RFQ ACHA-1734 INDEFINITE QUANTITIES 2026.pdf

ALLEGHENY COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY

301Chartiers Avenue McKees Rocks, PA 15136 (412) 402-2469 FAX: (412) 471-8884

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

ARCHITECTURAL/ENGINEERING SERVICES

FOR

INDEFINITE QUANTITIES TASK ORDER BASED PROJECTS

CONTRACT ACHA – 1734

DUE:

10:00 A.M., WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26, 2026

301 CHARTIERS AVENUE

MCKEES ROCKS, PA 15136

July/2026 www.achsng.com https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiv4cXUsLLPAhVGej4KHVWQArMQjRwIBw&url=https://twitter.com/allegheny_co&psig=AFQjCNH1TDx-HNKet-gKY4z29yBccRsOAQ&ust=1475163029391375 http://www.achsng.com/

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) No. ACHA-1734

Allegheny County Housing Authority

RFQ DOCUMENT

Table of Contents [Table No. 1]

Section Description Page Introduction 3 RFQ Information at a Glance 3

1.0 The ACHA’s Reservation of Rights 4

2.0 Scope of Work/Technical Specifications 5

2.1 More than One Award Possible 5

2.2 General Service Areas 5

2.3 Phases of the Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Services 6

2.4 Design Product 7

2.5 Method of Award (Task Order) 7

3.0 Proposal Format 9

3.1 Tabbed Proposal Submittal 10

3.2 No Fees Proposed 11

3.3 Proposal Submission 11

3.4 Proposer’s Responsibilities — Contact with the ACHA 12

3.5 Proposer’s Responsibilities — Equal Employment Opportunity and

Supplier Diversity

3.6 Recap of Attachments 15

4.0 Proposal Evaluation 16

4.1 Evaluation Factors 16

4.2 Evaluation Method 16

5.0 Contract Award 20

5.1 Contract Award Procedure 20

5.2 Contract Conditions 20

5.3 Contract Period 20

5.4 Licensing and Insurance Requirements 21

5.5 Right to Negotiate Fees 21

5.6 Contract Services Standards 21

5.7 Prompt Return of Contract Documents 21

Index of Tables 22

INTRODUCTION

llegheny County Housing Authority (hereinafter, “HA”) is a public entity that was formed in 1937 to provide federally subsidized housing and housing assistance to low-income families, within the Allegheny County. The HA is headed by an Executive Director (ED) and is governed by a five-person board of

Directors and is subject to the requirements of Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations (hereinafter, “CFR”) and the HA’s procurement policy. Though brought into existence by a Resolution of the County of Allegheny, it is a separate entity from the County.

Currently, the HA owns, manages, and/or funds approximately 3,200 low income public housing, tax credit, and affordable housing units, and administers over 5,100 Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. The HA currently has approximately 185 employees.

In keeping with its mandate to provide efficient and effective services, the HA is now soliciting proposals from qualified, licensed and insured entities to provide the above noted services to the HA. All proposals submitted in response to this solicitation must conform to all of the requirements and specifications outlined within this document and any designated attachments in its entirety.

RFQ INFORMATION AT A GLANCE

[Table No. 2]

HOW TO OBTAIN RFQ DOCUMENTS Visit the Housing ACHA Marketplace online to register and download bid docs:

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/

ACHA CONTACTS ACHA Development Department Dean Allen, Modernization Manager Office: (412) 402-2469; dallen@achousing.org Samantha Clark, Project Coordinator Office: (412) 402-2494; sclark@achousing.org

PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE Wednesday August 5, 2026 @ 10:00 AM EST Allegheny County Housing Authority 301 Chartiers Avenue, McKees Rocks, PA 15136

QUESTION SUBMITTAL DEADLINE Friday, August 19, 2026, 10:00 AM EST All questions must be submitted online thru the Housing ACHA Marketplace – see link above.

HOW TO FULLY RESPOND TO THIS RFQ A total of 1 original (marked “ORIGINAL”) and 2 exact copies of the proposal submittal shall be placed in a sealed package marked “Request for Qualifications A&E Services”.

The entire proposal package shall be addressed to:

Allegheny County Housing Authority 301 Chartiers Avenue Mckees Rocks, PA 15136 Attn: Dean Allen, Modernization Manager

RFQ PROPOSAL SUBMISSION & DEADLINE Wednesday, August 26, 2026 @ 10:00 AM EST Allegheny County Housing Authority 301 Chartiers Avenue, McKees Rocks, PA 15136 Hard copy proposals must be received in-hand and time-stamped by the ACHA by no later than 10:00 AM on this date

ANTICIPATED APPROVAL BY THE ACHA BOARD OF

COMMISSIONERS

Friday, September 25, 2026

A https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/ https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/ mailto:dallen@achousing.org mailto:sclark@achousing.org

1.0 THE ACHA’S RESERVATION OF RIGHTS. The ACHA reserves the right to exercise, at its sole discretion, all rights and authorities set forth in this RFQ, in addition to those provided under applicable HUD forms including form HUD-5369, and other Federal, state, and local procurement requirements. Such rights shall include, but are not limited to, those described below and as further detailed within Section 4.0 (Proposal Evaluation) of this RFQ.

1.1 Right to Reject, Waive, or Terminate the RFQ. The ACHA reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive any informality or irregularity in the RFQ process, or to terminate the RFQ process at any time, if deemed by the ACHA to be in its best interests.

The ACHA further reserves the right to reject any bid that is determined to be non-responsive or submitted by a proposer determined to be not responsible, as defined and evaluated in accordance with Sections 4.2 of this RFQ.

