Pilot Knob Supply Water Transmission Main

Background
The City of Austin, through its Capital Delivery Services Department and Water Utility, is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Pilot Knob Supply Water Transmission Main project.
This project aims to install a 72-inch water transmission main from an existing 66-inch transmission main near Longhorn Dam to the Pilot Knob Reservoir.
The initiative is crucial for enhancing water supply capacity to Southeast Austin, addressing challenges posed by high demand periods, and supporting long-term system resiliency plans following recommendations from the 2021 Winter Storm Uri After Action Report.

Work Details
The contract involves engineering services that include:
1. Routing Study, Preliminary Engineering, and Environmental Considerations: Evaluate at least three route alignments, prepare a Project Delivery Plan, develop a communications plan, conduct route analysis including land use reviews and easement determinations.

2. Design Phase: Finalize engineering design, conduct geotechnical investigations, prepare detailed plans and specifications at various design stages (30%, 60%, 90%), confirm easement requirements, and obtain necessary permits.

3. Bidding Phase: Assist in advertising the project for bids, developing construction contracts, and evaluating received bids.

4. Construction Phase: Provide construction inspection services including site visits, review of contractor submissions, change orders management, and preparation of as-built drawings.

5. Warranty Phase: Offer assistance regarding project malfunctions or deficiencies post-construction.

Period of Performance
The anticipated schedule includes approximately 18-24 months for Preliminary Engineering, 36 months for each Design Phase, 6 months for each Bidding Phase, 24-36 months for each Construction Phase, and approximately 12 months for the Warranty Phase.

Place of Performance
The work will primarily take place in Southeast Austin along designated routes including US 183, SH 71, SH 130, and FM 812.

Bidder Requirements
Firms must be registered to do business with the City of Austin prior to contract award.
The prime consultant must employ key personnel including a Project Manager with at least 15 years of experience in similar projects and a Project Professional licensed as a professional engineer in Texas.
The firm should demonstrate experience in municipal capital improvement projects related to water infrastructure.