Parks and Recreation Masterplan

The City of Tucson has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ 260146) for professional architectural and engineering services to develop a comprehensive Parks and Recreation Masterplan extending from 2025 through 2035. This initiative responds to the city's steady residential and commercial growth, projected at approximately 0.5% annually, adding roughly 22,600 new residents over the period. The Masterplan aims to assess existing park facilities, conduct equity and level of service analyses, engage community stakeholders, and strategize the enhancement and sustainability of parks and recreational assets in alignment with the prior 2016 master plan and the funding provided by the successful 2018 Proposition 407 bond. The bond earmarked over $133 million for park and golf facility improvements and around $91 million for greenways and connectivity projects, with current bond-funded efforts concluding in 2028. This Masterplan project is budgeted at approximately $600,000 and emphasizes data-driven, inclusive planning processes promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Submissions to the RFQ are due by January 13, 2026, and will be evaluated based on a weighted criteria system prioritizing project approach and methodology (40%), relevant experience (30%), innovation and creativity (20%), and overall proposal quality (10%). The award process employs a trade-off evaluation focusing on technical merit rather than low-price considerations. Contractual obligations include adherence to Small Business Enterprise (SBE) participation goals as stipulated by the City of Tucson Procurement Code, with required documentation evidencing SBE engagement when claimed. The contract incorporates standard municipal provisions such as indemnification, inspection and acceptance at destination, contractor independent status, and detailed procedures governing contract amendments and key personnel management. Work may only commence upon issuance of a formal Notice to Proceed authorized by the City, with a maximum project limit of $600,000 per project unless waived. The contract forbids unauthorized assignment, advertising, or modification and requires contractor compliance with applicable local and state regulations, including occupational safety standards. Proposals must be electronically submitted exclusively via the City's procurement portal, with no acceptance of fax or email submissions. Overall, this contract supports Tucson’s strategic vision for its parks system, ensuring sustainable growth management and improved recreational infrastructure through thorough planning and community engagement over the next 15 years.