UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ730-26007)

MASTER DEVELOPMENT PARTNER FOR:

THE QUANTUM

ISSUE DATE: June 1, 2026

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON SYSTEM

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATION (RFQ)730-26007

MASTER DEVELOPMENT PARTNER FOR THE QUANTUM

ISSUE DATE: JUNE 1, 2026

MANDATORY PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE:

JUNE 12, 2026, AT 10:00 AM Central Time

Via TEAMS

RFQ DUE DATE/TIME:

JULY 13, 2026, AT 5:00 PM Central Time

Via electronic submission to Scisner7@central.uh.edu

QUESTION DEADLINE: JUNE 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM Central Time

BUYER

Selene Cisneros

Buyer 3 Purchasing Department 5000 Gulf Freeway

Houston, TX 77204-5015 scisner7@central.uh.edu

It is the Respondent’s responsibility to continue to monitor the Electronic State Business Daily (“ESBD”) for Addenda.

Failure to acknowledge any Addenda in the Transmittal Letter may cause your Proposal to be considered non-responsive.

UH standards and policies govern this solicitation (Procurement Thresholds and Methods, Procurement Solicitations and Contracts) unless otherwise referenced or stated (“UH Standards”).

mailto:Scisner7@central.uh.edu mailto:scisner7@central.uh.edu

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON SYSTEM (“UH” and/or “Owner”), for the use and benefit of the University of Houston is conducting a competitive TWO-STEP Request for Qualifications (“RFQ”) process to retain ONE (1) Firm or Joint Venture (“JV”) to provide Master Development Services for the Quantum at the University of Houston (“Project”). Respondents are required to identify and submit the complete project team, inclusive of design consultants and the construction general manager, as part of their initial proposal. While UH maintains flexibility regarding the composition of the proposing Firm or Joint Venture (“JV”), it is anticipated that the selected developer may supplement the team with additional expertise as project requirements evolve.

The evaluation process outlined in Section 5.7 below will result in Firms, who are in the competitive threshold, being invited to participate in a Shortlist process (Section 5.9) that may lead to final negotiations of a Predevelopment Agreement and other relevant agreements with those remaining within the competitive threshold (“Contract”). Please see Exhibit B for a potential draft predevelopment agreement document. A Ground Lease and Operating Agreement may also need to be included as potential draft agreements.

All draft agreements, term sheets, and exhibits provided with this RFQ are for discussion and evaluation purposes only and are non-binding unless and until finalized and executed by the University.

The Master Development Partner and/or its General Contractor shall comply with applicable University of Houston standards and policies, including procurement requirements governing design and construction. The General Contractor shall be properly licensed in the State of Texas. Prior to commencement of construction, the General Contractor shall furnish statutorily required Performance and Payment Bonds, each in the full amount of the construction contract, in accordance with Texas Government Code.

SUBMITTAL DEADLINE - Proposals are to be submitted to scisner7@central.uh.edu and rdoming2@Central.UH.EDU by the Due Date/Time listed in section 2.0 Schedule.

VIRTUAL MANDATORY STEP 1 PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE - A virtual Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on June 12, 2026, at 10:00 AM CT via Microsoft TEAMS. Prospective respondents must register in advance through the following link and are strongly encouraged to register at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of scheduled pre-submittal meeting.

No Obligation / No reimbursement Statement Nothing contained in this Request for Qualifications, nor any materials submitted by Respondents in response hereto, shall create any obligation on the part of the University of Houston System (“UHS”) to select a Respondent, to enter into any agreement, or to reimburse any costs incurred by a Respondent in connection with this solicitation, including without limitation costs associated with preparation of responses, interviews, site visits, or negotiations.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - All questions must be submitted via e-mail to scisner7@central.uh.edu and rdoming2@Central.UH.EDU by the Question Deadline in order to be addressed. The email subject line should contain the Solicitation Number/Name and Firm Name/Questions.

1.1 DEFINITIONS

PURPOSE

Definitions intended to clarify key terms used throughout this Request for Qualifications (RFQ), its exhibits, and agreements negotiated pursuant to this solicitation.

HIERARCHY OF DOCUMENTS

In the event of inconsistency between this RFQ and subsequent negotiated agreements, the terms of the fully executed agreements shall govern. The definitions intended to aid clarity and consistency and does not modify substantive rights or obligations unless expressly incorporated by reference into a binding agreement.

DEFINED TERMS AND INTERPRETATION

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) -The governmental or regulatory authority responsible for reviewing, permitting, inspecting, and approving construction, life safety, and occupancy requirements for the Project, including the University of Houston Fire Marshal, as applicable.

Competitive Threshold- The minimum evaluation score or ranking required for a Respondent to advance from Step One to Step Two of the procurement process, as determined by the University in its sole discretion.

Developer / Firm - The responding entity, joint venture, development team, or other legal entity submitting qualifications in response to this RFQ and, if selected, entering into negotiations and agreements with the University for delivery of the Project. For purposes of this RFQ and all related documents, the terms “Firm,” “Developer,” and “Respondent” are used interchangeably, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. References to actions, responsibilities, or obligations of the Firm shall be deemed to apply equally to the Developer.

