Architectural and Engineering Services for Pool Renovation and Upgrade at Foran High School

Request for Qualifications & Proposals
Architectural and engineering design firm for the preparation of
schematic design documents, construction documents and
construction administrative services for Pool Renovation and
Upgrade at Joseph A Foran High School
RFQ/RFP # 1846
MAY 21, 2026
Fred Bialka
Purchasing Agent

Legal Notice
CITY OF MILFORD
Office of the Purchasing Agent
70 West River Street - Milford, CT 06460
Tel (203) 783-3225
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS & PROPOSALS
Notice is hereby given that Request for Qualifications and Proposals for
Architectural and engineering design firm for the preparation of
schematic design documents, construction documents and
construction administrative services for Pool Renovation and Upgrade at
Joseph A. Foran High
will be received in the Purchasing Agent's Office until
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 @ 3:00 PM
Responses will be evaluated and respondents may be
requested to provide a presentation of their proposed services.
A mandatory site visit will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, 3:00 PM
at Joseph A. Foran High School, 80 Foran Road, Milford, CT.
RFQ/RFP information may be obtained from the Purchasing Department or
downloaded at https://www.milfordct.us/610/Purchasing-Department
If you download RFQ/RFP packages it is your responsibility to ensure
that you have current information. Click on the "Changes in Bids"
icon for any applicable addenda prior to submitting a Response.
The City of Milford is not responsible for data or transmission errors.
The City of Milford reserves the right to reject any and all Responses or any part
thereof, or to waive defects in same, or to accept any Response deemed
to be in the best interests of the City of Milford.
Fred Bialka
Purchasing Agent

City of Milford, Connecticut
Request for Qualifications & Proposals
RFQ/RFP # 1846
Architectural and engineering design firm for the preparation of
schematic design documents, construction documents and
construction administrative services for Pool Renovation and Upgrade at
Joseph A Foran High School
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL
The City of Milford through its Permanent School Facilities Building Committee (hereinafter
referred to as "City" or the "Committee") seeks to hire an architectural and engineering design
firm for the preparation of schematic design documents as well as complete construction
documents and construction administration services for Pool Renovation and Upgrade at
Joseph A Foran High School.
PREPARATION OF RESPONSES
1. One (1) original and nine (9) exact copies of the responses and one (1) scanned PDF copy
on a flash drive must be received no later than 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
All responses should be submitted in a clear, concise and legible manner to permit proper
evaluation and shall include the Qualification Statement contained herein.
2. Respondents may also submit, under separate cover with their response, any additional
reports and documents that are necessary to meet the requirements (deliverables) of this
RFQ/RFP.
3. All costs incurred in the preparation and presentation of the qualifications/proposals shall be
wholly absorbed by the respondent.
PART I - RESPONSE SUBMISSION - QUALIFICATIONS
1. All respondents must provide a thorough and complete package responding to the specific
criteria stated here, except where noted otherwise, and submit them to:
Fred Bialka, Purchasing Agent
Parsons Government Complex
70 West River Street
Milford, CT 06460
Mark package as follows: RFQ/RFP # 1846 - Architectural and engineering design for
Pool Renovation and Upgrade at Joseph A Foran High School
2. Responses must be signed by an authorized principal or agent and the person signing the
formal response must be authorized by the organization to contractually bind that
organization with regard to price and related contractual obligations. Unsigned responses
shall not be considered.
3. A response may be withdrawn at any time prior to the above scheduled date. A response
received after the above scheduled date and time shall not be considered or opened.
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PART II - RESPONSE SUBMISSION - PROPOSALS
1. In addition to the Qualifications package, each respondent must include two (2) original fee
proposals with their response. The Proposal must be on the prescribed form provided herein
and placed in a sealed envelope marked with the following:
RFQ/RFP # 1846 - PROPOSAL - Architectural and Engineering Design Firm for
Pool Renovation and Upgrade at Joseph A Foran High School
2. Proposals must be signed by an authorized principal or agent and the person signing the
formal response must be authorized by the organization to contractually bind that
organization with regard to price and related contractual obligations. Unsigned proposals
shall not be considered.
3. A proposal may be withdrawn at any time prior to the above scheduled date. A proposal
received after the above scheduled date and time shall not be considered or opened.
4. All costs incurred in the preparation of the proposal shall be wholly absorbed by the
proposer.
