26-008-LH Architectural and Engineering Services for the New Macon Area (9/3/25)

The contract for architectural and engineering services for the new multipurpose arena in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia, is a qualifications-based procurement led by the County’s Program Management firm, MFA, Program Management, LLC. The project aims to deliver a state-of-the-art, approximately 200,000 square foot arena with about 8,500 seats, including premium options and a 1,200-car structured parking facility, designed to enhance community vibrancy, support existing and new events, and stimulate local development. The scope encompasses comprehensive design services across multiple disciplines—architecture, civil, structural, MEP, fire protection, landscape, traffic, interior, and specialized systems—covering all phases from concept through construction administration, with an emphasis on phased construction to maintain Coliseum operations. The project schedule targets completion within roughly 34 months, with key milestones including RFQ release in August 2025, proposal submission by early September, and contract award shortly thereafter. The RFQ process requires firms to submit sealed proposals comprising one original, five hard copies, and one PDF digital copy, all clearly marked and delivered by the September 3, 2025, deadline to the County’s procurement office. Submissions must include detailed qualification forms, experience, team resumes, and compliance certifications, notably addressing socioeconomic participation (minority, women, disabled, veteran-owned businesses), E-Verify employment verification, and debarment certifications. The evaluation will be based on qualifications, experience, project approach, team expertise, and local participation, with final selection made through a holistic review and interviews, not solely on price. The contract incorporates standard federal and state compliance clauses, including insurance, equal opportunity, and debarment certifications, and grants the County broad discretion to modify or reject proposals. No explicit FAR clauses or line-item pricing are included at this stage, as the process focuses on selecting the most qualified team to deliver a community-enhancing project.