RFP - development and modernization services

The Cambridge Housing Authority Planning and Development Department is requesting proposals for development and modernization consulting services to support a pipeline exceeding $1.5 billion, with proposals due August 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. The procurement targets up to three qualified consultants or consultant teams; the CHA strongly encourages proposals from minority-owned and women-owned businesses, socially and economically disadvantaged businesses, HUD Section 3 businesses, and small businesses.

Required experience includes three years in similar affordable housing development and modernization services in Massachusetts, with demonstrated ability to execute financial and feasibility analyses, proforma development, project management, and due diligence preparation. Core deliverables span development opportunity prioritization, acquisition and new construction identification, development strategy preparation, financial modeling, financing applications across multiple funding sources (LIHTC, Historic Tax Credits, HOME, Tax-Exempt Bonds, DHCD Soft Loans, and others), mixed-finance HUD public housing applications, community engagement assistance, relocation and construction phasing planning, and staff training. Proposers must demonstrate sufficient staffing capacity and experience with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149 and 149A construction procurement, housing construction delivery, and documentation preparation.

The maximum fee is $200,000 per annum with a not-to-exceed total of $250,000 per initial contract term. The initial term is one year with options for up to four additional one-year renewals at CHA's sole discretion. Compensation is structured on a task-order basis with hourly rates established for year one; renewal rates may be negotiated with increases capped at 10 percent of original-term rates. Reimbursable expenses (printing, reproductions, mailings, long-distance communications) are allowable on a direct-cost basis with documentation. Monthly payment occurs within 30 days of approved invoices; no advance payments are permitted. The contractor must carry General Liability Insurance of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate, plus Worker's Compensation Insurance as required by Massachusetts law. Proposals must include a signed Non-Collusive Affidavit and a separate sealed cost proposal; a Tax Compliance Certificate is required before execution. Evaluations will be completed within 60 calendar days of proposal opening, with interviews possible for selected proposers. Evaluation criteria prioritize minimum requirements (scope compliance and relevant experience), then comparative ratings on Chapter 149/149A experience, housing construction background, documentation capability, and cost using lowest-rate methodology.