RFQ_DNR_462_492_2024_ Landscape DP.pdf

Georgia State Financing & Investment Commission

Request for Qualifications RFQ No. DNR-462-492-2024-DP

(Step I)

And

To Interview (Step II)

To Provide Task Order Landscape

Design Professional Services for

Project No. DNR-462-2024-DP

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. PROJECT FACT SHEET

II. RFP/RFQ OVERVIEW

1. GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION

2. PROCUREMENT PROCESS

3. TERMS

III. REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

1. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

2. QUESTIONS

3. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

4. EVALUATION CRITERIA

5. STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS CONTENTS

6. SUBMITTAL OF STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

7. FINALIST NOTIFICATION

IV. REQUEST FOR INTERVIEWS (FROM QUALIFIED FINALIST)

1. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

2. SUBMITTAL OF QUESTIONS AND REQUEST FOR CLARIFICATIONS

3. PREPROPOSAL SITE VISIT

4. CRITERIA FOR THE EVALUATION OF FIRMS

5. INTERVIEW INFORMATION

6. FINAL SELECTION – QUALIFICATIONS SCORE

V. EXHIBITS

1. Exhibit A – Certification Form

2. Exhibit B – Contractor Affidavit Under O.C.G.A §13-10-91(b)(1)

3. Exhibit C – Disclosure Statement

4. Exhibit D – Specimen Task Order Contract

5. Exhibit E – Form of Assignment Order

I. PROJECT FACT SHEET

Task Order Landscape Architectural Services RFQ/RFP No. DNR-462-492-2024-DP

For Department of Natural Resources

The following Schedule of Events represents the Owner’s best estimate of the schedule that will be followed. All times indicated are prevailing times in Atlanta. The Owner reserves the right to adjust the schedule as the Owner deems necessary.

STEP I

Date Time Activity Friday, March 22nd, 2024 TBA a. Owner issues public advertisement of RFQ

Monday, April 1st, 2024 2:00 PM b. Deadline for submission of written questions

Monday, April 8th, 2024 2:00 PM c. Deadline for submission of Statement of Qualifications

April 22nd, 2024 10:00 AM d. Owner completes qualification evaluation and determines finalist firms

STEP II

Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024 ---- a. Owner issues notice to finalist firms to propose as instructed in the RFP

Monday, April 29th, 2024 TBD b. Owner conducts Pre-Proposal Site Visit for finalist

Monday, May 6th, 2024 2:00 PM c. Deadline for finalist submission of written questions and request for clarification

TBD, May 2024 TBD d. Owner interviews finalist firms

Kelsey Ayers, Contracts Manager e-mail: kelsey.ayers@gsfic.ga.gov

(404) 270-0207

Upload one (1) electronic copy of the complete package in .pdf format onto the GSFIC / Egnyte ftp site by selecting this link: https://gsfic.egnyte.com/ul/pNZmp64ims and following the upload instructions provided below.

Click on the provided link above, when the page opens, enter name, email address, and company name, click

“Continue.”

Drag and drop your file or click the “Browse” button to select a document from your computer. You should see an upload progress bar and when it gets to 100% the upload is complete.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

GSFIC POINT OF CONTACT

EGNYTE UPLOAD LINK

mailto:kelsey.ayers@gsfic.ga.gov https://gsfic.egnyte.com/ul/pNZmp64ims

II. RFQ/RFP OVERVIEW

Task Order Landscape Design Professional Services

The Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission (GSFIC), on behalf the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (“Using Agency”), is seeking firms interested in providing Task Order Landscape Design Professional Services for a project known as Project No. DNR-462-492-2024-DP.

1. GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION

Project Description:

The Department of Natural Resources Engineering and Construction Division provides an array of services related to design and construction management on capital outlay projects for the DNR. The division’s management of projects involves a wide variety of functions on behalf of the agency’s six (6) Divisions. The scope of the services being provided by DNR Engineering and Construction may vary from one project to the next and often includes the procurement of landscape architectural and engineering services.

Given the responsibilities the organization has been tasked with, DNR believes there are occasions where it would be best served by having one or more design firms under a Task Order Contract or similar arrangement to provide landscape architectural services on an as needed basis. Therefore, the DNR is seeking the services of an Architectural/Engineering firm or firms, (“Firm”), on an as needed basis, to provide design professional/engineering professional services for various projects, throughout the entire state of Georgia. While it is envisioned the miscellaneous task order firms will primarily be utilized on smaller projects, the level of services required will vary in size and scope depending upon the needs of DNR. The firms on any given project may include, but not necessarily be limited to, some or all of the following:

Pre-design Services - The DNR may find it beneficial to utilize outside landscape pre-design services on an as needed basis. Typical pre-design services may include but not be limited to programming, site analysis, and other studies to develop essential information that could include cost estimates to support and advance the decision-making process prior to the design and implementation phases of an activity.

