RFSQ Design-Build Entity- Cochise County New Jail Project

Cochise County is issuing a Request for Qualifications for a design-build entity to deliver design and construction services for the Cochise County New Jail Project, with qualifications due November 12, 2026, and a mandatory pre-submittal site walk and RFQ briefing on October 14, 2026.

The scope requires a single integrated team comprising a general contractor, architect of record, and engineers delivering both design and construction phases collaboratively under one contract. The new jail will be constructed adjacent to the existing facility at 203 N Judd Drive in Bisbee, Arizona, and will house approximately 400 beds with infrastructure for future expansion to 600 beds. Minimum qualifications include Arizona business authorization and required contractor licensing, an Arizona-licensed design-build architect on the project team, bonding and insurance capabilities, proven design-build services experience, and significant correctional facility experience with adult detention projects.

The County has secured approximately $130 million in total project funding, with an estimated $90 million to $100 million allocated to construction costs; these amounts are preliminary planning estimates subject to refinement. Project delivery is anticipated for the third quarter of 2029.

The procurement follows a four-phase process. Phase 1 will score qualifications to select three finalists based on five criteria: Correctional/Detention Facility Experience and Key Personnel Qualifications (35%), Availability of Project Team (10%), Project Understanding and Approach (35%), Risk/Quality/Safety Approach (10%), and Subcontractor Selection Plan (10%). Statements of Qualifications must not exceed 40 pages and must not include proposed fees, pricing, labor rates, or cost data. The three finalists will be selected by November 24, 2026, with Phase 2 RFP issuance on December 9, 2026, and Phase 2 proposals due February 18, 2027. Phase 3 design-build agreement award is anticipated for March 9, 2027, with Board of Supervisors approval and contract award by March 26, 2027. Written questions must be submitted by October 21, 2026, with responses issued by October 26, 2026. The County reserves the right to cancel the procurement if deemed advantageous.