Development Agreement (DA) - The definitive agreement to be negotiated following execution of the Predevelopment Agreement, governing construction, delivery, financing, risk allocation, performance obligations, and operational responsibilities for the Project.

Ground Lease - The lease agreement between the University and the Developer governing the use, development, operation, and maintenance of the Project Site.

Lessee - The Developer (also referred to as the Firm), or its authorized affiliate or special-purpose entity, as tenant under the Ground Lease for the development, use, operation, and maintenance of the Project.

Lessor - The University of Houston System, acting for the use and benefit of the University of Houston, as the owner of the Project Site and landlord under the Ground Lease.

Master Development Partner - The Developer selected by the University pursuant to this RFQ to provide master development services for The Quantum, including predevelopment, design coordination, construction oversight, financing, and operations, subject to negotiated agreements.

Master Development Services - The full scope of planning, development, design coordination, construction, financing, and operational services required to deliver The Quantum in accordance with University objectives and standards.

Owner / University / UH. The University of Houston System, acting for the use and benefit of the University of Houston, including its Board of Regents, officers, employees, and authorized representatives.

Predevelopment Agreement (PDA) - The agreement governing due diligence, feasibility analysis, preliminary design, financial modeling, and other development services performed by the Developer prior to execution of the Development Agreement and Ground Lease.

Predevelopment Stage - The period commencing upon execution of the Predevelopment Agreement and ending upon execution of the Development Agreement or earlier termination, during which planning, feasibility, and preliminary design activities are performed.

Project - The planning, development, construction, financing, operation, and long-term stewardship of The Quantum, a mixed use district located on the University of Houston campus, as described in this RFQ and related documents.

Project Site- The area of university owned land designated for development of The Quantum, as depicted in the reference exhibits and subject to refinement through planning and entitlement processes.

Public Private Partnership (P3) - A cooperative contractual arrangement between the University and the Developer through which the Project is delivered using private financing, development expertise, and operational responsibility, while the University retains land ownership and institutional oversight.

Respondent - entity or team submitting a Statement of Qualifications in response to this RFQ. Once selected, the Respondent becomes the Developer.

Short Listed Respondent - A Respondent selected by the University to advance to Step Two of the procurement process based on evaluation of its Step One qualifications.

University / UH / UHS –The University of Houston System, acting for the use and benefit of the University of Houston, including its Board of Regents, officers, employees, and authorized representatives. For purposes of this RFQ and related documents, references to “University,” “UH,” or “UHS” are used interchangeably to describe the public entity with whom the Developer will contract. Nothing herein is intended to alter the distinction between the University of Houston, as the primary campus, and the University of Houston System, which includes the University of Houston and its component institutions.

UH Design Guidelines - The University of Houston Facilities Planning and Construction design standards and Master Specifications governing architectural, landscape, engineering, sustainability, security, mobility, and infrastructure requirements, as amended from time to time.

Value Engineering - The structured evaluation of design, systems, materials, or construction approaches intended to reduce Project costs while maintaining required performance, quality, and functionality.

1.2 UNIVERSITY BACKGROUND

The University of Houston (“UH”) is a Tier One, public research university located in the nation’s fourth largest city. UH was founded in 1927 to provide higher education opportunities to working Houstonians. A small, but determined effort, it was first known as Houston Junior College and held classes at San Jacinto High School.

In 1934, the two-year junior college became a four-year institution and was renamed the University of Houston. After acquiring 110 acres of land at its current location, in the heart of the city’s Third Ward, UH opened its first building in 1939.

During the years of World War II, UH offered military training programs, such as radio technician training for the US Navy, military aviation training programs for the city’s wartime workers, as well as regular classes. At the end of the war, many veterans returned to UH to pursue their college education equipped with the newly enacted GI Bill.

The following years saw a surge in enrollment and growth on the campus with the construction of the new M.D. Anderson Library, the establishment of a new law and pharmacy schools, and many academic buildings and facilities for student housing.

By this time, UH was being governed by its own board of regents, and by 1977 UH became the founding institution of the University of Houston System, which now includes the University of Houston - Downtown and the University of Houston - Clear Lake. By 2019, the University of Houston had expanded its campus to more than 890 acres and had extended its reach with campuses in Sugar Land and Katy.

Today, UH has achieved R1 research status, which is the highest classification given to research universities, spending more than $276 million annually on research. It operates more than 25 research centers and institutes, including 14 National Research Centers, focusing on such areas as: advanced materials and manufacturing, health and well-being, energy, aerospace and earth and planetary sciences. Students choose from roughly 300 degree programs across 16 colleges. UH serves more than 48,000 students and boasts a vibrant campus life of student organizations, plus 17 NCAA Division I sports teams that compete in the Big 12 Conference.

