Maritime Heritage Planning & Preservation

The Town of Port Deposit, Maryland is seeking expressions of interest from cultural resources consultants, preservation professionals, historians, archaeologists, and academic institutions to develop a maritime heritage preservation and interpretation project centered on the Port Deposit waterfront, with responses due October 24, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. The assignment requires meaningful historic preservation planning incorporating research, documentation, archaeology, oral history, mapping, and archival work; design of signage or exhibits alone is insufficient.

The scope centers on establishing the foundation for future interpretation in conjunction with an approximately $9 million Marina Park redevelopment. The initial task is budgeted at approximately $80,000 and must be completed by December 1, 2026, with availability to begin in late November following award. If awarded, the Town intends to establish a three-year contract with two optional two-year renewal periods for continued cultural resources partnership and additional preservation planning, research, interpretation, grants, and implementation activities. Subsequent scope and fees will be negotiated based on grant or funding agency requirements.

The Town will apply for a National Maritime Heritage Grant Program award through the Maryland Historical Trust, with federal funds potentially supporting some or all tasks. Evaluation criteria are weighted as follows: proposed approach (30%), team qualifications and personal involvement of the project lead (25%), relevant experience on comparable projects (25%), and understanding and creativity regarding Port Deposit's opportunities and compelling stories (20%). Responses must not exceed five pages excluding brief resumes or project examples, with emphasis on people, ideas, experience, and approach rather than marketing materials. Proof of insurance naming the Town as a named insured is required at submission. This RFEI does not obligate the Town to enter into a contract and fulfills Qualifications Based Selection process requirements.