Hamel Pier Evaluation and Structural Assessment

The City of Fort Myers is seeking qualified respondents to conduct a comprehensive condition evaluation and structural assessment of the Art Hamel Pier, located at 2101 Edwards Drive in Fort Myers, Florida. The pier, which is approximately 250 feet long and 12 feet wide and part of the Downtown Fort Myers Centennial Park, was closed to the public in 2022 following damage sustained during Hurricane Ian. The primary objective of this procurement is to perform a detailed technical assessment of all pier elements to determine its current structural integrity and potential rehabilitation requirements. Proposing firms must provide professional engineering expertise to thoroughly evaluate the pier's condition, documenting structural deficiencies, potential repair strategies, and recommendations for future use or potential reconstruction. The proposal submission deadline is May 29, 2024, with evaluations likely occurring shortly thereafter. Respondents will be assessed based on multiple criteria, including local office presence, staff qualifications, past project experience, and minority business enterprise (MBE) participation efforts.

The City has established specific requirements for respondent qualifications, including a strong emphasis on minority business enterprise participation with a 15% MBE goal for the project. Firms must have valid business licenses in Lee County and demonstrate local presence, with preference points awarded based on office location (5 points for Fort Myers, 3 points for Lee County). The procurement includes federal funding requirements, mandating compliance with Build America, Buy America (BABA) regulations, which necessitate the use of domestically produced materials and products. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the draft service agreement suggests a budget of approximately $120,000 for the comprehensive pier assessment. Additional requirements include maintaining appropriate professional licenses, carrying adequate insurance, and providing detailed documentation of all assessment findings. The project will require strict adherence to federal procurement regulations, including provisions for small and minority-owned business participation and comprehensive reporting on subcontracting opportunities.