Ferry Financial Sustainability Plan

Pierce County is soliciting proposals for strategic planning services to develop a Ferry Financial Sustainability Plan, with proposals due October 7, 2026 at 3:30 PM and questions due September 24, 2026 at 3:30 PM.

Proposers must be registered to do business in Washington State with an active Unique Business Identifier (UBI) number and a valid federal tax identification number. The contract is contingent upon funding availability, and Pierce County reserves the right to amend or terminate if funding is reduced or modified.

The scope encompasses strategic planning and stakeholder engagement over a 9- to 12-month performance period to analyze three primary financial scenarios (business as usual, lean times, and reimagined service models), explore funding mechanisms including county ferry districts under Engrossed House Bill 2588, develop communications materials, and facilitate community outreach including at least one open house event. Key deliverables include multiple financial scenarios and supporting analysis.

The estimated contract value is $275,000 to $325,000, with contract execution anticipated for October or November 2026. The initial contract term is 12 months with an option for one additional 12-month renewal at the County's sole discretion. Proposals will be evaluated on submittal presentation (10 points), qualifications and experience (30 points), capacity and availability (10 points), approach to work (30 points), and cost (20 points). Pierce County anticipates a single award and reserves the right to negotiate final budgets.

Contractors must maintain Commercial General Liability coverage of at least $1 million aggregate / $2 million per occurrence and Professional Liability coverage of at least $1 million / $2 million, with Pierce County named as additional insured. Prevailing wage requirements under RCW 39.12 apply to applicable work, with submission of certified payroll records and Intent to Pay Prevailing Wage forms required. All proposals become the property of the County and will not be returned. Pierce County is utilizing its eProcurement Portal for all communications and submissions.