Historic Preservation Consultant

Morris County, New Jersey is requesting proposals for historic preservation consulting services under RFP P26-153, with proposals due October 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. The consultant will facilitate the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund program by reviewing grant applications for the 2027 grant cycle and evaluating grant products for compliance with The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (36 CFR Part 68, 2017 edition).

The consultant must meet or exceed the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards (36 CFR 61) in architectural history, archaeology, or historic architecture. Preference is given to historic preservation architects with demonstrated expertise on historic preservation projects, prior advice to New Jersey county governments, preparation of New Jersey Register nominations, documentation of historic buildings in New Jersey, and experience assisting local governments in managing historic resources.

Scope includes written review of preservation plans, historic structures reports, architectural plans, specifications, cost estimates, and progress photographs submitted by approximately 30 projects (estimated $3.5 million total for the 2027 round). The consultant will provide written comments on 75% draft documents by February 8, 2027; 100% draft documents by March 15, 2027; and comprehensive review of all 2027 grant applications by April 19, 2027. The consultant must be reasonably accessible during April 2027 grant review and accompany office staff on approximately three full-day site visits in 2027 to verify construction work and Standards compliance.

Services commence December 1, 2026 and continue through December 31, 2027 (thirteen-month base term with an option to extend for one additional one-year term, contingent upon availability of funds). Pricing consists of an hourly rate for plan reviews and services plus a flat rate per full-day site visit in Morris County.

Evaluation criteria are weighted Professional Qualifications/General Abilities (2x), Understanding of Project Scope/Procedures (2x), Prior Experience and Familiarity (4x), and Budget/Cost (2x). The contract is firm fixed with no price escalation. Award is expected within 60 days of opening.