CC MEETING: April 21, 2015
DATE: April 15, 2015
TO: Leonard Martin, City Manager
FROM: Cesar J. Molina, Jr., P.E., Director of Engineering
Title
Consider Authorizing The City Manager To Approve A Professional Services Contract With Terracon Consultants, Inc. And Kleinfelder For Geotechnical And Material Testing Services In An Amount Not To Exceed $500,000.00.
Body
BACKGROUND:
As part of nearly all construction projects the City performs, material testing is a requirement to ensure that the contract requirements are met or exceeded. These tests include compaction and densities of roadway subgrades, concrete compressive strength and pipeline trench compaction. These costs vary due to a number of factors, but generally run between 1% and 3% of construction costs. These costs come out of the capital account for the specific project.
In some rare circumstances, geotechnical services may be used for special projects such as slope stability or small city facility projects. This contract would cover these projects.
A formal selection process was conducted. Ten firms submitted statements of qualifications. After evaluation by staff, Terracon Consultants, Inc. and Kleinfelder were deemed to be the best qualified for the services identified.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
There are no direct financial implications associated with the approval of these agreements. Services will be provided as a work order on a project-by-project basis. Funding for these services will come from the respective capital project budget.
Staff is proposing a two-year term for this contract, with a total amount not to exceed $500,000.00. While staff will try to split the fee equitably between the two firms, the variability in project size and scope requires some flexibility in the individual firm fees.
IMPACT ON COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY:
This project will contribute to community sustainability by:
· Ensure construction provided to the city meets project requirements;
· Reduce issues concerning maintenance bonds by reducing the potential for substandard material.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION/ACTION DESIRED:
Staff recommends that City Council authorize the City Manager to enter into a professional services agreement for geotechnical and materials testing services with Terracon Consultants, Inc. and Kleinfelder for a total fee not to exceed $500,000.00.