RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

RFQ Due: Friday, August 14, 2026 @ 10:00 a.m.

RFQ #26-906

July 17, 2026

Redevelopment and Ongoing

Management for the Vernon Forrest

Park Improvement Project

For

Augusta-Richmond County (herein “Augusta”)

On behalf of the Augusta

Recreation and Parks Department Located at 2027 Lumpkin Road

Augusta, GA 30906

RFQ Due: Friday, August 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

One Original and One Electronic Version of RFQ on a USB Drive shall be submitted

Andy Penick

Procurement Director

535 Telfair Street, Suite 605

Augusta, Georgia 30901

Rev. 1/15/2026

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

Request for Qualification

Request for Qualifications will be received at this office until Friday, August 14, 2026, @ 10:00 a.m. RFQ openings are open to the public in the Procurement Department located at 535 Telfair Steet, Suite 605, Augusta, GA 30901 and additionally via Teams: Meeting ID: Meeting ID: 292 751 024 316 101 Passcode:

kz6bf2T8 for furnishing:

RFQ #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement

Project for Augusta, GA – Recreation and Parks Department

No RFQ will be accepted by email. All submittals must be received during our normal office hours from

8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. No RFQs may be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days after qualifications have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the successful vendor.

RFQ documents, and all Addenda, may be viewed on the Augusta, Georgia website under the Procurement

Department ARCbid menu (https://www.augustaga.gov/681/ARCBid), Euna OpenBids

(https://network.demandstar.com) and Georgia Procurement Registry website located at

(https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/gpr/index). Bidders must mark the RFQ number on the outside of the submittal envelope. Addenda will also be posted on the above listed website.

A mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. virtually via Teams; Meeting ID: 270 878 479 564 63 Passcode: pP24MF7Z. A mandatory site-visit to follow.

All request for clarifications or interpretations must for this proposal must be submitted in writing by electronic email to procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov to the Procurement Department on or before the close of business Friday, July 31, 2026, by 5:00 p.m.

Questions, requests for clarifications or interpretations regarding this RFQ must be submitted to the

Procurement Department:

Augusta Procurement Department Attn: Andy Penick 535 Telfair Street - Room 605 Augusta, Georgia 30901 Phone: 706-821-2422 Email: procbidandcontract@augustaga.gov

Bidders are cautioned that acquisition of the proposal documents through any source other than the office of the Procurement Department is not advisable. Acquisition of qualification documents from unauthorized sources placed the bidder at the risk of receiving incomplete or inaccurate information upon which to base his qualifications.

No qualifications will be accepted by email; all RFQ’s must be received by mail or hand delivered.

Publish dates:

Augusta Chronicle: July 17, 23, and 27, 2026

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

ON-LINE MICROSOFT TEAMS INFORMATION

The Augusta, Georgia Procurement Department conducts Public RFQ Pre-Proposal

Conferences and Openings to award quality contracts for Augusta. Proposers may participate in our Public RFQ Pre-Proposal Conferences and Openings via webcast or teleconference by following the instructions outlined below:

ELECTRONIC RFQ INSTRUCTIONS

RFQ # 26-906 Mandatory Pre-Qualification Conference

Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the

Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project for

Augusta Recreation and Parks Department

Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

TEAMS RFQ Pre-Qualification Conference:

1. Go to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting and enter meeting ID: 270 878 479 564 63

2. Passcode: pP24MF7Z

RFQ # 26-906 Opening

Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the

Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project for Augusta

Recreation and Parks Department

Bid openings are open to the public in the Procurement Department located at 535 Telfair Steet, Suite 605, Augusta, GA 30901

Friday, August 14, 2026 @ 10:00 a.m.

TEAMS RFQ Opening:

3. Go to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting and enter meeting ID: 292 751 024 316 101

4. Passcode: kz6bf2T8

For Assistance: Please Contact the Bid and Contract Team at (706) 821-2422 https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting https://zoom.us/join https://zoom.us/join https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting https://zoom.us/join https://zoom.us/join

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

INSTRUCTIONS TO SUBMIT

INSTRUCTIONS TO SUBMIT

1.1 Purpose: The purpose of this document is to provide general and specific information for use by vendors in submitting a proposal to supply Augusta, Georgia with equipment, supplies, and or services as listed above.

All proposals are governed by the Augusta, Georgia Code.

1.2 Viewing the Augusta Code: All proposals are governed and awarded in accordance with the applicable federal and state regulations and the Augusta, Georgia Code. To view the Code visit Augusta’s website at www.augustaga.gov or http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=685 Guidelines & Procedures.

1.3 Compliance with laws: The Bidder shall obtain and maintain all licenses, permits, liability insurance, workman's compensation insurance and comply with any and all other standards or regulations required by federal, state or Augusta, Georgia statute, ordinances and rules during the performance of any contract between the Bidder and Augusta, Georgia. Any such requirement specifically set forth in any contract document between the Bidder and Augusta, Georgia shall be supplementary to this section and not in substitution thereof.

