Large Lakes Observatory

The University of Minnesota is seeking a design team for the Large Lakes Observatory (LLO) project, which includes constructing a new research laboratory building on the Duluth campus and a waterfront facility to support field research vessels. The project aims to provide a permanent home for field research vessels at Lake Superior and support research activities in a portside building. The design team will be responsible for all services and deliverables necessary to complete the predesign, schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding/negotiation, and construction administration phases. The project must meet the Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3) and the Sustainable Building 2030 program. The selected respondent will be required to execute the current AIA Document B101, as amended by the University of Minnesota. Key considerations include the team's experience with similar projects, ability to deal with aesthetic factors, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Some key points to consider are: • The project involves the construction of a new research lab facility and a waterfront operations facility. • The design team must have experience with sustainable building guidelines and energy standards. • The project requires a commitment to diversity and inclusion, with a goal of achieving a 10% Targeted Group/Economically Disadvantaged/Veteran-Owned subcontracting goal. • The selected respondent will be required to provide a detailed schedule and budget for the project. • The project will be delivered via a Construction Manager at Risk (CM@R) method. • The University of Minnesota has a Climate Action Plan, and the project must consider the implications of moving towards net zero operational carbon.