Design Services – The need for design services will vary and could range from light conceptual drawings and specifications on small projects to full landscape design services through the development of a complete set of biddable construction documents on an as needed basis. Architectural services on any given project may include but not be limited to architectural design of both hard scape and planting of outdoor and public spaces to create attractive and functional outdoor areas as well as structural engineering in some instances. The services may include landscape master planning, value engineering review and associated services, or other services as needed. This could include assistance in expediting permits, providing special engineering services including special studies, economic advisory/analytical services, and services associated with other unforeseen circumstances.

Design Review – Design review services on various projects could be needed at various phases of the design development or completion and may include, but not necessarily limited to, review of the project drawings and specifications for constructability and code compliance. The services may require the review of the project drawings and specifications for interdisciplinary coordination with mechanical and electrical plans, civil site drawings and structural plans. DNR may on occasion request to have the firm attend design review meetings, review additional engineering documents incorporating value engineering items, or review construction documents to ensure clarity is sufficient to permit a contractor to accurately estimate and prepare a bid.

Construction Contract Administration – The Design Professional may be required to provide professional construction contract administration support associated with landscape installation/construction of projects as needed. This could include providing full and/or part time construction/project managers, resident engineers, office engineers, etc., for administration of construction projects. Additionally, these services could include the development of bid specifications, contract documents, drawings, details, plan bid tablatures, etc.

Cost Estimating – The Design Professional could be requested to assist with the development of costs estimates for projects. Cost estimating services could include, but are not limited to, construction cost estimating for the purposes of planning, budgeting, and/or the bidding of construction projects.

Professional Support Services - DNR may find it beneficial to utilize various Professional Support Services on an as needed basis. These support services could include but not be limited to existing facilities analysis, developing scopes of work, bid packages, specifications, drawings, and developing schedules. Additionally support services could include the review and preparation of permits, permit requirements, and special conditions. Assistance with contract negotiation, claims review and claims avoidance, as well as procedure review, evaluation, or preparation of contract. Field inspections and report development documenting data and providing recommendations may be required from time to time. Support services could include Facilities Operations and Training Services, Program Management services, engineering services including special studies and economic advisory/analytical services, etc.

The descriptions of the services within the categories above are intended to provide a general overview of the nature of services that may be needed. While the actual services being sought by the Owner may include some or all services reflected above, potential services to be provided in any given category may vary and may not be limited to only those described above. The Department of Natural Resources intends to enter into a Task Order contract with one or more Landscape Architectural/Engineering firm(s), to provide miscellaneous landscape design professional services on DNR projects on an as needed basis.

Contract Information:

The successful Firm(s) may be offered a zero-dollar Task Order Design Services Contract for design related services, which may be valid for a term of one (1) year with two (2) - one (1) year options to renew the agreement. The Task Order Design Services Contract shall be between the Department of Natural Resources and the Design Professional Firm. (See Exhibit “D” of RFQ for an example of how the Task Order Contract may be structured. The actual Task Order Agreement issued to the selected firm may contain additional terms and conditions.) The Task Order Design Contract shall maintain the Design Professional’s eligibility for requested services. However, no actual work may be contracted between the DP and the Owner unless a project-specific “Assignment Order” is issued by the Owner and mutually agreed to and executed by both parties to the agreement (See Exhibit “E” of RFQ). As DNR identifies the need for services, a proposal from the Design Professional to provide these services will be requested by DNR. It is envisioned the Design Professional’s compensation for any given project would likely be based on unit pricing, hourly rates, lump sum, or some combination thereof and will likely be negotiated on a project-specific basis. Once a mutually acceptable Assignment Order is agreed to between the Owner and the DP, the DP is responsible for completion of all services as set forth in the Assignment Order with adherence to price, schedule, deliverables, and all other terms and conditions. When applicable, the DP may hold appropriate consultant contracts as needed. The DP shall retain all responsibilities for design related services consistent with industry standards.

Design Professional Requirements:

The Owner is seeking the services of an architectural/engineering firm (the “Design Professional”) to provide any or all of the aforementioned design services, including the development of plans and specifications. The Design Professional may provide the complete schematic, design development, and construction documents. In addition, the Design Professional may provide construction contract administration services. The successful Design Professional will be expected to contract with the Owner in a timely manner. The offering firm shall be the primary contracting firm as the individual firm held responsible for fulfilling all contractual obligations. The primary contracting firm shall perform a minimum of 50% of the architectural design services (exclusive of engineering and specialty consultants) in-house.

