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PA Bulletin, Doc. No. 00-1567

NOTICES

Retention of Engineering Firms

[30 Pa.B. 4772]

Adams County

Project Reference No. 08430AG2602

   The Department will retain an engineering firm for a multi-phase, specific project agreement to provide environmental studies, preliminary engineering, final design, including preparation of bridge, signal and roadway plans, specifications and estimates; shop drawing review and consultation during construction. This project is for the reconstruction of S.R. 0015 Section 013, RT 30 interchange for an approximate length of 1 mile and includes S.R. 0030 for an approximate length of 0.7 mile and for off site improvements that complement the focus area mobility initiative. This project is located on S.R. 0015 from points north and south of the interchanges on and off ramps and on S.R. 0030 from approximately 0.1 mile west of Shealer Road to approximately 0.1 mile west of Smith Road in Straban Township, Adams County. The estimated construction cost of the new interchange is approximately $20 million.

   1.  S.R. 0015, Section 013, Adams County Local Name: U.S. 15/U.S. 30 Interchange This project involves the redesign of the U.S. 15/U.S. 30 interchange and any off system improvements necessary to improve overall corridor mobility as result of the redesign. A high level Categorical Exclusion Evaluation document is anticipated.

   The Department will consider the following factors, listed in order of importance, during the evaluation of the firms submitting letters of interest:

   a)  Specialized experience and technical competence with similar projects and their ability to provide innovative solutions to complex technical problems.

   b)  The project team is expected to visit the site and provide an overview of their understanding of possible issues for the project based on their field observations.

   c)  Resource availability to meet multiple assignments in a timely manner.

   d)  Ability to communicate effectively in various mediums and provide strong public involvement management skills.

   e)  Project team management including subconsultants and how the project manager will manage several disciplines and interact successfully with the District.

   f)  Past record with respect to cost control, work quality, and ability to meet schedules.

   The firm selected may be required to provide a variety of services including the following: project administration; field surveys; plotting of topography and cross sections; utility investigation and coordination; geo-technical studies; core borings, foundation designs; preliminary right-of-way investigation; safety reviews; life cycle cost analysis/pavement survey report; pavement and drainage designs; value engineering; field views; environmental studies and documentation; hold public meetings, interagency permits; preliminary line, grade and typical section development; and preliminary type, size and location submission; final design activities including final step 9 and TS&L; drainage and roadway design; highway lighting design; highway signing and pavement marking plans; right of way plans, traffic control plans, signal plans; erosion and sedimentation control plans; structural rehabilitation designs and structure designs; and preparation of a plans, specifications, and estimates package; electronic data transfer, engineering services during construction including shop drawing review and consultation services.

   The preliminary and final design of this project will be done in English units.

   Welcom's Open Plan Software will be used by the Department for project management and tracking.

   A project specific Quality Development Plan including a cost control and cost analysis process will be required.

   The Department is seeking a multi-disciplined firm with environmental, geo-technical, highway design and structure design experience.

   The goal for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation in this Agreement shall be fifteen percent (15%) of the total contract price. Additional information concerning DBE participation in this Agreement is contained in the General Requirements and Information Section after the advertised project(s).

   This project reference assignment is considered complex. The letter of interest shall be limited to a maximum of five (5) pages, 8 1/2" × 11", one sided, plus an organizational chart (up to 11" × 17" size), and additional resumes, if applicable. (See the General Requirements and Information Section).

   The Letter of Interest submission shall be sent to:

      Mr. Barry G. Hoffman, P.E., District Engineer
      Engineering District 8-0
      2140 Herr Street
      Harrisburg, PA 17103-1699
            Attention:  Mr. Mark A. Malhenzie

   The Letter of Interest submission for this project reference number must be received at the address listed above by 4:30 P.M. prevailing time on the twentieth (20th)day following the date of this Notice.

   Any technical questions concerning the requirements for this project should be directed to Mark A. Malhenzie, phone number (717) 783-5080, fax number (717) 705-5493.

Chester and Montgomery Counties

Project Reference No. 08430AG2603

   The Department will retain an engineering firm to provide supplementary construction inspection staff of approximately eighteen (18) inspectors, under the Department's Inspector(s)-in-Charge for construction inspection and documentation services on the following project:

   1.  Approximately eight (8) Bituminous Surface Treatment projects for each of the next three (3) years on various highways located throughout Chester and Montgomery Counties.