The University of Houston is a powerful driver of innovation and prosperity in Greater Houston, generating $6.4 billion in annual economic impact and supporting more than 61,700 jobs across the region. Nationally ranked and designated as an R1 Carnegie Research University, UH advances discovery and commercialization through over $250 million in annual research expenditures (FY2025) and $153 million in sponsored research awards (FY2024). Its entrepreneurial eco-system continues to expand, with 10 startups formed from UH intellectual property in 2025 and more than 20 active companies housed at the UH Innovation Center & Labs, contributing to a thriving innovation pipeline. The University’s research enterprise spans 25+ centers and institutes along with a network of core facilities and departmental labs, enabling breakthroughs in energy, health, data science, and advanced technologies. Together, these assets underscore UH’s dual role as both an economic engine and a national research leader, fueling workforce growth, business creation, and cutting-edge solutions for the Houston region and beyond.

1.3 UH CAMPUS BACKGROUND

The University of Houston’s primary campus serves as the flagship location of the UH System and the academic heart of the institution. Spanning approximately 560 acres of urban landscape, the primary campus is characterized by walkable green spaces, an extensive public art collection, and landmark fountains that distinguish its physical environment. As UH’s largest instructional site, it is home to over 48,000 students enrolled across 289 degree programs, representing one of the most culturally rich student bodies among major research universities nationwide.

The primary campus anchors UH’s Tier One academic mission through a broad portfolio of disciplines that span business, engineering, law, health sciences, arts, humanities, natural sciences, and technology. Supported by more than 25 research centers and institutes, the campus sustains a high-intensity research ecosystem with strengths in superconductivity, energy systems, biomedical innovation, space commercialization, and artificial intelligence.

Closely connected to the surrounding city, the campus maintains over 600 partnerships with Houston-area organizations, enabling real-world learning experiences through internships, applied research collaborations, and community engagement initiatives. Students collectively contribute nearly one million hours of service and experiential learning annually, underscoring the University’s role as an active civic and economic partner in the region.

Campus life at the UH primary campus is powered by more than 500 student organizations and supported by nine residential communities that promote academic success, leadership development, and student well-being. The University’s athletic programs compete in the Big 12 Conference, energizing campus spirit through long-standing traditions such as Cougar Red Friday, Frontier Fiesta, and the presence of Shasta and Sasha, the University’s iconic mascots.

Together, these features define the UH primary campus as a vibrant, comprehensive research institution whose academic programming, cultural richness, and community connectivity position it as a central hub of innovation, talent development, and opportunity within the nation’s fourth-largest city.

Facts at a glance are available at https://www.uh.edu/about/

1.4 CITY OF HOUSTON AND HARRIS COUNTY

The City of Houston anchors one of the nation’s most dynamic and rapidly expanding metropolitan economies, reaching a regional GDP of $758.3 billion in 2024, growth that outpaced national averages and positioned Houston as the second-fastest-growing major U.S. economy. Greater Houston also leads the country in manufacturing output, generating $126.9 billion in 2024, and continues to attract investment, with 683 new business announcements in 2025, marking a 26.5% increase from the prior year.

This economic strength is supported by a globally connected multimodal infrastructure. Houston benefits from two international airports, the Port of Houston, one of the nation’s busiest export gateways, and an extensive interstate network undergoing major upgrades, including improvements to I-69, the I-45 North Houston Highway Improvement Project, and the Houston Ship Channel Bridge. These projects enhance regional mobility and freight circulation, positioning the region for long-term growth.

Houston’s industry base is widely diversified. Long recognized as the “Energy Capital of the World,” the region is also home to the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, a thriving aerospace sector, emerging technology clusters, and 24 Fortune 500 headquarters. Workforce expansion remains strong: the region added 14,800 jobs in 2025 and is projected to add 30,900 in 2026, reflecting growth in health care, logistics, education, and construction. The broader labor market now supports 3.5 million non-farm payroll jobs, reinforcing Houston’s role as a national employment hub.

Harris County, the third-most populous county in the United States with more than 5 million residents, has experienced 76.8% population growth since 1990, supported by competitive living costs, no local income tax, and a business-friendly environment. The county’s economic landscape spans logistics, advanced manufacturing, energy, aerospace, and life sciences, offering companies access to deep talent pools and global supply chains.

The University of Houston’s main campus sits within this vibrant urban framework, surrounded by several established neighborhoods that contribute to its accessibility, culture, and student housing ecosystem. The Greater Third Ward directly borders the campus and serves as the primary adjacent community for UH students and visitors. Just to the north lies East Downtown (EaDo), a walkable, transit-connected district known for entertainment venues, sports facilities, and proximity to UH stadiums. Nearby districts such as Midtown, Montrose, and the Museum District offer additional residential and lifestyle options within a short commute, appealing to undergraduate, graduate, and professional communities alike.

Together, the City of Houston and Harris County form a robust, innovation-driven regional economy with world-class infrastructure and diverse, transit-connected neighborhoods. This environment provides strong support for major mixed-use, entertainment, and public-private partnership developments—positioning the Quantum District to leverage both the economic momentum of the region and the cultural vibrancy of the communities surrounding UH’s campus.

