Zoo Entrance Educational Building Design

The City of Salisbury Department of Procurement is requesting proposals for full design services for a new Zoo Educational Entrance Building at the Salisbury Zoo under RFP 27-102, with proposals due September 25, 2026. The procurement follows the Brooks Act methodology and requires open competition based on demonstrated competence and qualifications at a fair and reasonable price.

The scope encompasses approximately 10,000 square feet including six bird holding areas with viewing access, a reptile glass viewing area on both floors, an animal food preparation kitchen, ADA-compliant pathways, water main extension, fence redesign, parking area connection, and traffic flow modifications. Deliverables include 30%, 60%, and 100% design drawings with color renderings and cost estimates; Joint Permit Applications if required; and a design charette within 60 days of contract award. The project must meet Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation standards for animal holding and exhibit areas. The approximate construction cost is $4 million. Proposers must possess current professional licenses and conduct a site visit within 30 days of contract award to verify existing conditions and utilities.

The City will evaluate proposals on a weighted 100-point scale: 35 points for vendor experience, qualifications, team expertise, financial stability, and licenses; 25 points for performance history on projects within the past five years including municipal government experience; 25 points for pricing competitiveness and value; 10 points for project scheduling; and 5 points for specific experience with zoological exhibits and AZA familiarity.

Successful vendors must maintain Professional Liability Coverage of $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate, and Commercial General Liability of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate. Contract execution must occur within 15 working days of receipt. The City will award the contract to the most responsible and responsive vendor within 120 days of proposal opening, with discretion to negotiate, enter into discussions with multiple qualified vendors, or reject all proposals. All proposals remain valid for a minimum of 120 days.