   Department policy requires firms providing construction inspection services to have a Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) field overhead rate established. The Department's current policy (SOL-430-91-34) requires a firm to submit their proposed field and office cost allocation approach, before the beginning of the fiscal year where the separate overhead rates would apply. This approach must comply with the provisions set forth in Part 31 of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (48 CFR Chapter 1) which governs the determination of the eligibility of costs making up the firm's Direct and Indirect Costs.

   The Department will establish an order of ranking of a minimum of three (3) firms for the purpose of negotiating an Engineering Agreement based on the Department's evaluation of the acceptable letters of interest received in response to this solicitation. The final ranking will be established directly from the letters of interest. Technical proposals will not be requested prior to the establishment of the final ranking.

   The following factors, listed in order of importance, will be considered by the Department during the evaluation of the firms submitting letters of interest:

   a.  Review of inspectors' resumes with emphasis on construction inspection capabilities and specialized experience in Maintenance and Protection of Traffic, bituminous paving, milling, base repair, pavement marking, and utility adjustments.

   b.  Department and District 6-0 experience and supervisory experience.

   c.  Understanding of Department's requirements, policies, and specifications.

   d.  Ability to provide two (2) ''CDS'' operators or persons capable of inputting data into a personal computer. (TCI Classification) (One operator for each county)

   e.  Number of NICET certified inspectors in each payroll classification.

   f.  Ability to provide TCIS personnel who are all NECEPT Certified.

   g.  Past performance.

   The qualifications and experience required of the firm's inspectors will be established by the Department, and the qualifications of the firm's proposed employees will be reviewed and approved by the Department.

   It is anticipated that the supplementary construction inspection staff for this assignment will consist of the following number of inspectors who meet the requirements for the following inspection classifications. Several additional inspectors may be needed over the life of the agreement if contractors' paving schedules expand. As of this time, the approximate number of inspectors is as follows:

No. of
Classification
Inspectors
Transportation Construction Ins. Super. (TCIS)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 3 or
   equivalent)
 3 (2)
Transportation Construction Inspector (TCI)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 2 or
   equivalent)
11 (7)
Technical Assistant--1 (TA-1)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 1 or
   equivalent)
 2 (0)
Technical Assistant (TA)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 1 or
   equivalent)
 2 (0)

   The number(s) in parenthesis above indicate the number of inspectors in each Classification that must meet at least one of the following requirements:

   1.  Be certified by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) in the field of Transportation Engineering Technology, subfield of Highway Construction, or subfield of Highway Materials, at the Level required for the Inspection Classification.

   2.  Be registered as a Professional Engineer by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   3.  Be certified as an Engineer-in-Training by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   4.  Hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering or a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering Technology with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   5.  Hold an Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   The maximum hourly payroll rate for each Department Payroll Classification for calendar year 2000 shall be as shown:

Payroll Classification Maximum Straight Time
Hourly Payroll Rate
(Year 2000)
(TCIS) $20.34
(TCI)   $17.05
(TA-1) $13.80
(TA)    $11.72

   If applicable, the maximum straight time hourly payroll rate for subsequent calendar years will be established at the scope of work meeting.

   The maximum hourly payroll rate is the maximum hourly rate paid to an employee in a specific Department Payroll classification. The Department reserves the right to negotiate hourly payroll rates of compensation of individuals based on knowledge, experience and education up to the payroll classification maximum hourly payroll rate.

   The firm selected may be required to attend a pre-construction conference with the Department and the construction contractor for this project. Under the supervision and direction of the Department, the selected firm will be required to keep records and document the construction work; prepare current and final estimates for payment to the construction contractor; assist the Department in obtaining compliance with the labor standards, safety and accident prevention, and equal opportunity provisions of the contract item; and perform other duties as may be required.

   The firm selected will be required to supply the following equipment:

Quantity Item
(8) Cellular Phones (for Engineer's employees only)
(20)   Pagers
(2) Cameras--Digital--having the following specification: 1024 × 768 minimum resolution, storage on a 31/2 floppy disk, pictures date stamped, and storage in JPEG format. (one (1) camera per county)
(2) One full computer system for each county. (Includes soft wear and tables for computers and printers.)
(2) One construction trailer (Field office) for each county. PennDOT will provide the site for the placement of the trailers.
(2) One complete set of furniture, accessories and a fax and a copy machine for each county.

   The Department will directly reimburse the selected engineering firm for the above equipment, for use by the consultant inspection staff at their actual cost not to exceed the maximum direct reimbursement shown below. The engineering firm is required to include their billing rates for each type of equipment in the letter of interest.

