Architectural Firm to Lead Pre-Bond Planning Process

The Cleveland Independent School District (CISD) is issuing an RFQ to select an architectural firm to lead the pre‑bond planning process for a major 2027 school‑bond election. The effort is split into two phases: Phase 1A (pre‑bond studies, community engagement, and proposition recommendations) due January 8 2027, and Phase 1B (election‑support activities) through May 1 2027. If the bond is approved, Phase 2 (design and construction administration) may be negotiated later. The firm will conduct facility condition assessments, capacity/utilization analysis, educational adequacy studies, technology readiness, demographic projections, and develop a communication plan. It will also prepare a multi‑proposition cost package for a new high school, HVAC upgrades, safety upgrades, a multipurpose complex, and related vehicle purchases. The selection will be based on qualifications, experience with K‑12 projects, bond‑planning expertise, and staff involvement; fee proposals are requested only from the top‑ranked firm. • RFQ #27‑02, submission deadline Nov 12 2026 10 a.m. CST (electronic or sealed hard‑copy) • Award expected Nov 16 2026; Phase 1A deliverables due Jan 8 2027 • Scope includes facility assessments, demographic study, stakeholder engagement, and proposition recommendation for a $‑billion‑scale bond package • Evaluation: 100‑point two‑round scoring (qualifications, K‑12 experience, bond‑planning, presentation) • Contract type: Fixed‑fee for Phase 1A, hourly rates for Phase 1B, optional Phase 2 later • Primary contact: Alfonso Saldivar, Director of Purchasing (email & phone provided)