In determining responsibility, the ACHA may consider factors including, but not limited to, the proposer’s integrity, compliance with public policy, record of past performance, and financial and technical resources.

The ACHA may reject the proposal of any proposer that is debarred, suspended, or otherwise ineligible for participation in federally funded programs, including those identified through the System for Award Management (SAM), or that has been previously suspended, terminated for cause, or otherwise determined non-responsible by the ACHA, if such action is deemed to be in the best interests of the

ACHA.

All determinations made pursuant to this section shall be at the sole discretion of the ACHA and documented in the procurement file in accordance with applicable requirements. Nothing herein shall obligate the ACHA to make an award, nor limit the ACHA’s right to cancel this solicitation in whole or in part at any time prior to contract execution.

1.2 Right to Not Award. Not award a contract pursuant to this RFQ.

1.3 Right to Terminate. Terminate a contract awarded pursuant to this RFQ, at any time for its convenience upon 10 days written notice to the Contractor(s).

1.4 Right to Determine Time and Location. Determine the days, hours, and locations that the successful bidder (hereinafter, “Contractor”) shall provide the services called for in this RFQ.

1.5 Right to Retain Proposals. Retain all proposals submitted and not permit withdrawal for a period of 60 days subsequent to the deadline for receiving bids without the written consent of the ACHA Contracting Officer (CO).

1.6 Right to Negotiate. The ACHA reserves the right to negotiate fair and reasonable fees for individual task orders with the highest-ranked qualified firm(s). If negotiations are unsuccessful, the ACHA reserves the right to terminate negotiations and proceed to the next most highly qualified firm.

1.7 Right to Reject Any Proposal. Reject and not consider any proposal or proposer that does not meet the requirements of this RFQ, including but not necessarily limited to incomplete proposals and/or proposers offering alternate or non-requested services.

1.8 No Obligation to Compensate. Have no obligation to compensate any bidder for any costs incurred in responding to this RFQ.

1.9 Right to Prohibit. At any time during the RFQ or contract process, prohibit any further participation by a bidder or reject any proposal submitted that does not conform to any of the requirements detailed herein. Each prospective proposer is thereby agreeing to abide by all terms and conditions listed within this document and further agrees that he/she will inform the ACHA in writing within 5 business days of the discovery of any item listed herein or of any item that is issued thereafter by the ACHA that he/she feels needs to be addressed. Failure to abide by this time-frame shall relieve the ACHA, but not the prospective or actual bidder, of any responsibility pertaining to such issue.

1.10 Right to Reject – Obtaining Competitive Solicitation Documents. The eProcurement Housing ACHA

Marketplace is the only official and appropriate venue to obtain the competitive solicitation documents (and any other information pertaining to the competitive solicitation such as addenda).

PLEASE USE THIS LINK: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=9739 Accordingly, by submitting a response to this competitive solicitation the respondent thereby affirms that he/she obtained all information on the eProcurement Housing ACHA Marketplace. Any other group such as a proposal depository that informs potential respondents of the availability of such competitive solicitations are hereby instructed to not distribute these documents to any such potential respondents, but to instruct the potential respondents to visit the eProcurement Marketplace to obtain the documents.

The ACHA will reject without consideration any response submitted from a firm that has not obtained the documents from the eProcurement Housing ACHA Marketplace.

1.11 Right to extend the Contract Period up to sixty (60) days at discretion for unseen complications or disruptions which may arise. General Conditions are not eligible for billing by consultant or sub-contractors for overhead, general conditions and/or profit.

1.12 Right to Apply Terms and Conditions. All sub-contractors hired by AE Consultant will abide by the same terms and conditions of the contract.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=9739

2.0 SCOPE OF WORK/TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS. The ACHA is seeking proposals from qualified, licensed, and insured entities to provide architectural and engineering services potentially for all programs the ACHA administers services, that shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

2.1 More than One Award Possible. The ACHA reserves the right to complete award to one firm only or to complete award to multiple firms. If award is made to more than one firm, such awards will be based on the ACHA’s opinion that a firm can offer the ACHA greater value for a certain service area (“service area(s)” as detailed within the immediate-following Section 2.2). The ACHA reserves the right to make such decision at any time during the ensuing contract period(s) meaning, the ACHA could initially make award to one firm only, then, at any time during the ensuing contract period(s), decide to make an additional award(s) if the ACHA decides such is in its best interests to do so.

2.2 General Service Areas. The ACHA intends to award a contract to a firm(s) to provide architectural and engineering services (Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Services) for various projects the ACHA may need throughout the year. Services will include, but are not limited to, typical (Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Services) services pertaining to, on an as-needed basis at the ACHA’s discretion, both new construction and rehabilitation of buildings, and land that the ACHA owns. Services may include, but are not limited to, typical (Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Services) services pertaining to:

2.2.1 Architectural Design;

2.2.2 Construction contract administration and/or management;

2.2.3 Cost estimating;

2.2.4 Energy Specialist / Green Building Rater;

2.2.5 Environmental Review;

2.2.6 Fire Protection Engineer;

2.2.7 Landscape design;

2.2.8 MEP / Structural Engineers;

2.2.9 Site planning and surveying;

2.2.10 Soil / Geotech / Environmental Engineers;

2.2.11 Structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering;

2.2.12 Any other related services that may be typically performed by either an architectural or engineering firm in its normal course of business.