*  Construction trailer As per invoice each month
*  Full computer systems As per invoice
*  Sets of furniture As per invoice
*  Cell Phone Usage* As per invoice
*  Pagers As per invoice
*  Camera (digital) As per invoice

   If the equipment is self-owned, reimbursement will be based on actual cost of ownership not to exceed the maximum allowable. If equipment is from an outside supplier, the engineer must secure a minimum of three written quotes. The Department reserves the right to request additional quotes.

   *Cost of phone and activation fees are not eligible for direct reimbursement

   The Department will reimburse for actual miles driven on the project as directed by the Department, and a maximum of $32.50/day for either mileage to and from the work site or lodging. An inspector will not be reimbursed for a combination of the two (2) during the same day. Mileage will be reimbursed for the most direct route from the inspector's residence or the Consultant's office, whichever is less, to the project site and return at the lesser of the maximum mileage rate established by the Commonwealth or the firm's current policy. The first fifteen (15) miles each day of an inspector's commute from and to his/her residence or the consultant's office to the work location is considered normal commuting travel and will not be eligible for mileage reimbursement. Lodging will be reimbursed at a maximum rate of $32.50/day, in lieu of mileage, but receipts for all costs must be provided to the Department with the Engineer's invoice. Lodging will only be reimbursed for employees whose home or headquarters is more than 65 miles from the project.

   The firm selected will be required to supply the following equipment at no direct cost to the Department: measuring wheels, one (1) asphalt probe thermometer per inspector and one (1) asphalt surface thermometer per inspector.

   Letters of interest for this project must include a letter, signed by the individuals you propose for all TCIS positions, giving their approval to use their name in your letter of interest for this specific project.

   The maximum number of resumes to be included in the letter of interest shall be as follows:

Classification No. of Resumes
TCIS 4
TCI   12 
TA-1 0
TA    0

   This project reference assignment is considered non- complex. The letter of interest shall be limited to a maximum of three (3) pages, 8 1/2" × 11", one sided (any pages beyond 3 will not be reviewed by the Department), plus an organizational chart (up to 11" × 17" size), and additional resumes, if applicable. (See the General Requirements and Information Section).

   The Letter of Interest submission shall be sent to:

      Mr. Andrew L. Warren, District Administrator
      Engineering District 6-0
      7000 Geerdes Blvd.
      King of Prussia, PA 19406-1525

   The Letter of Interest submission for this project reference number must be received at the address listed above by 4:30 p.m. prevailing time on the twentieth (20th) day following the date of this Notice.

   Any technical questions concerning the requirements for this project should be directed to Lou Calvanese phone number (610) 205-6673, fax number (610) 205-6672.

Bucks, Delaware, and Philadelphia Counties

Project Reference No. 08430AG2604

   The Department will retain an engineering firm to provide supplementary construction inspection staff of approximately twenty-seven (27) inspectors, under the Department's Inspector(s)-in-Charge for construction inspection and documentation services on the following project:

   1.  Approximately twelve (12) Bituminous Surface Treatment projects for each of the next three (3) years on various highways located throughout Bucks, Delaware, and Philadelphia Counties.

   Department policy requires firms providing construction inspection services to have a Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) field overhead rate established. The Department's current policy (SOL-430-91-34) requires a firm to submit their proposed field and office cost allocation approach, before the beginning of the fiscal year where the separate overhead rates would apply. This approach must comply with the provisions set forth in Part 31 of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (48 CFR Chapter 1) which governs the determination of the eligibility of costs making up the firm's Direct and Indirect Costs.

   The Department will establish an order of ranking of a minimum of three (3) firms for the purpose of negotiating an Engineering Agreement based on the Department's evaluation of the acceptable letters of interest received in response to this solicitation. The final ranking will be established directly from the letters of interest. Technical proposals will not be requested prior to the establishment of the final ranking.

   The following factors, listed in order of importance, will be considered by the Department during the evaluation of the firms submitting letters of interest:

   a.  Review of inspectors' resumes with emphasis on construction inspection capabilities and specialized experience in Maintenance and Protection of Traffic, bituminous paving, milling, base repair, pavement marking, and utility adjustments.

   b.  Department and District 6-0 experience and supervisory experience.

   c.  Understanding of Department's requirements, policies, and specifications.

   d.  Ability to provide three (3) ''CDS'' operators or persons capable of inputting data into a personal computer. (TCI Classification) (One operator for each county)

   e.  Number of NICET certified inspectors in each payroll classification.

   f.  Ability to provide TCIS personnel who are all NECEPT Certified.

   g.  Past performance.

   The qualifications and experience required of the firm's inspectors will be established by the Department, and the qualifications of the firm's proposed employees will be reviewed and approved by the Department.