NOTE: All proposals will remain sealed until the Committee selects up to four (4)
"Qualified" firms. At that time, only the proposals of "Qualified" firms will be opened and
reviewed by the Committee. Proposals of firms that are not selected as "Qualified" will
remain sealed and held by the Chairman of the Committee for sixty (60) days and then
shall be destroyed.
MANDATORY SITE VISIT
A mandatory site visit will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, 3:00 PM at Joseph A.
Foran High School, 80 Foran Road, Milford, CT.
INQUIRIES
All inquiries regarding this RFP may be submitted up to close of business on Wednesday,
June 10, 2026, after which time no additional questions will be accepted. Questions shall be
directed to Fred Bialka, Purchasing Agent, fbialka@ci.milford.ct.us . To ensure consistent
interpretation of certain items, answers to questions will be posted on the City of Milford website
at https://www.milfordct.us/610/Purchasing-Department as soon as possible but no later
than Monday June 15, 2026, at 4 pm.
Respondents or affiliated members are warned not to contact any Building Committee or Board
of Education members or Milford Public Schools staff in relation to this RFQ/RFP or this project
throughout the selection process. Any communication will be considered cause for
disqualification of the offending firm.
All proposers are obligated to become familiar with such questions and answers and to submit
or revise their proposals accordingly. The City assumes no responsibility for a proposer's failure
to read questions and answers and to revise their proposal accordingly.
After proposals are received, the City reserves the right to communicate with any or all of the
proposers to clarify the provisions of this RFQ/RFP. The City further reserves the right to
request additional information at any time after proposals are opened.
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ADDENDUMS
All addendums will be posted on the City of Milford website at
https://www.milfordct.us/610/Purchasing-Department. It is the responsibility of all proposal
submitters to verify with the City if there are any addendums or changes to this RFQ/RFP.
Failure to submit a proposal that does not address any changes or addendums may result in a
disqualification of such bid submission.
CITY OPTIONS
The City reserves the right to alter or revoke this RFQ/RFP at any time. The City further
reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive any requirements, irregularities,
informalities, technical defects or service in the proposals received and to accept only those
proposals deemed by the City to be in its best interests.
TAXES
All purchases made by the City and associated with this RFQ/RFP shall be tax exempt. Any
taxes must not be included in response prices. A Tax Exemption Certificate will be furnished
upon request.
ASSIGNMENT OF RIGHTS, TITLES AND INTERESTS
Any assignment or subcontracting of work to be performed related to this RFQ/RFP, in whole or
in part, and any other interest in conjunction with City procurement shall not be permitted
without the express written consent of the City.
HOLD HARMLESS CLAUSE
Any contractor or subcontractor of the City agrees to indemnify, hold harmless and defend the
City from and against any and all liability for loss, damage or expense which the City may suffer
or for which the City may be held liable by reason of injury, including death, to any person or
damage to any property arising out of or in any manner connected with the operations to be
performed under this RFQ/RFP and subsequent Contract, whether or not due in whole or in
part of any act, omission or negligence of the City or any of its representatives or employees.
WORK REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
All work activities performed in association with this RFQ/RFP must be performed and
completed for the City in accordance with current Federal, State and Local labor regulations. All
services performed shall also conform to the latest OSHA standards and/or regulations.
REFERENCES AND KEY PERSONNEL
Responders shall submit references as requested on attached forms contained herein.
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City of Milford, Connecticut
Request for Qualifications & Proposals
RFQ/RFP # 1846
Architectural and engineering design firm for the preparation of
schematic design documents, construction documents and
construction administrative services for Pool Renovation and Upgrade at
Joseph A Foran High School
SCOPE OF SERVICES
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
It is important to note that all remaining school spaces outside of the pool area must remain
functional for education to the fullest extent possible during the construction work. Construction
for this project is contemplated to take place during school summer recess of 2027.
Pool Renovation and Upgrade at Joseph A Foran High School
I. Project Overview
The Milford Public Schools is seeking a qualified architectural and engineering firm, with
specialized expertise in aquatic facilities, to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the
swimming pool at Foran High School (constructed in 1973). The facility is currently experiencing
significant water loss from unidentified sources. The goal of this study is to determine the
current condition of the facility, identify the source of failures, and provide a strategic roadmap
for remediation, modernization, or full replacement.
