Phase 1 Archaeological Survey

The Town of Smithfield, Virginia is requesting proposals for Phase 1 Archaeological Survey services across approximately 60 acres of property formerly known as Pierceville and The Grange at 10 Main Street, with sealed bids due September 11, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. electronic submission.

Qualified Cultural Resources Management consultants must demonstrate documented experience in historic-period plantation archaeology and artifact identification. Only supervisory-level personnel are required to possess this expertise; experience from Virginia, neighboring states, or Tidewater areas of Maryland is acceptable. Firms located outside Smithfield may submit a statement regarding Virginia business licensure requirements at proposal time, with the understanding that licensure would be obtained if awarded. State Corporation Commission identification numbers are acceptable in place of separate business license documentation.

The scope requires comprehensive Phase 1 archaeological investigation to identify, document, and evaluate cultural resources present on the site. Work will follow Virginia Department of Historic Resources standards and guidelines. The field is currently in cultivation and will continue during the survey unless work is performed after harvest. The Town does not currently require ground-penetrating radar surveys for suspected cemetery locations, though further investigation may become necessary based on survey findings. Contractors must anticipate coordination with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, obtain necessary permits, and provide comprehensive documentation of all findings in accordance with state and federal archaeological standards.

Evaluation criteria prioritize consultant experience with similar projects in Virginia, demonstrated knowledge of local and regional archaeology, quality of proposed methodology, and cost-effectiveness; selection will not be price-based alone. All inquiries must be directed to Lesley King, Town Official, at lking@Smithfieldva.gov. Bidders are prohibited from contacting other Town employees regarding this procurement.