   It is anticipated that the supplementary construction inspection staff for this assignment will consist of the following number of inspectors who meet the requirements for the following inspection classifications. Several additional inspectors may be needed over the life of the agreement if contractors' paving schedules expand. At this time, the approximate number of inspectors is as follows:

No. of
Classification Inspectors
Transportation Construction Ins. Super. (TCIS)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 3 or
   equivalent)
4 (3)
Transportation Construction Inspector (TCI)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 2 or
   equivalent)
17 (11) 
Technical Assistant--1 (TA-1)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 1 or
   equivalent)
3 (0)
Technical Assistant (TA)
   (NICET Highway Construction Level 1 or
   equivalent)
3 (0)

   The number(s) in parenthesis above indicate the number of inspectors in each Classification that must meet at least one of the following requirements:

   1.  Be certified by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) in the field of Transportation Engineering Technology, subfield of Highway Construction, or subfield of Highway Materials, at the Level required for the Inspection Classification.

   2.  Be registered as a Professional Engineer by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   3.  Be certified as an Engineer-in-Training by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   4.  Hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering or a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering Technology with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   5.  Hold an Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology with the required highway experience specified for the Inspection Classification.

   The maximum hourly payroll rate for each Department Payroll Classification for calendar year 2000 shall be as shown:

Payroll Classification Maximum Straight Time
Hourly Payroll Rate
(Year 2000)
(TCIS) $20.34
(TCI)   $17.05
(TA-1) $13.80
(TA)    $11.72

   If applicable, the maximum straight time hourly payroll rate for subsequent calendar years will be established at the scope of work meeting.

   The maximum hourly payroll rate is the maximum hourly rate paid to an employee in a specific Department Payroll classification. The Department reserves the right to negotiate hourly payroll rates of compensation of individuals based on knowledge, experience and education up to the payroll classification maximum hourly payroll rate.

   The firm selected may be required to attend a pre-construction conference with the Department and the construction contractor for this project. Under the supervision and direction of the Department, the selected firm will be required to keep records and document the construction work; prepare current and final estimates for payment to the construction contractor; assist the Department in obtaining compliance with the labor standards, safety and accident prevention, and equal opportunity provisions of the contract item; and perform other duties as may be required.

   The firm selected will be required to supply the following equipment:

Quantity Item
(10)  Cellular Phones (for Engineer's employees only)
(27)  Pagers
(3) Cameras--Digital--having the following specification: 1024 × 768 minimum resolution, storage on a 31/2 floppy disk, pictures date stamped, and storage in JPEG format. (one (1) camera per county)
(3) One full computer system for each county. (Includes soft wear and tables for computers and printers.)
(2) One construction trailer (Field office) each for Bucks and Delaware Counties. PennDOT has a location to place the trailer.
(1) One office in Philadelphia County. PennDOT has no place to put a trailer.
(3) One complete set of furniture, accessories and a fax and a copy machine for each county.

   The Department will directly reimburse the selected engineering firm for the above equipment, for use by the consultant inspection staff at their actual cost not to exceed the maximum direct reimbursement shown below. The engineering firm is required to include their billing rates for each type of equipment in the letter of interest.

*  Construction trailer/office As per invoice each mo.
*  Full computer systems As per invoice
*  Sets of furniture As per invoice
*  Cell Phone Usage* As per invoice
*  Pagers As per invoice
*  Camera (digital) As per invoice

   If the equipment is self-owned, reimbursement will be based on actual cost of ownership not to exceed the maximum allowable. If equipment is from an outside supplier, the engineer must secure a minimum of three written quotes. The Department reserves the right to request additional quotes.

   *Cost of phone and activation fees are not eligible for direct reimbursement

   The Department will reimburse for actual miles driven on the project as directed by the Department, and a maximum of $32.50/day for either mileage to and from the work site or lodging. An inspector will not be reimbursed for a combination of the two (2) during the same day. Mileage will be reimbursed for the most direct route from the inspector's residence or the Consultant's office, whichever is less, to the project site and return at the lesser of the maximum mileage rate established by the Commonwealth or the firm's current policy. The first 15 miles each day of an inspector's commute from and to his/her residence or the consultant's office to the work location is considered normal commuting travel and will not be eligible for mileage reimbursement. Lodging will be reimbursed at a maximum rate of $32.50/day, in lieu of mileage, but receipts for all costs must be provided to the Department with the Engineer's invoice. Lodging will only be reimbursed for employees whose home or headquarters is more than 65 miles from the project.

   The firm selected will be required to supply the following equipment at no direct cost to the Department: measuring wheels, one (1) asphalt probe thermometer per inspector and one (1) asphalt surface thermometer per inspector.

