Request for Qualification for Capital Improvement Project; Food Service for the Raleigh Convention Center Expansion

The City of Raleigh is requesting qualifications for professional foodservice design and consulting services for the Raleigh Convention Center Expansion, with qualifications due November 9, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. EST. This procurement is governed by North Carolina General Statute Chapter 143 Article 3D (the Mini-Brooks Act), which prohibits price as an evaluation factor; proposers must submit hourly rate schedules in a separate sealed envelope, but rates will not influence selection.

The scope encompasses programming, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and bidding support for all commercial foodservice equipment and food and beverage service areas within a new three-floor facility of approximately 322,646 gross square feet to be constructed at the current Red Hat Amphitheater location. The consultant will provide coordination and construction-phase services through equipment installation, start-up, and commissioning. Anticipated construction duration is approximately 36 months beginning in November 2026.

Evaluation criteria are weighted equally at 20 percent each: Corporate Background and Experience, Firm Financial Stability, Project Understanding, Project Approach, and Team Firm Experience and Qualifications. Responses are scored 0 to 3 based on how well they meet expectations. Proposers must provide audited or reviewed financial statements, compiled financial statements with supporting documentation, or a certified statement of financial viability from a licensed CPA. Firms must demonstrate experience with similar projects over the past five to seven years and provide at least three references.

The evaluation meeting is anticipated for the week of November 30, 2026, with a tentative selection announcement on December 4, 2026. Contract term and completion date will be defined by the City upon award. A pre-submittal conference was encouraged but not mandatory.