RFQ for Professional Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Services for the renovation of the Sam Houston Building

The State Preservation Board (SPB) in Texas is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) 809-25-0013 for professional Architectural and Engineering (A/E) services to renovate the Sam Houston State Office Building in Austin. The project seeks a qualified firm to provide comprehensive services including programming, conceptual design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, solicitation assistance, construction administration, warranty management, and project close-out assistance. The procurement will utilize a Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) delivery process, with the project divided into multiple design packages over an anticipated three-year timeline. Evaluation of proposals will be based on qualifications, with firms scored on Firm Experience and Expertise (30 points), Project Management and Project Schedule (30 points), Demonstrated Understanding of the Project (20 points), and Design Approach and Methodology (20 points). Key dates include an optional pre-proposal conference on March 25, 2025, with proposals due by April 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM CT, and an anticipated contract start in June 2025. Respondents must be licensed in Texas, with engineering and architectural firms required to maintain current business entity registration.

The RFQ includes a specific Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan with a 26% HUB participation goal for "Other Services" category. Vendors must demonstrate good faith efforts to include Texas certified HUB vendors, including contacting at least three certified HUB vendors and two trade organizations about subcontracting opportunities. The selected contractor will be responsible for providing specialized professional services including life cycle costing, utility infrastructure design, interior design, acoustics, lighting, food service, wayfinding signage, and landscape design. The contract is contingent on continued funding availability, and the contractor will be subject to performance evaluations for potential future contract considerations. While a specific budget is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the renovation and the three-year project timeline suggest a significant investment in modernizing the Sam Houston State Office Building. Contractors must comply with various state requirements, including maintaining specific insurance coverages, adhering to drug-free workplace policies, and meeting comprehensive legal and ethical standards outlined in the standard terms and conditions.