1.4 Bids For All Or Part: Unless otherwise specified, County reserves The Right To make an award(s) for all Items, or categories, or specific line items, to one or more bidders. Bidder may restrict their bid to consideration in the aggregate by so stating but must name a unit price on each item submitted upon.

1.5 All protests shall be made in writing to:

Attn: Andy Penick, Procurement Director

535 Telfair Street, Suite 605

Augusta, GA 30901

Email: apenick@augustaga.gov

1.6 Augusta, Georgia License Requirement: For further information contact the License and Inspection

Department at 706 312-5050.

General Contractors License Number: If applicable, in accordance with O.C.G.A. §43-41, or be subjected to penalties as may be required by law.

Utility Contractor License Number: If applicable, in accordance with O.C.G.A. §43-14, or be subjected to penalties as may be required by law.

1.7 Terms of Contract: (Check where applicable)

[ ] (A) Annual Contract

[ ] (B) One time Purchase

[X] (C) Other file://///augunity01/ProcurementCommon/2026%20Bid%20Information/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.Outlook/2015%20Bid%20Information/15-172A%20Temporary%20Staffing%20Services/www.augustaga.gov http://www.augustaga.gov/index.aspx?NID=685%20%20Guidelines%20&%20Procedures

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

NOTICE TO ALL VENDORS

ADHERE TO THE BELOW INSTRUCTIONS AND DO NOT SUBSTITUTE FORMS

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:

Exhibit A is a consolidated document consisting of:

1. Business License Number Requirement (must be provided)

2. Acknowledgement of Addenda (must be acknowledged, if any)

3. Statement of Non-Discrimination

4. Non-Collusion Affidavit of Prime Bidder/Offeror

5. Conflict of Interest

6. Contractor Affidavit and Agreement (E-Verify User ID Number must be provided)

Exhibit A Must be Notarized & Two (2) Pages Must be returned with your submittal .

Business License Requirement: Bidder must be licensed in the Governmental entity for where they do the majority of their business. Your company’s business license number must be provided. If your Governmental entity (State or Local) does not require a business license, your company will be required to obtain an

Augusta-Richmond County business license if awarded a contract. For further information contact the

License and Inspection Department @ 706 312-5050.

Acknowledgement of Addenda: You Must acknowledge all Addenda. See Page 1 of Exhibit A.

E-Verify * User Identification Number (Company I.D.): Vendor must provide the E-Verify affidavit with their bid.

The city, each contractor, and each subcontractor have different roles and responsibilities in the E-Verify process. The city collects E-Verify affidavits from the contractor. The contractor collects E-Verify affidavits from its subcontractors. The subcontractors collect E-Verify affidavits from its sub-subcontractors. Independent contractors (those with no employees) do not need to supply E-Verify information. Instead, they will provide a driver’s license or state identification card from states on the “compliant” list created by the Georgia Attorney General. Those contractors and subcontractors that fill out the affidavits are responsible for the accuracy of the information. The city does not need to confirm that the

E-Verify information is correct. The liability for incorrect information is on the contractor or subcontractor. NOTE: The authorization date can be found within the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Affidavit Verifying Status for Augusta Benefit Application (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements

Program) (Must Be Returned With Your Submittal)

The successful vendor will submit the following forms to the Procurement Department no later than five (5) days after receiving the “Letter of Recommendation” (Vendor’s letter will denote the date forms are to be received)

1. Georgia Security and Immigration Subcontractor Affidavit

2. Non-Collusion Affidavit of Sub-Contractor

3. E-Verify MOU (Memorandum of Understanding)

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

Exhibit A

Augusta, GA Procurement Department

ATTN: Procurement Director

535 Telfair Street, Suite 605

Name of Bidder: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Street Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip Code: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: _______________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________________

Where/How did you hear about this solicitation? __________________________________________________________________

Attach a copy of your Business License, W-9, and your General Contractor License.

If applicable, provide a copy of the following:

Utility Contractors License - MUST BE LISTED ON FRONT OF ENVELOPE

Acknowledgement of Addenda: (#1) ____: (#2) ____: (#3) ____: (#4) ____: (#5) ____: (#6) ____: (#7) ____: (#8) ____:

NOTE: CHECK APPROPRIATE BOX (ES) - ADD ADDITIONAL NUMBERS AS APPLICABLE

Statement of Non-Discrimination

The undersigned understands that it is the policy of Augusta, Georgia to promote full and equal business opportunity for all persons doing business with Augusta, Georgia. The undersigned covenants that we have not discriminated, on the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin, or ethnicity, with regard to prime contracting, subcontracting, or partnering opportunities.

The undersigned covenants and agrees to make good faith efforts to ensure maximum practicable participation of local small businesses on the proposal or contract awarded by Augusta, Georgia. The undersigned further covenants that we have completed truthfully and fully the required forms regarding good faith efforts and local small business subcontractor/supplier utilization.