II. Phase 1: Comprehensive Physical Assessment & Analysis
The selected firm shall perform a "deep dive" audit of the current facility, including but not limited
to:
Leak Detection Analysis: Perform testing to identify the origin of water loss in the pool
shell, surge tank, or underground piping.
Structural Evaluation: Inspection of the pool shell, gutters, and surrounding decking for
cracks, spalling, or settlement.
Mechanical & Filtration Systems: Evaluation of the existing pumps, filters, chemical
treatment systems, and heat exchangers.
Piping & Plumbing: Assessment of the integrity of all supply and return lines, including
the condition of the 1973-era plumbing infrastructure.
Electrical & Lighting: Review of underwater lighting, grounding, bonding, and the
electrical panel's compliance with current safety codes.
HVAC & Air Quality: Evaluation of the natatorium's dehumidification system and air
turnover rates to ensure the environment is safe for athletes and spectators.
ADA & Code Compliance: Audit of current accessibility (benches, lifts, locker rooms,
egress) and health department code requirements.
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III. Phase 2: Feasibility Study & Options Analysis
Based on the findings in Phase 1, the consultant will develop a Comprehensive Options Report.
This report must present at least three (3) distinct pathways for the district:
1. Immediate Remediation: Repairing current failures to extend the life of the existing pool
by 30 years.
2. Modernization/Major Renovation: Stripping the pool to the shell, replacing all
mechanical/electrical systems, and updating finishes to current standards.
3. New Construction: Full replacement of the natatorium facility.
Each option must include:
A detailed "Pro/Con" list regarding longevity and operational efficiency.
Estimated lifecycle costs.
A timeline for implementation and anticipated facility "down-time."
IV. Phase 3: Budgeting & Cost Estimation
The consultant shall provide professional, third-party cost estimates for each of the proposed
options in Phase 2. Estimates must include:
Hard construction costs.
Soft costs (design fees, permitting, testing).
Escalation factors (factoring in current market volatility).
Contingency recommendations.
V. Phase 4: Design, Bid, & Construction Documents
Upon selection of a preferred option by the Board of Education, the firm will be retained to
provide full architectural and engineering services, including:
Conceptual & Schematic Design: Developing the chosen layout and system
specifications. Including Educational Specifications, plans, specs, and estimates.
Construction Documents: Preparation of plans and technical specifications for a public
bid.
Bidding Assistance: Managing the RFI process and reviewing contractor qualifications.
Construction Administration: Oversight of the project to ensure precise execution and
compliance with safety standards and design intent.
VI. Required Qualifications for Responding Firms
Proven track record of at least 10 years in aquatic-specific architectural and engineering
design or other relevant history to prove they have substantial experience to undertake a
project of this magnitude.
Demonstrated experience with municipal/educational natatoriums of a similar age (circa
1970s).
Presence of a dedicated mechanical/electrical/plumbing (MEP) team with experience in
high-moisture, chemically treated environments.
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DAS Filing Requirements
This project shall be designed and will be filed with the assistance of the A/E firm in conjunction
with grants from the Connecticut State Department of Administrative Services (DAS) and
reviewed by the Office of Grants Administration (OGA). This firm will take the lead on filing for
with the State by all applicable DAS deadlines.
Project Budget
The projected total project budget for this first project is $5,300,000 which includes A/E fees,
contingencies and other soft costs. The selected firm will be responsible for designing the
alterations within this budget and the fees shall be based on this budget limitation. The City will
hire and retain a hazardous material consultant, with whom the selected firm will coordinate all
activities.
Special Requirements - State Coordination
The plans and estimates will be subject to review by the State of Connecticut Department of
Administrative Services Office of School Construction Grants & Review (OGA). The selected
design firm will be required to coordinate all OGA submissions including the building project,
along with any early packages deemed necessary to maintain the schedule.
Fee Proposal Logistics
1. Proposing firms are requested to submit fee proposals in a sealed envelope marked as
specified above. Scope of services should be based on those identified in this RFQ/RFP.
2. Proposed fees for all design and construction administration and coordination services
including all required permitting shall be in the form of a fixed lump sum.
3. Also include a separate estimate of reimbursables. The only reimbursable expenses that
will be considered are approved out-of-state travel associated with the project, overnight
mailings and printing costs requested specifically for the clients/local state agencies use.