2.2.13 Additional service areas may include, but are not limited to:

2.2.13.1 Site and Storm Drainage Systems;

2.2.13.2 Roof Systems;

2.2.13.3 Paving, Curbing, Sidewalks, Driveways; Flat Work;

2.2.13.4 Renovations and Rehabilitation of existing structures;

2.2.13.5 Demolition work;

2.2.13.6 Building Systems, include HVAC, Ventilation, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Electrical, Lighting, Acoustics, and Structural Systems.

2.3 Phases of the Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Services may include, but are not limited to:

2.3.1 Schematic Design/Preliminary Study Phase;

2.3.2 Design Development Phase;

2.3.3 Bidding, Construction, and Contract Document Phase;

2.3.4 Bidding and Award Phase;

2.3.5 Construction Phase; and

2.3.6 Post Completion/Warranty Phase.

2.4 Design Product. Any design product shall meet all state and local code requirements and shall conform to all applicable local codes, ordinances, regulations, and standards, including HUD's Section 504 program; UFAS; ADA; and ANSI requirements. The design may also include coordination for the abatement of hazardous materials as well as demolition of existing structures.

2.5 Method of Award (Task Order). The ACHA will retain the right to contract with any of the responsive and responsible proposers as a result of this RFQ, which shall occur in the following manner (this is sometimes called “forming a pool” of consultants that the ACHA may draw from):

2.5.1 When the ACHA has need to complete an award to a proposer, each proposer will be ranked as a result of the evaluation detailed within the following Section 4.0 herein. This ranking will typically be within the “Pools” identified within Section (7) of Attachment A, attached hereto; meaning, the ACHA reserves the right to, and most typically will, conduct separate evaluations for firms to be placed in each of the Service Area Pools identified on that form.

2.5.1.1 Rankings within the “Pools” shall remain in effect for the contract term.

Throughout the duration of the contract, rankings will not be subject to change based on proposer availability. Refer to section 2.5.2 below for explanation as to how task order work shall be assigned through the ranked proposers.

2.5.2 Once the evaluation has been completed, the ACHA staff assigned will contact the 1st-ranked proposer to ascertain as to whether or not that contractor is available and able to do the work for each individual task order within the reasonable time-frame the ACHA has established for that work. If the firm is available and able within the ACHA’s requirements, the ACHA shall then, in conformance with all HUD requirements, attempt to negotiate a reasonable cost with the available firm. If such negotiation cannot be successfully concluded within 5 business days (or sooner, if the ACHA decides such is in its best interests), the ACHA shall retain the right to suspend negotiations with that firm and proceed to the 2nd-ranked firm. PLEASE NOTE: Once the ACHA has ended negotiations with the 1st-ranked firm, the ACHA SHALL NOT again enter into negotiations with that firm pertaining to that Task Order (however, this shall not cause that firm to lose its place as the 1st-ranked firm for any following task orders, if applicable).

2.5.2.1 The ACHA shall retain the right to bypass the 1st-ranked firm if they are unavailable and unable to do the work for each individual task order due to workload, specialized expertise, conflicts of interest, or scheduling conflicts that prevent the 1st-ranked firm from meeting ACHA’s requirements.

2.5.3 If, as detailed within the preceding Section 2.5.2, the 1st-ranked proposer is not available, or the ACHA is not able to successfully reach a negotiated cost with the 1st-ranked proposer, the ACHA will proceed to the next-ranked contractor and repeat the same negotiation process. This process may be repeated by the ACHA with ensuing ranked firms until the ACHA has successfully negotiated a reasonable cost.

2.5.3.1 While multiple Task Orders may be awarded at the same time, the ACHA shall enter into fee negotiations separately for each independent Task Order.

2.5.4 The ACHA makes no makes no representation or guarantee regarding the quantity, dollar value, frequency, or timing of Task Orders issued under this Contract. Award of a contract does not guarantee that any minimum amount of work will be assigned. Task Orders will be issued solely at the discretion of the Authority based upon project needs, consultant qualifications, availability, workload, and the best interests of the Authority.

2.6 Previous/Current Contractor(s). The ACHA does not currently have a firm under contract for these specific services.

3.0 PROPOSAL FORMAT.

3.1 Tabbed Proposal Submittal. The ACHA intends to retain the successful proposer pursuant to a “Best Value” basis, not a “Low Proposal” basis (“Best Value,” in that the ACHA will, as detailed within the following Section 4.0, consider factors other than just cost in making the award decision). Therefore, so that the ACHA can properly evaluate the offers received, all proposals submitted in response to this RFQ must be formatted in accordance with the sequence noted following. Each category must be separated by numbered index dividers (which number extends so that each tab can be located without opening the proposal) and labeled with the corresponding tab reference also noted below. None of the proposed services may conflict with any requirement the ACHA has published herein or has issued by addendum.

[Table No. 3]

RFQ

Section

Tab No.

Description

3.1.1 1 Form of Proposal. This Form is attached hereto as Attachment A to this RFQ document. This 2-page Form must be fully completed, executed where provided thereon and submitted under this tab as a part of the proposal submittal.

3.1.2 2 form HUD-5369-C (8/93), Certifications and Representations of Offerors, Non-Construction Contract. This Form is attached hereto as Attachment B to this RFQ document. This 2-page Form must be fully completed, executed where provided thereon and submitted under this tab as a part of the proposal submittal.

3.1.3 3 Profile of Firm Form. The Profile of Firm Form is attached hereto as Attachment C to this RFQ document. This 2-page Form must be fully completed, executed, and submitted under this tab as a part of the proposal submittal.

