RFQ - Richardson Water Treatment Plant Sulfuric Acid Tank Replacement

The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) in New Hanover County, North Carolina, is seeking Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) from consulting engineering firms for the Richardson Water Treatment Plant Sulfuric Acid Tank Replacement project. The procurement involves design and permitting services for replacing sulfuric acid tanks, chemical feed lines, and associated equipment at the Richardson Water Treatment Plant, which currently produces approximately 7 million gallons of drinking water per day. Firms must submit their SOQ by 2:00 PM on September 18, 2025, with a maximum 25-page submission. The evaluation criteria will focus on four key areas: project understanding and approach (25%), relevant firm experience (30%), overall staff experience (30%), and record of success (15%). The project timeline includes firm selection by October 20, 2025, contract completion by November 3, 2025, and final contract documents and permits due by April 17, 2026. Specific technical requirements include replacing two 10,000-gallon double-walled sulfuric acid tanks, chemical containment coating, and chemical feed lines.

The RFQ does not explicitly mention set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Firms must meet specific insurance requirements, including $1,000,000 general liability and $2,000,000 professional liability coverage. The original infrastructure was installed in 2009 during the initial plant construction, with various system components now in stages of deterioration or reaching end-of-life. CFPUA reserves the right to reject any proposals and will negotiate a detailed scope and fee schedule with the most qualified firm. While a specific budget range is not provided, the comprehensive nature of the project suggests a substantial investment in upgrading critical water treatment infrastructure. The procurement will follow a qualifications-based selection process, with the primary goal of identifying a consulting engineering firm capable of delivering a comprehensive solution for the sulfuric acid tank replacement and associated improvements.