The undersigned further covenants and agrees not to engage in discriminatory conduct of any type against local small businesses, in conformity with Augusta, Georgia’s Local Small Business Opportunity Program. Set forth below is the signature of an officer of the proposer/contracting entity with the authority to bind the entity.

The undersigned acknowledge and warrant that this Company has been made aware of understands and agrees to take affirmative action to provide such companies with the maximum practicable opportunities to do business with this Company;

That this promise of non-discrimination as made and set forth herein shall be continuing in nature and shall remain in full force and effect without interruption.

That the promises of non-discrimination as made and set forth herein shall be and are hereby deemed to be made as part of and incorporated by reference into any contract or portion thereof which this Company may hereafter obtain and;

That the failure of this Company to satisfactorily discharge any of the promises of nondiscrimination as made and set forth herein shall constitute a material breach of contract entitling Augusta, Georgia to declare the contract in default and to exercise any and all applicable rights remedies including but not limited to cancellation of the contract, termination of the contract, suspension and debarment from future contracting opportunities, and withholding and or forfeiture of compensation due and owing on a contract.

Non-Collusion of Prime Bidder

By submission of a proposal, the vendor certifies, under penalty of perjury, that to the best of its knowledge and belief:

(a) The prices in the proposal have been arrived at independently without collusion, consultation, communications, or agreement, for the purpose of restricting competition, as to any matter relating to such prices with any other vendor or with any competitor.

(b) Unless otherwise required by law, the prices which have been quoted in the proposal have not been knowingly disclosed by the vendor prior to opening, directly or indirectly, to any other vendor or to any competitor.

(c) No attempt has been made, or will be made, by the vendor to induce any other person, partnership, or corporation to submit or not to submit a proposal for the purpose of restricting competition. Collusions and fraud in proposal preparation shall be reported to the State of Georgia Attorney General and the United States Justice Department.

Conflict of Interest

By submission of a bid, the responding firm certifies, under penalty of perjury, that to the best of its knowledge and belief:

1. No circumstances exist which cause a Conflict of Interest in performing the services required by this BID, and

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

2. That no employee of the County, nor any member thereof, not any public agency or official affected by this BID, has any pecuniary interest in the business of the responding firm or his sub-consultant(s) has any interest that would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance related to this BID. By submission of a bid, the vendor certifies under penalty of perjury, that to the best of its knowledge and belief:

(a) The prices in the bid have been arrived at independently without collusion, consultation, communications, or agreement, for the purpose of restricting competition, as to any matter relating to such prices with any other vendor or with any competitor.

(b) Unless otherwise required by law, the prices which have been quoted in the bid have not knowingly been disclosed by the vendor prior to opening, directly or indirectly, to any other vendor or competitor.

c) No attempt has been made, or will be made, by the vendor to induce any other person, partnership, or cooperation to submit or not to submit a bid for the purpose of restricting competition. For any breach or violation of this provision, the County shall have the right to terminate any related contract or agreement without liability and at its discretion to deduct from the price, or otherwise recover, the full amount of such fee, commission, percentage, gift, payment, or consideration.

Contractor Affidavit and Agreement: Contractor Affidavit under O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(b) (l)

GEORGIA E-Verify and Public Contracts: The Georgia E-Verify law requires contractors and all sub-contractors on Georgia public contract (contracts with a government agency) for the physical performance of services over $2,499 in value to enroll in E-Verify, regardless of the number of employees. They may be exempt from this requirement if they have no employees and do not plan to hire employees for the purpose of completing any part of the public contract. Certain professions are also exempt. All requests for proposals issued by a city must include the contractor affidavit as part of the requirement for their bid to be considered.

The undersigned contractor ("Contractor") executes this Affidavit to comply with O.C.G.A § 13-10-91 related to any contract to which Contractor is a party that is subject to O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 and hereby verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. § 13-

10-91, attesting as follows:

a) The Contractor has registered with, is authorized to use, and uses the federal work authorization program commonly known as E-Verify, or any subsequent replacement program;

b) The Contractor will continue to use the federal work authorization program throughout the contract period, including any renewal or extension thereof;

c) The Contractor will notify the public employer in the event the Contractor ceases to utilize the federal work authorization program during the contract period, including renewals or extensions thereof;

d) The Contractor understands that ceasing to utilize the federal work authorization program constitutes a material breach of Contract;

e) The Contractor will contract for the performance of services in satisfaction of such contract only with subcontractors who present an affidavit to the Contractor with the information required by O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91(a), (b), and (c);

f) The Contractor acknowledges and agrees that this Affidavit shall be incorporated into any contract(s) subject to the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 13-10- 91 for the project listed below to which Contractor is a party after the date hereof without further action or consent by Contractor; and

g) Contractor acknowledges its responsibility to submit copies of any affidavits, drivers' licenses, and identification cards required pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 13-10-91 to the public employer within five business days of receipt.