3.1.4 4 Proposed Services. As more fully detailed within Section 2.0, Scope of Proposal/Technical Specifications, of this document, the proposer shall, at a minimum, clearly detail within the information submitted under this tab documentation showing:

3.1.4.1 As detailed within Section 4.1, Evaluation Factor No. 1, herein, Evidence of the proposers DEMONSTRATED ABILITY TO PERFORM THE WORK as indicated by profiles of the principals’ and staffs’ professional and technical competence and experience, and their facilities.

3.1.4.2

As detailed within Section 4.1, Evaluation Factor No. 2, herein, Evidence of the proposers DEMONSTRATED CAPABILITY TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES in a timely manner.

3.1.4.3

As detailed within Section 4.1, Evaluation Factor No. 3, herein, Evidence of the proposers DEMONSTRATED SUCCESSFUL PAST PERFORMANCE in terms of cost control, quality of work, and compliance with performance schedules, and utilization of green design and technologies.

3.1.4.4 As detailed within Section 4.1, Evaluation Factor No. 4, herein, the proposer’s DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE of and EXPERIENCE with local building codes and Federal building alterations requirements.

3.1.4.5 A fully completed copy of Attachment H, Standard Form 330 (6/2004), Architect-Engineer Qualifications.

3.1.4.6 If appropriate, how staff are retained, screened, trained, and monitored.

3.1.4.7 The proposed quality assurance program.

3.1.4.8 An explanation and copies of forms that will be used and reports that will be submitted and the method of such reports (i.e. written; fax; Internet;

etc.).

3.1.5 5 Managerial Capacity/Financial Viability/Staffing Plan. The proposer entity must submit under this tab a concise description of its managerial and financial capacity to deliver the proposed services, including brief professional resumes for the persons identified within areas (5) and (6) of Attachment C, Profile of Firm Form. Such information shall include the proposer’s qualifications to provide the services; a description of the background and current organization of the firm (including a current organizational chart).

3.1.6 6 Client Information. The proposer shall submit a listing of former or current clients, including any other Public Housing Authority, for whom the proposer has performed similar or like services to those being proposed herein. The listing shall, at a minimum, include:

3.1.6.1 The client’s name;

3.1.6.2 The client’s contact name;

3.1.6.3 The client’s telephone number;

3.1.6.4 A brief description and scope of the service(s) and the dates the services were provided.

3.1.7 7 Equal Employment Opportunity/Supplier Diversity. The proposer must submit under this tab a copy of its Equal Opportunity Employment Policy and a complete description of the positive steps it will take to ensure compliance, to the greatest extent feasible, with the regulations detailed within the following Section 3.5 herein pertaining to supplier diversity (i.e., small, minority-, and women-owned businesses).

3.1.8 8 Subcontractor/Joint Venture Information (Optional Item). The proposer shall identify hereunder whether or not he/she intends to use any subcontractors for this job, if awarded, and/or if the proposal is a joint venture with another firm. Please remember that all information required from the proposer under the preceding tabs must also be included for any major subcontractors (10% or more) or from any joint venture.

3.1.9 9 Section 3 Business Preference Documentation (Optional Item). Firms seeking consideration under the ACHA’s Section 3 Business Preference Policy, if applicable, shall submit the completed Section 3 Business Preference Submittal Form (Attachment D) and supporting documentation. Firms not seeking a Section 3 preference are not required to submit this documentation. Failure to submit Section 3 documentation will not affect the technical evaluation of the proposal.

3.1.10 10 Other Information (Optional Item). The proposer may include hereunder any other general information that the proposer believes is appropriate to assist the ACHA in its evaluation.

3.1.11 No Information Placed under a Tab. If no information is to be placed under any of the above noted tabs (especially the "Optional" tabs), please place there under a statement such as "NO INFORMATION IS BEING PLACED UNDER THIS TAB" or "THIS TAB LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK." DO NOT eliminate any of the tabs.

3.1.12 Proposal Submittal Binding Method. It is preferable and recommended that the proposer bind the proposal submittals in such a manner that the ACHA can, if needed, remove the binding (i.e. “spiral-type” etc.) or remove the pages from the cover (i.e. 3-ring binder; etc.) to make copies, then conveniently return the proposal submittal to its original condition.

3.2 No Fees Proposed. No fees shall be discussed or proposed, either verbally or in writing, during the RFQ competitive solicitation process. The ACHA will, as detailed within Sections 4.0 and 5.0 herein, negotiate such fees with the top-rated proposer. As may be detailed herein, if the ACHA makes award to one firm only, in such case the ACHA does not guarantee any minimum or maximum amount of work as a result of any award ensuing from this RFQ but will reserve the right to award any amount of work on an as-needed basis.

3.2.1 Potential Guaranteed Contract Minimum Amount and Not-to-exceed Maximum Amount.

However, if the ACHA chooses, at any time during the ensuing contract period(s), to make award to more than one firm, then the ensuing contract will be an Indefinite Quantities Contract (IQC), which, pursuant to HUD regulation, requires the ACHA to award to each responsive and responsible contractor who receives an award a Guaranteed Contract Minimum Amount (GCMA) and a Not-to-exceed Maximum Contract Amount (NMCA) of work, those required minimum and maximum contract levels are: (a) GCMA: $3,000; (b) NMCA:

$300,000 (each shall be annual amounts).

3.2.2 No Deposit/No Retainer. The ACHA will NOT pay any deposits or retainer fees as a result of award of the ensuing contract. This means that the ACHA will pay the successful proposer(s) for actual work performed only.

