PILLAR: Sustainable
AGENDA DATE: May 27, 2026
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 6
DEPARTMENT: Department of Aviation
PRIORITY: Infrastructure
______________________________________________________________________
SUBJECT
Title
Authorize (1) a one-year consultant services contract, with four one-year renewal options with Freese and Nichols, Inc., at the City’s discretion for Utilities Planning Services for the Love Field Expansion Airport Program at Dallas Love Field; and (2) increase appropriations in an amount not to exceed $9,969,813.00 in the AVI Commercial Paper Fund - Not to exceed $9,969,813.00 - Financing: AVI Commercial Paper Fund
*In alignment with Love Field Expansion Airport Program (LEAP).
Body
BACKGROUND
The City of Dallas Department of Aviation solicited proposals from pre-qualified firms to provide Utilities Planning Services in support of the landmark Love Field Expansion Airport Program (LEAP) in January 2026. Freese and Nichols, Inc. was selected as the most advantageous proposer.
LEAP is a multi-year, $2.5 billion Capital Improvement Program and represents the largest single investment ever undertaken at Dallas Love Field. This transformative initiative will expand capacity and enhance the passenger experience through the delivery of 14 major infrastructure projects across terminal, airside, landside, and support facility areas.
The success of LEAP at Dallas Love Field depends on a clear understanding and strategic modernization of its underlying utility systems; many of which date back decades and were not designed to support current or future demands. A dedicated utilities planning consultant will play a critical role in evaluating and advancing this infrastructure, ensuring that essential systems such as power, water, sewer, communications, and fuel can reliably support new development while proactively identifying capacity constraints before they become costly issues.
This effort will include a comprehensive review of the existing utility inventory, in-depth investigation of major utility systems, and the development of a Utility Master Plan (UMP) to guide long-term infrastructure improvements. In parallel, a business case analysis will be conducted to optimize revenue generation, reduce costs, and incorporate best business practices into utility management and investment decisions.
Together, this proactive and integrated approach will strengthen operational resiliency, minimize the risk of service disruptions to passengers and airlines, and ensure the airport can continue to operate safely and efficiently throughout construction and future growth.
This action will authorize a one-year consultant services contract, with four one-year renewal options with Freese and Nichols, Inc., at the City’s discretion, to develop a comprehensive airport-wide 20-year UMP for LEAP projects at Dallas Love Field Airport.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
This item has no prior action.
FISCAL INFORMATION
|
Fund |
FY 2026 |
FY 2027 |
Future Years |
|
AVI Commercial Paper Fund |
$1,624,297.88 |
$6,364,905.12 |
$1,980,610.00 |
LOCAL PARTICIPATION
|
Prime |
Status |
Workforce % |
|
Freese and Nichols, Inc. |
Local |
10.26% |
PROCUREMENT INFORMATION
In accordance with the City of Dallas Administrative Directive 4-05 procurement guidelines, Freese and Nichols, Inc. was selected to evaluate existing utility infrastructure, identify capacity constraints, and develop a comprehensive, airport-wide 20-year Utilities Master Plan, including supporting analysis to enhance system performance, resiliency, and cost efficiency.
OWNER/EXECUTIVE
Freese and Nichols, Inc.
Alan Greer, PE, Senior Vice President and Principal