An associated firm (if necessary) may provide up to 50% of the architectural design services, allowing two or more architectural firms to share in the design effort on an equal basis. The Owner does not intend to enter a “joint venture” agreement with multiple design professional firms. If two or more firms desire to joint venture, one firm shall act as the primary firm. It is strongly recommended that one firm act as the official primary design professional firm with the remaining firm(s) serving as consultants to the primary.

The Project will be constructed by a general contractor to be selected and contracted separately by the Owner. It is expected the design professional will work closely with the selected contractor and any other consultants engaged by the owner and in the best interest of the Owner and the project.

Project Delivery Method:

The delivery method for this Project will be determined after advertising.

Project Budget The preliminary Stated Cost Limitation (SCL) or construction cost of the various projects will vary. The final SCL may be revised by the Owner due to final programmatic requirements, funding availability or other circumstances.

Project Schedule:

The Design Professional’s services will be determined at time of Assignment Order execution. (Note: All of the dates indicated in this section are estimates and as such are subject to change.)

Sustainable Approach:

The project will incorporate the requirements of the Energy Efficiency & Sustainable Construction Act of 2008 (O.C.G.A. 50-8-18) and it is the desire of the Owner to incorporate sustainable design and construction concepts in the project where feasible to do so. Further, Georgia Peach certification is required with commissioning.

Owner’s Project Management Program (e-Builder) The DP shall be required to use the Owner’s free Project Management Program, E-Builder, for contract administration processes including, but not limited to, Requests for Information, Change Orders, Payment Applications, Notices of Non-Compliance and Incumberance Records.

Contract Information The contract for Design Professional Services is attached below.

Firms are encouraged to review and become familiar with the terms and conditions of this agreement.

Firms participating in this procurement process agree to execute the contract form without modification.

2. PROCUREMENT PROCESS

Selection of the DP will be a multi-step process. GSFIC will generally follow the requirements of Georgia Code Title 50 Chapter 22 with respect to the selection of DP for the proposed project.

Step I - Request for Qualifications The selection process starts with the Request for Qualifications (“RFQ”). Interested firms shall submit Statements of Qualifications. Firms meeting the Minimum Qualifications outlined in the RFQ will have their Statements of Qualifications reviewed by Selection Committee consisting of representatives of the Using Agency, GSFIC, and possibly a third-party representative (i.e., another state representative, Architect, etc.). The Selection Committee shall score each Statement of Qualifications to create a shortlist of the firms with the most appropriate qualifications for the Project (“Finalist Firms”).

Step II - Request for Proposals Finalist Firms will be invited to interview with the Selection Committee. The Selection Committee will score each firm based upon the qualifications and Interviews.

3. TERMS

All respondents to this RFQ/RFP are subject to instructions communicated in this document and additional terms and conditions contained herein.

Restriction of Communications From the issue date of this (RFQ-RFP) solicitation until a successful proposer is selected and the selection is announced, proposers are not allowed to communicate for any reason with any members of the Selection Committee, the Using Agency, the End-User, or the Architect, except for submission of questions as instructed in the RFQ and RFP, or during the proposer’s conference (if applicable), or as provided by any existing work agreement(s). For violation of this provision, the Owner reserves the right to reject the qualifications/proposal of the offending proposer.

Submittal Costs and Confidentiality All expenses for preparing and submitting responses are the sole cost of the party submitting the response. The Owner is not obligated to any party to reimburse such expenses. All submittals upon receipt become the property of the Owner. Labeling information provided in submittals “proprietary” or “confidential,” or any other designation of restricted use will not protect the information from public view.

Subject to the provisions of the Open Records Act, the details of the proposal documents will remain confidential until final award.

Award Conditions This request is not an offer to contract or a solicitation of bids. This request and any proposal submitted in response, regardless of whether the proposal is determined to be the best proposal, is not binding upon GSFIC/DNR and does not obligate GSFIC/DNR to procure or contract for any services. Neither GSFIC nor any party submitting a response will be bound unless and until a written contract mutually accepted by both parties is negotiated as to its terms and conditions and is signed by DNR and a party containing such terms and conditions as are negotiated between those parties. The Owner reserves the right to waive non-compliance with any requirements of this RFQ/RFP and to reject any or all Statements of Qualifications or Proposals submitted in response. Upon receipt and review of responses, the Owner will determine the party(s) and proposal that in the sole judgment of the Owner is in the best interest of the Owner (if any is so determined), with respect to the evaluation criteria stated herein. The Owner then intends to conduct negotiations with such party(s) to determine if a mutually acceptable contract may be reached and in the course of doing so may use ideas expressed in any proposal.