3.2.3 No Reimbursable Travel Expenses. As there are a suitable number of qualified firms in the

Allegheny County, PA, reimbursable travel expenses (i.e. airfare; rental cars; lodging; per diem; etc.), if any, shall be negotiated on a task order basis. Except, at the ACHA’s discretion, mileage, for the successful proposer to provide the services. Any mileage allowed will be at the current IRS rate only; the ACHA may negotiate limited “windshield time” based upon a reasonable amount of time that it may take the chosen proposer to get to the ACHA.

3.3 Proposal Submission. All proposals must be submitted and time-stamped received in the designated ACHA office by no later than the submittal deadline stated herein (or within any ensuing addendum). A total of 1 original signature copy (marked "ORIGINAL") and 2 exact copies (each of the 2 separate proposal submittals shall have a cover and extending tabs) of the proposal submittal, shall be placed unfolded in a sealed package and addressed to:

301 Chartiers Avenue McKees Rocks, PA 15136 Attention: Dean Allen, Modernization Manager

3.3.1 Exterior of Sealed Proposal Package. The package exterior must clearly denote the above noted RFQ number and must have the proposer’s name and return address. Proposals received after the published deadline will not be accepted.

3.3.2 Submission Conditions. DO NOT FOLD OR MAKE ANY ADDITIONAL MARKS, NOTATIONS OR REQUIREMENTS ON THE DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED! Proposers are not allowed to change any requirements or forms contained herein, either by making or entering onto these documents or the documents submitted any revisions or additions; and if any such additional marks, notations or requirements are entered on any of the documents that are submitted to the ACHA by the proposer, such may invalidate that proposal. If, after accepting such a proposal, the ACHA decides that any such entry does not changed the intent of the proposal that the ACHA intended to receive, the ACHA may accept the proposal and the proposal shall be considered by the ACHA as if those additional marks, notations or requirements were not entered on such. By accessing the eProcurement Marketplace, registering and downloading these documents, each prospective proposer that does so is thereby agreeing to confirm all notices that the ACHA delivers to him/her as instructed, and by submitting a proposal, the proposer is thereby agreeing to abide by all terms and conditions published herein and by addendum pertaining to this RFQ.

3.3.3 Submission Responsibilities. It shall be the responsibility of each proposer to be aware of and to abide by all dates, times, conditions, requirements and specifications set forth within all applicable documents issued by the ACHA, including the RFQ document, the documents listed within the following Section 3.8, and any addenda and required attachments submitted by the proposer. By virtue of completing, signing and submitting the completed documents, the proposer is stating his/her agreement to comply with the all conditions and requirements set forth within those documents. Written notice from the proposer not authorized in writing by the CO to exclude any of the ACHA requirements contained within the documents may cause that proposer to not be considered for award.

3.4 Proposer's Responsibilities—Contact with the ACHA. It is the responsibility of the proposer to address all communication and correspondence pertaining to this RFQ process to the designated CO only.

Proposers must not make inquiry or communicate with any other ACHA staff member or official (including members of the Board of Commissioners) pertaining to this RFQ. Failure to abide by this requirement may be cause for the ACHA to not consider a proposal submittal received from any proposer who may ACHA not abided by this directive.

3.4.1 Addenda. All questions and requests for information must be addressed in writing to the CO. The CO anticipates that it will respond to all such inquiries in writing by addendum to all prospective proposers (i.e. firms or individuals that have obtained the RFQ Documents).

During the RFQ solicitation process, the CO will NOT conduct any ex parte (a substantive conversation—“substantive” meaning, when decisions pertaining to the RFQ are made— between the ACHA and a prospective proposer when other prospective proposers are not present) conversations that may give one prospective proposer an advantage over other prospective proposers. This does not mean that prospective proposers may not call the CO—it simply means that, other than making replies to direct the prospective proposer where his/her answer ACHA already been issued within the solicitation documents, the CO may not respond to the prospective proposer’s inquiries but will direct him/her to submit such inquiry in writing so that the CO may more fairly respond to all prospective proposers in writing by addendum.

3.5 Proposer's Responsibilities—Equal Employment Opportunity and Supplier Diversity. Both the Contractor and the ACHA have, pursuant to HUD regulation, certain responsibilities pertaining to the hiring and retention of personnel and subcontractors.

3.5.1 Within 2 CFR §200.321 it states:

3.5.1.1 Contracting with small and minority businesses, women's business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms.

3.5.1.2 (a) The non-federal entity must take all necessary affirmative steps to assure that minority businesses, women's business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms are used when possible.

3.5.1.3 (2) Affirmative steps must include:

3.5.1.3.1 (1) Placing qualified small and minority businesses and women's business enterprises on solicitation lists;

3.5.1.3.2 (2) Assuring that small and minority businesses, and women's business enterprises are solicited whenever they are potential sources;

3.5.1.3.3 (3) Dividing total requirements, when economically feasible, into smaller tasks or quantities to permit maximum participation by small and minority business, and women's business enterprises;

3.5.1.3.4 (4) Establishing delivery schedules, where the requirement permits, which encourage participation by small and minority business, and women's business enterprises;

3.5.1.3.5 (5) Using the services and assistance, as appropriate, of such organizations as the Small Business Administration and the Minority Business Development ACHA of the Department of Commerce; and

3.5.1.3.6 (6) Requiring the prime contractor, if subcontracts are to be let, to take the affirmative steps listed in paragraphs (1) through (5) of this section.

3.5.2 Within HUD Procurement Handbook 7460.8 REV 2 it states:

3.5.2.1 Section 15.5.A, Required Efforts. Consistent with Presidential Orders 11625, 12138, and 12432, the [ACHA] shall make every effort to ensure that small businesses, MBEs, WBEs, and labor surplus area businesses participate in [ACHA] contracting.

