Water and Sewer System Expansion and Improvements

Background
The Rabun County Water and Sewer Authority is seeking Statements of Qualifications (RFQs) from professional engineering design firms to assist in the expansion and improvement of their water and sewer systems. The goal is to enhance the sanitary sewer collection, pumping, and treatment systems. Future projects may also include water distribution facilities. This initiative aims to support community and economic development through federally funded projects.

Work Details
The selected engineering firm will provide a range of services including: preliminary engineering reports (PER), surveying, design, permitting, bidding, construction administration, inspection, and closeout for federally funded projects. The procurement encompasses various funding sources such as Appalachian Regional Commission grants, Community Development Block Grants (including Immediate Threat and Danger (ITD) and Disaster Recovery), US Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) Projects, Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), and USDA projects.

The firm will also be responsible for compliance with federal regulations including 2 CFR 200 for Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) and The Brooks Act. Evaluation criteria for selecting the firm include:
- Firm history
- Community familiarity
- Key personnel qualifications
- Proposed approach and ability to deliver services
- Experience with federally funded projects
- Current workload capacity
- Litigation history
- Errors and omissions insurance proof
- Performance in interviews.

Period of Performance
The contract is expected to commence immediately upon selection and will last for three years. During this period, the selected firm may be engaged on a project-by-project basis as opportunities arise.

Place of Performance
The work will primarily take place in Rabun County, Georgia.

Bidder Requirements
Firms must demonstrate a strong record in assisting local governments with federally funded projects. They are required to provide proof of adequate key personnel qualifications and licenses. Additionally, firms must include evidence of errors and omissions insurance. There are no specific set-aside certifications mentioned.