(a) After the expiration of the final response date in the published project announcement, the Executive Officer shall review and evaluate the written statements of demonstrated competence and professional qualifications using the selection criteria contained in section 25203 of these regulations, and rank, in order of preference, the firms determined to be eligible to perform the required services.

(b) The Executive Officer shall conduct discussions with at least the three most eligible firms, about anticipated concepts and the benefit of alternative methods for furnishing the required services. From the firms with which discussions are held, the Executive Officer shall select, in order of preference, not less than three firms deemed to be the most highly qualified to perform the required services.