1.5 THE VISION FOR THE QUANTUM

The University of Houston envisions The Quantum as a transformative new district at the heart of its primary campus—a place where students, alumni, faculty, staff, and visitors intersect in a vibrant mixed-use destination. Conceived as a public-private partnership, The Quantum will become a defining “third space” for the University: a dynamic environment that supports living, learning, working, and recreation outside of the classroom and workplace, cultivating the sense of belonging and social connectivity associated with thriving, community-building spaces.

The Quantum will be planned as a lifestyle center destination, integrating high-quality development with the University’s academic mission and the needs of its diverse campus population. Envisioned elements include a curated mix of restaurants, bars, lifestyle retail businesses, and a modern grocery anchor, complemented by housing options designed for the campus community. The district may incorporate structured parking, an alumni and visitor center, a campus satellite utility plant, indoor and outdoor recreation, performance and entertainment venues, and vibrant public gathering spaces modeled after best-in-class lifestyle centers. Green spaces, plazas, shaded courtyards, and pedestrian-focused streetscapes will invite year-round activity and encourage an active campus culture throughout the day and into the evening.

The Quantum is intended to serve as a bridge between the University and the broader city, strengthening UH’s role as a community anchor while providing students with a destination that enhances campus life.

As this vision takes shape, UH seeks a development partner capable of delivering a cohesive, long-term master plan that integrates the district into the existing campus fabric while introducing a next-generation mixed-use environment. The selected partner will help define and implement the initial phase of development, followed by negotiation of a broader Master Development Agreement that outlines future phases, governance, and performance expectations. UH intends to move expeditiously to launch the project’s first phase and does not wish for long-term negotiations to impede early momentum. The selected developer will be responsible for financing, constructing, operating, and maintaining The Quantum and will play a pivotal role in a collaborative design of The Quantum.

Ultimately, The Quantum represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to craft a destination district that reflects the energy, ambition, and cultural richness of the University of Houston. With the right partner, the district will become a signature campus landmark, a lively, future-focused environment that celebrates innovation, fosters community, and enhances UH’s position as a premier research institution.

1.6 THE OPPORTUNITY

The University of Houston is initiating the development of The Quantum, a transformative mixed-use district envisioned as a signature destination on the University’s main campus. This project represents a rare opportunity for a qualified development partner to shape the foundation of a next-generation “third place” district—an environment that merges social, residential, entertainment, and lifestyle retail experiences into a cohesive and vibrant campus-adjacent destination.

Unlike traditional campus development projects that follow a segmented, incremental delivery approach, The Quantum relies heavily on the skill, creativity, and market expertise of the selected developer to bring a complete destination environment to life. UH seeks a partner capable of envisioning and delivering a fully realized lifestyle district that leverages contemporary placemaking, commercial programming, and thoughtful design to create a compelling hub for students, alumni, faculty, visitors, staff, and visitors.

The Quantum is envisioned as a student-centric district, with programming to be refined collaboratively with shortlisted Respondents during later procurement stages. The conceptual program anticipates a dynamic blend of lifestyle businesses such as food and beverage concepts, retail, flexible social and gathering spaces, outdoor plazas and green areas, wellness or recreational amenities, graduate student housing, an alumni and visitor center, and structured parking integrated into a highly walkable urban environment. Given the district’s proximity to major Athletics venues, Respondents should consider the relationship between Athletics events, event-day operations, and associated traffic patterns in the layout, access, circulation, and overall planning of The Quantum to ensure compatibility and a cohesive campus experience. The district is intended to set the tone and identity for a new signature UH experience, establishing a vibrant sense of place and demonstrating strong market appeal from the outset.

Respondents are advised that development within The Quantum will be subject to pre-existing University arrangements, auxiliary operations, and institutional standards. Developers are expected to incorporate these considerations into their programming, tenanting strategies, and financial assumptions, and to work collaboratively with the University to ensure alignment with campus operations and institutional priorities. Reference the pre-existing University arrangements exhibit included with this RFQ.

The development will be delivered through a public-private partnership, with the University making available the designated Quantum development area via long-term ground lease. The selected developer will be responsible for delivering all vertical improvements, tenant improvements, placemaking and public-realm features, integrated site enhancements required to realize the complete vision as well as the ongoing operations, maintenance, and lifecycle management of the development.

As with all campus development, the UH Fire Marshal will serve as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for permitting, inspections, life safety requirements, and certificates of occupancy.

Consistent with the University’s overarching goals for The Quantum, the selected developer will participate in shaping the district’s mix of uses, experiential qualities, and physical character— so long as the final product aligns with UH’s objectives of creating an active, high-quality, mixed-use, lifestyle center-like environment.

The Quantum is intended to become the destination core of campus life, offering an engaging environment that serves immediate needs while anchoring future opportunities for engagement, partnerships, and UH community connection.

