University Avenue Streetscape - Assessment District Feasibility Analysis

The City of Palo Alto is seeking consultant services to conduct a feasibility analysis for forming and implementing a Property-Based Assessment District to fund University Avenue Streetscape Improvements. The project is structured in two distinct phases: Phase I involves conducting an assessment district feasibility analysis, including comprehensive stakeholder outreach, defining study areas, forming a property database, and preparing a feasibility report; Phase II will focus on developing a District Management Plan, refining the plan through stakeholder engagement, and supporting the Proposition 218 ballot process. Key deliverables include a detailed property and business information database, stakeholder workshop facilitation, and a comprehensive management plan covering budget, assessment methodology, project delivery, district governance, and baseline services. The proposal submission deadline is March 20, 2025, at 3:00 pm, to be submitted electronically through the City's OpenGov procurement system. Evaluation criteria will include proposal quality, proposed solution, firm experience, cost, financial stability, performance history, and regulatory compliance. The total project development cost is approximately $40 million, with an estimated project duration of two years, covering streetscape improvements along University Avenue from High Street to Webster Street.

The solicitation does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Proposers are required to submit evidence of financial stability, such as audited financial statements or a letter of good standing from a financial institution. The contract will be structured as a Not-To-Exceed Budget Per Task, with progress payments based on project completion percentage. Contractors must comply with comprehensive insurance requirements, including minimum coverage for Worker's Compensation, Employer's Liability, General Liability, Automobile Liability, and Professional Liability, with coverage limits typically set at $1,000,000 per occurrence. The project will be conducted in Santa Clara County, California, and requires significant stakeholder engagement, including property owners and business stakeholders along the University Avenue corridor. Proposers must adhere to conflict of interest guidelines and are prohibited from collusion or improper influence in the proposal process. The contract is designed to secure financial contributions from stakeholders to fund streetscape improvements beyond the City's current planned infrastructure investments.