Nature Center Design

The City of Lewisville is seeking architectural firms to provide professional design services for a new Nature Center project through RFQ #25-109-Q, with qualifications due on September 18, 2025 at 1:00 PM. The procurement follows Texas Government Code Chapter 2254 and will involve comprehensive architectural services including schematic design, design development, construction documents, interpretive design, native landscaping, ecological restoration, community engagement, and construction administration. The nature center will be located adjacent to the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) and aims to create a flagship facility supporting environmental education, community engagement, and ecological research. Shortlisted firms will be selected by October 1, 2025, and will participate in a mandatory workshop on October 15, 2025, with final presentations scheduled for December 17, 2025. The selection process will involve developing conceptual designs, with shortlisted firms receiving a $10,000 stipend for their efforts, and the project may potentially transition to a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) approach during the design phase.

The City strongly encourages participation from Veteran-Owned Businesses, Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB), Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, Minority-Owned, and Women-Owned businesses, with a preference for firms having offices in the DFW Metroplex. The project has an approximate budget of $12 million, which encompasses design, construction, and associated soft costs, with potential eligibility for federal, state, and private grants. Participating firms must comply with ADA regulations and provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including commercial general liability ($500,000 per occurrence/$1,000,000 aggregate), workers' compensation, automobile liability, and professional liability insurance. Contractors will be required to complete conflict of interest questionnaires, verify compliance with immigration laws, and provide detailed business formation information. The project anticipates construction completion by 2028, with the selected architectural team potentially assisting in grant application preparation and supporting the city's broader Green Centerpiece vision of providing accessible park and nature experiences for residents.