimate

The engineer’s unit price is the cornerstone of the project estimate. The entire project is divided into small discrete work items, and a “unit price” is established for each item. The unit price is then multiplied by the required quantity to find the cost for the work item. All costs are summed to obtain the total Estimated Construction Cost. For example, the cost to erect a masonry wall can be accurately determined by finding the number of bricks required and estimating all costs related to delivering, storing, staging, cutting, installing, and cleaning the brick, along with related units of accessories, such as, reinforcing ties, weepholes, flashings, etc. Unit Pricing Estimating within the CSI MasterFormat™ is the most accurate means of ascertaining costs based on materials and labor content.

2.4 ISSUING REPRESENTATIVE FOR THIS SOLICITATION

Ms. Isamar Maldonado, QPA, Purchasing Agent

Please send all questions via in writing to imaldonado@mercercounty.org.

2.5 INTERPRETATIONS AND ADDENDA

Consultants are expected to examine the RFP with care and observe all its requirements. All questions about the meaning or intent of this RFP, all interpretations and clarifications considered necessary by the owner’s representative in response to such comments and questions will be issued by formal written Addenda will be binding. Oral interpretations, statements or clarifications are without legal effect.

2.6 LOCATION OF SERVICING OFFICE

mailto:imaldonado@mercercounty.org

The qualification must list the location and address of the present, active office that will service and manage this contract.

2.7 QUANTITIES OF ESTIMATE

Wherever the estimated quantities of work to be done are shown in any section of this RFP, including the qualification Cost Form, they are given for use in comparing qualifications. The owner reserves the right (except as herein otherwise specifically limited) to increase or diminish the quantities as may be deemed reasonably necessary or desirable by the owner to complete the work detailed by the contract. Such increase or diminution shall in no way violate this contract, nor shall any such increase or diminution give cause for claims or liability for damages.

2.8 COST LIABILITY AND ADDITIONAL COSTS

The owner assumes no responsibility and liability for costs incurred by the Respondents prior to the issuance of an agreement. The liability of the owner shall be limited to the terms and conditions of the contract. Respondents will assume responsibility for all costs not stated in their qualifications.

All unit rates either stated in the qualification or used as a basis for its pricing are required to be all-inclusive. Additional charges, unless incurred for additional work performed by request of the owner, are not to be billed and will not be paid.

2.9 STATUTORY AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Any contract entered into between the contractor and the owner must be in accordance with and subject to compliance by both parties with the New Jersey Local Public Contracts Law. The contractor must agree to comply with the non-discrimination provisions and all other laws and regulations applicable to the performance of services there under. The respondent shall sign and acknowledge such forms and certificates as may be required by this section.

2.9.1 MANDATORY AFFIRMATIVE ACTION COMPLIANCE

No firm may be issued a contract unless it complies with the Affirmative Action requirements of P. L. 1975, C. 127 as identified in the documents attached hereto. The form shall be properly executed.

2.9.2 AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990

Discrimination on the basis of disability in contracting for the delivery of services is prohibited.

Respondents are required to read American with Disabilities language that is part of the documents attached hereto and agree that the provisions of Title II of the Act are made part of the contract. The contractor is obligated to comply with the Act and hold the owner harmless.

2.9.3 STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

See form in Appendix II

2.9.4 PROOF OF BUSINESS REGISTRATION

See guidance in Appendix II

2.9.5 NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

The Non-Collusion Affidavit, which is part of this RFP, shall be properly executed and submitted with the RFP response.

2.9.6 PAY TO PLAY

Starting in January, 2007, business entities are advised of their responsibility to file an annual disclosure statement of political contributions with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement

Commission (ELEC) pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.27 if they receive contracts in excess of

$50,000 from public entities in a calendar year. Business entities are responsible for determining if filing is necessary. Additional information on this requirement is available from ELEC at 888-

313-3532 or at www.elec.state.nj.us.

http://www.elec.state.nj.us/

2.9.7 DISCLOSURE OF INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES IN IRAN

Pursuant to Public Law 2012, c. 25, any person or entity that submits a bid or proposal or otherwise proposes to enter into or renew a contract must complete the certification below to attest, under penalty of perjury, that neither the person or entity, nor any of its parents, subsidiaries, or affiliates, is identified on the Department of Treasury's Chapter 25 list as a person or entity engaging in investment activities in Iran. Before a contract for goods or services can be amended or extended, a person or entity must certify that neither the person or entity, nor any parent entity, subsidiary, or affiliate, is identified on the list.

