Buffalo City Hall Historic Structures Report and National Historic Landmark Feasibility Study

The City of Buffalo Department of Public Works is requesting proposals for a comprehensive Historic Structures Report and National Historic Landmark Designation Feasibility Study for Buffalo City Hall, with proposals due September 25, 2026 at 4:30 PM. MWBE participation goals of 25% MBE and 5% WBE apply.

Buffalo City Hall is a 32-story Art Deco civic building completed in 1931 at 65 Niagara Square. The consultant must document the building's architectural and developmental history, assess existing conditions and preservation needs, identify character-defining features, provide photographic documentation, and develop prioritized restoration recommendations aligned with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. A standalone National Historic Landmark Feasibility Report evaluating eligibility through comparative analysis with nationally significant civic Art Deco buildings is required. Deliverables include draft and final Historic Structures Reports, the NHL Feasibility Report, digital photograph archives, presentation materials, and supporting research documentation.

The consultant team must include at minimum a Secretary of the Interior-qualified Architectural Historian and Historic Architect, with demonstrated experience on Historic Structures Reports for major civic buildings and strongly preferred experience with National Historic Landmark evaluation or nomination. The project budget cap is $300,000 with an anticipated one-year duration from notice to proceed.

Evaluation is weighted technical approach (30%), qualifications (30%), cost (25%), MWBE participation (10%), and completeness (5%). The consultant must carry comprehensive insurance including Workers' Compensation, General Liability ($2 million), Automobile Liability ($1 million), and Professional Liability ($2 million), with the City of Buffalo named as Additional Insured and Certificate Holder. No incumbent has been identified. Proposals should be submitted electronically to Vincent A. Dugo at VDugo@buffalony.gov.