Denny Blaine Park Long-Range Plan and Design

The City of Seattle is soliciting qualifications for a comprehensive long-range plan and design project for Denny Blaine Park through Request for Qualification (RFQ) #2025-024. The project aims to enhance the park by improving multimodal transportation access, increasing accessibility, studying restroom feasibility, upgrading signage, and implementing basic park improvements. Consultants must demonstrate expertise in frontline community engagement, public waterfront facility design, multi-modal access planning, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Required qualifications include a licensed landscape architect, previous experience with public agency contracts, and the ability to obtain necessary business licenses and insurance. The evaluation will be conducted in two phases, potentially including interviews, and will assess the consultant's approach to community needs, project planning, and technical expertise. Key submission deadlines include February 14, 2025, at 5:00 pm for questions through the e-procurement portal, and February 21, 2025, at 5:00 pm for qualification submissions. The anticipated project timeline spans 2-3 years, with work expected to start in spring 2025 and conclude with small improvements construction by spring 2027.

The contract opportunity emphasizes social equity requirements, including women and minority business enterprise (WMBE) inclusion efforts and non-discrimination clauses. The project is specifically funded through the Park CommUNITY Fund, with a total budget of $400,000 covering Seattle Parks and Recreation soft costs, design consultant expenses, and small improvement construction. The solicitation highlights the park's cultural significance, particularly for LGBTQIA+ and nudist communities, with a focus on creating an equitable and accessible public space. The standard City of Seattle Consultant Agreement Template provides a framework for the contract, allowing for either hourly rate or lump-sum payment structures, with total compensation not to exceed the specified budget without written amendment. The contract will include provisions for independent contractor status, intellectual property rights, audit requirements, and potential termination conditions. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the opportunity is open to consulting firms with demonstrated expertise in park planning, design, and community engagement.