Linn and Benton EPA Coalition Grant Implementation

The Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG) is seeking professional services to implement the FY23 Brownfields U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assessment Coalition grant for Linn and Benton County. This Request for Proposals (RFP) aims to identify and characterize contamination at key sites, with the ultimate goal of positioning properties for strategic redevelopment aligned with community needs. The scope of work encompasses comprehensive project management, community involvement, technical assistance, environmental site assessments, and planning services. Proposers will be evaluated based on their experience, proposed methodology, cost, and references, with selection determined through a qualitative assessment rather than lowest price. The contract period extends up to 4 years, potentially aligning with the EPA grant timeline expected to conclude by September 30, 2027. The proposal submission deadline is February 15, 2024, with the total EPA brownfield assessment grant budget set at $1,000,000.

The RFP strongly encourages participation from firms certified by the Oregon Certification for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID), indicating potential set-aside or preference for minority-owned, women-owned, or disadvantaged business enterprises. OCWCOG reserves the right to negotiate final contract terms and scope of work with the selected proposer, suggesting flexibility in the procurement process. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the grant targets environmental assessment and redevelopment in Lane County, Albany City, and surrounding jurisdictions. The procurement appears open to consulting firms, environmental engineering companies, and professional services organizations with demonstrated expertise in brownfield assessment, site characterization, and community redevelopment planning. The $1,000,000 grant budget provides a significant funding framework for comprehensive environmental assessment and strategic site rehabilitation efforts across the specified regional jurisdictions.