Playground Renovations and Infrastructure Upgrades

The Habersham County School District is seeking a Design-Build professional services provider for playground renovations and infrastructure upgrades at eight elementary schools: Baldwin, Clarksville, Cornelia, Demorest, Fairview, Hazel Grove, Level Grove, and Woodville. The selected firm will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, including design, construction, pricing, and value engineering. Key deliverables include detailed grading and drainage plans, the installation of playground equipment with concrete foundations, and a minimum of 80% unitary surfacing, with a preference for poured-in-place rubber and turf. All work must adhere to ADA accessibility standards, including the installation of ramps, transfer stations, sensory elements, and braille signage, as well as compliance with CPSC and ASTM safety standards. The procurement process follows a two-step selection based on a qualification review and interviews. Evaluation is weighted across four factors: firm stability, experience and qualifications, ability to provide stipulated services, and the fee proposal, each accounting for 20%. Minimum requirements for eligibility include a valid Georgia GC license, a current ratio of 1.0 or higher, an Experience Modification Rate of 1.2 or less, and sufficient bonding capacity. Proposals were due by October 27, 2026, with work potentially beginning as early as November 11, 2026. The contract will be structured as actual cost plus a fixed or percentage fee, and final acceptance requires a safety inspection by a Certified Playground Safety Inspector.