Construct New Center for Outreach and Engagement

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is seeking qualified construction firms to design‑build or manage the construction of a new 15,000 sf Center for Outreach & Engagement on the Gloucester Point campus. The facility will house conference and event spaces, an auditorium, labs/classrooms, office areas, a catering/demonstration kitchen, and a rooftop terrace with extensive river‑view glazing. The solicitation is a two‑step RFQ: first, firms submit qualifications; a shortlist of 3‑5 firms will be invited to a formal RFP for detailed proposals. • 15,000 sf steel‑frame, brick‑masonry building with large fenestration and a rooftop terrace. • Program includes auditorium, meeting rooms, labs/classrooms, offices, and a catering kitchen. • Procurement method: pre‑qualification (RFQ) leading to a design‑bid‑build, CM‑at‑Risk, or design‑build contract. • Required experience: at least three comparable projects (≈ $24 M, ~15k sf, 2 stories) in the past 10 years; key personnel (PM & Superintendent) must have similar project experience. • Small‑business participation targets > 50 % of capital outlay spending with DSBSD‑certified firms.