The list can be found on Treasury’s website at the following web address:

www.state.nj.us/treasury/purchase/pdf/Chapter25List.pdf.

2.9.7.1 CERTIFICATION OF NON-INVOLVEMENT IN PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES IN RUSSIA OR

BELARUS

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-60.1, et seq. and N.J.S.A.40A:11-2.2 (L. 2022, c. 3) any person or entity (hereinafter "Vendor") that seeks to enter into or renew a contract with a local contracting unit subject to the Local Public Contracts Law for the provision of goods or services, or the purchase of bonds or other obligations, must complete the certification below indicating whether or not the Vendor is identified on the Office of Foreign Assets

Control (OFAC) Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list, available here:

https://sanctionssearch.ofac.treas.gov/. If the Department of the Treasury finds that a

Vendor has made a certification in violation of the law, it shall take any action as may be appropriate and provided by law, rule or contract, including but not limited to, imposing sanctions, seeking compliance, recovering damages, declaring the party in default and seeking debarment or suspension of the party.

2.9.8 LOBBYING CERTIFICATION & DISCLOSURE

2.9.9 INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION

If it becomes necessary for the contractor, either as principal or by agent or employee, to enter upon the premises or property of the owner in order to construct, erect, inspect, make delivery or remove property hereunder, the contractor hereby covenants and agrees to take use, provide and make all proper, necessary and sufficient precautions, safeguards, and protection against the occurrence of happenings of any accident, injuries, damages, or hurt to person or property during the course of the work herein covered and his/her sole responsibility. The contractor further covenants and agrees to indemnify and save harmless the owner from the payment of all sums of money or any other consideration(s) by reason of any, or all, such accidents, injuries, damages, or hurt that may happen or occur upon or about such work and all fines, penalties and loss incurred for or by reason of the violation of any owner regulation, ordinance or the laws of the State, or the United States while said work is in progress. The contractor shall maintain sufficient insurance to protect against all claims under

Workers Compensation, General Liability and Automobile and shall be subject to approval for adequacy of protection and certificates of such insurance shall be provided.

2.9.10 ASSURANCES OF COMPLIANCE WITH TITLE VI – THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964

2.9.11 REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION INFORMATION

2.9.12 WHISTLEBLOWER ACT

Per ARPA Terms & Conditions – see form in Appendix II http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/purchase/pdf/Chapter25List.pdf

2.9.13 DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE

Per ARPA Terms & Conditions – see form in Appendix II

2.9.11 ARPA TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Respondent shall abide by all guidance documents applicable to the ARPA Program, including, without limitation:

• 2 CFR Part 200 – Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit

Requirements for Federal Awards

• The Federal Register

• The U.S. Department of the Treasury publications and other guidance documents – see the ARPA Terms & Conditions in addendums

2.10 PROMPT PAYMENT OF CONTRACTS P.L. 2006, C. 96

In compliance with N.J.S.A. 2A:30A-1 et seq., the County shall impose the following payment process:

The County shall pay the submitted bill not more than 30 calendar days after the receipt of the bill and, if applicable, final title insurance policy, by the County if the vendor has performed in accordance with the contract and the work has been approved and certified by the County.

The billing shall be deemed “approved” and “certified” 20 calendar days after the owner receives it, unless the County provides, before the end of the 20-day period, a written statement of the amount withheld and the reason for withholding payment.

2.11 MULTIPLE QUALIFICATIONS NOT ACCEPTED

More than one qualification from an individual, a firm or partnership, a corporation or association under the same or different names shall not be considered.

