Professional Design Services for Large Lakes Observatory Project

Background

The University of Minnesota, through the State Designer Selection Board (SDSB), is seeking proposals for professional design services for the Large Lakes Observatory (LLO) project located on the Duluth campus. The LLO is dedicated to the scientific study of large lakes and aims to enhance research capabilities and public outreach related to freshwater sustainability. The project will provide a permanent facility for field research vessels and contemporary laboratory spaces, reinforcing UMD's leadership in Great Lakes research.

Work Details

The scope of services includes: 1. Predesign/Programming, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding/Negotiation, and Construction Administration. 2. Construction of a new ~60,000 GSF research lab facility on the UMD core campus and a ~12,000 GSF waterfront operations facility to support marine research activities. 3. The design must comply with University of Minnesota Design Guidelines and applicable building codes including B3 Sustainable Building Guidelines.

Period of Performance

The project phases are scheduled as follows: - Predesign from July 2026 to December 2026; - Schematic Design from July 2027 to January 2028; - Design Development from February 2028 to September 2028; - Construction Documentation from October 2028 to June 2029; - Bidding from July 2029 to September 2029; - Construction from January 2030 to January 2032; - Commissioning from January 2032 to January 2033.

Place of Performance

The contract work will be performed at the University of Minnesota Duluth campus and at the waterfront Lot-D site adjacent to Lake Superior.

Bidder Requirements

Respondents must demonstrate experience with Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3) and have an Architect as the team lead. They must also comply with a ten percent (10%) subcontracting goal for certified Targeted Group/Economically Disadvantaged/Veteran-Owned businesses. Proposals must include documentation of compliance with insurance requirements and an Equal Pay Certificate if applicable.