3.5.2.2 Section 15.5.B, Goals. [The ACHA] is encouraged to establish goals by which they can measure the effectiveness of their efforts in implementing programs in support of . . . contracting with disadvantaged firms. It is important to ensure that the means used to establish these goals do not have the effect of limiting competition and shall not be used as mandatory set-aside or quota, except as may otherwise be expressly authorized in regulation or statute.

Some localities have adopted minority contracting set-aside policies or geographic limitations, which may be in conflict with Federal requirements for full and open competition.

3.5.3 Within our ACHA Procurement Policy it states that our ACHA will:

3.5.3.1 Assistance to Small and Other Business, Required Efforts:

3.5.3.1.1 Including such firms, when qualified, on solicitation mailing lists;

3.5.3.1.2 Encouraging their participation through direct solicitation of bids or proposals whenever they are potential sources;

3.5.3.1.3 Dividing total requirements, when economically feasible, into smaller tasks or quantities to permit maximum participation by such firms;

3.5.3.1.4 Establishing delivery schedules, where the requirement permits, which encourage participation by such firms;

3.5.3.1.5 Using the services and assistance of the Small Business Administration, and the Minority Business Development ACHA of the Department of Commerce;

3.5.3.1.6 Including in contracts, to the greatest extent feasible, a clause requiring contractors, to provide opportunities for training and employment for lower income residents of the project area and to award subcontracts for work in connection with the project to business concerns which provide opportunities to low-income residents, as described in 24 CFR Part 135 (so-called Section 3 businesses); and

3.5.3.1.7 Requiring prime contractors, when subcontracting is anticipated, to take the positive steps listed above.

3.5.4 Requirements. Accordingly, please see Section 3.1.7 within Table No. 3 herein which details the information pertaining to this issue that the bidder must submit in response to this bid showing compliance, to the greatest extent feasible, with these regulations.

3.6 Recap of Attachments. It is the responsibility of each proposer to verify that he/she ACHA downloaded the following attachments pertaining to this RFQ, which are hereby by reference included as a part of this RFQ:

[Table No. 4]

RFQ

Section

Document

Attachment

Attachment Description

3.7.1 1.0 This RFQ Document

3.7.2 2.0 A Form of Proposal

3.7.3 3.0 B Form HUD-5369-C (8/93), Certifications and

Representations of Offerors, Non-Construction Contract

3.7.4 4.0 C Profile of Firm Form

3.7.5 5.0 D Section 3 Form Submittal Form

3.7.5.1 5.1 D-1 Section 3 Explanation

3.7.6 6.0 E form HUD-5369-B (8/93), Instructions to Offerors, Non-Construction

3.7.7 7.0 F Supplemental Instructions to Proposers & Contractors

(SIPC)

3.7.8 8.0 G Sample Contract Form – HUD 51915 (please note that this contract and the listed appendices are being given as a sample only—the ACHA reserves the right to revise any clause herein and/or to include within the ensuing contract any additional clauses that the ACHA feels it is in its best interests to do so)

3.7.8.1 8.1 G-1 Sample Contract Appendix No. 1, form HUD-5370-C (10/2006), General Conditions for Non-Construction Contracts Section I (With or without Maintenance Work)

3.7.8.2 8.2 G-2 Sample Contract Appendix No. 2, Supplemental Conditions to form HUD-51915, as required by 2 CFR §200.317-326, Appendix II

3.7.8.3 8.3 G-3 Sample Contract Appendix No. 3: form HUD 50071 (01/14), Certification of Payments to Influence Federal Transactions (NOTE: This form will only be completed and included as a part of the ensuing contract if the ACHA anticipates that total awards pursuant to the ensuing contract may or will exceed $100,000.

3.7.8.4 8.4 G-4 Sample Contract Appendix No. 4: Standard Form LLL (Rev. 01/14), Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (NOTE: This form will only be completed and included as a part of the ensuing contract if the Contractor designates an affirmative answer to Item No. (2) within the immediate identified form 50071.)

3.7.8.5 8.5 G-5 Sample Contract Appendix No. 5: Section 3 Plan

3.7.9 9.0 H Standard Form 330 (6/2004), Architect-Engineer

Qualifications

3.7.10 10.0 I ACHA Profile of Properties

4.0 PROPOSAL EVALUATION.

4.1 Evaluation Factors. The following factors will be utilized by the ACHA to evaluate each proposal submittal received; award of points for each listed factor will be based upon the documentation that the proposer submits within his/her proposal submittal:

[Table No. 5]

Max Point

Value Factor Type

Factor Description 1 20 points Subjective

(Technical) Evidence of the proposers DEMONSTRATED ABILITY TO PERFORM THE WORK as indicated by profiles of the principals’ and staffs’ professional and technical competence and experience, and their facilities.

2 20 points Subjective (Technical)

Evidence of the proposers DEMONSTRATED CAPABILITY TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES in a timely manner.

3 20 points Subjective (Technical)

Evidence of the proposers DEMONSTRATED SUCCESSFUL PAST PERFORMANCE in terms of cost control, quality of work (QA/QC), compliance with performance schedules, and utilization of green design and technologies.

4 30 points Subjective (Technical)

The proposer’s DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE of and EXPERIENCE with local building codes and Federal building alterations requirements.

5 10 points Subjective (Technical)

The proposer’s DEMONSTRATED SUCCESSFUL PAST PERFORMANCE in terms of construction administration work, including but not limited to construction observation, submittal review, pay applications, change orders, punch lists, and closeout.

