Weedon Island and Brooker Creek Educational Refurbishment

Pinellas County, Florida is seeking a qualified firm to perform exhibit fabrication, installation, and related services for the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center and Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. The project involves a comprehensive exhibit redesign to update old exhibits, fix and replace broken interactives, improve interpretive clarity, and enhance ADA accessibility. Deliverable Set Five, representing 60% of the design, has been completed, with the goal of creating immersive, place-based, and interactive exhibits that celebrate the ecological and cultural history of both preserves. The Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued on July 23, 2024, with a non-mandatory site visit scheduled for July 31, 2024. Questions are due by August 2, 2024, and proposals must be submitted electronically via OpenGov by August 13, 2024, at 3:00 pm. The evaluation criteria include 40% for the ability of firm and professional personnel, 35% for firm experience with similar projects, 20% for compensation, and 5% for no exceptions to the RFP. Bidders must be registered with the Florida Division of Corporations and comply with various requirements.

While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly mentioned, bidders must participate in E-Verify and adhere to local, state, and federal regulations. The project requires integration with existing exhibit elements, with some current components to be cleaned and reused. Artifacts showcasing the ancient Weedon Island culture will be incorporated, and the exhibits will feature low-tech, hands-on interactives designed to engage children and a broad audience. The contract will run through delivery and acceptance of all goods and services by the county representative, with pricing to be submitted as a lump sum through an electronic pricing proposal. Although specific budget details are not provided in the documents, the comprehensive nature of the exhibit redesign suggests a significant investment in creating realistic decor, scenery, graphics, and interactive displays that highlight the unique ecosystems and cultural history of the Weedon Island and Brooker Creek Preserves. The project emphasizes creating an educational and engaging visitor experience through innovative exhibit design.