Georgia Law requires your company to have an E-Verify*User Identification Number (Company I.D.) on or after July 1, 2009.

For additional information or to enroll your company, visit the State of Georgia website:

https://e-verify.uscis.gov/enroll/ and/or http://www.dol.state.ga.us/pdf/rules/300_10 1.pdf

Federal Work Authorization User Identification Number: E-VERIFY REQUIRED FOR ALL CONTRACTS OVER $2,499.00

** (E-Verify Number) _______________________________________________

Name of Public Employer

I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on _____________________________, 20________ in ___________________ (City), ______________ (State).

Signature of Authorized Officer or Agent Printed Name and Title of Authorized Officer or Agent

NOTARY COMMISSIONING

Subscribed and sworn before me on this _______ day of ____________________________, 20_______

Notary Public My Commission Expires: NOTARY SEAL

The undersigned further agrees to submit a notarized copy of Exhibit A, and any required documentation noted as part of the Augusta, Georgia Board of Commissions specifications which govern this process. In addition, the undersigned agrees to submit all required forms for any subcontractor(s) as requested and or required. I further understand that my submittal will be deemed non-compliant if any part of this process is violated.

You Must Complete and Return the two (2) pages of Exhibit A with Your Submittal. Document Must Be Notarized.

http://gma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0yMjUwOTU1JnA9MSZ1PTUxODY3MTg3MiZsaT0yMTQ3NjI3Nw/index.html https://e-verify.uscis.gov/enroll/ http://www.dol.state.ga.us/pdf/rules/300_10%201.pdf

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program

Affidavit Verifying Status for Augusta, Georgia Benefit Application By executing this affidavit under oath, as an applicant for an Augusta, Georgia Business License or Occupation

Tax Certificate, Alcohol License, Taxi Permit, Contract or other public benefit as reference in

O.C.G.A. Section 50-36-1, I am stating the following with respect to my proposal for an Augusta, Georgia contract for

[RFQ Project Number and Project Name]

[Print/Type: Name of natural person applying on behalf of individual, business, corporation, partnership, or other private entity]

[Print/Type: Name of business, corporation, partnership, or other private entity]

1.) _______ I am a citizen of the United States.

2.) _______ I am a legal permanent resident 18 years of age or older.

3.) _______ I am an otherwise qualified alien (8 § USC 1641) or nonimmigrant under the Federal

Immigration and Nationality Act (8 USC 1101 et seq.) 18 years of age or older and lawfully present in the United States.*

In making the above representation under oath, I understand that any person who knowingly and willfully makes a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representation in an affidavit shall be guilty of a violation of Code Section 16-10-20 of the Official Code of Georgia.

Signature of Applicant

Printed Name

*Alien Registration Number for Non-Citizens

Notary Public

My Commission Expires: _____________________________ NOTARY SEAL

THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED, NOTARIZED AND RETURNED WITH YOUR SUBMITTAL

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

TRADE SECRET STATUS AFFIDAVIT

Augusta, Georgia

All documents, data, letters and generated information received by Augusta, Georgia constitutes a

“public record” and is subject to disclosure under the Georgia Open Records Act ("GORA"). O.C.G.A. §

50-18-70 et seq. However, pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(34), "[an] entity submitting records containing trade secrets that wishes to keep such records confidential under this paragraph shall submit and attach to the records an affidavit affirmatively declaring that specific information in the records constitute trade secrets pursuant to Article 27 of Chapter 1 of Title 10 [O.C.G.A. § 10-1-760 et seq.].”

O.C.G.A. § 10-1-761(4) defines “Trade secret" as “…information, without regard to form, including, but not limited to, technical or nontechnical data, a formula, a pattern, a compilation, a program, a device, a method, a technique, a drawing, a process, financial data, financial plans, product plans, or a list of actual or potential customers or suppliers which is not commonly known by or available to the public and which information:

A. Derives economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use; and

B. Is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy.”

Therefore, the records listed below and attached hereto, that were submitted with

_______________________response to Augusta, Georgia Request for Proposal, Request for Quote, or Request for Qualified Contractor ______________are marked confidential pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 10-1-761(4):

• (List specific information that the supplier wishes to withhold and how that information constitutes a trade secret)

• Additional trade secret information requested to be withheld

• Your company is requested to send a redacted copy of your submittal.

Under penalty of perjury, acknowledging that O.C.G.A. §16-10-71 provides a penalty of a fine of up to

$1,000 and potential imprisonment of one to five years, I attest that the specific information in the records listed above constitutes trade secrets pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 10-1-761(4), and request that Augusta, Georgia not disclose this protected information under the Georgia Open Records Act ("GORA").

Signature:

[Signatory Name in Print] [Signatory’s Title] [Company Name]

_______________________________ Date: ______________________________________

[Signatory’s Title]

Notary Public

My Commission Expires: ___________________________________ NOTARY SEAL

RETURN FORM ONLY IF APPLICABLE.

