AE_PUBLIC_NOTICE.pdf

This is a public notice announcement issued by the School District of Manatee County (SDMC) regarding the solicitation of comprehensive architectural and engineering services for a campus-wide renovation of Tillman Elementary School located in Palmetto, Florida. The project encompasses complete interior and exterior renovation of three classroom buildings totaling 96,928 square feet, designed to serve 722 student stations. The scope of work includes replacement of mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems; removal and replacement of the fire alarm system; upgrades to kitchen coolers and freezers; enhancements to administrative security and lobby areas; new technology infrastructure; LED lighting installation; replacement of ceilings, flooring, painting, exterior doors, windows, and hardware; and necessary sitework. The submittal deadline for responses is December 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM via VendorLink, with a request for information deadline of November 16, 2025. Bid opening is scheduled for December 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Construction Services Department in Bradenton, Florida. Short-listed firms are invited to participate in a site walk-through on January 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Tillman Elementary School, with oral presentations scheduled for February 3, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Board approval for negotiation is anticipated for February 24, 2026, with design completion targeted for May 2026 and construction completion projected for July 2027.

The estimated project budget is $31,000,000, with approximately 30% federally funded, introducing prevailing wage standards and federal compliance requirements. Evaluation will be conducted pursuant to Florida Statute 287.055 and will assess staff qualifications, firm approach, past project experience, and overall capacity to perform. The required architectural and engineering team must include five professional disciplines—Architecture, Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering—with all team members licensed in Florida. Mandatory submission requirements include professional licenses, insurance certification, audited financial statements, Standard Form 330, project references, and federal and state compliance certifications addressing debarment, drug-free workplace, anti-lobbying, anti-discrimination, E-Verify, scrutinized companies, coercion practices, and employment eligibility verification. Evaluation criteria include points for certified minority business status and location preference. All bid opening and evaluation meetings are open to the public pursuant to Florida State Statute 286.011, except for portions involving vendor negotiations, oral presentations, or vendor question-and-answer sessions.