Following developer selection, the University anticipates negotiating a comprehensive Master Development Agreement (MDA) to outline responsibilities, implementation frameworks, and performance expectations for the complete delivery of The Quantum.

The Quantum represents a singular opportunity to design and deliver one of the most significant mixed-use, lifestyle center destination districts within an American Tier-1 research university environment. The selected developer will play a central role in defining the character, experience, and long-term success of a district that will become a landmark for the University of Houston and a vibrant new social and cultural hub for the UH community.

Any concepts, approaches, schedules, or recommendations submitted as part of Step One are intended to be indicative only and shall not be binding on the Respondent or the University unless and until incorporated into a subsequently executed agreement.

1.7 SITE CONDITIONS

The proposed site for The Quantum is located off the Gulf Freeway (Interstate 45) fronting Cullen Boulevard on the University of Houston’s main campus. The project area comprises approximately 21 acres across multiple UH owned parcels, as illustrated in the reference plan (see below). The site currently includes campus recreation playfields, surface parking, and unoccupied urban parcels, with several City of Houston streets intersecting the area. The area labeled “Phase 1” consists of multiple vacant parcels that are immediately available. “Phase 2” includes parcels occupied by existing UH campus recreation playfields, which would be relocated as part of overall development planning.

Campus parking will be reimagined and incorporated into The Quantum through structured or integrated parking solutions consistent with UH mobility goals to support contract, permit university parking and transient visitor parking within the university’s parking oversell guidelines, with the potential for a leaseback structure to the university to operate within its parking rules and regulations A row of mature live oak trees and a campus gateway marker frame the site’s northern edge;

these are designated campus assets and must be preserved. Primary public thoroughfares, Cullen Boulevard and Elgin Street, will remain. City streets intersecting Cullen Boulevard will require further evaluation to assess traffic operations, neighborhood impacts, and opportunities to support the highest and best use of The Quantum.

Development proposals must demonstrate a strong sensitivity to campus context. Site planning and building placement should reinforce UH’s Campus Master Plan, strengthen connectivity across the campus core, and create a cohesive and welcoming environment. The selected Developer will participate in UH’s established design review processes to ensure alignment with campus planning principles, architectural character, infrastructure requirements, and long-term stewardship objectives.

The site will require utility extensions or modifications to support proposed uses. Roadway access modifications will be necessary to integrate The Quantum with existing pedestrian, bicycle, vehicular, and service circulation networks.

Comprehensive traffic and mobility studies will be required to ensure population, access, and circulation strategies align with University objectives and broader community considerations.

Close coordination with the University will be essential to confirm that all upgrades comply with UH standards and are sized appropriately for future capacity needs. UH and the selected Developer will also work collaboratively as needed with the City of Houston, Harris County, and other relevant authorities, as their partnership and regulatory oversight will be critical to the successful development and operation of The Quantum.

1.8 KEY TRANSACTION EXPECTATIONS

UH has a conceptual plan for the development area that will become The Quantum, establishing foundational infrastructure and a long-range vision for a vibrant, mixed-use, lifestyle center destination embedded within the University’s main campus.

The value UH seeks from The Quantum public private partnership lies in its ability to deliver a lifestyle center district that elevates the campus experience; strengthens connections among the constituents within the UH community; and creates a dynamic environment rooted in sociability, activation, and year-round engagement. The Quantum is envisioned as a welcoming hub that enriches daily life on campus, supports student success, and reinforces UH’s role as a major urban anchor, while ensuring that this investment does not place additional financial burden on UH.

To advance this vision responsibly, UH has developed a draft term sheet that will serve as the foundation for developer feedback and negotiation. As you review Exhibit F – Draft Term Sheet, Respondents are encouraged to evaluate their capacity to engage in good faith negotiations consistent with these shared objectives.

Contractual Structure

1.10.1 UH and the Respondent selected under this solicitation (“Developer”) will be invited to negotiate a Pre-development Agreement (PDA). The PDA will govern predevelopment, due diligence, and early design activities associated with The Quantum. Upon agreement of terms for full development, construction, and long-term operations, UH and the Developer will enter into (a) a Development Agreement governing project delivery, and (b) a Ground Lease establishing ownership/revenue rights, operation, and maintenance responsibilities.

1.10.2 The PDA’s initial term will begin upon execution and remain in effect until execution of the Development Agreement, unless terminated earlier under its provisions. UH retains sole discretion to decline any option or extension term. If UH elects not to continue, it may reprocure the Project or any portion thereof at its sole discretion.

Overview of the Procurement Process, Approach, and Timeline

The procurement process is anticipated to follow a multistage structure:

1.10.3 RFQ Stage. Developer selection under this RFQ will be based on the alignment of Respondents’ qualifications, experience, and indicative concepts with the Evaluation Criteria outlined in Section 5.8. After reviewing Statements of Qualifications (SOQs), UH will shortlist Respondents for a subsequent stage, after which a Developer will be selected.

