Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant Wellfield Production Expansion Progressive Design Build to 20 MGD

The City of Fort Myers is seeking a progressive design-build contractor for a Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant Wellfield Production Expansion project aimed at increasing water production capacity to 20 million gallons per day (MGD). The procurement involves a comprehensive design-build approach with two distinct phases: initial design services and subsequent construction services. The project requires a qualified Design-Builder responsible for complete design, permitting, regulatory compliance, site development, and construction of water infrastructure, specifically focusing on expanding production wells in the Six Mile Cypress Slough area. Deliverables will include comprehensive engineering plans, regulatory documentation, and the physical expansion of the water treatment facility's wellfield. The solicitation (RFQ 0009-24) requires contractors to prepare a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) at 30% and 90% design completion stages. The proposal submission deadline is March 21, 2024, with the opportunity originally posted on February 19, 2025. Evaluation criteria will likely emphasize technical capability, experience with municipal water infrastructure projects, and demonstrated ability to manage complex design-build initiatives.

The procurement includes specific requirements for minority and women's business enterprise participation, with documented goals of five percent for both Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) categories. Contractors must comply with federal regulations including Davis-Bacon Act provisions, American Iron and Steel requirements, and Build America, Buy America standards, which mandate that all iron, steel, and manufactured products be produced in the United States. The project will be funded through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's State Revolving Fund (SRF) Program, which imposes additional compliance and documentation requirements. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the project and the expansion to 20 MGD suggests a significant capital investment. Contractors will be required to provide performance bonds, comprehensive insurance, and demonstrate extensive qualifications in municipal water infrastructure development. The project involves integrating with existing water treatment infrastructure, specifically expanding upon the current Raw Water Treatment Plant (ROWTP) facilities in the Fort Myers area.