Seeking a seasoned professional tour(s) developer, program planner with a background in history/historical preservation and environmental education to engage new and engage previous visitors for the h...

The City of Philadelphia's Water Department is requesting proposals for a seasoned professional to develop and execute educational tours and programs for the Fairmount Water Works, with proposals due September 29, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. through eContract Philly and applicant selection anticipated September 30.

Local Business Entity certification and Local Impact status are considered positive evaluation factors. LGBTQ business certification through the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce or its Philadelphia affiliate, the Independence Business Alliance, is voluntary but supported by the City's diversity framework.

The contractor must research 19th-century Philadelphia history, urban infrastructure, and neoclassical architecture to create master scripts for 30-, 60-, and 90-minute tours; curated talking points on engineering and architecture; quick reference protocols for site disruptions; printed guide materials; a tour guide training manual; and a public tour schedule tailored for school groups, adult tourists, and engineering enthusiasts.

The contract value cannot exceed $50,000 total, with a fixed-price cost proposal required broken down by line items covering all administrative and fringe costs. The initial term begins October 1, 2026, with the City retaining the sole option to amend the contract to add up to three additional one-year terms. Monthly invoicing and reporting must accompany invoice submission. Travel costs are reimbursable only with departmental approval and in accordance with City policies; commuting costs are not reimbursable, and per diem follows the Federal Government Maximum rate.

Applicant questions are due September 15, 2026, with answers posted September 18. Proposals must include company profile, qualifications, references, financial capacity statement with supporting documents, proposed scope of work limited to 5 pages, schedule, cost proposal, any stated exceptions to terms and conditions, and Local Business Certification documentation if applicable. Contractors must comply with City business license and permit requirements, payment of business taxes, and the Philadelphia 21st Century Minimum Wage and Benefits Standard.