CDA Opens RFP & RFQ for Flood Mitigation and Green Infrastructure Projects

On July 26, 2022, St. Louis saw more rain in one day than any other in its history, causing widespread damage.

The Community Development Administration (CDA) is seeking qualified firms to support flood mitigation planning and green infrastructure construction through two key procurement opportunities. These opportunities are part of the City’s CDBG-DR Action Plan, which directs $25.8 million in federal Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds toward addressing flood risks from the 2022 flash flooding disaster declaration and ensuring long-term resilience for St. Louis communities. Learn more about CDA’s CDBG-DR action plan and activities, go to www.stlouis-mo.gov/cda/cdbg/disaster-recovery.

• Request for Proposals (RFP): Watershed Management, Flood Mitigation, and Green Infrastructure Planning Services
   
• Request for Qualifications (RFQ): Green Infrastructure Design and Construction Management Services

The RFP focuses on developing comprehensive flood mitigation and green infrastructure plans, while the RFQ will secure a firm to manage the construction of projects identified through the planning process.

RFP: Watershed Management, Flood Mitigation, and Green Infrastructure Planning Services
This Request for Proposals (RFP) seeks firms to develop two major planning initiatives that will guide future flood mitigation and stormwater management efforts:

• Regional Flood Mitigation and Green Infrastructure Plan
  • Develop a citywide strategy for stormwater management, flood risk reduction, and green infrastructure investments.
  • Identify high-priority areas for flood mitigation using hydrological data and the Economic Justice Index (EJI) and building on existing data (see map below).
  • Align planning with MSD, LRA, Green City Coalition (GCC), East-West Gateway Council of Governments (EWGW), and Great Rivers Greenway (GRG).

Map of Flood Risk in the City St. Louis based on emergency calls during the 2022 flash flood events and historical hydrological data. Click map above for full sized PDF on the City of St. Louis’ website.

 

• River Des Peres Feasibility and Design Study
  • Assess opportunities to reduce flood risks and improve environmental conditions along the banks and adjacent land of the River Des Peres.
  • Identify areas where green infrastructure solutions (e.g., detention basins, reforestation, and permeable surfaces) can mitigate stormwater overflow.
  • Explore potential public amenities such as parks, trails, and sustainable floodplain areas that can enhance community resilience.

RFQ: Green Infrastructure Design and Construction Management Services
This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will select a firm to oversee the construction phase of multiple green infrastructure projects identified in the planning process. Role of the Selected Firm:

• Manage construction for flood mitigation and stormwater projects across St. Louis.
• Oversee bidding, selection, and coordination of construction contractors.
• Ensure all projects align with flood-risk data, sustainability best practices, and community engagement efforts.
• Work with CDA, MSD, PDA, and other partners to execute flood mitigation and stormwater infrastructure improvements efficiently.

Estimated Timelines for both the Watershed Planning RFP and Green Infrastructure RFQ:

1. Issuance Date: January 17, 2025
2. Questions Due: February 10, 2025
3. Q & A Posting: February 12, 2025
4. Proposal Due: February 18, 2025

How to Apply
Firms with expertise in watershed management, flood mitigation planning, green infrastructure design, and construction management are encouraged to submit proposals. For a links to full details of the RFP and RFQ and to apply, visit: www.stlouis-mo.gov/cda/cdbg/disaster-recovery

These projects are a major step forward in making St. Louis more resilient to flooding while enhancing sustainability, public health, and community well-being. CDA looks forward to partnering with experienced firms to deliver real, high-impact solutions for flood resilience and sustainability.

Additional CDBG-DR Initiatives Coming in 2025
In addition to flood mitigation planning and green infrastructure investments, the City of St. Louis will also launch voluntary home buyouts for eligible homeowners in high-risk flood areas and expand its home repair program to assist residents still experiencing flood-related issues. These programs, funded through CDBG-DR, are expected to roll out in Spring 2025 to further support long-term disaster recovery and resilience efforts. More details will be announced in the coming months. To stay up to date with CDBG-DR announcements, sign up for CDA’s e-newsletter.

About the Community Development Administration (CDA): The CDA serves as the City of St. Louis' hub for federal, state, and local funds, implementing the Mayor's economic justice agenda. By funding public and nonprofit entities, the CDA supports a wide range of initiatives, including public services, affordable housing development, blight eradication, and other community development activities. www.stlouis-mo.gov/cda/