Granular Moisture-Density Curve Development

The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) is seeking research proposals for a project focused on developing and refining granular moisture-density curves specific to South Dakota's materials. The procurement targets colleges, universities, research institutes, consultants, and other agencies to conduct a comprehensive study addressing limitations in existing moisture-density curves derived from Ohio standards. The primary objectives include analyzing additional test results, refining moisture-density curves, digitizing the curves for department testing software, and developing Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) specifications for field density testing. Key deliverables will involve an in-depth research plan encompassing 11 specific tasks to be completed within 15 months, with a targeted project start date of December 15, 2023. Proposals must comprehensively address problem statements, research objectives, implementation strategies, staffing qualifications, and detailed budgets. The submission deadline is September 15, 2023, at 5:00 PM CDT, with proposals to be evaluated based on criteria including understanding of the research request, addressing research objectives, implementation plan quality, staff qualifications, and budget appropriateness.

The contract opportunity does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The total available funding for the project is $60,000, with payment structured upon SDDOT's acceptance of key project deliverables at various completion stages. Proposing organizations must comply with the RFP's Certification Relating to Prohibited Entity and Restriction of Boycott of Israel clauses. SDDOT reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and may negotiate with selected proposers before finalizing the contract. The research will be managed by Mike Border, who can be contacted at michael.border@state.sd.us for any inquiries. While no incumbent vendors are specifically mentioned, SDDOT will provide side-by-side testing results and past project data to support the research effort. The project's jurisdiction is specifically noted as Harding County, with a broader state-level implementation for the South Dakota Department of Transportation.