   Letters of interest for this project must include a letter, signed by the individuals you propose for all TCIS positions, giving their approval to use their name in your letter of interest for this specific project.

   The maximum number of resumes to be included in the letter of interest shall be as follows:

Classification No. of Resumes
TCIS 5
TCI   28
TA-1 0
TA    0

   This project reference assignment is considered non- complex. The letter of interest shall be limited to a maximum of three (3) pages, 8 1/2" × 11", one sided (any pages beyond 3 will not be reviewed by the Department), plus an organizational chart (up to 11" × 17" size), and additional resumes, if applicable. (See the General Requirements and Information Section).

   The Letter of Interest submission shall be sent to:

      Mr. Andrew L. Warren, District Administrator
      Engineering District 6-0
      7000 Geerdes Blvd.
      King of Prussia, PA 19406-1525

   The Letter of Interest submission for this project reference number must be received at the address listed above by 4:30 p.m. prevailing time on the twentieth (20th) day following the date of this Notice.

   Any technical questions concerning the requirements for this project should be directed to Lou Calvanese, phone number (610) 205-6673, fax number (610) 205-6672.

Bucks County

Project Reference No. 08430AG2605

   The Department will retain an engineering firm to provide preliminary engineering, environmental documentation, final design, and services during construction on the following projects:

   1.  S.R. 4019, Section 57M, Bucks County Local Name: Minsi Trail over a tributary to Morris Run in Hilltown Township This project involves the replacement of the existing single span bridge and the realignment, widening and reconstruction of the structure approaches.

   2.  S.R. 4019, Section 60M, Bucks County Local Name: Minsi Trail over a tributary to Morris Run in Hilltown Township This project involves the replacement of the existing single span bridge and the realignment, widening, and reconstruction of the structure approaches.

   The following factors, listed in order of importance, will be considered by the Department during the evaluation of the firms submitting letters of interest:

   a.  Past record of performance with respect to cost control, work quality, ability to meet schedules, and previous experience. The specific experience of individuals employed by the firm shall be considered.

   b.  Available staffing for this assignment and the ability to meet the Department's needs.

   c.  Specialized experience and technical competence of firm.

   d.  Location of Consultant with respect to the District Office.

   The firm selected may be required to provide the following engineering, environmental and design services: C.E.E. document preparation; surveys; roadway design, drainage design; preparation of cross-sections; erosion and sedimentation control design; preparation of roadside development plans; right-of-way investigation and plan preparation; structure design; subsurface boring, sampling and testing; preparation of traffic control plans, pavement marking and sign plans; utility coordination; coordination with PennDEP, US Army Corps of Engineers, public agencies, municipal officials, and the public; preparation of final plans, specifications and estimates; shop drawing reviews; alternate structure design reviews; construction consultation, and other engineering services as needed.

   The firm selected may be required to perform the following to ensure that a complete environmental investigation has been performed: provide all necessary environmental services, materials and equipment necessary to collect, analyze, organize data, assess impacts, conduct agency and public involvement activities, and prepare reports and mitigation plans. The reports and other written graphic materials to be prepared may include, but are not limited to Section 106 documents; Section 4(f) Evaluations; Mitigation Plans and Reports; coordinating the development of the study(ies) with various agencies and special interest groups; and other environmental services as needed.

   The goal for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation in this Agreement shall be fifteen percent (15%) of the total contract price. Additional information concerning DBE participation in this Agreement is contained in the General Requirements and Information Section after the advertised project(s).

   This project reference assignment is considered moderately complex. The letter of interest shall be limited to a maximum of three (3) pages, 8 1/2" × 11", one sided, plus an organizational chart (up to 11" × 17" size), and additional resumes, if applicable. (See the General Requirements and Information Section).

   The Letter of Interest submission shall be sent to:

      Mr. Andrew L. Warren, District Administrator
      Engineering District 6-0
      7000 Geerdes Blvd.
      King of Prussia, PA 19406
            Attn:  Tim Stevenson

   The Letter of Interest submission for this project reference number must be received at the address listed above by 4:30 P.M. prevailing time on the twentieth (20th) day following the date of this Notice. The shortlist announcement will take place on October 10, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in Room 203B at the District 6-0 Office.

   Any technical questions concerning the requirements for this project should be directed to Mr. Timothy R. O'Brien, P.E., at (610) 205-6850, fax number (610) 205-6903 or to Mr. Timothy S. Stevenson at (610) 205-6853, fax number (610) 205-6903.

