On-Call Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Services

The City of Tucson, located in Pima County, Arizona, is seeking approximately five professional engineering consultants to provide On-Call Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Services through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) No. 240180. The primary objective is to obtain comprehensive utility mapping, coordination, and data management services that can reduce construction costs, improve project schedules, minimize utility service disruptions, and reduce contractor claims related to underground utility work. Deliverables will include utility location mapping, precise vertical and horizontal positioning, data management, reporting, permit acquisition, and site restoration. The evaluation will be points-based, with 45% allocated to team qualifications and experience, 35% to firm qualifications and experience, and 20% to available resources and other considerations. Key deadlines include a pre-submittal conference on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 9:00 am via Microsoft Teams, with proposals due on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 2:00 pm local Arizona time. Consultants must provide detailed documentation of utility findings, use pre-approved personnel with appropriate licenses and certifications, and demonstrate experience in subsurface utility engineering services.

The procurement includes specific provisions for Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation, with contractors required to submit a Subcontractors List and Proposed SBE Plan identifying potential small business subcontractors and their dollar value participation. The City has established goals for small and disadvantaged business involvement in contracts valued at $100,000 or more, with contractors needing to demonstrate good faith efforts in engaging these businesses or face potential penalties such as payment withholding, contract termination, or future bidding disqualification. The estimated annual budget for this contract is $500,000, with individual projects not exceeding $350,000 (though typical projects are under $75,000). The initial contract term will be one year, with options to renew for two additional two-year periods. The contract will be primarily funded through the City of Tucson's Water Department, and subconsultants must be identified during the proposal process. Contractors will be evaluated on their ability to provide comprehensive utility engineering services with minimal disruption and maximum efficiency.