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program Ordinance Requirements

Notice To All Bidders (PLEASE READ CAREFULLY)

Shall apply to ALL Bids regardless of the dollar amount

In accordance with the Commission Action on 7/25/24 and the adoption of Ordinance No. 7945 Chapter 10C of the

AUGUSTA, GA, CODE, Contractors agree to collect and maintain all records necessary to Augusta, Georgia to evaluate the effectiveness of its Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program and to make such records available to Augusta, Georgia upon request. The requirements of the Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program can be found at www.augustaga.gov. In accordance with AUGUSTA, GA. CODE, Contractors shall report to Augusta, Georgia the total dollars paid to each subcontractor, vendor, or other business on each contract, and shall provide such payment affidavits, regarding payment to subcontractors, if any as required by Augusta, Georgia. Such utilization reports shall be in the format specified by the Director of Compliance and shall be submitted at such times as required by Augusta, Georgia. Required forms can be found at www.augustaga.gov. If you need assistance completing a form or filing information, please contact the M/WBE Program office at (706) 821-2406. Failure to provide such reports withing the time period specified by Augusta, Georgia shall entitle Augusta, Georgia to exercise any of the remedies set forth, including, but not limited to, withholding payment from the Contractor and/or collecting liquidated damages.

SHALL APPLY TO PROJECTS IN EXCESS OF $300,000

Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Program (Continued)

Sec. 1-10-138. Race and Gender-Conscious Efforts

Contract-by-Contract Subcontractor Goals The City, through the Goal Setting Committee (GSC), will set specific, separate percentage-based MBE and WBE subcontracting goals on a contract-by contract basis for Prime contracts in Construction, Architecture & Engineering, Professional Services, and Other Services valued in excess of $300,000. The

City shall establish such goals based upon the type of contract, the type of subcontracting work that will be required, and the availability of M/WBE firms to perform the work for that specific contract.

The GSC shall not establish subcontracting goals on contracts where (a) there are no subcontracting opportunities identified for the contract; or (b) there are not at least three (3) MBE and/or WBE firms that are available and capable to perform a CUF for the overall subcontracting opportunities on the contract.

Good Faith Efforts (GFE) Requirements and Guidance

1.Achievement of subcontracting goals or documentation of Good Faith Efforts applies to every Contract for which such goals are established. The Bidder shall submit a compliance plan detailing its achievement of the goals or its Good

Faith Efforts to meet the goals. The compliance plan shall be due at the time set out in the solicitation documents.

2.When a Bidder cannot achieve the goals, its compliance plan shall document its GFE to achieve the goals. The

Director of Compliance will determine whether the Bidder has made such GFE.

Bid Documents

All bid documents shall require bidders or proponents to submit with their bid the following written documents, statements, or forms, which shall be made available by the Procurement Department.

• Proposed Letter of Intent MBE/WBE.

• Proposed MBE/WBE Utilization Plan.

• Documentation of Good Faith Efforts Form (in the event the bidder will not meet the MBE and WBE goals).

Failure to submit the above documentation shall result in the bid being declared non-responsive.

Sec. 1-10-154.Exceptions

In accordance with § 1-10-8, on federally funded projects or contracts, the M/WBE Program shall only be utilized when authorized by the applicable federal (and/or Georgia) laws, regulations, and conditions relating to that project or contract. To the extent that there are any conflicts between any such laws, regulations, or conditions and the provisions of the M/WBE Program, the federal (and/or Georgia) guidance shall control.

NOTE: All forms should be submitted in a separate, sealed envelope, labeled M/WBE Forms, Company’s Name & Bud number

For questions and or additional information, please contact:

Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Program

535 Telfair Street, Suite 530

Augusta, Georgia 30901

(706) 821-2406 mwbe@augustaga.gov

Website: https://www.augustaga.gov/83/Disadvantaged-Business-Enterprise http://www.augustaga.gov/ http://www.augustaga.gov/ mailto:mwbe@augustaga.gov https://www.augustaga.gov/83/Disadvantaged-Business-Enterprise

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

SECTION I

INSTRUCTION TO SUBMIT

Augusta is requesting Statement of Qualifications from qualified engineering and/or architectural firms to provide professional design services for Vernon Forrest Park Improvement project for the

Recreation and Parks Department. Your submittal should respond to, and be based on, the information included in this Request for Qualifications.

Responses will be received in the office of the Interim Procurement Director at 535 Telfair Street, Suite

605, Augusta, GA 30901 until Friday, August 14, 2026 @ 10:00 a.m. The RFQ must be submitted in a sealed package and labeled with firm’s name and the name of the project - RFQ 26-906

Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project. Vendors are required to submit one (1) marked unbound original, one (1) electronic copy of the RFQ on USB flash drive.

RFQ Opening will be held publicly and via Teams – Meeting ID: 292 751 024 316 101; Passcode: kz6bf2T8.

