DEM Statewide Implementation Analysis for Beverage Container Plan

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) and Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation (RIRRC) are seeking an independent third-party consultant to conduct a Statewide Implementation Analysis (SIA) for a Beverage Container Redemption, Packaging, and Recycling Plan. The solicitation, marked as RFP26006222, is open from December 16, 2025, to January 13, 2026, with vendor questions accepted through December 30, 2025, via the Ocean State Procures platform. The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive analysis of beverage container recycling strategies statewide, with the initial contract period set to commence around February 1, 2026, and lasting nine months with potential renewal. Proposals will be evaluated by a technical evaluation committee based on technical merit and cost, using a lowest-cost comparative formula. Vendors must submit electronically through Ocean State Procures, including a Vendor Certification Questionnaire, Technical Proposal, Supplemental Bidder Attestation Form, Cost Proposal, and ISBE Participation Plan Form. The evaluation will consider technical capabilities, proposed approach, and cost-effectiveness of the implementation analysis.

The solicitation includes specific requirements for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation, specifically targeting Minority Business Enterprises, Women Business Enterprises, and Disability Business Enterprises (ISBE). Vendors will receive scoring points based on their proposed subcontracting rates to certified entities. Comprehensive insurance requirements are mandated, including $1,000,000 in general liability, $100,000 in workers' compensation, $1,000,000 in automobile liability, $2,000,000 in professional liability, $1,000,000 in environmental/pollution liability, and $1,000,000 in umbrella/excess liability. Foreign corporations must obtain a certificate of authority from the Rhode Island Secretary of State to participate. A 0.33% contract administrative fee will be withheld from invoices effective January 1, 2026. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the nine-month contract structure and comprehensive scope suggest a significant investment in developing a statewide beverage container recycling implementation strategy.