Restoration and Placement and Operation of The Red Grooms Fox Trot Carousel

The Tennessee State Museum is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for the restoration, placement, and operation of the Red Grooms Fox Trot Carousel, located in Davidson County. The procurement seeks a strategic partner to develop a comprehensive operational plan for the historic carousel's restoration and public display. Key objectives include providing an appropriate space for the carousel, developing a plan that embraces its historical significance, and securing funding to support the project. The RFI requires potential partners to demonstrate capabilities in four primary areas: Care (restoration and operational planning), Place (appropriate space and protective structure), Focus (commitment to the carousel's history), and Fund (financial support). Specific submission requirements include responding to the RFI by December 17, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. central time, with written questions and comments due by November 19, 2025. All inquiries and responses must be directed to Will Harmon, Sourcing Account Specialist at will.harmon@tn.gov. The carousel, originally created by artist Red Grooms in 1998 and previously located at Riverfront Park in Nashville, has been held by the Tennessee State Museum since 2003.

The RFI does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, suggesting the opportunity is open to a broad range of public and private entities. No incumbent vendors are specifically identified, and the museum appears to be exploring public-private partnership options for the carousel's future. The procurement document explicitly states that responding to the RFI is not mandatory for future solicitations and does not create any contractual rights. Additionally, the State will not reimburse response costs, and all submitted responses will become State property and remain confidential until after evaluation of subsequent procurement documents. While no specific budget range is provided, the RFI indicates the need for substantial investment in restoration, placement, and operational capabilities. Potential respondents should be prepared to demonstrate significant financial capacity, historical preservation expertise, and a commitment to public engagement with this cultural artifact.