No RFQ will be accepted by email; all bids must be received by mail or hand delivered. If RFQ is forwarded by mail or other second party delivery, the sealed envelope containing the submittal bust be enclosed in an envelope addressed to:

Andy Penick, Procurement Director

Augusta Procurement Department

535 Telfair Street - Room 605

All submittals must be received during our normal office hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

RFQ Packages may be obtained at the Augusta, Georgia Procurement Department, at the address listed above.

All firms responding are cautioned to read this Request for Proposals (RFQ) carefully for understanding and request clarification from Augusta, Georgia on any questions pertaining to this RFQ. The Proposer should examine all documents and requirements of the services requested to become fully informed.

Failure to examine these areas will not relieve the successful Proposer of its obligation to furnish all products and services necessary to carry out the provisions of the contract. After RFQs have been submitted, the vendor shall not assert that there was a misunderstanding concerning the quantities of work or of the nature of the work to be done.

A mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. virtually via Teams; Meeting ID: 270 878 479 564 63 Passcode: pP24MF7Z. A mandatory site-visit to follow.

All questions must be submitted to the Procurement Department in writing by email to apenick@augustaga.gov by Feriday, July 29, 2026 @ 5:00 P.M. Issues and responses addressed in any other manner will not be considered valid or binding in consideration of proposals or any subsequent contract negotiations. Failure to provide all the requested information may cause the submittal to be rejected as non-responsive.

Failure to provide all the requested information may cause the RFQ to be rejected as non-responsive.

An official authorized to bind the firm to the terms and provisions of the RFQ must sign. The Proposer’s response must include a service proposal and fee proposal as well as all other information requested in this RFQ. The fees must be the full cost to Augusta. Augusta, Georgia will consider the degree to which each Proposer has submitted a complete Service and Fee Proposal without irregularities, excisions, special conditions, or alternative proposals for any item unless specifically requested in the RFQ.

mailto:apenick@augustaga.gov

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

The contract will be awarded, if awarded, to the most responsive and responsible Proposer. If an award of contract is made as a result of this solicitation, contract will be made on the basis of the response which best satisfies the intent of this Request for Proposals and other factors considered in the best interest of the Owner. Negotiations may be undertaken with those firms who proposal shows them to be qualified, responsible, and capable of performing the work. The Owner will consider professional qualifications and related experience to determine which proposal would be in Owner’s best interest if a contract were made. The Owner reserves the right to consider proposals or modification thereof received at any time before the award is made if such action is in the interest of the Owner.

Any interested qualified firm and/or party is requested to make a response to accomplish the Scope of

Services described herein. The response is to be signed by a duly authorized official of the firm and must be submitted in the time, manner and form prescribed.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all statements received as the result of this request. The

Owner also maintains the right to negotiate with any firm, as necessary, to serve the best interests of

Owner. The Owner will not be liable for any costs incurred by the firm prior to the signing of a contract.

An official authorized to bind the firm to the terms and provisions of the proposal must sign the proposal.

No RFQ may be withdrawn for a period of 90 days after RFQ have been opened, pending the execution of contract with the successful proposer(s). The information contained in this RFQ defines and describes the services requested.

The proposal pages shall be consecutively numbered. This excludes the cover letter, required forms, tabs, and appendices. All documents will be typewritten on standard 8 x 11 white paper. Exceptions to the minimum page limit would be schematics, exhibits, photographs or other information necessary to facilitate Augusta’s ability to accurately evaluate the proposal.

The Proposer must package and seal its proposals so that they will not be damaged in mailing.

Proposers are reminded that under Georgia law, all opened documents fall under the Open Records

Act and are subject to inspection by the public. Accordingly, proprietary information and/or data cannot be withheld from public inspection. All proposals and supporting documents will be submitted in accordance with the specifications. See the Trade Secret Affidavit. Vendors are required to submit a redacted copy of their RFQ submittal for any trade secret information contained in their RFQ submittal.

It is Augusta’s intent to evaluate the proposals based on service merit and price and to choose the

Proposer whose proposal provides the highest value to Augusta. Augusta reserves the right to waive any irregularities, reject any and/or all proposals, in whole or in part, when, in Augusta’s opinion, such rejection is in the best interests of Augusta.

The Owner will evaluate all statements received from firms with respect to evidence that the goals and objectives of the project are fully understood. The firm’s demonstrated technical capability and other qualifications, as described herein, will also be assessed. The Owner will then make their recommendation to the Augusta Commission for their consideration and final approval.

NOTE: Augusta reserves the right to accept a proposal, as submitted, and upon Commission approval enter into a contractual agreement with that selected Proposer. Consequently, it is imperative that all

Proposers submit the best service and cost offer in the initial submission.

