Design-Build Services for Western Sportsplex

The City of Burlington, North Carolina is seeking a Design-Build firm to develop the Western Sportsplex through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process. The project involves programming, site selection, design, and construction of a multi-use indoor recreation facility approximately 37,500-40,000 square feet in size. Potential core amenities include a multi-purpose gym, walking/jogging track, climbing wall, indoor child play area, and flexible indoor/outdoor spaces. The procurement requires a comprehensive Design-Build team responsible for site evaluation, programming, design development, permitting, construction, and project closeout. The selection will be conducted by a Review Committee evaluating submissions based on specific criteria: firm experience (20%), team qualifications (25%), project understanding and approach (45%), and other factors (10%). Key dates include the RFQ issue date of September 26, 2025, with Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) due on October 24, 2025, at 3:00 PM, and potential interview dates scheduled for November 4 & 5, 2025.

The project is funded through a 2024 General Obligation (GO) Bond approved by voters, with a total project budget of $30 million. While no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types are mentioned in the documentation, the project aims to expand indoor recreation opportunities for West Burlington residents and serve as a regional destination for recreation and events. The new Sportsplex is intended to address the city's growth since its existing community centers were built in 1978, with the population having more than doubled and the city expanding significantly to the west and south. The facility is expected to generate economic benefits by attracting regional sports tournaments and providing diverse activities for youth, adults, and families. The project represents a strategic investment in Burlington's recreational infrastructure, designed to meet the evolving needs of the community's expanding population.