1.10.4 PDA Stage. The selected Developer will be invited to negotiate the PDA with UH. Once executed, the Developer, in partnership with UH, will advance predevelopment activities and establish a formal Project description and design (“Project Proposal”) that reflects UH’s goals and the vision of The Quantum.

1.10.5 Development Agreement Stage. Following the PDA, UH and the Developer will execute the Development Agreement. During this stage, the Developer will secure project financing and fulfill all conditions precedent for entering into the Ground Lease.

1.10.6 Ground Lease Stage. UH anticipates negotiating the Ground Lease for The Quantum in a manner that maximizes feasibility and aligns with the overall development structure. Additional ground lease negotiations may occur as the district’s program is finalized and implemented.

1.10.7 Operating Agreement Stage. The Developer and UH will cooperate with each other in good faith to ensure proper and efficient operation, maintenance and management of the Project via an Operating Agreement.

1.9 PREDEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT

1.11 Negotiation and Execution of the Predevelopment Agreement (PDA)

1.11.1 If selected to negotiate the PDA with UH, each Respondent agrees to work in good faith to negotiate, finalize, and execute a PDA.

1.11.2 Should the PDA not be successfully negotiated and agreed to by both parties within 30 calendar days following the issuance of a draft PDA to the Selected Respondent for review, through no fault of UH, UH, at its sole discretion, may elect to cancel the existing award announcement and make an award to the next most advantageous Respondent.

1.11.3 Further, UH may initiate negotiations with a Short-listed Respondent other than the Selected Respondent if:

(A) PDA finalization with the Selected Respondent is unsuccessful, or

(B) the Selected Respondent does not provide sufficient information or timely feedback to finalize the PDA in accordance with the anticipated Schedule of Activities.

Conditions Precedent to the Execution of the PDA

1.11.4 As part of the finalization of the PDA, the Selected Respondent shall satisfy all conditions set forth below:

(a) The Selected Respondent has provided UH with legal opinions consistent with market practice and customary for a transaction of this nature, addressed to UH, from the Selected Respondent’s legal counsel, as to, among other things: the organization, existence, good standing, and qualification to do business in the State of Texas; the due authorization and signing of the PDA; the enforceability of the PDA against the Developer; and confirmation that the PDA does not violate any applicable law or any of the Developer’s organizational documents.

(b) The Selected Respondent has delivered to UH the Developer’s incorporation, formation, and organizational documentation, including (as applicable) articles of incorporation, bylaws, partnership agreement, certificate of formation, or operating agreement.

(c) The Selected Respondent has delivered to UH confirmation of the Developer’s: (i) federal Employer Identification Number; (ii) registration with the Texas Department of State; (iii) registered agent for service of process in the State of Texas; and (iv) Texas business license, if required by applicable law.

(d) The Selected Respondent has obtained and delivered to UH specimen copies of insurance policies and all endorsements conforming to all terms and conditions specified in the RFQ, with bindable proposals evidencing that all required insurances will be in place as of the effective date of the PDA.

(e) The Selected Respondent has provided UH with acceptable evidence that personnel working on behalf of the Developer are properly licensed to carry out their respective scopes of work under the PDA.

(f) Satisfaction of any other conditions to execution of the PDA set forth under applicable law.

1.10 UH DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

STANDARDS

The University of Houston is seeking a comprehensive development solution for The Quantum that reflects the institution’s core values, design identity, and long-term vision. While UH maintains established Design Guidelines that provide a robust framework for architectural expression, mechanical systems, IT infrastructure, landscape standards, mobility design, sustainability, and security, The Quantum presents a distinct opportunity to apply these standards in innovative and context sensitive ways befitting a highly activated district.

Developers are expected to honor the intent of UH’s Design Guidelines, using them as a foundational reference for planning, design, and construction, while thoughtfully exploring creative approaches appropriate to a public private mixed-use environment. Coordination with UH will be essential throughout the design process to ensure that all decisions, ranging from building character and public realm design to materials, lighting, safety, signage, and landscape treatment, reinforce the campus identity and align with broader institutional planning goals.

The University’s published Design Guidelines, accessible through the UH Facilities Planning and Construction website, define requirements and expectations associated with architectural standards; site and landscape planning; sustainability frameworks; space utilization methodologies; parking, mobility, and pavement standards; wayfinding systems; lighting strategies; construction systems; and network and security infrastructure.

These resources will serve as a key reference for the Developer and their design team and will guide collaborative discussions with UH to ensure that The Quantum delivers a cohesive, high-quality environment consistent with the University’s vision and long-term stewardship of the campus.

In addition to the University’s Design Guidelines, development of The Quantum parcel will be governed by a Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R) to be issued by the University of Houston. The CC&R will establish operational requirements, design review procedures, and ongoing standards applicable to the district, and will define the processes by which UH will oversee compliance, coordinate campus operations, and enforce University standards over time.

Proposers should anticipate that the CC&R will form an integral part of the development framework for The Quantum and will be incorporated into any future agreements to ensure alignment with the University’s needs, policies, and stewardship responsibilities.