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

SECTION II – INTRODUCTION

Augusta Recreation and Parks Department (ARPD) is currently requesting proposals from qualified organizations to partner with Augusta to develop a plan for the redevelopment and management of Vernon Forrest Park. Such proposals will include a concept plan, a proposal for funding the implementation of the approved concept plan and a proposal for management by a successful bidder of the park and any improvements post implementation of the approved concept, as well as sources of funding for such management. Proposals should include a timeline of deliverables and proposals for community engagement in concept development and future management. Currently there are no funds allocated for the project by Augusta so interested parties shall demonstrate the ability to provide funding (including proposed grants), design, permitting, bidding, surveying, civil/mechanical/electrical engineering, geotechnical, inspections, permitting, cost estimating, street design, and utility design services (water, sewer, electric, natural gas, internet, fiber, etc.).

SECTION III – SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. Prepare schematic design plans based on the existing concept plan for review and approval by ARPD. The schematic plans will identify general park layout, grading and drainage, and utilities. Prepare preliminary and final plans that includes:

1. Civil design to include site layout, grading, drainage, site utility plans, and erosion and sedimentation control plans.

2. Geotechnical investigation.

3. Landscaping and green/sustainable design for the park greenspace.

4. Architectural design to include building plans, elevations, and sections.

5. Structural design to include foundations, framing, and structural details.

6. Electrical design includes building lighting, receptacles, and site lighting.

7. Mechanical and plumbing design to include water supply, drainage, and ventilation for any proposed improvements (i.e. restrooms).

B. Develop and submit preliminary design and development plans (60% construction plans), and draft technical specifications to ARPD for review and approval.

C. Prepare preliminary construction estimates.

D. Develop and submit final design and development plans (90% construction plans) and technical specifications for ARPD review.

E. Meet with ARPD to review 90% construction documents and discuss review comments.

F. Final construction estimate.

G. Provide professional opinions of probable construction costs (OPCs) at each phase of design

(i.e., 60% and 90% construction plan completion.

H. Upon approval from ARPD, 100% final construction documents (plans and technical specifications) for solicitation of construction bids will be prepared.

I. Preparations and attendance for public meetings is also required.

J. Construction contract administration.

K. Construction observation as needed.

L. Assigned Team Minimum Qualifications

1. Assigned individual(s) to the project have a State of Georgia Engineering and

Architectural License.

2. Individual(s) have experience with similar projects within the State of Georgia.

3. Qualified staff to perform the test research and required engineering and architectural calculations.

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

SECTION IV - SELECTION CRITERIA:

The Selection Team will only consider those firms who are able to demonstrate the following qualification requirement(s):

A. Affiliation with Vernon Forrest Park evidencing an ongoing commitment to rehabilitation and maintenance of the park.

B. Specialized experience of firm and related experience on projects of similar scope.

C. Expertise in urban design, landscaping, and infrastructure management.

D. Past performance by the lead consulting firm, sub-consultants, and their employees on similar projects.

E. Adequate staff with applicable and specialized expertise within the lead consulting firm and all sub-consultants, and current workload.

F. Proposed project approach, including design team and sub-consultants; team organization and structure; proposed schedule; and understanding of Project objectives.

G. Recent experience with maintaining schedules and budgets on relevant projects, demonstrating expertise in cost control, quality of work, and ability to meet schedules, and record of successfully completed projects without major legal or technical problems.

H. Ability to outline ability to fund maintenance of the Park without direct local government involvement.

I. Demonstrated experience conducting public meetings.

J. Other factors relevant to the Project, including previous client satisfaction level.

K. Rate structure for proposed staff including all sub-consultants.

L. Understanding of the area and context where the project is located

SECTION V - RESPONSE CONTENTS

An official authorized to bind the offeror must sign all statements. Any documents received after this time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened to the vendor. Vendors that wish to join in a consortium must designate one vendor as principal or lead company.

Consortiums will be evaluated according to the same requirements as a single vendor.

Other evaluation criteria, as outlined, should be addressed, and the vendor's abilities and compliance provided.

A selection of finalists firms will be made by a Selection Committee consisting of representatives of the Owner. The Selection Committee will receive and evaluate the Statements of Qualifications submitted in response to this Request for Qualifications (RFQ). To expedite the review of submittals, it is essential that respondents follow the format and instructions outlined below.

Submittals of Firm information and qualifications should be no more than (15) pages in length

(exclusive of cover and index sheets) and should include the following information.

SECTION CONTENTS

A. PROCUREMENT DOCUMENTS:

All documents required under the Augusta Procurement regulations and procedures, properly executed, and notarized as required. The notary seal shall be visible on the original AND all copies.

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

B. COVER LETTER

Cover letter may be up to two pages and should identify the Prime Firm and all firms proposed for the team. Include a contact telephone number and email address in the event the project manager needs to share follow-up information. The letter must be signed and dated by an official authorized by the prime consultant.

C. COMPANY QUALIFICATIONS

Demonstrate the firm’s overall qualifications to fulfill the requirements of the scope of work along with the following:

1. Project understanding.

2. Summary of team organization

3. Approach to Scope of Work including proposed deliverables. The approach should be responsive to the items presented in this RFQ but, can be enhanced where it can be shown that doing so benefits the project.