Evaluation of Submittals and Qualifications Evaluation of Statements of Qualifications, and Interviews will be conducted by a Selection Committee consisting of various project stakeholders. Based upon the predetermined rating criteria contained in the RFQ/RFP, the committee will assign a composite rating to each firm. Proposers understand and accept that by responding to this solicitation they are willingly participating in a process that consists to some degree of subjectivity on the part of selection committee members in determining the firm(s) capable of providing the best overall solution.

Reciprocal Preference Law For the purposes of evaluation only, a proposer that resides in the State of Georgia will be granted the same preference over proposers that reside in another State in the same manner, on the same basis, and to the same extent that preference is granted in awarding bids for the same goods or services by such other State to proposers that reside therein. For the purposes of this law, the definition of a resident proposer is one who maintains a place of business with at least one employee inside the State of Georgia.

A P.O. Box address will not satisfy this requirement.

Joint-Venture Proposals GSFIC does not generally desire to enter into “joint-venture” agreements with multiple Construction Management firms. In the event two or more firms desire to “joint-venture,” it is strongly recommended that one incorporated firm propose and maintain status as the Construction Management Firm with the remaining firms participating as major consultants.

Small and Minority Business Enterprise It is the policy of the state of Georgia that minority-owned business enterprises (MBE), woman-owned business enterprises (WBE) and small business enterprises (SBE), have a fair and equal opportunity to participate in the state purchasing process. Therefore, the Owner encourages all MBE, WBE and SBE to compete for contracts to provide goods, services, and construction, and encourages contractors to solicit MBE, WBE and SBE in procuring subcontractors and suppliers. This desire on the part of the Owner is not intended to restrict or limit competitive bidding or to increase the cost of the work. The Owner supports a healthy free market system that seeks to include responsible businesses and provides ample opportunity for business growth and development.

Contractors and subcontractors who utilize qualified minority subcontractors may qualify for a Georgia state income tax credits for qualified payments made to minority subcontractors. In accordance with O.C.G.A. 48-7-38, when computing taxable net income of a Georgia based corporation, partnership, or individual, there shall be subtracted from federal taxable income or federal adjusted gross income 10 percent of the amount of qualified payments to certified minority subcontractors for state-agency-related construction projects. For more information on filing only, contact the Georgia Department of Revenue at 404-417-2399.

A company cannot receive an MBE Certification with the state of Georgia government without first receiving the DBE certification. To obtain information on the DBE/MBE Certification contact:

Georgia Department of Transportation One Georgia Center 600 West Peachtree NW Atlanta, Georgia 30308 404-631-1990

DOAS Supplier Relations 200 Piedmont Avenue, S.E.

Suite 1308, West Tower Atlanta, Georgia 30334-9010 404-657-6000

Statement of Agreement With submission of a proposal, the Proposer agrees that he/she has carefully examined the Request for Proposal, and the Proposer agrees that it is the Proposer’s responsibility to request clarification on any issue(s) in any section of the Request for Proposal with which the Proposer disagrees or needs clarified.

The Proposer also understands that failure to mention these items in the proposal will be interpreted to mean that the Proposer is in full agreement with the terms, conditions, specifications and requirements in the therein. With submission of a proposal, the Proposer hereby certifies: (a) that this proposal is genuine and is not made in the interest or on behalf of any undisclosed person, firm, or corporation; (b) that Proposer has not directly or indirectly included or solicited any other Proposer to put in a false or insincere proposal; (c) that Proposer has not solicited or induced any person, firm, or corporation to refrain from sending a proposal.

Debarred, Suspended or Ineligible Firms Contracts will not be executed and bids or proposals will not be solicited or considered from debarred, suspended or ineligible persons or firms during the period of debarment. The list of debarred, suspended or ineligible firms can be located on the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission’s website at http://www.gsfic.georgia.gov. Once on the website, select the “Doing Business with GSFIC” tab, then select “Procurement Services,” then click on the “Debarred, Suspended or Ineligible Entities” tab for access to the list of those firms currently considered debarred, suspended or ineligible to compete, contract or subcontract for work on projects administered by the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission.

http://www/

III REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Step I – Request for Qualifications. All firms interested in performing DP Services shall submit a Statement of Qualifications in accordance with the terms below.

1. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS (STEP I)

Refer to the Project Fact Sheet for Schedule of Events.

2. QUESTIONS

The deadline for submission of questions relating to the RFQ is the time and date shown in the Schedule of Events shown above. All relevant and significant questions that have been submitted in writing prior to the deadline will be compiled, and answers will be posted to the project information on the Georgia Procurement Registry at http://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/ . Questions from Design Professionals about any aspect of the RFP, or the project, shall be submitted in writing (e-mail is preferable) to the Point of Contact on the Project Fact Sheet.

3. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Firms must meet the following Minimum Qualifications in order to have their Statement of Qualifications reviewed and scored by the Selection Committee.

The firm or its principals are not currently ineligible, debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from bidding or contracting by any state or federal agency, department, or authority.

The firm or its principals have not been terminated for cause or be currently in default on any public works contract.

Firms must be registered to do business in the State of Georgia with the Georgia Secretary of State.

4. EVALUATION CRITERIA

The Selection Committee will evaluate the Statements of Qualifications which have met the above minimum qualifications according to the Criteria for the evaluation are listed below:

25% - Stability

Stability of the firm, including the firm’s corporate history, growth, resources, form of ownership, litigation history, financials, etc.

45% - Experience and Qualifications

Firm’s relevant project experience and qualifications, including the demonstrated ability of firm in creating effective design of projects comparable in complexity, size, and function to the one contemplated hereby. Experience with owners such as the State of Georgia and/or other similarly-structured organizations. This includes relevant experience and qualifications of the principal Design Professional(s) and lead staff, and evidence of relevant competencies for this project. Evaluators may also consider personal or agency past experience with firms.

30% - Suitability

Firm’s suitability to provide services for the project, including the firm’s apparent fit to the project type and/or needs of the Owner, any unique qualifications for the project, current and projected workloads, the proximity of office to project location, non-discrimination policies, and record of addressing public safety, social, environmental concerns, accessibility for persons with disabilities and special needs, and special services for project-related concerns.

5. STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS CONTENTS

Statements of Qualifications shall include the following information and required forms.

REQUIRED CONTENTS FOR ALL STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

A DESCRIPTION AND RESOURCES OF FIRM

A1 Provide basic company information: Company name, address, name of primary contact, the year the company was established, telephone number, fax number, e-mail address, and company website (if available). If the firm has multiple offices, the qualification statement shall include information about the parent company and branch office separately. Identify the office from which the project will be managed, its proximity to the project site, the year the local office was established and the number of persons staffing that office and their disciplines. Provide form of ownership, including state of residency or incorporation, and number of years in business. Is the offeror a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, Limited Liability Corporation (LLC), joint venture, or other structure? For joint venture entities that have not undertaken at least two projects together, each firm should submit its qualifications separately. Joint submittals are subject to the same submittal page limit.

A-2 Briefly describe the history and growth of your firm(s). Provide general information about the firm's personnel resources, including disciplines and numbers and classifications of employees, and locations and staffing of offices.

A-3 Has the firm or any of its principals been involved in any litigation in the past five (5) years?

Describe your experience with litigation with Owners and/or Contractors. List any active or pending litigation and explain.

A-4 Provide name of insurance carrier, types and levels of coverage, and deductible amounts per claim.

A-5 List the firm’s annual revenue for each of the past 5 years.

A-6 Supply financial references and main banking references.

A-7 Has the firm ever been removed from a design services contract or failed to complete a contract as assigned?

A-8 Provide the firm’s Federal Employer Identification Number on an IRS Form W-9.

A-9 Firm has all the necessary, valid and current license to do business in the State of Georgia as issued by the respective State Boards and Government Agencies responsible for regulating and licensing the services to be provided and performed. Provide copies of relevant licenses. (i.e., Registered Architect, Professional Engineer, Etc.)

A-10 Complete the Certification Form (Exhibit “A” enclosed with the RFQ) and provide a notarized original with response as section “A10” of the firm’s Statement of Qualifications.

A-11 Complete and submit a “CONTRACTOR AFFIDAVIT UNDER O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(b)(1)” (Exhibit “B”) with response as Section “A11” of the firm’s Statement of Qualifications. Failure to submit this form with Statement of Qualifications will result in the firm being eliminated from consideration for this project

A-12 Complete and submit the “Disclosure Statement” (Exhibit “C”) with response as Section “A12” of the firm’s Statement of Qualifications.

B EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

B-1 Provide professional qualifications and description of the level of experience for principal

Architect or Engineer personnel in the design of projects similar to this project. All Consultants should provide a similar level of information, particularly any specialized engineers or designers that may be on the team. (At this stage, firms are asked for information on lead staff only, but may list qualifications and experience of more than one lead individual who is qualified and available for proposed project. If the firm is selected as a finalist, the Owner will request detailed information on the exact proposed expanded team and their relevant experience.)

