Central Plant Controls Automation

Texas State University is conducting a Competitive Sealed Proposal (CSP-754) to select a general contractor for the Central Plant Controls Automation project on its San Marcos campus. The procurement involves a comprehensive upgrade to the existing Central Plant direct digital control (DDC) system, including replacement of outdated controllers with enhanced processing power, implementation of a more resilient network architecture, and improvements to chiller water, condenser water, and ancillary plant systems, excluding steam production. The project deliverable is fully automated chiller plant operations while preserving manual override capabilities. Respondents must submit two sealed packages by February 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.: one containing qualifications with signed execution of offer (one original and five copies plus one electronic USB copy), and a separate package containing the Pricing and Delivery Proposal (two identical hard copies with original signatures). A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference and site walk was held on January 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., and written questions were due by January 30, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Respondent names will be read aloud on February 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with pricing proposals to be read aloud on February 13, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. The University anticipates contractor selection by February 16, 2026, contract execution by February 23, 2026, and construction commencement on February 27, 2026. The award will be determined based on 60 percent pricing and 40 percent qualifications, with substantial and final completion dates to be determined following award.

The procurement requires submission of a HUB Subcontracting Plan as a mandatory component, with failure to submit resulting in proposal rejection, indicating the University's commitment to involving historically underutilized businesses. All respondents must comply with Texas State University Construction Standards and prevailing wage rates as determined by Hays County, Texas, for construction type building. Required qualifications include evidence of Workers' Compensation, Employer's Liability, Comprehensive General Liability, Builder's Risk, and Business Automobile Liability insurance prior to commencing work. The contractor must provide performance and payment bonds in the amount of 100 percent of the contract price within ten calendar days of notification of selection. The total construction cost limitation is $700,000.00, awarded as a lump-sum agreement to the respondent offering the best value. Payment terms are Net 30 days, though alternate terms may be considered if deemed in the University's best interest, with a five percent retainage fee established and liquidated damages assessed at $500.00 per calendar day for delays beyond the Substantial Completion date. The project architect/engineer is EEA Consulting Engineers, with University project number CSP-754-Central_Plant_Controls_Automation-2026.