Description
BHRC is seeking proposals from qualified firms to develop an Active Transportation Master Plan for Hocking County, Ohio, a picturesque rural county nestled in Southeast Ohio, known for its natural beauty, which makes it a popular tourism destination. This master plan will serve as a comprehensive guide for enhancing and promoting active transportation modes within the county, with a particular focus on regional accommodation and future growth for residents and visitors alike.
Project Overview
The Active Transportation Master Plan aims to:
- Improve connectivity between key destinations, including tourist attractions, residential areas, and commercial centers.
- Enhance accessibility and safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized modes of transportation.
- Create a network of interconnected trails, bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and streetscapes.
- Support and promote tourism by providing recreational opportunities and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Scope of Work
The selected firm will be responsible for:
- Conducting a comprehensive assessment of existing infrastructure.
- Engaging with stakeholders, including community members, local businesses, government agencies, and advocacy groups, to gather input and identify priorities.
- Developing a strategic plan that outlines goals, objectives, and actionable recommendations for improving active transportation infrastructure.
- Creating conceptual designs and renderings for proposed enhancements, including trail extensions, bike lanes, and streetscape improvements. These designs should contain specific project cut sheets.
- Providing cost estimates and funding strategies for implementing the master plan.
- Drafting a final report that summarizes findings, recommendations, and implementation strategies.
Submission Requirements
Qualified firms are invited to submit their proposals, including:
- A cover letter expressing interest in the project and summarizing relevant experience.
- A statement of qualifications outlining the firm’s expertise, capabilities, and past projects.
- Samples of previous work, particularly related to active transportation planning and community engagement.
- References from past clients.
- Conflicts of Interest – List any current (or potential) clients or projects that may be (or cause) a conflict of interest in working for the BHRC and describe the possible extent of the conflict.
- A preliminary project scope and timeline.
Qualifications
Interested firms should possess the following qualifications:
- Experience in active transportation planning, urban design, and landscape architecture.
- Demonstrated expertise in community engagement and stakeholder collaboration.
- Familiarity with rural communities and an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities they present.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- Capacity to deliver high-quality, actionable plans within the specified timeline and budget.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Qualifications and experience of the firm and key personnel.
- Understanding of the project scope and objectives.
- Approach to community engagement and stakeholder involvement.
- Clarity and feasibility of proposed methodologies and deliverables.
- Cost-effectiveness and value for money.
- Prior experience working with State and Federal agencies, especially the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Consultant Selection
BHRC staff will review consultant proposals and may conduct interviews with one or more respondents. The BHRC Executive Committee will authorize BHRC to enter into contracts with one or more consulting firms. All respondents will be notified of the selection as soon as possible after the decision has been made.
BHRC reserves the right to reject any or all submissions and to waive any irregularities or informalities in the RFP process. Submission of a response indicates acceptance of the terms outlined herein.
Timeline
RFP Release Date: June 7, 2024
RFP Submission Deadline: July 8, 2024, by 4:00 p.m.
All inquiries and submissions should be directed to Eric Wade, Senior Planner, by mail to Buckeye Hills Regional Council, 1400 Pike Street, Marietta OH, 45750, by phone at 740-336-2042, or by email to ewade@buckeyehills.org.