Crawford County

Project Reference No. 08430AG2606

   The Department will retain an engineering firm for a multi-phase, specific project agreement to provide environmental studies, preliminary engineering, final design, shop drawing review and consultation during construction for S.R. 0006, Section A03 (Meadville By-pass) in West Mead Township and the City of Meadville, Crawford County, Engineering District 1-0.

   The primary purpose of this project is to facilitate truck and commercial traffic movement from the eastern reaches of Crawford County through the City of Meadville, connect with S.R.'s 0006 and 0019 and eventually lead to Interstate 79. This task is anticipated to be realized through a combination of new roadway construction and an upgrade of the existing roadway network.

   The selected firm will be required to attend an agency scoping field view(s); update an existing needs analysis; prepare the appropriate environmental documents; perform field surveys; prepare a location study with a preferred alternative; prepare plans, profiles, typical sections and cross-sections; perform a soils and geological investigation; erosion and sedimentation control plans; preliminary design submission; value engineering studies; right-of-way plan submission; utility submission; traffic investigations; type, size and location report(s); prepare structure designs with associated permits; final roadway design; construction plans; and prepare a PS&E (plans, specifications and estimate) submission. Coordination and attendance at various public meetings is required. The consultant will be required to provide material and attend a safety review meeting, attend various field views and provide efficient project management. Services during construction will include, but not limited to; construction consultation, alternatives review and shop drawing review.

   It is essential that the selected firm be comprised of a multi-disciplinary team who are capable of performing all manner of engineering and environmental studies and documentation that may be required for a transportation improvement project.

   Communication skills will be important when coordinating with local officials, area residents, business owners and special interest organizations.

   The Department will consider the following factors, listed in order of importance, during the evaluation of the firms submitting letters-of-interest:

   a)  Specialized experience and technical competence of the consultant team. The specific experience of individuals and available staffing for this assignment will be considered.

   b)  Method of controlling the quality of submissions. Consideration will be given to coordination between disciplines, subconsultants, etc.

   c)  Past record of performance with regard to work quality, cost control and ability to meet schedules.

   d)  Project management skills and public involvement experience. Ability to work effectively with the Department and flexibility in thinking will be a prime consideration.

   e)  Understanding of the Department's requirements, Design Manuals, policies and specifications.

   f)  Location of consultant with respect to the District. This will include ability/provisions for quick responses to project needs and District requests.

   The goal for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation for this assignment shall be fifteen percent (15%) of the total contract price. Additional information concerning DBE participation for this assignment is contained in the General Requirements and Information Section after the advertised project(s).

   This project reference assignment is considered complex. The letter of interest shall be limited to a maximum of five (5) pages, 81/2" × 11", one-sided, plus an organization chart (up to 11" × 17" in size), and additional resumes, if applicable. (See the General Requirements and Information Section).

   The Letter of Interest submission shall be sent to:

      Mr. John L. Baker, P.E., District Engineer
      Engineering District 1-0
      255 Elm Street
      P. O. Box 398
      Oil City, PA 16301
            Attn:  Mr. Michael L. McMullen, P.E.

   The Letter of Interest submission for this project reference number must be received at the address listed above by 4:30PM prevailing time on the twentieth (20th) day following the date of this Notice. Three (3) copies of the letter of interest are to be included in the submission to the Engineering District 1-0 office.

   Any technical questions concerning the requirements for this project should be directed to: Mr. Michael L. McMullen, P.E., telephone number (814) 678-7077 or fax number (814) 678-7030.

Westmoreland County

Project Reference No. 08430AG2607

   The Department will retain an engineering firm to provide preliminary engineering, final design and construction consultation services on S.R. 8001, Section B01, 119/819 Interchange, Westmoreland County. This project involves the reconstruction of the existing S.R. 119/819 interchange.

   The following factors, listed in order of importance, will be considered by the Department during the evaluation of the firms submitting letters of interest:

   a.  Past record of performance with respect to cost control, work quality, ability to meet schedules, and previous experience. The specific experience of individuals employed by the firm shall be considered.

   b.  Available staffing for this assignment and the ability to meet the Department's needs.

   c.  Specialized experience and technical competence of firm.

   d.  Location of Consultant with respect to the District Office.

   The firms selected may be required to complete the following items and all associated tasks:

   1.  All Preliminary Engineering Activities including, but not limited to: field surveys; Point of Access Study; public/local officials coordination; traffic studies; type, size and location; design field view; roadway design; hydrologic and hydraulic report; E & S plans; soils and geological reconnaissance; traffic control plans; right-of-way investigation, coordination with utility companies; and all necessary public involvement activities.