100 points Total Points (other than preference points) *NOTE: Points will be awarded for each Subjective Factor by each of the appointed evaluation committee members based on his/her opinion after a thorough review of the information submitted by each proposer within his/her proposal.

4.2 Evaluation Method.

4.2.1 Initial Evaluation for Responsiveness. Each proposal received will first be evaluated for responsiveness (i.e., meets the minimum of the requirements). NOTE: Please reference Section 3.1 herein.

4.2.2 Evaluation Packet. An evaluation packet will be prepared for each evaluator, typically including the following documents:

4.2.2.1 Instructions to Evaluators;

4.2.2.2 Proposal Tabulation Form;

4.2.2.3 Written Narrative Form for each proposer;

4.2.2.4 Recap of each proposer’s responsiveness;

4.2.2.5 Copy of all pertinent RFQ documents.

4.2.3 Evaluation Committee. The ACHA anticipates that it will select a minimum of a three-person committee to evaluate each of the responsive “hard copy” proposals submitted in response to this RFQ. PLEASE NOTE: No proposer shall be informed at any time during or after the RFQ process as to the identity of any evaluation committee member. If, by chance, a proposer does become aware of the identity of such person(s), he/she SHALL NOT make any attempt to contact or discuss with such person anything related to this RFQ. As detailed within Section

3.4 of this document, the designated CO is the only person at the ACHA that the proposers shall contact pertaining to this RFQ. Failure to abide by this requirement may (and most likely will) cause such proposer(s) to be eliminated from consideration for award.

4.2.4 Evaluation. It is anticipated that the CO will evaluate and award points pertaining to Evaluation Factor No. 6 (the “Objective” Factor); and that the appointed evaluation committee, independent of the CO or any other person at the ACHA, will evaluate the responsive proposals submitted and award points pertaining to Evaluation Factors No. 1–5 (the “Subjective” Factors). Upon final completion of the proposal evaluation process, the evaluation committee will forward the completed evaluations to the CO.

4.2.4.1 Points Awarded Range. Pertaining to the Subjective Factors, note the following range of points awarded (points pertaining to this RFQ are shaded— please also see the Evaluation Factors detailed within the preceding Section 4.1):

[Table No. 6] Points Awarded Range

Classification* Rating % 10 20 30 100** Acceptable Excellent 95%/+ 10 19-20 29-30 95-100

Acceptable Very Good 90%/+ 9 18 28 90-94

Potentially Acceptable Good 80%/+ 8 16-17 26-27 80-89

Potentially Acceptable Average 70%/+ 7 14-15 24-25 70-79

Unacceptable Poor <70% 0-6 0-13 0-23 0-69

*Pursuant to Section 7.2.N.3 of HUD Procurement Handbook 7460.8 REV 2.

**Total available points to be awarded, including cost points, minus preference points.

4.2.5 Potential "Competitive Range" or “Best and Finals” Negotiations. The ACHA reserves the right to, as detailed within Section 7.2.N through Section 7.2.R of HUD Procurement Handbook 7460.8 REV 2, conduct a “Best and Finals” Negotiation, which may include oral interviews, with all firms deemed to be in the competitive range. Any firm deemed not to be in the competitive range shall be notified of such in writing by the ACHA in as timely a manner as possible, but in any case, within no longer than 10 days after the beginning of such negotiations with the firms deemed to be in the competitive range.

4.2.5.1 "Competitive Range" or "Best and Finals" scoring. The points awarded as a result of this process will NOT be combined with the scoring of the initial evaluation process; meaning, the points awarded will stand separate from the initial evaluation.

4.2.6 Determination of Top-ranked Proposer. Typically, the subjective points awarded by the evaluation committee will be combined with the objective points awarded by the CO to determine the final rankings, which is typically forwarded by the CO to the ED for approval.

If the evaluation was performed to the satisfaction of the ED, the final rankings may be forwarded to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners (BOC) at a scheduled meeting for approval. Contract negotiations may, at the ACHA's option, be conducted prior to or after the BOC approval.

4.2.6.1 Minimum Evaluation Results. To be considered to receive an award a proposer must receive a total calculated average of at least 70 points (of the 115 total possible points detailed within Section 4.1 herein).

4.2.6.2 Ties. In the case of a tie in points awarded, the award shall be decided as detailed within Section 6.12.C of HUD Procurement Handbook 7460.8 REV 2, by “drawing lots or other random means of selection.”

4.2.7 Notice of Results of Evaluation. If an award is completed, all proposers will receive by e-mail a Notice of Results of Evaluation. Such notice shall inform all proposers of:

4.2.7.1 Which proposer received the award;

4.2.7.2 Where each proposer placed in the process as a result of the evaluation of the proposals received;

4.2.7.3 The cost or financial offers received from each proposer;

4.2.7.4 Each proposer’s right to a debriefing and to protest.

4.2.8 Restrictions. All persons having familial (including in-laws) and/or employment relationships (past or current) with principals and/or employees of a proposer entity will be excluded from participation on the ACHA evaluation committee. Similarly, all persons having ownership interest in and/or contract with a proposer entity will be excluded from participation on the ACHA evaluation committee.

5.0 CONTRACT AWARD.

5.1 Contract Award Procedure. If a contract is awarded pursuant to this RFQ, the following detailed procedure will be followed:

5.1.1 An Agreement to Abide. By completing, executing and submitting the Form of Proposal, Attachment A, the “proposer is thereby agreeing to abide by all terms and conditions pertaining to this RFQ as issued by the ACHA, either in hard copy or on the eProcurement Marketplace,” including the contract clauses already attached as Attachments G, G-1 through G-5. Accordingly, the ACHA has no responsibility to conduct after the submittal deadline any negotiations pertaining to the contract clauses already published.