2.12 BID PROHIBITED

It is understood by the Respondent that, if awarded a contract through the request for qualification process, the Prime Contractor and any Subcontractors utilized for these services are prohibited from bidding out the resultant goods or services required to implement the project.

2.13 FAILURE TO ENTER CONTRACT

Should the respondent, to whom the contract is awarded, fail to enter into a contract within ten

(10) days, Sundays and holidays excepted, the owner may then, at its option, accept the qualification of another respondent.

2.14 Term of Contract

Contract Period: From execution of the agreement until the end of September 2025 – or until completion of scope – with an option for one (1) one-year extension until September 2026.

2.15 TERMINATION OF CONTRACT

2.12.1 For Cause: This Agreement may be terminated by County for cause, including any nonperformance by the Respondent; failure of the Respondent to fulfill in a timely and proper manner its obligations under this Agreement; or violation of any of the covenants, agreements, or stipulations of the Agreement, upon thirty (30) days written notice to Respondent including a statement of the reasons therefore. The determination of the County as to the cause of termination and the appropriateness thereof shall be final and binding upon both County and

Respondent. Cause for termination shall include any material failure by Respondent to comply with any term of this Agreement.

2.12.1.1 In such event, all finished or unfinished documents, data, maps, studies, surveys, drawings, models, photographs and reports prepared by the Respondent under this

Agreement shall, at the option of the County, become its property, and the

Respondent shall be entitled to receive just and equitable compensation for any work satisfactorily completed hereunder.

2.12.1.2 Notwithstanding the above, the Respondent shall not be relieved of liability to the

County for damages sustained by the County by virtue of any breach of this

Agreement by the Respondent, and the County may withhold any payments to the

Respondent for the purposes of set-off until such time as the exact amount of damages due the County from the Respondent is determined.

2.12.1.3 If this Agreement is terminated for any of the reasons referenced in Section 5 hereinabove, excluding funding discontinuance or disapproval, Respondent shall have the right to attempt to cure its failure during the thirty (30) day period prior to termination to the satisfaction of the County at the County’s sole discretion.

2.12.2 For Convenience: The County may terminate this Agreement at any time by giving at least thirty (30) days notice in writing to the Respondent. If the Respondent is terminated by the

County as provided herein, the Respondent will be paid an amount which bears the same ratio to the total compensation as the services actually performed bear to the total services of the

Respondent covered by this Agreement, less payments of compensation previously made. If this Agreement is terminated due to the fault of the Respondent, per Section above relative to termination shall apply.

2.12.3 Post Expiration and Termination Procedures: Upon expiration or in the event of a prior termination, all remaining and unspent grant funds, shall immediately become the sole and separate property of the County and the Respondent shall perform all acts and execute all instruments necessary to transfer and assign such funds to the County. All finished or unfinished documents, data, studies, reports, and work product prepared by the Respondent under this

Agreement or with grant funds shall, at the option of the County, become the County’s property.

2.12.4 TRANSITIONAL PERIOD

In the event services are terminated by contract expiration or by voluntary termination by either the Respondent or the County, the Respondent shall continue all terms and conditions of said contract for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days at the County’s request.

2.16 PAYMENT

Invoices shall specify, in detail, the period for which payment is claimed, the services performed during the prescribed period, the amount claimed and correlation between the services claimed and the qualification Cost Form.

2.17 OWNERSHIP OF MATERIAL

The owner shall retain all of its rights and interest in any and all documents and property both hard copy and digital furnished by the owner to the contractor for the purpose of assisting the contractor in the performance of this contract. All such items shall be returned immediately to the owner at the expiration or termination of the contract or completion of any related services, pursuant thereto, whichever comes first. None of the documents and/or property shall, without the written consent of the owner, be disclosed to others or used by the contractor or permitted by the contractor to be used by their parties at any time except in the performance of the resulting contract. Ownership of all data, materials and documentation originated and prepared for the owner pursuant to this contract shall belong exclusively to the owner. All data, reports, computerized information, programs and materials related to this project shall be delivered to and become the property of the owner upon completion of the project. The contractor shall not have the right to use, sell, or disclose the total of the interim or final work products, or make available to third parties, without the prior written consent of the owner.

