Cleaning and preservation of stone mountain memorial carving

Stone Mountain Memorial Association is requesting proposals for cleaning and preservation services on the Confederate Memorial Carving on Stone Mountain's north face, with proposals due August 17, 2026 and site visits available July 24–August 7, 2026. The carving, measuring approximately 190 feet wide by 90 feet high, requires specialized historic stone conservation work that removes biological growth, environmental staining, and accumulated deposits without damaging the granite surface.

Qualified respondents must demonstrate at least five years of experience cleaning and conserving historic stone with three comparable completed projects, five years of rope-access or work-at-height experience on large rock faces with current IRATA, SPRAT, or equivalent certification, and knowledge of the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for historic preservation. A full-time field supervisor experienced in comparable historic treatment work must be present on-site throughout the project. Contractors assume all risk during site inspections and proposal preparation.

Scope includes pre-construction condition assessment with high-resolution photography, test panel cleaning on discrete areas using proposed methods, comprehensive cleaning of the carving and surrounding tablet, preservation repairs to caulking and deteriorated features, and a final condition assessment report. A 2017 test report indicates high-pressure hot-water steam combined with chemical treatment demonstrated the best long-term results. Work must occur September through December 2026 when air and surface temperatures remain reliably above 45 degrees Fahrenheit and must avoid evening drone and laser show blackout dates.

Insurance requirements include Commercial General Liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, Automobile Liability of $1,000,000 combined single limit, Workers' Compensation at statutory limits with $1,000,000 Employer's Liability, and Umbrella/Excess Liability of $5,000,000. All costs are included in firm, fixed pricing within a budget stated in the RFP. Contractors must register with E-Verify and ensure all subcontractors present compliant work authorization affidavits. Questions are due August 8, 2026. Anticipated contract award is August 24, 2026, with project commencement by September 14, 2026.