Environmental Consulting Services

The Kansas Corporation Commission, on behalf of the Kansas Department of Administration, Office of Procurement and Contracts, is requesting proposals for environmental consulting services to analyze impacts of the Evergy electric transmission line on the Flint Hills Ecoregion, with proposals due September 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM CST.

The scope covers document review, impact analysis of proposed and alternative routes for the approximately 133-mile, 345 kV Buffalo Flats to Delaware Line spanning Sedgwick, Sumner, Cowley, and Chautauqua Counties, testimony analysis, written reports, and witness participation in regulatory hearings. Work is on an as-needed basis. The contractor must hold a post-secondary degree in ecology, environmental studies, range management, geology, agriculture, or a related field, with a minimum of seven years' experience in tallgrass prairie preservation and remediation, Flint Hills Ecoregion research, or related professional experience. Preferred qualifications include experience evaluating environmental impacts of utility infrastructure and preparing testimony for regulatory proceedings.

Compensation is structured as reimbursement for hourly rates for principal consultant, manager, and accountant/clerical staff, with actual costs for supplies, reproduction, and travel expenses reimbursed according to Kansas State Employee Travel Center guidelines and GSA per diem rates. The contract term runs from award through December 31, 2027, with an option to renew for three additional twelve-month periods.

Bidders may claim Disabled Veteran Owned Business or Certified Business preference categories with supporting documentation. Mandatory compliance documents include a current Tax Clearance Certificate from the Kansas Department of Revenue, an Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) certification form, a Boycott of Israel form, and a Sexual Harassment form. All bid responses become property of the State of Kansas and are subject to disclosure under the Kansas Open Records Act. Evaluation criteria include type and quality of environmental consulting experience, cost, proposal adequacy and completeness, bidder's understanding of the project, relevant experience, qualified staffing, and response format. Bidders must provide three professional references and be registered with the State of Kansas.