2.18 RECORDS FOR THE NEW JERSEY STATE COMPTROLLER

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:15C-14(d), relevant records of private vendors or other persons entering into contracts with the County are subject to audit or review by the New Jersey Office of the State

Comptroller. Therefore, the Contractor shall maintain all documentation related to products, transactions or services under this contract for a period of five years from the date of final payment. Such records shall be made available to the New Jersey Office of the State Comptroller upon request.

2.19 BUDGET SEQUESTRATION

The Agreement shall include the following language with regard to cuts to United States federal government funding:

“The Agreement and the payments to be made are contingent upon receipt by County of U.S.

Department of Treasury American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and the County Court funding approval. Should funds be discontinued or not approved, any Agreement(s) will be revised or terminated as necessary in the sole discretion of the County.”

3.0 SCOPE OF SERVICES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 PROJECT OVERVIEW

As a recipient of the “American Rescue Plan Act Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery

Funds” (CSLFRF), the County is seeking to use a portion of this assistance to complete HVAC and related roofing replacements as indicated in the attached Scope of Work and Feasibility Study.

The County is seeking a qualified engineering firm that can provide bid package development;

secure appropriate federal, state and local permits; and provide construction management services through project completion. As these projects are being funded by CSLFRF funds, the following deliverable dates must be met:

• All bid documents and permitting completed prior to July 15th – to be advertised for construction bids in August 2025.

• Construction management will be in cooperation with hired grant funding, monitoring and compliance professional.

• All projects are expected to be completed expeditiously – but the latest date for completion is September 2026.

• If any of these deliverable dates do not appear (via bi-weekly updates) be on-track – the County reserves the right to award remaining work to another vendor.

3.2 SCOPE OF WORK

3.2.1 CONTRACT MANAGEMENT AND CONSTRUCTION OVERSIGHT

Respondents will be required to show the ability to provide all the services described below as they relate to contract management and construction oversight.

a) Coordinate, as necessary, between County and its service providers (i.e., Environmental, Contracted Construction Company, Grant Administrator, etc).

b) Provide monthly (or more as needed) project status updates.

c) Ensure delivery of projects in accordance with contract.

d) Provide ongoing Construction Oversight Reports detailing the status of construction all projects.

e) Review all service provider submittals to ensure compliance with construction contract documents and provide recommendations to County.

f) Provide on-site supervision and oversight of construction activities at construction milestones, invoicing milestones and/or on monthly basis or as directed by County.

g) Review Construction Change Orders and provide recommendations to County as to appropriate action.

h) Review invoice/draw requests and provide recommendation to County as to appropriate action, in compliance with the construction contract documents.

i) Obtain independent cost estimates for validation purposes, as required.

j) Review and respond to requests for information/clarification.

k) Support County with issue identification and claims resolutions.

l) Enter all requisite information into the County system of record in accordance with established policies and procedures.

m) Host and/or attend project coordination meetings in person, by phone, or by video conference, which may or may not fall during normal business hours.

n) Perform other contract management and construction oversight duties as required to ensure success of the project(s).

o) Provide necessary certifications to regulatory agencies of project completion and compliance (e.g. ARPA, NJDEP).

p) Submit all final invoices within 60 days after contract or work order expiration.

3.2.2 INITIAL ENGINEERING AND DESIGN SUPPORT

Respondents will be required to show the ability to provide all the Engineering services described below:

a) Assist with the development of project related services, including, but not limited to cost estimates, project maps, and accurate project descriptions.

b) Provide all project information necessary to ensure timely execution of the environmental review (if required).

c) Provide preliminary engineering, investigations, and drawings sufficient to achieve the preliminary design milestone.

d) Prepare horizontal alignments/layouts for all proposed project alternatives necessary to fully describe the project scope, anticipated limitations, and potential project impacts.

e) Recommend value engineering options (alternative design, construction methods, procurement, etc.) that may improve efficiency, expedite the schedule, or reduce project costs for the County.

f) Identify, acquire, and submit all necessary permits and approvals required for design approval and construction.

g) Submit all necessary deliverables to the appropriate entity for review and comment.

