JMRL Central Library A&E Services

The City of Charlottesville Capital Development Division is requesting proposals for architectural and engineering services to design and manage the renovation of the Jefferson Madison Regional Library Central Library facility at 201 E Market Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, with proposals due December 11, 2026 by 2:00 p.m. A local architecture firm must serve as lead architect or sub-consultant — a mandatory participation requirement that filters the competitive pool.

The scope encompasses comprehensive design, planning, and construction administration services spanning conceptual design through project close-out, anticipated for December 2029. The firm must deliver MEP modernization, communications and security systems design, structural and civil engineering, fire safety design, utilities design, landscape architecture, interior and graphic design, and LEED certification management. The awardee must demonstrate extensive experience with library design, historical facility renovation, multi-phase urban projects, and projects exceeding $20 million in construction value. The assignment requires professional liability insurance of $2 million per claim plus specified commercial general liability, workers' compensation, automobile, and umbrella coverage.

The anticipated contract term extends from ratification through construction close-out in December 2029. The City anticipates award in January 2027. Evaluation criteria weight methodology at 40 points, qualifications and experience at 40 points, and overall proposal quality at 20 points. The City will conduct individual discussions with at least two qualified offerors before formal negotiations begin with the highest-ranked firm. Award is contingent on negotiating a contract price deemed fair and reasonable by the City.

A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference is scheduled for October 26, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. at the library facility. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the City's OpenGov procurement portal. The City encourages participation of small businesses, women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses through subcontracting arrangements.