Design Build Services

Hemlock Public School District in Hemlock, Michigan is requesting proposals for design-build services for the expansion and potential renovation of Hemlock Elementary School/Early Childhood Center, with proposals due July 15, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. EST and a mandatory pre-proposal meeting on June 30, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. EST. Addendum #1 to the RFP was posted June 24, 2026.

Phase I involves approximately 3,000 square feet of new construction utilizing approximately $1 million in USDA grant funding and will include a secure main corridor connection, office and student support space, two to three new early childhood classrooms with attached restrooms, student restrooms, and a redesigned parent drop-off and pick-up loop. Phase II, contingent upon voter approval of a non-qualified bond in November 2026, would add an anticipated 9,000 square feet of additional space and utilize $2 million to $3 million in bond funding.

The Design-Builder will provide single-point responsibility for design and construction from conceptual design through project close-out and must coordinate all necessary consultant services including architecture, interior design, structural, mechanical/electrical/plumbing, civil, landscape, technology, security, and furniture. The District will establish a Guaranteed Maximum Price following design and bidding phases. The Design-Builder must competitively bid all trade categories in compliance with Michigan public bidding requirements.

Fee proposals must specify percentage ranges for design services, general conditions, contractor overhead and profit, and change-order markups for both Phase I and Phase II, expressed as percentages of cost of work. The contract utilizes a modified AIA A141-2024 Standard Form of Agreement. The Design-Builder must maintain commercial general liability insurance of $3 million aggregate/$1 million per occurrence, professional liability insurance of $1 million per occurrence, workers' compensation with $100,000 employer's liability, and automobile liability of $1 million combined single limit, with 30 days' notice of cancellation.

Selection is based on experience and qualifications, cost-effectiveness, project approach, and understanding of project scope. Phase I work is expected to begin the week of August 24, 2026, with design and bidding from August 2026 through Spring 2027, construction beginning Spring 2027, substantial completion in Summer 2028, and facility opening for the 2028-2029 school year. Interviews are anticipated for July 28, 2026, with final Board approval expected August 12. All proposals must include notarized familial relationship and Iran Economic Sanctions Act compliance disclosures.