Adjust project and/or design to satisfactorily address any comments, as necessary.

h) Prepare plans and profiles, including vertical design information for the selected alternative.

i) Identify and address potential obstacles to project implementation (i.e., pipelines, easements, permitting, environmental, etc.) prior to moving forward with the final design.

j) Support County with acquisition or property/servitudes/right-of-way documentation as required by the County to facilitate the project, preparing right-of-way surveys and/or property boundary maps and legal descriptions of parcels to be acquired – if needed.

k) Provide project schedules from cradle to grave in MS Project format or equal, as approved by the County based on ARPA guidance, NJ regulations and general federal funding standards.

3.2.3 ENGINEERING AND FINAL DESIGN SUPPORT

described below as they relate to final design support:

a) Prepare plans and profiles, including necessary design information for the selected alternative sufficient to achieve all detailed design milestones. Examples include, but are not limited to:

i. Cross sections/elevations

ii. Project layout/staging areas

iii. General notes

iv. Special notes

v. Design details

vi. Specifications

vii. Utility relocation designs

viii. Construction limits, including environmentally sensitive areas that should be avoided during construction

ix. Required permits

x. Quantities

xi. Estimate of construction costs to within +/- 10%

xii. Schedules for design, permitting, acquisition and construction

b) Provide information to appropriate individuals for the development of environmental fund release reports and floodplain maps.

c) Identify, acquire, and submit all necessary permits and approvals required for design approval and construction.

d) Provide hard copy, reproducible plan drawings and bid documents, in addition to electronic copies to the County, upon design completion, and as requested during design. Electronic copies should be in the native format (AutoCAD DWG) along with

PDF packages and should contain all corresponding references, databases, or files associated with the completed design documents.

e) Assist the County and any service provider related to the project with all necessary documentation to ensure compliance with all Program requirements and regulations.

3.2.4 BID AND AWARD SUPPORT

described below as they relate to bid and award support.

a) Submit appropriate items and support County in the development of complete construction bid package.

b) Prepare and assist County in the advertisements for bid solicitation.

c) Support development and issuance of bid-related documents necessary to complete bid process (e.g., bid proposal form, bid addenda, and supporting documentation).

d) Attend and support County at pre-bid conference and bid opening.

e) Support County with ongoing communication during bid process.

f) Support County to complete bid tabulation and evaluation of responses and provide recommendation for award.

g) Support County to negotiate and finalize contract documents, including issuance of the Notice to Proceed, in accordance with program and County requirements.

h) Support County in the conducting of a preconstruction conference.

3.2.5 CONTRACT MANAGEMENT AND CONSTRUCTION OVERSIGHT

described below as they relate to contract management and construction oversight.

a) Ensure delivery of County projects in accordance with contract.

b) Provide ongoing Construction Oversight Reports detailing the status of construction for County projects.

c) Review all service provider submittals to ensure compliance with construction contract documents and provide recommendations to County.

d) Provide periodic and final inspections and tests reports, as required for the project.

e) Provide on-site supervision and oversight of construction activities at a minimum on a biweekly basis or as directed by the County.

f) Review Construction Change Orders and provide recommendations to County as to appropriate action.

g) Review invoice/draw requests and provide recommendation to County as to appropriate action, in compliance with the construction contract documents.

h) Obtain independent cost estimates for validation purposes, as required.

i) Review and respond to requests for information/clarification.

j) Support County with issue identification and claims resolutions.

k) Enter all requisite information into the ARPA system of record in accordance with established policies and procedures.

l) Develop a final “as built” report of quantities, drawings, and specifications.

m) Issue to the County, for execution, a Certificate of Construction Completion within thirty (30) days of final inspection approval.

n) Deliver “as-built” drawings to the County within thirty (30) days of project completion.

o) Host and/or attend project coordination meetings in person, by phone, or by video conference, which may or may not fall during normal business hours.

p) Perform other contract management and construction oversight duties as required to ensure success of the County project.

q) Provide necessary certifications to regulatory agencies of project completion and compliance.

r) Submit all final invoices within sixty (60) days after contract or work order expiration.

