The City of Morgantown is soliciting Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) from qualified engineering firms as well as firms offering non-engineering solutions to provide professional services for the Morgantown Trash Removal Initiative, a federally funded project aimed at designing a system to capture and remove floating debris and trash that accumulates behind the Morgantown Lock and Dam on the Monongahela River. The selected team will develop a solution that addresses both natural and anthropogenic materials with an emphasis on environmental sustainability and operational feasibility.
Scope of Services
The City invites proposals for the development and implementation planning of an in-river trash collection system that may include, but is not limited to:
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Conceptual and detailed engineering design for in-river structures, booms, conveyance, and collection points.
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Equipment specification and procurement support for boats, skimmers, conveyors, and collection vessels.
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Systems integration and technology solutions such as semi-autonomous collection platforms, hydro and solar power systems, sensors, and remote monitoring.
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Operations and maintenance planning, including staffing models, routine maintenance schedules, and lifecycle cost estimates.
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Permitting, regulatory coordination, and US Army Corps interface to ensure solutions are acceptable within the dam’s restricted zone.
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Environmental and permitting studies, including habitat impact assessments, water quality considerations, and mitigation measures.
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Non-engineering solutions such as debris management strategies, community engagement and education programs, behavioral-change campaigns, vendor-supplied turnkey systems, logistics and waste disposition planning, and data analytics for performance monitoring.
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Pilot testing and performance evaluation plans for phased implementation and adaptive management.
Activities under this RFQ are covered by a Categorical Exclusion under NEPA. Please see related documents for full RFQ.
Eligible Firms
The City encourages SOQs from a broad range of qualified entities, including:
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Civil and environmental engineering firms with relevant in-river and dam-adjacent experience.
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Technology providers and integrators offering semi-autonomous or renewable-powered collection systems.
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Marine contractors and equipment suppliers experienced with operations in restricted dam zones.
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Environmental consulting firms specializing in permitting, habitat assessment, and mitigation.
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Operations and maintenance service providers with river cleanup or waterway management experience.
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Joint ventures combining engineering and non-engineering solutions.
Submission Requirements
SOQs should include the following elements:
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Cover Letter and Expression of Interest, an introduction of the firm, a statement of interest in this specific project, and an acknowledgment of all addenda (if applicable).
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Firm qualifications and relevant experience, including project examples and references.
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Examples of similar technology deployments or community programs, if applicable.
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Key personnel, resumes and roles for the proposed team.
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Description of proposed services and approach, clearly indicating engineering and non-engineering components.
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Evidence of ability to coordinate with federal agencies, including prior US Army Corps approvals where relevant.
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Attachment A, Response Certification (template provided)
The City will evaluate potential conflicts per 2 CFR 200.318(c)(2).
Evaluation and Contact
The City will evaluate SOQs based on relevant experience, technical approach, team qualifications, cost realism, and demonstrated ability to deliver integrated engineering and/or non-engineering solutions. Submit SOQs by the deadline specified in the full RFQ package. For questions or to request the complete RFQ, contact the City of Morgantown project manager listed in the solicitation.
All questions regarding this RFQ must be submitted electronically. Questions shall be directed via email to: Damien Davis:
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, Vanessa Johnson:
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and Emily Muzzarelli,
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