Air-side HVAC equipment replacement and/or modernization

The Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) has issued a two-step Design-Build Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and Request for Proposals (RFP) for an Air-side HVAC Equipment Replacement and Modernization project located in Atlanta, Fulton County. The procurement seeks design professional services to develop a comprehensive master plan for replacing and/or modernizing all air-side HVAC equipment throughout the 3.9 million-square-foot facility, with initial focus on developing Construction Documents for ten rooftop units (RTUs) supporting Halls B1, B2, and B3. Qualifications Packages are due on April 16, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with the full proposal due by May 28, 2025. The selection process will involve a multi-step evaluation by a Selection Committee, which will assess firms based on financial stability, project experience, team qualifications, project suitability, and interview performance. Minimum qualifications for proposers include current insurance coverage, valid state licenses, sufficient cash flow, and a commitment to workplace safety. Proposers must also adhere to strict communication restrictions, with no direct communication allowed with Authority staff from advertisement through final award, except through specified submission channels.

While no specific set-aside designations are mentioned, the procurement includes an important caveat that the GWCCA retains the right to reject any or all submittals and can waive technicalities or cancel the procurement at any time. The project is currently associated with an ongoing Investment Grade Audit by Trane for an Energy Performance Contract, which includes potential upgrades to the Building C Central Plant, facility-wide controls improvements, and installation of up to a four-megawatt (4MW) photovoltaic array. Although a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the GWCCA is seeking comprehensive estimates from proposing firms for the HVAC equipment replacement and modernization project. The procurement also includes requirements for Construction Administration services for the initial phase. Proposers should note the strict communication restrictions, which prohibit public statements or press releases about finalist selection or apparent awards, with violations potentially resulting in submittal rejection.