Design-Build for Aquatic Center

The City of New Bern Parks & Recreation Department is soliciting Statements of Qualifications from Design-Build firms or teams for comprehensive planning, design, permitting, and construction services for the Aquatic Center Expansion and Renovation at 1155 Laura Lane, with qualifications due October 15, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in five sealed copies. Selection is qualifications-based without consideration of price at the initial stage; respondents must not submit project pricing, design fees, or project-specific conceptual designs unless expressly requested.

The project scope encompasses a lazy river (300–400 linear feet), an interactive splash pad or aquatic play area (1,200–1,800 square feet), water slides, and a zero-depth-entry pool (optional based on budget). Supporting work includes pool decks, circulation routes, accessibility enhancements, fencing, shade structures, seating, landscaping, mechanical and water-treatment systems, utilities, stormwater management, site lighting, and permitting. The anticipated total project budget is approximately $2 million, encompassing all programming, surveys, investigations, design and engineering, permits, Design-Builder fees, general conditions, construction, aquatic attractions, equipment, site and utility improvements, testing, commissioning, training, closeout, bonds, insurance, and contingencies.

Evaluation criteria (total 100 points) are Company Information and Relevant Aquatic Experience (30 points), Project Approach and Schedule (20 points), Operations Maintenance Guarantee and Warranty (15 points), Prior Completed Work (15 points), Design-Build Team and Team Selection (15 points), and City-Performed Work Coordination (5 points). No minority- or women-owned business participation goal is established or required, though the City encourages good-faith efforts to recruit qualified small-business entities. The City reserves the right to reject any or all qualifications submissions and reserves the option to perform portions of the project using City personnel or separately procured contractors. Questions are due October 2, 2026, with a final addendum date of October 6. Evaluation and ranking are scheduled for October 19–23, with potential interviews October 26–28. Design kick-off is anticipated for fall 2026 and construction start for early 2027.