B-2 Provide information of the firm’s experience on projects of similar type, size, function, and complexity. Describe no more than ten (10) in order of most relevant to least relevant, which demonstrate the firm's capabilities to perform the project at hand. (If a project listed was performed by an employee that previously worked at another firm, please indicate as such.) For each project, the following information should be provided:

a. Project name, location and dates during which services were performed.

b. Project delivery method (e.g. construction manager at risk, design-build, or design-bid-build).

c. Brief description of project and physical description (final construction cost, square footage, number of stories, site area).

d. Services performed by your firm. Identify the key personnel that participated in the project and state whether they are still with the firm.

e. Owner’s stated satisfaction in design and service of your firm.

f. Owner’s current contact information.

g. Contractor’s current contact information.

h. Provide construction budget and final construction cost for each project.

i. Describe in detail the reasons for any cost increases that may have occurred (Change orders, unforeseen conditions, Owner directed scope increases, errors/omissions, etc.)

C STATEMENT OF SUITABILITY

C-1 Provide any information that may serve to differentiate the firm from other firms in suitability for the project. Suitability may include, but is not limited to, the firm’s fit to the project and/or needs of the Owner, any special or unique qualifications for the project, current and projected workloads, the proximity of office to project location, and any techniques or methodologies offered by the firm that may be particularly suitable for this project type.

C-2 Provide evidence of experience and proficiency with design of public buildings with regard to the areas of public safety, environmental, accessibility for persons with disabilities and special needs, or other related concerns

C-3 Provide information on any special services offered by the firm that may be relevant and available for this project.

6. SUBMITTAL OF STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

Firms shall submit/upload one (1) electronic copy in .pdf format of the complete qualifications package to a GSFIC ftp site. Submittals must be prepared in a manner that when printed would typically fit on standard (8 ½” x 11”) paper. (The entire response shall not exceed 50 pages. All pages count, no exceptions.)

Submittals that include qualifications of more than one firm shall not exceed the page limits. Emphasis should be on completeness, relevance, and clarity of content. To expedite the review of submittals, it is essential that respondents follow the format and instructions outlined below:

Submit one (1) electronic copy of the complete package in .pdf format onto the GSFIC / Egnyte ftp site.

Uploaded responses (file names) must reference the RFQ No.-DP, the firm’s name, and the word “Qualifications.”

(File Name Example: RFQ No.-DP, ABC Company, Qualifications)

The entire submittal should be submitted as ONE (1) file. Please do not submit individual documents or sections separately.

Upload Instructions

Upload one (1) electronic copy of the complete package in .pdf format onto the GSFIC / Egnyte ftp site by selecting the link listed on the Project Fact Sheet and following the upload instructions provided below.

Click on the provided link above, when the page opens, enter name, email address, and company name, click “Continue.”

Drag and drop your file or click the “Browse” button to select a document from your computer. You should see an upload progress bar and when it gets to 100% the upload is complete.

Proposers are reminded that failure to comply with the following could result in your submission being deemed non-responsive. Non-responsive submittals will not be considered by the selection committee:

• The total page count of the submittal must not exceed 50 pages. All pages count regardless of content - including the cover, blanks, exhibits, appendices, etc.

• No links to external electronic documents are permitted.

• Be sure to include the following completed exhibits in your submission. (Forms located at the end of this document):

o Exhibit A – Certification Form.

o Exhibit B – Contractor Affidavit under O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(b)(l) o Exhibit C – Disclosure Statement.

• Statements of Qualifications must be electronically received by the Owner prior to the deadline indicated in the Schedule of Events (Section 3 of this RFQ).

• Printed copies will not be accepted.

• Firms are encouraged to verify with GSFIC that their submittal was received and should do so on the date they are due. Contact the point of contact on the Project Fact Sheet, or the main GSFIC number 404-463-5600, for assistance or confirmation that the file was received.

(Experience with the ftp site indicates that uploads do not always receive the confirmation statement that the file was “successfully uploaded.” Typically, for files ranging in size from 5 – 10 Mb, it should not take more than one or two minutes to complete the upload.)

7. FINALIST NOTIFICATION

Once the Selection Committee has completed the evaluation of the Statements of Qualifications, a list of the finalist firms will be posted on the Georgia Procurement Registry.

End of Section

IV. REQUEST FOR INTERVIEWS

(From Qualified Finalists)

Step II – Requests for Interviews – Finalist firms selected during the RFQ Process are invited to interview with the Selection Committee in accordance with the following terms.

1. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Refer to the Project Fact Sheet for Schedule of Events.

2. SUBMITTAL OF QUESTIONS AND REQUEST FOR CLARIFICATION

It is the responsibility of each respondent to examine the entire RFP, seek clarification in writing, and review its submittals for accuracy before submitting. Once the submission deadline has passed, all submissions will be final.

The Owner will not request clarification from any single individual proposer regarding their submission, but reserves the right to ask, collectively, all parties that have submitted proposals for additional information. The deadline for submission of questions relating to the RFP is the time and date shown in the Schedule of Events above.

