Manchester National Register Update

The City of Pittsburgh's Office of Management and Budget, on behalf of the Department of City Planning, is soliciting proposals for a historical research project focused on updating the National Register listing for the Manchester Historic District. The procurement seeks qualified professionals and firms to conduct comprehensive historical research with a primary emphasis on Manchester's Civil Rights history. Specific deliverables include an architectural inventory, redefinition of district boundaries, identification of demolished properties, data organization into GIS formats, and updating the National Register form to meet State Historic Preservation Board and National Park Service standards. The project requires the lead consultant to meet the Secretary of Interior's standards for professionals in architectural history and involves creating a public engagement plan, conducting community meetings, and attending at least one Historic Review Commission meeting. Key proposal submission details include a deadline of June 20, 2025 at 3:00 pm, with questions due by June 13, 2025, and an anticipated contract award in July 2025.

The solicitation includes specific participation goals for disadvantaged business enterprises, mandating good faith efforts to include Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (18%), Women-Owned Business Enterprises (7%), Veteran-Owned businesses (5%), and LGBTQIA+ small businesses (3%). Proposal evaluation will be conducted using a points-based scoring system that considers firm qualifications, project team credentials, approach and plan, cost proposal, and commitment to equal opportunity participation. The total project budget is $40,000, with equal funding of $20,000 from the Pennsylvania Museum and Historical Commission and the City of Pittsburgh. Proposers must demonstrate compliance with comprehensive nondiscrimination policies, including establishing written nondiscrimination and sexual harassment policies, with potential consequences for violations including contract cancellation and placement in the Contractor Responsibility File. The project builds upon previous documentation efforts by organizations like the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation and aims to preserve and document the neighborhood's historical and cultural significance.