This is a service / maintenance or supply contract in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Contact the soliciting agency for additional information.

The Town of Black Mountain is requesting proposals from qualified contractors to perform soft digs (non-destructive excavation) to determine the material composition of water service lines. This project supports compliance with state and federal requirements, including the EPA Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR). Located in the scenic Swannanoa Valley of Western North Carolina, the Town of Black Mountain is home to approximately 8,500 residents and is known for its vibrant arts community, thriving tourism economy, and historic downtown. The town owns and operates its own public water system and is committed to ensuring safe, high-quality drinking water for all residents and businesses. As part of this commitment, the Town is undertaking a comprehensive service line inventory to identify any potential lead or galvanized service lines. The Town has previously completed a desktop inventory of all service lines installed since 1987. The Town has 4316 total service lines and of those 1180 have been identified. Of the remaining 3136 lines, the town wishes to begin with the areas with the oldest lines first. To be eligible for selection, contractors must demonstrate sufficient experience and qualifications to perform the required services. This includes both technical competency and compliance with licensing and insurance standards set by the State of North Carolina. Respondents must demonstrate: o A minimum of 2 years' experience in utility soft digs or hydro/vacuum excavation. o Familiarity with service line identification and water infrastructure. o OSHA-compliant safety protocols. o Valid contractor's license in North Carolina o Upon selection, proof of insurance must be included in the town's vendor packet as follows: o General Liability: $1,000,000 minimum o Workers' Compensation: Statutory o Auto Liability (if applicable). The selected contractor shall: o Perform soft digs using vacuum excavation or hand tools at utility-designated sites. o Identify service line materials (e.g., lead, copper, galvanized, plastic) on both the public and private sides of the curb stop or meter. o Record GPS coordinates of each location. o Take labeled photographs of exposed lines. o Complete a standardized Service Line Material Observation Form (Attachment A). o Restore each dig site to pre-existing condition. o Submit daily progress summaries (Attachment B) and a final compiled report. Evaluation Criteria Criteria Weight Experience and Qualifications 25% Technical Approach and Safety Plan 25% Cost Competitiveness 30% References and Past Performance 10% Schedule and Availability 10%. Questions Due: August 15, 2025 Anticipated Award: September 8, 2025 Work Start Date: On or after September 9, 2025