All relevant and significant questions that have been submitted in writing prior to the deadline will be compiled and answered in writing and issued directly to all proposers via E-mail. Any proposed exceptions to the RFP requirements or requests for deadline extensions must also be communicated to the Owner by the deadline to be properly considered. Any requests for proposal deadline extensions must include the reason(s) for such a request.

The Owner reserves the right to approve or reject such requests as the Owner deems necessary.

Questions from Design Professionals about any aspect of the RFP, or the project, shall be submitted in writing to the point of contact on the Project Fact Sheet.

3. PRE-PROPOSAL SITE VISIT

A pre-proposal site visit may be conducted by the Owner and, if so, attendance of finalist firms will be mandatory.

The date for the site visit is tentatively listed above. The site visitors will convene at a time and location to be determined and communicated in the Notice to Finalists. Additional information, possibly including some program, plans and drawings, may be available at the site visit for finalist review. The Owner reserves the right to disqualify a proposer from the selection process due to a failure by a proposer to arrive for the site visit by the scheduled time. Failure to attend a mandatory site visit will automatically result in disqualification from the selection process.

4. CRITERIA FOR THE EVALUATION OF FIRMS:

The Selection Committee will evaluate the firms based upon Proposals and Interviews according to the Criteria for the evaluation listed below:

50% Qualifications & Experience:

Previous Performance of the firm including level of quality of the services of the firm to previous customers, customer’s statements of that quality, the firm’s ability to meet established time requirements, the firm’s response to project needs during design and construction, the firm’s control of design schedule, quality, and budget. The Selection Committee may use references from stakeholders from previous projects of the finalists, among other information as necessary.

25% Proposed Plan: Design Team Qualifications and Experience of the Proposed Project Team. Experience of the principal, lead designer, and project manager on completed projects of similar size, type, and complexity; assigned team’s experience with effective budget and schedule control; availability of the proposed team for this project. Provide information regarding percentage of the primary team member’s time that will be committed to this project.

25% Overall Impression:

Committee’s Overall Impression of the firm. The overall impression of key team members (lead designer, project manager, project director, project executive, etc.) and their ability to effectively answer project questions and provide solutions during the interview. The firm’s ability to assure success to complete the project within the time and cost budgeted.

5. INTERVIEW INFORMATION

Firms selected to make presentations shall be notified by the Notice to Finalists letter issued by the Selection Committee Manager. The Notice to Finalists letter shall designate a place and time for the interview session and shall contain relevant information regarding the presentations.

The intent of the formal interview process is to provide the Selection Committee with in-depth information about the firm in order to make a final selection of the best-suited firm for the Project. Firms are discouraged from reviewing general company history and past experience previously submitted in prior responses unless this information is particularly relevant to the presentation. All key personnel should be present at the interview.

The interview sessions will last a total of 45 minutes. The format for the interview will be as follows:

a) Introductions & Project Approach (25 minutes) Firms will be provided with up to 25 minutes for detailed introductions and presentation time. Firms have the flexibility to approach the presentation in a manner of their choosing. The proposing team may use visual aids such as PowerPoint to assist with their presentation. Firms should focus their presentation on the following, but not limited to:

- Specific roles of your team members

- Describing their detailed plan for designing and administrating the construction, schedule, and quality on the project

- Unique characteristics or services the firm offers

b) Questions and Answers – (20 minutes) Twenty minutes of the interview time should be reserved for questions from the Selection Committee to help the Selection Committee gain additional insight into the strengths of teams being proposed and clarify any information presented in the Interview or Project Proposals.

6. FINAL SELECTION

Final Evaluation Upon completion of the evaluation and interview process by the Selection Committee, the firms will be ranked in descending order of recommendation. Negotiations will then be initiated with the best-qualified firm to finalize the terms and conditions of the contract. In the event a satisfactory fee agreement cannot be reached with the highest-ranking firm, the Owner will formally terminate the negotiations in writing and enter into negotiations in turn with the second highest ranking firm and so on until a mutual agreement is established and the Owner awards an architectural services contract.

End of Section

(Exhibit A)

CERTIFICATION FORM

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

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

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

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

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

I acknowledge, agree and authorize, and certify that the proposer acknowledges, agrees and authorizes, that the Owner and/or GSFIC may, by means that either deems appropriate, determine the accuracy and truth of the information provided by the proposer and that the Owner and/or GSFIC may contact any individual or entity named in the Statement of Qualifications for the purpose of verifying the information supplied therein.

I acknowledge and understand the successful Proposer will be required to certify compliance with the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 (IRCA), D.L. 99-603 and the Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act OCGA 13-10-90 et.seq., by meeting or having complied with the provisions in the Act and by executing any affidavits required by the rules and regulations issued by the Georgia Department of Labor set forth at Rule 300- 10- 1-.01: Contractor will also be required to warrant that Contractor has included a similar provision in all written agreements with any subcontractors engaged to perform services under this Contract.