4. Proposed timeline and deliverables schedule, with interim dates or deliverables, demonstrating an understanding of any federal, state, and local reviews required. The timeline shall commence as shown in the Submission Schedule and Key Dates.

D. TEAM QUALIFICATIONS

Elaborate on the general information presented in the introduction to establish the credentials and experience of the prime consultant and its team to undertake this type of project. The following must be included:

1. Team Organization Chart showing all firms, contractual relationship between firms, and names of specific staff proposed for this project, including their titles.

2. Identify a minimum of five similar projects the firm, acting as prime consultant, has conducted which demonstrate its ability to conduct and manage the project. Examples should have been completed within the past seven years.

Provide a synopsis of each project and include the name of the project, project location, client name, date completed, amount of the firm’s contract, and contact person.

3. If sub-consultants are involved, provide corresponding information describing their qualifications as requested in paragraph two above. All sub-consultants shall also show a minimum of three similar projects completed in the past seven years.

E. TEAM EXPERIENCE

Provide the professional credentials and experience of persons assigned to the project. Although standard resumes may be included, identify pertinent team experience to be applied to this project. Specifically, Augusta is interested in the experience, expertise, and total quality of the consultant’s proposed team. If principals of the firm will not be actively involved in the project, do not list them.

The submittal clearly indicate the Project Manager, and other key team members, and their qualifications. The following must be included:

1. Complete description of team organization including identification of the

Project Manager, key personnel, office location, and roles and responsibilities of all sub-consultants.

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project

2. Responsibilities to be fulfilled by each team member assigned to the Project.

The description of responsibilities shall include an estimated percentage of the total project that is to be completed by each individual team member.

3. Ability of all sub-consultants to provide and maintain a local presence during the course of the Project. At a minimum, the Project Manager shall demonstrate availability for numerous coordination meetings that will take place in Augusta.

4. Current workload and firm/team capacity.

F. TECHNICAL APPROACH

Provide information on the consultant’s understanding and approach to accomplishing the Project. The following must be included:

1. Project approach

2. Understanding of the area where the project is located

3. Approach to public outreach and public relations

4. Process for evaluation of alternatives, identifying permits and permit agencies, site and environmental analysis, if applicable

5. Knowledge and specific experience in green/sustainable design and construction practices

6. Management tools, techniques, and procedures used to maintain project schedules.

7. The Bidder will develop and maintain a detailed project schedule upon award, identifying all major design, permitting, procurement, and construction milestones. The schedule will be regularly updated throughout the project to ensure timely completion and coordination with the Owner.

a. The Bidder will develop and maintain a detailed project schedule upon award, identifying all major design, permitting, procurement, and construction milestones. The schedule will be regularly updated throughout the project to ensure timely completion and coordination with the Owner.

b. The Bidder must list a reasonable number of calendar days for completing the design phase after the Notice of Award/Notice to Proceed.

c. Following design completion and receipt of all required approvals, the

Bidder must list estimated calendar days for construction.

G. FINANCIAL STABILITY

Provide financial information that would allow proposal evaluators to ascertain the financial stability of the Proposer.

a. If a public company include a recap of the most recent audited financial report.

b. If a private company provide a recap of the most recent internal financial statement; and letter, on the financial institution’s letterhead, stating financial stability.

NOTE: Bidder’s financials will NOT be disclosed in any part of the RFQ. Failure to include the above listed financial stability requirements may affect your scoring on the evaluation sheet.

H. REFERENCES:

Prime consultants must provide a minimum of three (3) references and sub-consultants must provide a minimum of two (2) references, each of which Augusta may contact regarding qualifications and past performance. All references must be familiar with projects for which members of the submittal team have

RFQ Item #26-906 Redevelopment and Ongoing Management for the Vernon Forrest Park Improvement Project participated, including the designated Project Manager and include:

1. Name of Organization and Contact

2. Title of Contact

3. Address (delivery and email)

4. Telephone Numbers

SECTION VI - SUBMISSION REQUIREMENT

Qualified firms interested in providing the services described herein are invited to submit a complete SOQ for consideration. Failure to provide all requested information may be sufficient cause for rejection of the qualifications. One (1) marked unbound original and one (1) electronic copy of the RFQ on a USB Flash Drive. Submittals should be organized and tabbed. The original is to be single sided copies only. Additional copies may be double sided. Supplemental materials, such as company brochures, tabs, cover letters and required Procurement Forms, etc.

are not counted as part of the 15 page limit. Qualification packages that do not comply with the above instructions may be disqualified.

1. Do Not Include A Fee Proposal. Firms shall not include fee or cost information when responding to this solicitation.

2. All proposals will be evaluated by an Augusta, Georgia Selection Committee (Committee).

The Committee may be composed of Augusta, Georgia staff and other parties that may have expertise or experience in the services described herein.