RFP 25-VSW-TAL-012 Tanana Water Source Improvements

The State of Alaska, Department of Environmental Conservation's Village Safe Water Program is soliciting proposals for the Tanana Water Source Improvements project through RFP 25-VSW-TAL-012. The procurement seeks a contractor to design and implement well drilling specifications and potentially develop design specifications and bidding assistance for a new water source in the North Slope Borough community of Tanana. Key project objectives include replacing the current Too'gha Well, which is classified as groundwater under direct influence of surface water, with a reliable year-round groundwater source not influenced by surface water. Deliverables will include comprehensive well drilling specifications, design analysis reports, and potential bidding and contracting support. The project is divided into three phases: Phase I for well drilling specifications, Phase II for design development (contingent on finding a viable groundwater source), and Phase III for bidding and contracting assistance. Proposals are due December 23, 2024, at 2:00 PM Alaska Standard Time, with an anticipated performance period from February 15, 2025, through December 31, 2027. Offerors must demonstrate significant engineering design and construction administration experience for water/wastewater systems, with specific requirements for the project manager's credentials and rural Alaska experience.

The solicitation includes a 5-point preference for Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) and Women-owned Business Enterprises (WBE), indicating a focus on supporting diverse contractors. Professional liability insurance is required, and the project will be federally funded, which necessitates compliance with federal regulations. The estimated contract value ranges between $250,000 and $500,000, with a payment structure of Firm Fixed Price for Phases I and II, and Time and Expense for Phase III. Contractors must hold valid Alaska business licenses and professional registrations. Potential offerors are required to register with the procurement officer, April Akers, via email at april.akers@alaska.gov to receive subsequent amendments, with a warning that failure to register may result in proposal rejection. The procurement allows for potential contract amendments based on the results of initial well drilling efforts, providing flexibility for the project's evolving needs. Contractors must demonstrate experience with water system design, particularly in rural Alaska settings, and show capability in managing complex infrastructure improvement projects.