1507-20251215133851 Byhalia

The Town of Byhalia, Mississippi, in partnership with the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), is soliciting proposals from qualified consultants to conduct a comprehensive Feasibility Study for the redevelopment of the Old School Commons, a 20,366-square-foot municipally-owned historic facility. The primary objectives of the study are to identify high-demand business and workforce development uses for Phase II renovations, establish updated cost estimates, and create an operational framework for managing the facility as a multi-use community hub. Key deliverables include a Needs Assessment, 2-3 Use Scenarios with capital improvement recommendations, Operational and Governance Structures, and Updated Cost Estimates with potential funding sources. The Request for Proposals (RFP) was released on December 2, 2025, with a deadline for questions on January 23, 2026, and proposals due on February 3, 2026. Consultant selection is scheduled for February 17, 2026, with a project start date of March 10, 2026, and key milestones including a Draft Report due September 30, 2026, and a Final Report due October 30, 2026. Proposal requirements include a cover letter, firm qualifications, team member credentials, detailed project approach, work plan, schedule, three references, and an itemized budget, with a maximum submission length of 15 pages. Evaluation criteria will focus on understanding of project goals, approach quality, relevant qualifications and experience, and budget considerations.

The project is funded through a Federal Planning Grant from the Delta Regional Authority, and selected consultants must comply with specific federal requirements, including 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Guidance), maintaining active registration in SAM.gov, possessing a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and carrying business liability insurance of at least $1,000,000. While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are mentioned, the RFP emphasizes the importance of comprehensive qualifications and experience. Proposals must be submitted electronically in PDF format to Jennifer Moody, Town Clerk, at jmoody@townofbyhalia.com, with the subject line "RFP - Feasibility Study for Old School Commons - DRA Planning Grant," and late submissions will not be considered. Although a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the project involves a detailed feasibility study for a significant municipal redevelopment project, suggesting potential for a substantial consulting engagement. The Pre-Bid conference will be offered prior to the deadline in either an in-person or virtual format, providing potential respondents an opportunity to gather additional information about the project scope and requirements.