3.2.6 SPECIALIZED SERVICES

Respondents will be required to show the ability to provide all services described below as they relate to specialized services.

a) Provide Geotechnical Investigations as may be required for a project.

b) Provide Detailed Surveying as may be required for a project.

c) Provide Site Specific Testing as may be required for a project.

d) Provide Archeological Studies as may be required for a project.

e) Provide Planning Studies as may be required for a project.

f) Provide NJ environmental reviews and assessments as per NJ Regulations.

3.3 MONITORING

It is anticipated that the entirety of this RFP will be funded with a combination of ARPA funds – no other federal, county or state funding is expected to fund this contract. Since all of the contract will be funded with ARPA, monitoring will be required and completed via the Reporting Portal utilized by County.

3.3.1 The County will monitor the performance of the respondent against the performance standards, principal tasks and budget stated herein. Substandard performance as determined by the County will constitute non-compliance with this Agreement. If action to correct such substandard performance is not taken by the respondent within a reasonable period of time after being notified by the County, contract suspension or termination procedures will be initiated, at the sole discretion of the County.

3.3.2 Respondent warrants and represents that it:

• Has the requisite authority and capacity to perform all terms and conditions to be performed hereunder; and

• That it has the requisite licensing, experience and business registration and is in good standing with the Secretary of State of New Jersey.

3.3.3 General Administration: The respondent will provide all administrative staffing, facilities, equipment, and services necessary to provide services as described herein in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal requirements.

3.3.4 Program Delivery: The Respondent will provide all staffing, facilities, equipment, and services needed to deliver the funded Program as described herein in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal requirements.

3.3.5 Guidance Documents: Respondent shall abide by all guidance documents applicable to the ARPA Program, including, without limitation:

• 2 CFR Part 200 – Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit

Requirements for Federal Awards

• The Federal Register

• The U.S. Department of the Treasury publications and other guidance documents – see the ARPA Terms & Conditions in addendums

4. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

4.1 QUALIFICATIONS

4.1.1 COMPANY PROFILE

A statement is to be provided by the consultant who will serve as the primary consultant. The statement shall set forth brief details of the firm's principal activities, the number of personnel in the firm and the firm's location.

4.1.2 TRANSMITTAL LETTER

• Brief statement of the firm’s understanding of the scope of the work to be performed;

• Confirmation that the firm meets the appropriate state licensing requirements in New

Jersey;

• Confirmation that the firm has not had a record of substandard work within the last five years;

• Confirmation that the firm has not engaged in any unethical practices within the last five years;

• Any other information that the firm feels appropriate to support their understanding of the scope of work.

4.1.3 EXISTING RESOURCES, CAPABILITES & TOOLS

Provide a statement on your existing availability and capacity. Also provide KEY STAFF FOR

THIS PROJECT QUALIFICATIONS AND LICENSE(S) (LIMIT TO SEVEN ONE PAGE RESUMES)

4.1.4 QUALIFICATION FORMS AND BUSINESS REGISTRATION SUBMITTAL

The following forms are contained in the attachments. All forms are required and shall be completed and made part of the qualification submitted. Provide a copy of your NJ Business

Registration.

4.1.5 LOCATION OF SERVICING OFFICE

The qualification must list the location and address of the present, active office that will service and manage this contract.

4.2 EXPERIENCE

4.2.1 CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Provide your experience with similar Construction Projects.

• Also include your project approach (limited to three pages, 8.5 x 11). Up to two pages (11 x 17 max size) of graphics if desired.

