Valentine Early Learning Facility Improvements

The City of Battle Creek is seeking qualified contractors for a comprehensive renovation project at the Valentine Center, a city-owned early learning facility located at 75 Irving Park Drive in Battle Creek, Michigan. The Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. 2026-026B solicits proposals for transforming the existing daycare facility into a modern early learning environment through extensive improvements. Key project deliverables include flooring replacement, ceiling and lighting modernization, interior painting, restroom and kitchen remodeling, classroom expansion, potential exterior enhancements, and possible window replacements. The bid is due on November 14, 2025, at 2:00 pm local time, with electronic submissions required through BidNetDirect. A mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for October 28, 2025, at 9:00 am at the project site, with the project targeted for completion by April 17, 2026. Contractors must submit a 5% bid bond and demonstrate qualifications including licensing, experience, and financial stability. The project scope covers approximately 7,107 square feet and requires compliance with Michigan Rehabilitation Code standards.

The procurement is open to all qualified contractors without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. The project is collaboratively funded by multiple local entities, including the City of Battle Creek, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Bronson Battle Creek Health Systems, and the Battle Creek Community Foundation, with no federal or state funding involved. Successful bidders will be required to provide performance and labor/materials payment bonds each equal to 100% of the contract value. Contractors must comply with prevailing wage requirements and local non-discrimination provisions. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the renovation and the involvement of multiple funding partners suggests a substantial project investment. The renovation aims to create a high-quality early childhood education facility that enhances the current daycare operations and serves the Battle Creek community more effectively. Contractors will need to carefully integrate new improvements with the existing building infrastructure while maintaining its historic character and meeting modern educational facility standards.