   2.  All studies necessary for the preparation of a Categorical Exclusion Evaluation and associated documents including, but not limited to: cultural resource surveys, wetland delineation and evaluation, Section 106 documents, hazardous waste reports and archeological surveys.

   3.  Final Design Activities including, but not limited to: foundation submission/core borings/geotechnical engineering report; final structure and roadway plans; signing and pavement delineation marking plans; grading plan; final traffic control plan; pavement and drainage design; final right-of-way plan; specifications and cost estimates, and all necessary public involvement activities.

   4.  Engineering services during construction including shop drawing reviews, consultation service and review of contractor's design.

   The goal for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation in this Agreement shall be fifteen percent (15%) of the total contract price. Additional information concerning DBE participation in this Agreement is contained in the General Requirements and Information Section after the advertised project.

   This project reference assignment is considered complex. The letter of interest shall be limited to a maximum of five (5) pages, 8 1/2" × 11", one sided, plus an organizational chart (up to 11" × 17" size), and additional resumes, if applicable. (See the General Requirements and Information Section).

   The Letter of Interest submission shall be sent to:

      Mr. Michael H. Dufalla, P.E., District Engineer
      Engineering District 12-0
      P. O. Box 459
      North Gallatin Avenue
      Uniontown, PA 15401
            Attention:  Mr. Ronald N. Deems

   The Letter of Interest submission for this project reference number must be received at the address listed above by 3 p.m. prevailing time on the twentieth (20th) day following the date of this Notice.

   Any technical questions concerning the requirements for this project should be directed to Mr. Ronald N. Deems, phone number (724) 439-7322, fax number (724) 430-4401.

Washington County

Project Reference No. 08430AG2608

   The Department will retain an engineering firm to provide preliminary engineering, final design and construction consultation services on S.R. 8013, Section A01, S.R. I-79, Meadowlands Interchange, Washington County. This project involves the reconstruction of the existing Interstate 79 Interchange.

   The Department will consider the following factors, listed in order of importance, during the evaluation of the firms submitting letters of interest:

   a.  Past record of performance with respect to cost control, work quality, ability to meet schedules, and previous experience. The specific experience of individuals employed by the firm shall be considered.

   b.  Available staffing for this assignment and the ability to meet the Department's needs.

   c.  Specialized experience and technical competence of firm.

   d.  Location of Consultant with respect to the District Office.

   The firms selected may be required to complete the following items and all associated tasks:

   1.  All Preliminary Engineering Activities including, but not limited to: field surveys; Point of Access Study; public/local officials coordination; traffic studies; type, size and location; design field view; roadway design; hydrologic and hydraulic report; E & S plans; soils and geological reconnaissance; traffic control plans; right-of- way investigation, coordination with utility companies; and all necessary public involvement activities.

   2.  All studies necessary for the preparation of a Categorical Exclusion Evaluation and associated documents including, but not limited to: cultural resource surveys, wetland delineation and evaluation, Section 106 documents, hazardous waste reports and archeological surveys.

   3.  Final Design Activities including, but not limited to: foundation submission/core borings/geotechnical engineering report; final structure and roadway plans; signing and pavement delineation marking plans; grading plan; final traffic control plan; pavement and drainage design; final right-of-way plan; specifications and cost estimates, and all necessary public involvement activities.

   4.  Engineering services during construction including shop drawing reviews, consultation service and review of contractor's design.

   The goal for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation in this Agreement shall be fifteen percent (15%) of the total contract price. Additional information concerning DBE participation in this Agreement is contained in the General Requirements and Information Section after the advertised project.

   This project reference assignment is considered complex. The letter of interest shall be limited to a maximum of five (5) pages, 8 1/2" × 11", one sided, plus an organizational chart (up to 11" × 17" size), and additional resumes, if applicable. (See the General Requirements and Information Section).

   The Letter of Interest submission shall be sent to:

      Mr. Michael H. Dufalla, P.E., District Engineer
      Engineering District 12-0
      P. O. Box 459
      North Gallatin Avenue
      Uniontown, PA 15401
            Attention; Mr. Richard R. Glass, P.E.

   The Letter of Interest submission for this project reference number must be received at the address listed above by 3 p.m. prevailing time on the twentieth (20th) day following the date of this Notice.

   Any technical questions concerning the requirements for this project should be directed to Mr. Richard R. Glass, P.E., phone number (724) 439-7265, fax number (724)430-4401.

General Requirements and Information

   Firms interested in providing the above work and services are invited to submit a Letter of Interest with the required information for each Project Reference Number for which the applicant wishes to be considered.