2.0 SCHEDULE

Posting of RFQ for public bidding

June 1, 2026

Mandatory Pre-proposal Conference

June 12, 2026

Q&A Deadline

June 17, 2026

Q&A Addendum posting to ESBD

June 24, 2026

Qualifications Submittal Deadline

July 13, 2026

Shortlist Notification

August 10, 2026 (estimated)

Shortlist Interviews

TBD

Mandatory Site Visit

TBD

Concept Site Plan and other Deliverables

September 30, 2026 (estimated)

Interviews Completed for Shortlisted Respondents

November 9, 2026 (estimated)

Notification of Selected Bidder

January 31, 2027 (estimated)

UH will make every effort to adhere to the above schedule. It is, however, subject to change at the sole discretion of the University.

3.0 QUESTIONS AND MODIFICATIONS

3.1 Questions. All questions and contacts with UH regarding any information in this RFQ must be addressed in writing via email to Scisner7@central.uh.edu and rdoming2@Central.UH.EDU no later than the Question Deadline as stated in Section 2.0. If a Respondent is unclear about any information contained in this document or its exhibits (Project, scope, etc.), then they are urged to submit those questions for formal clarification.

3.2 Change or Modification.

3.2.1 Any change or modification provided by UH for this RFQ or the documents included as exhibits to this RFQ shall be made by a duly issued Addendum made available to all firms on the ESBD website. It is the responsibility of each Respondent to visit the website and download any addenda. No information received in any manner different than as described herein shall serve to change the RFQ in any way or manner, regardless of the source of the information.

3.2.2 UH will not be responsible for any other explanation or interpretation of this RFQ or the documents included as exhibits to this RFQ.

mailto:Scisner7@central.uh.edu mailto:rdoming2@Central.UH.EDU

4.0 PUBLIC RECORD

4.1 UH will retain an electronic copy of this RFQ and one electronic copy of each Proposal received, together with electronic copies of all documents pertaining to the award of a contract. These documents will be made a part of a file or record, which shall be open to public inspection after UH has announced its intent to award a contract. If a Proposal contains any information that is considered a trade secret under Texas Government Code § 552.110 you must mark each trade secret with the following legend: “This data constitutes a trade secret under Texas Government Code § 552.110 and shall not be disclosed except in accordance with the Public Records Law, Texas Government Code, Chapter 552.”

4.2 The Texas Public Information Act exempts from disclosure only bona fide trade secrets, and the exemption from dis-closure applies only “unless the public interest requires disclosure in the particular instance.”

4.2.1 Therefore, non-disclosure of documents or any portion of a document submitted as part of a Proposal may depend upon official or judicial determination made pursuant to the Public Records Law.

4.3 In order to facilitate public inspection of the non-confidential portion of the Proposal, material designated as confidential must accompany the Proposal but must be readily separable from it. Prices, makes, model or catalog numbers of items offered, scheduled delivery dates, and terms of payment shall be publicly available regardless of any designation to the contrary. Any Proposal marked as a trade secret in its entirety may be considered non-responsive and be rejected.

5.0 INSTRUCTIONS TO RESPONDENTS

5.1 Summary of Work. The Work contemplated in this document shall be for the benefit of UH in connection with the Project described in Section 1.0 of this document.

5.2 Pre-Proposal Conference

5.2.1 The Pre-Proposal Conference will be administered virtually via Microsoft TEAMS. Prospective respondents must register in advance through the following link and are strongly encouraged to register at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of scheduled pre-submittal meeting.

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/281989055541180?p=LqVwpOAcn2YgCSo8OE

The Respondent must attend the Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference, which will be administered virtually. Proposals will not be accepted from those firms who have not had a representative attend the Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference.

Attendance will be documented through a Microsoft TEAM’S transcript. Attendees will be required to provide their name, firm name, and email address in the chat function at the beginning of the virtual Pre-Proposal Conference. Attendance will be verified by UH. Attendees who arrive more than five (5) minutes after start time of the meeting (as stated in the RFQ and by UH’s clock) or after the discussion portion of the meeting, (whichever comes first) may be locked out of the meeting or not have their attendance documented and will have their Proposal rejected if submitted.

Conflict of Interest: Respondents shall disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest, including prior or existing relationships with the University, the UH System, members of the Board of Regents, University employees, or advisors involved in this procurement.

5.2.2 No statement made by any officer, agent, or employee of UH in relation to the physical conditions pertaining to the Work site will be binding on UH, unless included in writing in the documents included as exhibits to this RFQ or an Addendum.

5.2.3 Date and Time of a Pre-Proposal Conference are located on the cover sheet of this RFQ.

5.3 Proposal Submission.

5.3.1 Submit one (1) electronic version via email to be received by the Due Date/Time listed in section 2.0 Schedule to scisner7@central.uh.edu and rdoming2@Central.UH.EDU as stated in this RFQ. Electronic versions must be sized appropriately for transfer (under 20 MB).

