DEM Improving Resilience at RI Public Shoreline Access Sites

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP24003061) seeking qualified engineering firms to provide final design services for coastal resilience measures at two public shoreline access sites: Gull Cove in Portsmouth and Quonochontaug Pond Breachway in Charlestown. The project requires developing comprehensive design solutions utilizing nature-based strategies focused on shoreline protection, coastal habitat enhancement, and stormwater management while maintaining safe public accessibility. Specific deliverables include final engineering designs that incorporate innovative approaches to mitigate coastal environmental challenges. The RFP solicitation opened on July 17, 2023, with proposals due by August 9, 2023, at 2:00 PM EDT, and includes a vendor Q&A period running from July 17 to July 25, 2023. Evaluation criteria will encompass technical merit, cost effectiveness, and proposed approach, with proposals assessed on the quality of design strategies, technical capabilities, and implementation methodology. The initial contract period is set for two years, with potential renewal options contingent upon vendor performance and funding availability.

The RFP strongly encourages participation from Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Women Business Enterprises (WBE), and Disability Business Enterprises (DisBE), with additional scoring points awarded based on proposed Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ISBE) utilization rates. Vendors must submit separate technical, cost, and ISBE participation proposals electronically through the Ocean State Procures system, with specific insurance requirements including $1,000,000 in general liability coverage, $100,000 in workers compensation, and $1,000,000 in automobile liability. The contract will utilize the AIA B104-2017 Standard Abbreviated Form of Agreement between Owner and Design Agent, with modifications from the State of Rhode Island. While no specific total project value was explicitly stated in the documents, the comprehensive nature of the coastal resilience design work suggests a significant investment in infrastructure improvement and environmental protection. The state reserves the right to award the contract based on technical merit and cost, with the potential to select multiple vendors or reject all proposals if deemed in the state's best interest.