Upper Bridge Feasibility Study

Essex County, New York is requesting proposals for the Upper Bridge Feasibility Study, a professional engineering services engagement with proposals due September 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. The County has established MWBE participation goals of 30% for Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprises and 6% for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises; SDVOB participation carries a 0.00% goal.

The scope requires qualified engineering consultants to evaluate restoration and reopening options for the Upper Bridge in Keeseville as part of community revitalization. Deliverables include a minimum of four design options (including a "no action" alternative), preliminary and final design options with cost estimates, two public presentations, project team meetings, site visits, and a comprehensive feasibility study report addressing environmental constraints, permitting requirements, transportation impact, and community impact. The analysis will assess pedestrian connectivity, vehicle access, safety, and historic preservation to support hamlet development and quality-of-life improvement within a population of approximately 2,000 residents.

The contract term is one and a half years, with project completion expected within one year after contract execution. Essex County reserves termination rights at any time with appropriate notice. The procurement is funded in part by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation under the Smart Growth Round 8 program.

Evaluation uses a best-value approach: technical qualifications are weighted at 80 points (including expertise, experience, project management, and scope understanding), and price at 20 points. Progress payments are made based on hours worked and out-of-pocket expenses. Proposers must provide professional liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, along with workers' compensation and commercial general liability coverage. Proposals must include executed non-collusion bid certificates, Iran Divestment Act compliance certification, and a Vendor Responsibility Questionnaire. One hard copy and one USB copy of both technical and cost proposals are required. RFPs are available through Essex County's bidders portal or may be mailed to Essex County Purchasing, PO Box 217, 7551 Court Street, Elizabethtown, NY 12932.