5.2 Contract Conditions. The following provisions are considered mandatory conditions of any contract award made by the ACHA pursuant to this RFQ:

5.2.1 Contract Form. The ACHA will not execute a contract on the Contractor's form—contracts will only be executed on the ACHA form (please see Sample Contract, Attachments G and G- 1 through G-5), and by submitting a proposal the Contractor agrees to do so (please note that the ACHA reserves the right to amend this form as the ACHA deems necessary).

However, the ACHA will during the RFQ process (prior to the submittal deadline) consider any contract clauses that the proposer wishes to include therein and submits in writing a request for the ACHA to do so; but the failure of the ACHA to include such clauses does not give the Contractor the right to refuse to execute the ACHA's contract form. It is the responsibility of each prospective proposer to notify the ACHA, in writing, prior to submitting a proposal, of any contract clause that he/she is not willing to include in the final executed contract and abide by. The ACHA will consider and respond to such written correspondence, and if the prospective proposer is not willing to abide by the ACHA's response (decision), then that prospective proposer shall be deemed ineligible to submit a proposal.

5.2.1.1 HUD Forms. Please note that the ACHA has no legal right or ability to (and will not) at any time negotiate any clauses contained within ANY of the HUD forms included as a part of this RFQ.

5.2.2 Assignment of Personnel. The ACHA shall retain the right to demand and receive a change in personnel assigned to the work if the ACHA believes that such change is in the best interest of the ACHA and the completion of the contracted work.

5.2.3 Unauthorized Sub-Contracting Prohibited. The Contractor shall not assign any right, nor delegate any duty for the work proposed pursuant to this RFQ (including, but not limited to, selling or transferring the contract) without the prior written consent of the CO. Any purported assignment of interest or delegation of duty, without the prior written consent of the CO shall be void and may result in the cancellation of the contract with the ACHA, or may result in the full or partial forfeiture of funds paid to the Contractor as a result of the proposed contract; either as determined by the CO.

5.3 Contract Period. The ACHA anticipates that it will initially award a contract for the period of 1 year with the option, at the ACHA’s discretion, of up to 4 additional one-year option periods, for a total maximum contract period of 5 years.

5.4 Licensing and Insurance Requirements. Prior to award (but not as a part of the proposal submission) the successful proposer will be required to provide an appropriate level of insurance as detailed following, with the following minimums:

5.4.1 Workers Compensation Insurance. An original certificate evidencing the proposer’s current industrial (worker’s compensation) insurance carrier and coverage amount (NOTE: Workers Compensation Insurance will be required of any Contractor that has employees other than just the owner working on-site to provide the services);

5.4.2 General Liability Insurance. An original certificate evidencing General Liability coverage, naming the ACHA as an additional insured, together with the appropriate endorsement to said policy reflecting the addition of the ACHA as an additional insured under said policy (minimum of $1,000,000 each occurrence, general aggregate minimum limit of $1,000,000, together with damage to premises and fire damage of $50,000 and medical expenses any one person of $5,000), with a commercially reasonable deductible (i.e., “commercially reasonable,” meaning not greater than 1% of the “general aggregate minimum” of the policy, with a maximum deductible amount of $50,000);

5.4.3 Professional Liability Insurance. An original certificate showing the proposer's professional liability and/or "errors and omissions" coverage (minimum of $2,000,000 each occurrence, general aggregate minimum limit of $2,000,000), with a commercially reasonable deductible (i.e., “commercially reasonable,” meaning not greater than 1% of the “general aggregate minimum” of the policy, with a maximum deductible amount of $50,000);

5.4.4 Automobile Insurance. An original certificate showing the proposer’s automobile insurance coverage in a combined single limit of $1,000,000. For every vehicle utilized during the term of this program, when not owned by the entity, each vehicle must have evidence of automobile insurance coverage with limits of no less than $100,000/$300,000 and medical pay of $5,000.

5.4.5 City/County/State Business License. If applicable, a copy of the proposer’s business license allowing that entity to provide such services within the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and/or the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

5.4.6 Profile of Firm Form. Pertaining to the aforementioned (within Sections 5.4.1 through 5.4.5) insurance certificates and licenses, each proposer is required to enter related information where provided for on the Profile of Firm Form (do not attach or submit copies of the insurance certificates or licenses within the proposal submittal—we will garner the necessary documents from the successful proposer prior to contract execution).

5.5 Right to Negotiate Final Fees. The ACHA shall retain the right to negotiate the amount of fees that are paid to the Contractor, meaning the fees proposed by the top-rated proposer may, at the ACHA’s options, be the basis for the beginning of negotiations. Such negotiations shall begin after the ACHA has chosen a top-rated proposer. If such negotiations are not, in the opinion of the CO successfully concluded within 5 business days, the ACHA shall retain the right to end such negotiations and begin negotiations with the next-rated proposer.

5.6 Contract Service Standards. All work performed pursuant to this RFQ must conform and comply with all applicable local, state, and federal codes, statutes, laws, and regulations.

5.7 Prompt Return of Contract Documents. Any and all documents required to complete the contract, including contract signature by the successful proposers, shall be provided to the ACHA within 10 workdays of notification by the ACHA.

Index of Tables [Table No. 7] Table Description Page

1 Table of Contents 2 2 RFQ Information at a Glance 3 3 Tabbed Proposal Submittal 9 4 Recap of Attachments 15 5 Evaluation Factors 16 6 Points Awarded Range 17 7 Index of Tables 21