Business and Employment Resource Center Design Services

The vendor is required to provide to design the relocation and expansion of the business & employment resource center (BERC).
- Key components of the project include
• Individual workstations for the public: design areas equipped with computers and workstations where job seekers can access resources for resume writing, job applications, and online job searches. 
• These spaces are specifically intended for public use and must be designed to be accessible, functional, and welcoming. 
• Training and workshop rooms: design dedicated areas that can be adapted for workshops, training sessions, classes, and hiring events, featuring the necessary technology for virtual and in-person sessions. 
• Private office spaces: create private, soundproof offices for one-on-one counseling, business consultations, and interviews. 
• Employee workspaces (cubicles): provide cubicle-style workspaces for BERC employees. 
• These areas will not be accessible to the public but will support staff operations and administrative work necessary for the day-to-day functions of the center. 
• Reception area: a highly functional reception area designed to serve as the first point of contact for visitors, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Restrooms and support facilities: ensure that all restrooms and support spaces are compliant with act standards and efficiently integrated into the overall design.
- Professional consultant services
• The selected architectural firm will be responsible for providing a full range of professional services required for the design, documentation, and construction administration of the business & employment resource center (BERC) relocation and expansion project.
o Attend a project kick-off meeting with city staff and stakeholders to discuss project goals, schedule, budget, and specific requirements. 
o Coordinate with other consultants, including engineers and contractors, to ensure alignment of the project scope and timeline.
• Site analysis and programming:
o Conduct a thorough analysis of the project site to assess its conditions, constraints, and opportunities.
o Work with city staff to finalize the programming of the space, identifying specific needs for different areas (e.g., individual workstations, training rooms, private offices, community spaces).
o Prepare a space plan and functional layout for review and approval by city staff.
• Design development:
o Develop preliminary design concepts, including floor plans, elevations, and 3d renderings, to demonstrate the overall vision and functionality of the new BERC.
o Present design concepts to the city and incorporate feedback to refine the design.
o Ensure the design meets all applicable building codes, zoning regulations, and act accessibility requirements.
• Construction documents:
o Prepare detailed construction documents, including architectural plans, specifications, and other supporting documents necessary for bidding and permitting.
o Coordinate with engineers to ensure the integration of structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems into the design.
o Provide a cost estimate based on the construction documents, including a breakdown of materials, labor, and other project expenses.
• Permitting and approvals:
o Submit plans to the appropriate agencies for review and approval (e.g., local building departments, zoning authorities).
o Address any comments or revisions requested by reviewing agencies, ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
• Bid assistance:
o Assist the city in preparing bid documents and reviewing bids from contractors.
o Provide recommendations regarding contractor selection and assist with contract negotiations as necessary.
• Construction administration:
o Provide oversight during the construction phase, including site visits to monitor progress and ensure adherence to the design intent, schedule, and budget.
o Address any issues that arise during construction, working closely with the contractor and city staff to resolve them in a timely manner.
o Conduct regular meetings with the contractor and city staff to review project status, address concerns, and keep the project on track.
• Project closeout:
o Provide assistance with project closeout, including reviewing punch lists, confirming that all work has been completed to specification, and assisting with the final inspections.
o Provide as-built drawings and other documentation required for the city’s records.
• Optional services (if applicable):
o If the city decides to proceed with the future expansion to the full 35,000 square feet, the consultant will provide design services for the additional space as part of a subsequent phase.
o Assist with any additional tenant improvements or facility upgrades as needed.
- Contract Period/Term: 2 years
- Pre-Proposal Meeting (Non-Mandatory) Date: July 10, 2025
- Questions/Inquires Deadline: July 17, 2025