• Value engineering approach (limited to one page)

4.2.2 FEDERALLY-FUNDED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

Experience with Federally-Funded Capital Improvement Projects

• PROJECT SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE ON SIMILAR PROJECTS AND INCLUDE

THREE PREVIOUS PROJECTS: CONTRACT AWARD, CHANGE ORDERS, COMPLETION TIME

(LIMITED TO THREE PAGES)

4.2.3 PAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT CLIENTS

Please provide a list of (3) three clients/references for whom similar services have been provided. Include the following in your response:

• Name of government agency.

• Contact person’s name, position, and current telephone number.

• Dates, cost and scope of service.

• Status and comments

• THREE REFERENCES WITH ADDRESSES, PHONE NUMBERS AND EMAIL ADDRESSES.

CONTACT NAME, TITLE AND TELEPHONE NUMBER

4.2.4 KEY PERSONNEL INFORMATION

The consultant shall provide the identity and the credentials of the principals and other key personnel working for the consultant and their areas of responsibilities.

4.2.5 RESUMES OF ALL STAFF LIKELY TO BE ASSIGNED TO PROJECT

4.3 TIMING

It Is of the utmost importance that the contractor be selected prior to November 2025 and that the work be completed expeditiously after selection. Please provide your timeline and statements of commitment to that timeframe. Companies that provide meaningful remedies to not meeting the timeline will be looked upon more favorably. The County is looking to bid each

Library’s project independently – as design work is completed for a specific Branch – we will go out to bid.

4.3.1 PROPOSED SCHEDULE

Please provide a schedule for completion of the West Windsor library project. Note that all contractors must be selected by November 2025 – and project must be completed by

September 2026 - unless extended under the option to extend for a few months and no later than December 1, 2026. Extension to be granted based on documented delays, etc.

4.4 PRICING

4.4.1 HOURLY RATES PROVIDED FOR ALL PRINCIPLES AND JOB TITLES BY RESPONDENT

4.4.2 ESTIMATED HOURS FOR LISTED TASKS (WITH NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT)

4.4.3 COMPLETE SCHEDULES (CAN BE VIA SPREADSHEETS) OF MAN-HOURS AND COST

BREAKDOWN OF HOURLY RATES ARE TO BE PROVIDED FOR EACH PHASE AND/OR ALTERNATES

5 EVALUATION, REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS

5.1.1NOTICE OF AWARD

The Successful Respondent will be notified of the award of contract upon a favorable decision by the Department of Purchasing.

5.2 QUALIFICATIONS TO REMAIN SUBJECT TO ACCEPTANCE

RFP responses shall remain open for a period of sixty (60) calendar days from the stated submittal date. The County will either award the Contract within the applicable time period or reject all qualifications. The County may extend the decision to award or reject all qualifications beyond the sixty (60) calendar days when the qualifications of any Respondents who consent thereto may, at the request of the County, be held for consideration for such longer period as may be agreed.

5.3 REJECTION OF QUALIFICATIONS

The owner reserves the right to reject any or all qualifications, or to reject any qualifications if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of such consultant fails to satisfy the owner that such consultant is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the RFP and to complete the work contemplated therein. The owner reserves the right to waive any minor informality in the RFP.

5.4 CONTRACT AWARD

If awarded a contract, your company/firm shall be required to comply with the requirements of

N.J.S.A 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.S.A 17:27 et. seq.

5.5 COMMENCEMENT OF WORK

The contractor agrees to commence work on the project within Thirty (30) calendar days from the date of award by the County.

5.6 METHOD OF ACCOMPLISHMENT

The RFP responses shall contain a narrative description of the proposed approach to the project.

Restating of the RFP will be considered an unacceptable response.

5.7 PROJECT LEVEL OF EFFORT

The qualification shall include a project level of effort estimate based on, and corresponding to, the Scope of Service provided in this RFP and the Respondents Method of Accomplishment section. The estimate shall contain a task-oriented schedule, which identifies milestones and their proposed initiation and completion dates.

