Construction and Deployment of Artificial Reef Materials

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is seeking proposals for the Construction and Deployment of Artificial Reef Materials in the Gulf of Mexico, specifically targeting two reef sites: Sabine Deep Reef (HI-54) and Port O'Connor Nearshore Reef (MI-562). The project requires manufacturing and deploying 500 mid-relief concrete pyramids and 300 low-relief reef plates to enhance marine habitat, with a primary focus on creating structures that support juvenile red snapper populations. Contractors must possess at least two years of experience in constructing and placing artificial reef structures and must comply with various environmental and marine protection regulations. The Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued on July 17, 2025, with questions due by July 28, 2025, and proposals due by August 7, 2025. The initial contract term runs from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2027, with initial project completion expected by February 28, 2026. Award will be based on best value criteria, with evaluation weightings of 40% for compensation and fees, 35% for qualifications and experience, and 25% for technical proposal. The project is partially funded by a RESTORE grant from the U.S. Department of Treasury through the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality.

The solicitation includes a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) subcontracting goal of 26% of the contract's value, requiring vendors to make good faith efforts to include Texas-certified HUB vendors in their proposal. The HUB program aims to promote equal business opportunities for economically disadvantaged persons, with statewide HUB goals ranging from 11.2% to 32.9% across different contract types. Potential respondents must complete a comprehensive HUB Subcontracting Plan, which includes sections for respondent information, subcontracting intentions, and demonstrating efforts to identify and include HUB vendors. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the project's scope and funding source suggest a significant investment in marine habitat restoration. The RESTORE Act Terms and Conditions indicate that recipients can use up to 3% of funds for administrative costs and must adhere to strict financial management and reporting requirements. Contractors will need to maintain detailed records, submit regular performance and financial reports, and ensure funds are used solely for approved purposes consistent with the RESTORE Act's environmental and economic restoration objectives in the Gulf Coast region.