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Report regarding a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Consulting Services Agreement with Arup US, Inc. of San Francisco, California for $1,184,946 for the South San Francisco Shoreline Protection and Connectivity Feasibility Study. (Audriana Hossfeld, Senior Civil Engineer)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Staff recommends that City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Consulting Services Agreement with Arup US, Inc. of San Francisco, California for $1,184,946 for the South San Francisco Shoreline Protection and Connectivity Feasibility Study.
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BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
The South San Francisco Protection and Connectivity Project aims to address the increasing risk of coastal flooding in the vulnerable area near the convergence of Lower Colma Creek and the San Francisco Bay. This area faces heightened flood risk due to storm-driven waves and rising sea levels. Predictions suggest that with a 24-inch rise in sea level and 5-year storm surge, various critical infrastructure including residences, businesses, Highway 101, and the South San Francisco/San Bruno Water Quality Control Plant (SSF-SB WQCP) could be affected (based on ART Bay Shoreline Flood Explorer, Attachment 1).
If flooding occurs as projected, there could be severe consequences, including risks to human life, property damage, and disruptions to essential services. The flooding of the SSF-SB WQCP alone could lead to sewage backups, potentially contaminating homes, streets, and the Bay, with significant impacts on the community, infrastructure, and environment.
To tackle these challenges, South San Francisco plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring potential solutions to mitigate coastal flooding exacerbated by sea level rise and storm surges. This study will involve collaboration with various agencies such as Caltrans, San Mateo County Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency District (OneShoreline), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and appropriate regulatory agencies, such as the Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC). The goal of this study is to assess alternatives for coastal flood protection that could safeguard residences, businesses, transportation infrastructure, and other critical facilities like SFO and the SSF-SB Water Quality Control Plant. Community engagement and input from environmental stakeholders will be integral throughout the process.
The feasibility study will employ specific criteria to evaluate proposed solutions. This includes technical feasibility, drawing upon the best available climate science, financial viability, community acceptance, and considering environmental impact, with a focus on minimizing bay fill and incorporating nature-based approaches. The study will also consider connectivity possibilities, such as connecting Interstate 380 to the Oyster Point area to provide an additional elevated sea level rise-resistant emergency route and support access to a fast-growing life science and logistics hub. Through a community-driven design process, potential solutions will be refined and analyzed, ensuring alignment with community needs and values. This inclusive approach will guide the selection of a preferred alternative. Finally, the findings, encompassing conceptual design documents and cost estimates, will be compiled into a comprehensive report. Attachment 2 reflects the proposed scope of work.
Authorize Consulting Services Agreement (CSA) with Arup US, Inc.
The Project requires a consultant with the right qualifications, experience, and expertise in multiple disciplines. Staff issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) on OpenGov, SSF E-Procurement website on May 12, 2025. On June 23, 2025, the City received four (4) proposals from qualified consultants:
• Arup US, Inc.
• Sustainable Watershed Designs, Inc. (Lotus Water)
• Moffatt and Nichol
• WSP USA Buildings
The consultant proposal review panel consisted of members from the City’s Public Works Engineering Division, Economic and Community Development Department, and OneShoreline. The proposal review panel analyzed each consultant’s proposal based on the following categories:
• Qualifications of the Proposer Firm
• Knowledge and Understanding of the Project
• Management Approach and Staffing Plan
• Presentation of a Concise and Responsive Proposal
All four consultant teams were also interviewed the week of July 7, 2025. The interviews were reviewed based on:
• Demonstrated Knowledge and Understanding
• Management Approach and Team Coordination
• Qualification of Firm and Project Manager
• Alignment with Project Goals and Ability to Add Value
• Effectiveness of Interview
The consultant proposal and interview review panel determined that Arup US, Inc., and its team of subconsultants presented the most responsive and experienced team for the City’s project. Attachment 3 lists the proposal, interview, and average/overall final rankings.
Per Public Contract Code (PCC) § 10344, selection of consultant team is not based on the lowest proposal fee, but on the firm’s expertise, experience, and references. Once Arup US, Inc. was selected as the top-rated firm, staff unsealed the cost proposal and confirmed it was in line with all required services.
FISCAL IMPACT
Project No. st2402 has no impact on the fiscal year (FY) 2025-26 budget. The feasibility phase of this project is fully funded by the Ocean Protection Council (OPC) SB-1 and Caltrans Climate Adaptation Planning grants.
No compensation beyond the not to exceed amount will be authorized without a mutually agreed upon level of effort and corresponding contract amendment approved by City Council. The estimated costs are shown below:
Arup US, Inc. Fee $ 1,184,946
Total Estimated Design Phase Costs $ 1,184,946
RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN
Approval of this action will contribute to the City’s Strategic Plan outcome of improved Quality of Life by maintaining and improving infrastructure to serve the public.
CONCLUSION
Staff recommends that City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Consulting Services Agreement with Arup US, Inc. of San Francisco, California for $1,184,946 for the South San Francisco Shoreline Protection and Connectivity Feasibility Study (Project No. sd2402).
Attachments:
1. Location/Flood Map
2. Selected Consultant Proposal (including proposed Scope of Work)
3. Consultant Rankings