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

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

Signature Sworn and subscribed before me This day of , 20 .

NOTARY PUBLIC NOTARY SEAL

My Commission Expires:

(Exhibit B)

Contractor Affidavit under O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(b)(l) The undersigned contractor ("Contractor") executes this Affidavit to comply with O.C.G.A § 13-10-91 related to any Contract to which Contractor is a party that is subject to O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 and hereby verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91, attesting as follows:

a) The Contractor has registered with, is authorized to use and uses the federal work authorization program commonly known as E-Verify, or any subsequent replacement program;

b) The Contractor will continue to use the federal work authorization program throughout the contract period, including any renewal or extension thereof;

c) The Contractor will notify the public employer in the event the Contractor ceases to utilize the federal work authorization program during the contract period, including renewals or extensions thereof;

d) The Contractor understands that ceasing to utilize the federal work authorization program constitutes a material breach of Contract;

e) The Contractor will contract for the performance of services in satisfaction of such contract only with subcontractors who present an affidavit to the Contractor with the information required by O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(a), (b), and (c);

f) The Contractor acknowledges and agrees that this Affidavit shall be incorporated into any contract(s) subject to the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 13-10- 91 for the project listed below to which Contractor is a party after the date hereof without further action or consent by Contractor;

and

g) Contractor acknowledges its responsibility to submit copies of any affidavits, drivers' licenses, and identification cards required pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 to the public employer within five business days of receipt.

Federal Work Authorization User Identification Number Date of Authorization

Name of Contractor Name of Project

Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission Name of Public Employer

I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on , 20 in (city), (state).

Signature of Authorized Officer or Agent

Printed Name and Title of Authorized Officer or Agent

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN BEFORE ME

ON THIS THE DAY OF , 20 ,

NOTARY PUBLIC

My Commission Expires:

Exhibit C

DISCLOSURE

STATEMENT

All proposers should be aware that the project you are submitting a proposal on is a public project, and the Owner (GSFIC) is a public agency. Pursuant to the laws, rules and Executive Orders of the State of Georgia, GSFIC shall make every effort to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest or any impropriety in both the selection process for this project and the negotiation and performance of any resulting contract. As part of any submittal you intend to make for this project, you must include this Disclosure Statement with your submittal that answers or addresses the following specific statements:

1. Describe any business transactions occurring within the prior two years between your firm and GSFIC, the Using Agency, or the ultimate end-user of the proposed project.

2. Describe any gift, hospitality, or benefit of any sort that your firm has provided to GSFIC, the Using Agency, or the end-user of the proposed project within the prior one-year period.

3. A conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest is defined as any action, decision, or recommendation by a person acting in a capacity as a public official, the effect of which is or could be to the private monetary or financial benefit or detriment of the person, the person’s relative, or any business with which the person or a relative of the person is associated. The potential conflict of interest is viewed from the perspective of a reasonable person who has knowledge of the relevant facts. Based upon this definition, describe any conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest that your firm has with GSFIC, the Using Agency, or the end-user of this project.

This Disclosure Statement should be dated and signed by an authorized signatory for the Proposer and submitted with the Proposer’s Submittal as a deliverable.

Name of Firm

Authorized Signature Date

Exhibit D

SPECIMEN TASK ORDER CONTRACT

(Contract is included to provide an example of how the Task Order Contract may be structured and is not intended to be construed as the actual Task Order Contract to be issued to the selected firm(s))

STATE OF GEORGIA

TASK ORDER CONTRACT FOR

DESIGN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

BY AND BETWEEN

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

AND

CONTRACT #DNR-462-492-2024-DP

THIS AGREEMENT is made the ____ day of _________, 20__, by and between the DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, an instrumentality of the State of Georgia, (hereinafter, the “Owner”), with a place of business at 2 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, SE, Suite 1352 East, Atlanta, Georgia 30334, and ________________________ (hereinafter, the “Design Professional”), whose mailing address is __________________________________.

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Owner has the authority to make contracts and to execute all instruments necessary or convenient, as well as the authority to employ such other experts, agents and employees as may be in the Owner’s judgment necessary to carry on properly the business of the Owner; and

WHEREAS, the Owner selected Design Professional pursuant to a competitive selection process;

WHEREAS, the Owner may require certain Design Professional services;

WHEREAS, Design Professional possesses the skills and experience to provide such services;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual benefits and promises flowing each to the other, the Owner and Design Professional each agree as follows:

ARTICLE 1

Services and Standards

1.1 The Design Professional’s Services. – The Design Professional shall provide, for designated construction projects…