5.8 EVALUATION PROCESS

An Evaluation Team will review all qualifications to determine if they satisfy the qualification requirements, determine if a qualification should be rejected and evaluate the qualifications based upon the Evaluation Criteria. The highest-ranking Respondent will then be recommended by the Evaluation Team to The County Board of County Commissioners for award of contract. The

County will accept or reject qualifications in accordance with the New Jersey Local Public

Contracts Law. Each respondent must provide all information as requested to be considered and may be disqualified for failure to submit any required documentation.

5.9 EVALUATION CRITERIA

The criteria considered in the evaluation of each qualification follows. The arrangement of the criteria is not meant to imply order of importance in the selection process. All criteria will be used to select the successful consultant.

5.9.1 Experience - Understanding of the Requested Work (30 points)

The qualifications will be evaluated for general compliance with instructions and requests issued in the RFP. Non-compliance with significant instructions shall be grounds for disqualification of qualifications. An evaluation team will review all qualifications to determine if they satisfy the qualification Requirements, determine if a qualification should be rejected and evaluate the qualifications based upon the Evaluation Criteria for the following Work:

5.9.2 Qualifications - Knowledge and Technical Competence (20 points)

This includes the ability of the consultant to perform all of the tasks and fulfill adequately the stated requirements.

5.9.3 Qualifications - Management, Experience and Personnel Qualifications (10 points)

Expertise of the firm shall be demonstrated by past contract successes providing government agencies with similar services. The consultant will be evaluated on knowledge, experience, prior collaboration and successful completion of projects/services similar to that requested in this RFP. In additional to relevant experience, consultants shall provide personnel qualifications in the qualification.

5.9.4 Timing - Ability to Complete the Services in a Timely Manner (20 points)

This is based on the estimated duration of the tasks and the consultant’s ability to accomplish these tasks as stated.

5.9.5 Pricing (20 points)

Price shall be based on the requirements set forth. Any services not included as part of any resulting contract scope of services must be approved and authorized by the owner before such work is initiated. The owner shall pay for such approved services, at the rate or cost agreed upon between the owner and consultant, provided the consultant has provided a schedule of fees for additional services with this RFP.

Solicitation responses shall be evaluated in accordance with Part 200 of the Uniform

Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirement and New Jersey Local

Public Contracts Law. The Entity will make the selection on the following:

County of Mercer – RFP2024-08

I. QUALIFICATION RESPONSE DOCUMENTATION

1. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT OF ADDENDA

*This form must be submitted whether or not addenda were issued. If no addenda were issued, check the

“No Addenda were received box” and complete the signature section.

The undersigned Bidder hereby acknowledges receipt of the following Addenda:

Addendum Number

Dated Acknowledge Receipt

(initial)

No Addenda were received

Acknowledged for: __________________________________________

(Company Name of Bidder)

By: _________________________________________

(Signature of Authorized Representative)

Name: ______________________________________

(Print or Type)

Title: ________________________________________

Date: ________________________________________

2. QUALIFICATION COST FORM/SIGNATURE PAGE

The undersigned bidder declares that he/she has read the Notice to Bidders, Instructions to Bidders, Affidavits and Scope of Services attached, that he/she/they has determined the conditions affecting the bid agrees, if this qualification is accepted, to furnish and deliver the following:

A QUALIFIED ENGINEERING FIRM TO PROVIDE BID & PERMIT READY DRAWINGS

AND SPECIFICATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR WEST

WINDSOR BRANCH LIBRARY

AN agreement for the above-mentioned Solicitation may be issued to the respondent based on the following and the

Parameters in Section 3.4 above, as determined is in the best interest of the County.

Modify the above chart or attach separately as needed. Provide task list per Library Branch with estimated hours per task by each employee with a total not to exceed amount. Also, provide a list of employees, job titles and rates.

(SIGNATURE BY AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE)

The undersigned is a Corporation, Partnership or Individual under the laws of the State of

___________________ having its principal office at___________________________________

COMPANY ___________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS ___________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS ___________________________________________________________________

NAME ___________________________________________________________________

TELEPHONE…