RFP for Waer System Improvements

The City of Vidalia in Upson County, Georgia, is seeking architectural and engineering services through an RFP for water system improvements funded by the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Disaster Grant Program. The procurement involves comprehensive design and engineering services for a critical infrastructure project that includes constructing a new 1,000 GPM deep well and pump house on McDilda Road, building a 250,000-gallon elevated tank, and installing 17,500 linear feet of 16" PVC water main to connect to an existing 10" main. Proposing firms must submit detailed documentation demonstrating expertise in federal grant programs, including firm history, key personnel qualifications, current workload, proposed service scope, and project experience. The evaluation criteria will assess the firm's technical capabilities, construction experience, key personnel qualifications, reference quality, prior experience with EDA or federal grant programs, and pricing competitiveness. Proposals are due by 5:00 PM EST on November 14, 2025, with a draft Preliminary Engineering Report required no later than December 15, 2025. The selected firm will be responsible for developing the Preliminary Engineering Report according to EDA guidelines and providing design and construction oversight services if the project is funded.

The procurement will follow a traditional design/bid/build process with sealed competitive bidding consistent with federal procurement regulations. Proposers must complete various mandatory declarations and certifications, including non-collusion statements, lobbying certifications, affirmative steps for minority business participation, conflict of interest disclosures, and drug-free workplace affidavits. While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed, the RFP suggests a commitment to inclusive procurement practices, particularly through affirmative steps for minority business participation. The project appears to be a new infrastructure initiative rather than a replacement of an existing contract, with no mention of incumbent vendors. Although a specific budget range is not provided in the available documentation, the scope of work suggests a significant capital investment in water system infrastructure improvements. The project's focus on increasing water system capacity and reliability indicates potential long-term benefits for the Upson County community, with the ultimate goal of enhancing water infrastructure through EDA grant funding.