BOARD MEETING DATE: October 9, 1998 AGENDA NO. 8
PROPOSAL:
Issue RFQ to Acquire Scientific Computer
SYNOPSIS:
The AQMD currently uses one scientific computer to perform complex air quality modeling. The existing computer is based on a three-year old technology and is nearing maximum utilization. This action is to issue an RFQ to obtain an additional scientific computer to provide improved modeling performance and more timely model execution. Funds for this fixed asset ($109,947) are included in the FY 1998-99 Budget.
COMMITTEE:
Administrative, September 18, 1998, Recommended for Approval
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Issue the attached RFQ to solicit bids to purchase a scientific computer at a cost not to exceed $109,947, as provided by PAMS fixed asset funding.
Barry R. Wallerstein, D.Env.
Acting Executive Officer
Background
An integral component in the AQMD’s quest for clean air is the ability to forecast rule impacts and develop attainment demonstrations for the AQMP. This forecasting is made possible through the use of sophisticated air quality modeling programs that are run on very powerful scientific computers. These modeling programs allow staff to evaluate future air quality and economic impacts resulting from specific emission control strategies. To date, the main modeling program used by the AQMD is the Urban Airshed Model (UAM). This model numerically solves a complex set of chemistry equations to estimate pollutant concentrations (notably ozone) from emission inputs of nitrogen oxide and reactive organic gases. More complex models are currently being developed to better forecast particulate matter (PM) formation resulting from the photochemical process. These models will be used to assess future air quality for the new federal fine particulate and 8-hour ozone air quality standards.
Currently, one Digital Alpha Server is used to run the UAM. However, staff is finding this unit to be an increasingly insufficient resource to meet the AQMD's expanded modeling needs, as this computer is nearing maximum utilization.
Proposal
Staff has determined that an additional scientific computer based upon newer computer technology would run AQMD models four to ten times faster than the current system.
The attached RFQ will allow the AQMD to identify the vendor with the most competitive scientific computer hardware, software and maintenance services. The outcome of the RFQ will be a staff recommendation to enter into a purchase agreement with the selected vendor for the products and services identified in the RFQ. This action is to issue an RFQ for the purchase of a new scientific computer (Digital Alpha or equivalent) to increase the capacity and speed of AQMD’s air quality modeling, at a total cost not to exceed $109,947, as provided by PAMS fixed asset funding.
Outreach
In accordance with the AQMD’s consulting and contracting policies, a public notice advertising the RFQ and inviting bids will be published in the following publications:
Additionally, potential bidders will be notified from the Los Angeles County MTA and Cal Trans Directories of Certified Minority, Women, Disadvantaged and Disabled Veterans Business Enterprises; the Inland Area Opportunity Pages Ethnic/Women Business & Professional Directory; AQMD’s own electronic listing of certified minority vendors; and AQMD Purchasing’s mailing list. Copies of the RFQ were mailed to the Black and Latino Legislative Caucuses and various minority chambers of commerce and business associations; and placed on the Internet at AQMD’s Web site [http://www.aqmd.gov, "Business and Job Opportunities" icon] and AQMD’s 24-hour telephone message line for bidders (909) 396-2724.
Bid Evaluation
Quotations received will be evaluated by a diverse panel of technically qualified individuals according to the criteria described in the attached RFQ.
Resource Impacts
Fixed asset funds for this contract are included in the approved FY 1998-99 Budget for the PAMS Program approved by the Board on August 14, 1998, utilizing EPA Section 103 and 105 grant funding.
RFQ #2104 - Request for Quotations for Scientific Computer
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