   The Letter of Interest and required information must be submitted to the person designated in the individual advertisement.

   The Letter of Interest and required information must be received by the Deadline indicated in the individual advertisement.

   For District projects, all consultants, both prime consultants and subconsultants, who desire to be included in a Letter of Interest must have an Annual Qualification Package on file with the appropriate District Office, by the deadline stipulated in the individual advertisements.

   For Statewide projects, all consultants, both prime consultants and subconsultants, who desire to be included in a Letter of Interest must have an Annual Qualification Package on file with Central Office, Bureau of Design by the deadline stipulated in the individual advertisements.

   Information concerning the Annual Qualification Package can be found in Strike-off Letter No. 433-99-04 or under the Notice to all Consultants published in the February 27, 1999 issue of the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

   By submitting a letter of interest for the projects that request engineering services, the consulting firm is certifying that the firm is qualified to perform engineering services in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. A firm not conforming to this requirement may submit a letter of interest as a part of a joint venture with an individual, firm or corporation which is permitted under State law to engage in the practice of engineering.

   The letter of interest must include full disclosure of any potential conflict of interest by the prime or any subconsultant based on Engineering Involvement Restrictions Guidelines as established in Strike-off Letter No. 433-00-02 published March 27, 2000. If there are no potential conflicts you shall include the following statement: ''I have reviewed Strike-off Letter No. 433-00-02 and determine that there are no potential conflicts of interest for anyone on this project team.''

   If a Joint Venture responds to a project advertisement, the Department of Transportation will not accept separate Letters of Interest from the Joint Venture constituents. A firm will not be permitted to submit a Letter of Interest on more than one (1) Joint Venture for the same Project Reference Number. Also a firm that responds to a project as a prime may not be included as a designated subcontractor to another firm that responds as a prime to the project. Multiple responses under any of the foregoing situations will cause the rejection of all responses of the firm or firms involved. The above does not preclude a firm from being set forth as a designated subcontractor to more than one (1) prime responding to the project advertisement.

   If a goal for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation is established for an advertised project, firms expressing interest in the project must agree to ensure that Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firms as defined in the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st century (TEA-21) and currently certified by the Department of Transportation shall have the opportunity to participate in any subcontracting or furnishing supplies or services approved under Form 442, Section 1.10(a). The TEA-21 requires that firms owned and controlled by women (WBEs) be included, as a presumptive group, within the definition of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). The goal for DBE participation shall be as stated in the individual project advertisement. Responding firms shall make good faith efforts to meet the DBE goal using DBEs (as they are defined prior to the act, WBEs or combinations thereof).

   Proposed DBE firms must be certified at the time of submission of the Letter of Interest. If the selected firm fails to meet the established DBE participation goal, it shall be required to demonstrate its good faith efforts to attain the goal.

   Responses are encouraged by small firms, Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firms, and other firms who have not previously performed work for the Department of Transportation.

   Letters of Interest for will be considered non-responsive and eliminated from further consideration for any of the following reasons:

   1.  Letters of Interest not received on time.

   2.  Project of interest is not identified.

   3.  An Annual Qualification Package for the prime consultant and all subconsultants is not on file with the organization receiving the Letter of Interest.

   4.  Conflict of Interest evaluation statement is not included.

   5.  A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal is established for the Project Reference Number but no DBE/WBE is identified and no good faith effort is included.

   6.  Firm submitted a Letter of Interest on more than one (1) Joint Venture or a firm submitted a Letter of Interest as a prime and was also included as a subconsultant, to another firm. Multiple responses under any of the foregoing situations will cause the rejection of all responses of the firm, or firms, involved.

   In addition to the above reasons, a Letter of Interest for Construction Inspection Services will be considered non-responsive for any of the following reasons:

   1.  Prime consultant or any subconsultant does not have a Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Audit Field Overhead Rate on file with the Department.

   2.  Using an individual's resume without including a letter granting the individual's approval for TCIS and higher positions.

   3.  Exceeding the maximum number of resumes in a payroll classification.

   The assignment of the agreement/contract for the above advertisement(s) will be made to one of the firms who submitted an acceptable Letter of Interest in response to the project advertisement. The assignment will be made based on the Department's evaluation of the firm's qualification and capabilities. The Department reserves the right to reject all letters submitted, to cancel the solicitations requested under this Notice, and/or to readvertise solicitation for the work and services.

BRADLEY L. MALLORY,   
Secretary

[Pa.B. Doc. No. 00-1567. Filed for public inspection September 8, 2000, 9:00 a.m.]



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