RECS RFP Design Repair and Eval Hillcrest Tunnel

The Minnesota Department of Administration's Real Estate and Construction Services (RECS) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for civil, structural, and mechanical/electrical/plumbing (M/E/P) engineering services to evaluate, repair, replace, or demolish the Hillcrest tunnel section at the Minnesota Correctional Facility-Faribault in Rice County. Project #78FA0089 seeks a professional engineering firm to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the tunnel's current condition and develop appropriate remediation strategies. Key deliverables include a detailed report and assessment, schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding support, construction phase administration, and post-construction services. The RFP requires respondents to be licensed Architects, Engineers, Landscape Architects, or Land Surveyors registered in Minnesota, with demonstrated expertise in tunnel infrastructure evaluation and rehabilitation. Proposals will be evaluated on a "best value" basis, considering factors such as qualifications, project understanding, and approach. A mandatory site visit is scheduled for April 11, 2024, and final proposals are due by April 25, 2024, at 12:00 PM CT. The anticipated contract term runs from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2026, with a potential three-year extension.

The state encourages participation from small businesses, specifically targeting minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses through its Small Business Procurement Program. Certified Targeted Group and Economically Disadvantaged businesses will receive preference in the evaluation process. While a specific budget is not explicitly stated, a preliminary tunnel condition report by Karges-Faulconbridge, Inc. estimates potential repair and upgrade costs at $3,621,100 across nine tunnels, with the Hillcrest tunnel being a priority focus. Respondents must submit several mandatory documents, including a Fee Proposal, Qualifications Proposal, Workforce and Equal Pay Declaration, Certification Regarding Lobbying, and Affidavit of Noncollusion. The contract will be awarded to a single vendor, and the successful respondent must provide comprehensive insurance coverage. Interested firms must carefully review all exhibits and addenda, including detailed project background information and technical specifications provided in the RFP documentation.