Architect-Engineer Selection Process by the Corps of Engineers on the Red Run Drain-Lower Clinton River Flood Control Project

LCD-80-39: Published: Mar 7, 1980. Publicly Released: Mar 7, 1980.

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A review was made of the process the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit district, used to select an architect-engineer firm for the Red Run Drain-Lower Clinton River, Phase II Flood Control Project in Michigan. Of specific concern was whether the Corps acted legally in selecting an out-of-state firm.

Since the Project was publicly announced, selection criteria were published, and discussions were held with at least three firms before price negotiations began, GAO did not believe that selection of an out-of-state firm rendered the contract illegal. However, the Corps' announcement could have been more informative and specific regarding the evaluation criteria that were to be used in selection. Furthermore, the Detroit district did not comply with regulations regarding full documentation of the selection actions taken by the preselection and selection boards.

Recommendation for Executive Action

  1. Status: Closed

    Comments: Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.

    Recommendation: The Detroit District Engineer should require that (1) public announcements for architect-engineer services contain, with a sufficient degree of clarity and specificity, the criteria to be used in determining the most qualified firm and the primary factors to be considered in the determination process; and (2) preselection and selection boards comply with regulations and fully document their actions. The Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, through his regular schedule of internal audits, should determine if the deficiencies discussed in this report exist in other districts, and if so, take corrective action.

    Agency Affected:

 

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