CEI, Austin District, SH 45 at I-35 DC

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Professional Engineering Procurement Services (PEPS) Division is requesting proposals for Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) services for the SH 45 at I-35 direct connections project in Austin, with proposals due September 22, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Central Time. No DBE goal has been assigned, though federal funds are anticipated.

The scope encompasses CEI services for construction of four remaining direct connections: SH 45 eastbound and westbound to I-35 southbound, and I-35 northbound to SH 45 eastbound and westbound. Work includes management of retaining walls, elevated bridge structures, road widening, and pavement overlay activities across Travis County and multiple Austin City jurisdictions.

Prime providers must perform at least 30 percent of contracted work with their own workforce and maintain active precertification status in applicable work categories by the proposal deadline. The prime provider's project manager must be a Professional Engineer registered or licensed in Texas and an employee of the prime provider firm. Contract payment will be specified rates, lump sum, or unit cost arrangements.

The contract is anticipated to execute by April 2027 and extend through April 2032. Evaluation is weighted as follows: technical approach and project understanding (22 percent), project manager relevant experience (15 percent), project planning and management (30 percent), key staff relevant experience (26 percent), and past performance (7 percent). Short-listed firms will participate in mandatory video teleconference interviews during the weeks of October 26 and November 2, 2026, with the prime provider's project manager required to attend.

All proposals must be submitted through the TxDOT Procurement Portal. Firms must comply with Texas Government Code Section 2261.252(b) (conflict of interest), 43 Texas Administrative Code Section 10.6 (conflict of interest restrictions), and Texas Government Code 2054.138 (data security under SB475).