5.3.2 All Proposals must be received by UH no later than the Due Date/Time. UH’s official clock shall prevail in any time conflict. Any Proposal received after the Due Date/Time will be rejected and will be retained and made part of UH’s archive records in accordance with UH Standards.

5.4 Proposal Submission Requirements.

5.4.1 Your Proposal must be contained in a document not to exceed thirty (30) single sided pages including pictures, charts, graphs, tables and text you deem appropriate to be part of UH’s review of your Proposal. Resumes of key individuals proposed to be involved in this Project are exempted from the page limit and must be appended to the end of your Proposal.

Except as set forth in this Section 5.4, no supplemental information to the page limit will be allowed. Appended resumes of the proposed key individuals, along with a Transmittal letter, table of contents, front and back covers, references, and blank section dividers will not be counted in the page limit.

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/281989055541180?p=LqVwpOAcn2YgCSo8OE mailto:scisner7@central.uh.edu mailto:rdoming2@Central.UH.EDU

5.4.2 Your Proposal must follow the format outlined below and include a Transmittal/Cover Letter signed by an officer of your firm(s) with the authority to commit the firm(s) and must also acknowledge receipt of all addenda. Include an email address for communication purposes.

5.4.3 Any/all exceptions to the Terms and Conditions included in the Sample Contract shall be clearly identified and appended to the STEP 2 Proposal in order to be considered by UH during the negotiation period.

5.4.4 The electronic Proposal should be sized appropriately for transfer (under 20 MB) and formatted with page size of 8 ½ x 11 inches with no foldouts (except for any large format documents required by evaluation criteria). The basic text information of the Proposal should be presented in standard business font size, and reasonable margins.

5.4.5 UH may reject any Proposal not in compliance with all applicable UH solicitation procedures and requirements and may cancel this solicitation or reject for good cause all Proposals upon a finding by UH that it is in the public interest to do so.

5.4.6 Note that throughout this procurement process, UH will not accept Proposals that require UH to pay the cost of production or delivery.

5.4.7 Telephone and facsimile transmitted Proposals will not be accepted. Proposals received after the Due Date/Time will not be considered.

5.4.8 Each Proposal shall be emailed to scisner7@central.uh.edu. Proposals must be received by the date/time and in the format specified herein. The email line should contain the Solicitation Number/Name and Firm Name. Only those Proposals received at this email address by the Proposal Due Date/Time shall be considered responsive. It is highly recommended that the Respondent confirms receipt of the email when submitting the proposal.

5.5 Acceptance or Rejection of Solicitation Responses by UH.

5.5.1 The procedures for Contract awards shall be in compliance with the provisions of UH Standards and policies adopted by UH.

5.5.2 UH reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals and to waive minor informalities in compliance with the provisions of UH Standards and policies adopted by UH.

5.6 Withdrawal of Solicitation Response.

5.6.1 At any time prior to the Due Date/Time, a Respondent may withdraw its Proposal in accordance with UH Standards.

This will not preclude the submission of another Proposal by such Respondent prior to the Due Date/Time.

5.6.2 After the Due Date/Time, Respondents are prohibited from withdrawing their Proposal, except as provided by UH Standards.

5.7 Evaluation Process.

The written Response to this RFQ is the first in a two-step process in the selection of a firm for this Project. Those written Responses to this RFQ will be evaluated by a selection committee with the top scoring firms being invited to advance to further evaluation steps that may include virtual Presentations/Interviews should the committee determine they are necessary.

After all the Presentations/Interviews are completed, the members of the selection committee will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the finalists. The members of the selection committee will then score the Respondents/finalists based on all information received, presented and heard during the Presentations/Interviews. Deeper Reference Checks will be undertaken again in Shortlist Phase to aid in final scoring. Upon completion of final scoring, negotiations may commence with the highest scoring Respondent. In the event negotiations with the selected Respondent fall short, the Owner reserves the right to select the next highest scoring firm that is within the competitive threshold.

For purposes of this RFQ, “Competitive Threshold” shall mean those Respondents determined by the University, in its sole discretion, to be most highly qualified based on the applicable evaluation criteria and eligible to advance to subsequent procurement stages.

Step One evaluation is intended to assess qualifications, experience, and general approach only. Detailed financial proposals, binding development commitments, and finalized programming assumptions shall be reserved for Step Two.

Final scoring of the finalists Proposal, Presentations/Interviews and Reference/Financial Responsibility Checks (if applicable) will be separate and not cumulative from the RFQ Step One.

5.8 RFQ STEP ONE - Evaluation Criteria. The following items constitute the evaluation criteria for the selection committee to score Written Responses. For ease in reviewing, provide tabs keyed to each of the following criteria:

5.8.1 Firm Background and Project Interest (15 points)

Describe your firm(s), and the nature of your planned affiliation, JVs, and governing agreements. Describe the reason each firm was included in the pursuit, the role each firm will play in the Project, and the value they bring.

Further,…