Request for Proposals for Construction Monitoring and Related Services for Marine Mammals for Galveston and Bolivar Ferry Project

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Houston District is soliciting proposals for construction monitoring and related services for marine mammals for the Galveston and Bolivar Ferry Landings Improvements Project (CSJ 0367-06-065). The project requires comprehensive marine species monitoring during construction activities, specifically focusing on Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and giant manta rays across 10 project phases from October 2024 to January 2029. Proposers must assemble a team including a Field Monitor (with high school diploma and field studies experience), a Supervisor (employed directly by the proposing firm), a Biologist (minimum bachelor's degree in biological sciences), and clerical support. Key deliverables include monthly progress reports, environmental training for construction personnel, and detailed construction monitoring reports documenting protected species observations, work stoppages, site conditions, and conservation measure compliance. The proposal evaluation will be weighted 70% on qualifications and experience of the firm and team, and 30% on pricing. Proposals are due December 17, 2025, at 12:00 noon Central Time, with a question and clarification deadline of December 1, 2025, and an anticipated kickoff meeting within 14 calendar days of contract award.

No specific set-aside designations are required for this contract, though HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) subcontracting compliance will apply if subcontractors are used. The contract has a maximum value of $950,000 and will extend for four years from the effective date. Travel reimbursement will follow Federal GSA rates for lodging and meals, with mileage reimbursed at $0.70 per mile. Proposals must be submitted electronically via Bonfire with all required attachments in specified formats, including a Proposal Cover Sheet, Team Commitment Letter, and detailed qualifications for key personnel (Supervisor, Biologist, and Field Monitor). The contract is state-funded, and proposers must provide comprehensive documentation of their experience with long-term biological monitoring efforts, particularly those involving compliance with the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act. Proposers will need to demonstrate specific observation and shutdown protocols for marine mammals and endangered species within the project area.