Environmental Consulting for Pump Station 1 and Soquel Pump Station

The City of Santa Cruz Department of Public Works is requesting proposals for environmental consulting services covering CEQA, NEPA review, and permitting for the Pump Station No. 1 rehabilitation and Soquel Pump Station construction project under RFP No. PW-0302, with proposals due September 25, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. This federally funded project (FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant administered through California Governor's Office Emergency Services) requires compliance with Title 2 CFR Part 200, 2 CFR Part 200 Appendix II, Cal OES Subrecipient Handbook, and all FEMA BRIC program requirements — a decision-relevant compliance framework.

Proposers must demonstrate a minimum of five years' experience in CEQA and NEPA environmental review and permitting for California municipalities, with demonstrated expertise in coastal, natural, and urban environments. The scope encompasses preparation of environmental documents ranging from Categorical Exemptions to Environmental Impact Reports, environmental permitting support, regulatory compliance management, and sub-consulting team leadership through multi-step environmental reviews. Firms must demonstrate regulatory compliance expertise, familiarity with relevant case law and procedural implications, and a proven track record delivering high-quality work on time and to professional standards. Strong community communication skills are essential given the highly engaged Santa Cruz community.

The contract term is one year initial with two optional one-year extensions at the City's discretion, contingent on satisfactory performance and continued project funding. Cost proposals must include detailed hourly rate schedules and task-based cost breakdowns covering direct labor, overhead, fringe benefits, profit, subcontractor costs, and other direct costs such as materials, supplies, taxes, and travel. Prevailing wage requirements do not apply. The City will conduct final proposal evaluation, with potential semi-finalist interviews, best and final offer requests, and negotiations with the highest-ranked proposer. Required insurance includes Professional Liability, Commercial General Liability, Auto Liability, and Workers' Compensation coverage. Questions were due September 11, 2026. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the City's e-Procurement Portal at https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/santacruzca. No pre-proposal meeting will be held.