Request for Proposals for Geophysical Survey Specialist

The Texas Historical Commission is seeking a Geophysical Survey Specialist to conduct an underwater archaeological investigation at Pass Cavallo near Matagorda, Texas, under RFP #808-26-243671. The project aims to discover shipwrecks and settlements associated with Louis Michel Aury's 1817 occupation, covering a 4,113-acre survey area under Texas Antiquities Permit No. 32185. The selected contractor will perform a 36-day survey, including 27 days of field work using a 25-ft SeaArk VC Commander Anomaly II vessel equipped with a Geometrics G-882 marine magnetometer and EdgeTech 4125 dual frequency side-scan sonar, and 9 days of post-fieldwork data processing. Respondents must be an underwater archaeologist meeting specific professional qualifications, with preference given to those with previous experience at Pass Cavallo and access to the North-Alignment Model proprietary database. The evaluation criteria will be weighted 40% for project approach, 40% for experience and qualifications, and 20% for pricing. Proposals are due on November 21, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. Central Time, with the contract term running from December 10, 2025, through August 31, 2027, and a potential six-month extension.

The procurement includes provisions for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB), with the Texas Historical Commission aiming to meet specific percentage goals for contract awards. The project is partially funded by a National Park Service Maritime Heritage Grant, with the total budget to be determined through the bidding process. Contractors will be required to maintain Workers' Compensation and Commercial General Liability insurance, with minimum coverage limits specified in the contract. The selected vendor must comply with various state regulations, including immigration laws, E-Verify program participation, and Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the contractor will be responsible for all project expenses, including travel, meals, and lodging, which will be reimbursed through the contract. The total contract amount will not exceed the prices submitted in the price schedule, with reimbursement following a predetermined payment schedule. Respondents should note that the contract is contingent upon legislative funding appropriations and includes provisions for potential termination and dispute resolution.