City of Newport's Comprehensive Plan Update

The City of Newport, located in Rhode Island's Newport County, is seeking qualified consulting firms to complete a comprehensive update to its Land Use Plan, with a targeted state approval date of February 28, 2027. The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) solicits proposals from professional urban planning and development consultants to conduct a comprehensive planning process that will focus on critical areas including resiliency, water cycle management, natural resources, and climate adaptation. Key deliverables will include project reconnaissance, management, public engagement strategies, data and development analysis, capital facilities assessment, and implementation strategies. Proposals are due by 2:00 PM EST on April 4th, 2025, with the city intending to select and interview up to three firms before recommending a final award to the City Council. The evaluation process will assess submissions across five categories: qualifications and experience, project understanding, project experience and references, project management, and public workshops and engagement, with a maximum possible score of 25 points.

The RFQ does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Proposing firms must demonstrate expertise across multiple domains, including urban planning, design, natural resources, economic development, transportation, housing, and demographic analysis. While specific project fees will be negotiated after initial firm ranking, consultants are required to submit a separate sealed envelope containing a NOT TO EXCEED fee schedule. The City of Newport reserves the right to accept or reject any proposals submitted. Proposing firms will collaborate closely with the Newport Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (NCPAC) throughout the project. Although a specific budget range is not disclosed in the documentation, the comprehensive nature of the project suggests a substantial municipal planning investment focused on long-term strategic urban development and climate resilience.