Engineering Services - Morrie Road

The Vermont state and local contract opportunity, identified as 688ccdc7ed3acac564015904, seeks engineering services for culvert replacement in Washington Town, Orleans County. The primary objective is to develop engineering designs for replacing the culvert on Morrie Road to improve aquatic organism passage (AOP) on the Jail Branch, a priority brook trout watershed. This project follows the successful removal of Hands Mill Dam in 2024 and aims to further restore stream function and reconnect habitat for aquatic organisms. Key deliverables will include comprehensive engineering designs that address culvert replacement, with specific focus on reducing aquatic habitat fragmentation and improving brook trout habitat connectivity. The contract opportunity was posted on July 31, 2025, with proposals due by August 22, 2025. The engineering firm selected will need to demonstrate expertise in aquatic habitat restoration, culvert design, and understanding of stream ecosystem dynamics. Additional project goals include flood risk mitigation, educational outreach to local residents, and supporting Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department's watershed conservation efforts.

While no specific set-aside designations or disadvantaged enterprise requirements are explicitly mentioned in the procurement documentation, the project appears to prioritize technical expertise and environmental restoration capabilities. The project is collaboratively supported by local, state, and federal partners, suggesting a comprehensive approach to ecological improvement. Although no specific budget range is provided, the project's scope implies a significant engineering and environmental restoration investment. The culvert replacement is part of a broader watershed restoration initiative, with the Woodchuck Hollow Culvert replacement already progressing into early implementation phases. Potential respondents should be prepared to integrate their design work with existing environmental data and coordinate with multiple stakeholder groups, including local government, fish and wildlife agencies, and environmental conservation organizations. The project's location in the East Branch of the Jail Branch watershed (coordinates 44.10898276681952, -72.41983163332297) will require precise local knowledge and environmental engineering expertise.