Leak Detection and Fire Flow Testing Services - Addendum No. 2 Response to Questions

The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) is soliciting proposals for a comprehensive leak detection and fire flow testing services contract covering approximately 100 miles of water distribution network, primarily consisting of cast iron pipes. The Request for Proposals (RFP #2025-SWB-02) seeks qualified firms to perform water distribution network leak detection, transmission main leak detection, and fire flow testing services throughout Orleans Parish. Proposing firms must demonstrate ownership or leasing of specialized leak detection equipment and have technical personnel with significant experience, specifically requiring at least two staff members with over 5 years of leak detection experience and four staff with more than 2 years of experience. The project demands real-time leak correlation capabilities capable of detecting leaks as small as 1-5 gallons per minute at sensor spacings between 500-1,500 feet, with emergency leak detection services mandating a 2-hour response time during nights and weekends. Key procurement dates include a non-mandatory pre-proposal conference on January 31, 2025, at 1:30 PM, with questions due by February 4, 2025, and final proposals due on February 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM CST.

The procurement includes a 30% Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal, encouraging two-person crews that incorporate junior technicians to help fulfill this requirement. A Professional Engineer licensed in Louisiana will be required within six months of contract award, and the contract will be structured with hourly rates based on continuous surveying throughout the year. The three-year contract includes two potential one-year renewal options, with work to be issued in increments and focused on assisting SWBNO Operations & Maintenance crews in locating water leaks to reduce unnecessary service cuts. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the procurement suggests budget constraints may limit full-year service utilization. The contract may be amended in future terms if additional budget becomes available to support expanded services. Acceptable fire hydrant specifications include models from manufacturers like American-Darling, Mueller, and Kennedy Valve, indicating specific technical requirements for potential integration with existing infrastructure.