4. Please provide two (2) original copies of the fee proposal in an envelope marked with the
following:
RFQ/RFP # 1846 - PROPOSAL - Architectural and engineering design firm for
Pool Renovation and Upgrade at Joseph A Foran High School
5. In addition to the four separate phase fee line items listed below and the one Reimbursable
Expense Allowance, include hourly billing rates to be used when invoicing optional additional
services. Rates for each of the applicable job classifications listed below and any other
appropriate classifications are to be provided. Secretarial services should be included within
these hourly billing rates. Include rates for all consultants.
Principal
Project Manager
Project Architect
Project Engineer
Designer
Drafter
Job Captain
Billing rates for consultants shall be provided as well.
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Fee Submission Details
The Phases of service that shall be itemized in the proposal shall be:
1. Schematic Design including, but not limited to, PREP Meeting attendance and
communications
2. Construction Documents including, but not limited to, PCR filings through approvals
3. Bid Phase Assistance including, but not limited to:
i. Attendance/running of pre bid meeting
ii. Responding to RFIs
iii. Preparing Addendum for Milford Purchasing Agent distribution
iv. Preparing Addendum Review documents for the OGA
v. Reviewing bids and vetting them for recommendation to the Milford Permanent
School Building Committee (MPSFBC)
vi. Preparing the agreements for Contractor/Owner approval coordinating with the City
Attorney's office for language and protocols
4. Construction Administration Services including, but not limited to:
i. Attendance at construction kickoff/organizational meeting
ii. Reviewing shop drawings and submittals
iii. Responding to RFIs
iv. Preparing sketches and issuing clarifications to the contractor
v. Reviewing change orders and recommending to the MPSFBC
vi. Managing/tracking City budgets and finances, coordinating with City Departments
and reporting the same to the MPSFBC.
vii. Preparing vouchers for all project payments from all vendors and coordinating
budget transfers with the City Finance and Purchasing Departments.
viii. Conducting, at a minimum, once weekly site observations during active construction
and attending weekly job site meetings with the contractor.
ix. Preparing the punch list(s) for the project sites
x. Conducting the final reviews after punch lists are declared completed.
xi. Issue substantial completion documents, certifications to the Building Official and
close out documents to Milford Public Schools for submission to the OGA.
xii. Processing contractor close out documents, O+M and reviewing as-builts for
accuracy before transmitting those as-builts to Milford Public Schools (MPS).
xiii. Transmitting as-designed and sketch data files, on Compact Discs to MPS at the
conclusion of the project.
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City of Milford, Connecticut
Request for Qualifications & Proposals
RFQ/RFP # 1846
Architectural and engineering design firm for the preparation of
schematic design documents, construction documents and
construction administrative services for Pool Renovation and Upgrade at Joseph
A Foran High School
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SUBMISSION OF QUALIFICATION STATEMENTS
The qualification statement must be organized in the following format and include the following
information (missing or incomplete information may be grounds for disqualification). The City
reserves the right to waive any irregularity if it deems such waiver to be in the best interest of
the City. Please organize your response in the tabbed sections as follows:
1. Letter of interest
2. Company Information - firm profile/overview
3. Relevant Experience - Pool Design and Renovation - Provide descriptions of similar
projects for which the firm has provided similar services. The description of each project
should include pertinent information such as the project type, size, scope of work performed,
dates of services and any other pertinent features.
4. Relevant Experience - Please list the last five (5) projects that your firm worked on that
qualified for DAS administered through OGA. Please list the client or agency, size, scope,
cost and dates of the projects and describe your level of familiarity with the State process
from application through final audit.
5. Team Organization - Provide an organization chart of the proposed team. Please note any
services that will not be provided in-house. If Consultants are to be proposed for use in
response to this RFQ/RFP, please provide background information in Tab Section 6. Named
consultants may not be changed without prior notice and approval of substitution.
6. Experience of Key Personnel - Provide resumes of the key personnel (including
consultants) who will be directly involved in the project.
7. Sub-consultant Information - Provide a firm profile/overview for each proposed
sub-consultant. Named consultants may not be changed without prior notice and approval of
substitution.
8. References - List no less than five (5) client references (name, address, email address,
telephone number and affiliation to identified project) for whom services similar to this
Request for Qualifications are currently or have previously been provided, as named in
Tabbed Section 3 above for each project the respondent is interested in.
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