RFSQ Design Build Services UWMC ML Kitchen Cafeteria Expansion Renovation

The University of Washington is soliciting Statements of Qualifications from design-build teams to design and construct the UWMC ML Kitchen Cafeteria Expansion Renovation, with SOQ submissions due August 6, 2026 and a pre-submission meeting on July 24, 2026.

The scope comprises approximately 36,600 square feet: 28,000 square feet of renovated existing kitchen and dining areas and 8,500 square feet of new construction. The Design-Builder must demonstrate experience in hospital support space renovation within operating facilities, competency in collaborative design-build delivery methods including Lean Construction and Target Value Design, and the ability to maintain Plaza Cafe operations throughout the project duration. The project will incorporate an all-electric/decarbonation option and undergo Design Review Board approval. Compliance with RCW 39.10 (Design-Build alternative public works contracting procedure), RCW 39.04.350, and RCW 18.27 is required at proposal submittal; successful proposers must submit a Certification of Compliance with Wage Payment Statutes upon award.

The University's target design-build contract budget is $75 million exclusive of Washington State sales tax, with an overall project budget of $95 million. The anticipated project schedule spans design from October 2024 through December 2025, construction from December 2025 through December 2027, and closeout from December 2027 through June 2028. Following SOQ evaluation, up to three finalists will be invited to submit full proposals due September 11, 2026, with office visits scheduled for September 9–13. Contract execution is anticipated for September 26, 2026. SOQ evaluation criteria are Team Members (30 points), Design-Build Process (30 points), Partnership (20 points), Business Equity (10 points), and Construction Site Safety (10 points), with Bonding and Insurance as pass/fail requirements. Unsuccessful finalists will receive a $5,000 honorarium for proposal preparation efforts. The last day for RFI requests is July 26, 2026; the last addendum was issued August 1, 2026.