Request for Proposal (RFP) for Design
Work: Project Everberry
Introduction
Project Everberry is a comprehensive initiative aimed at revolutionizing sustainable agriculture,
food access, and construction practices in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. To ensure the success of the project, we seek proposals from qualified design firms to collaborate on the creation of tailored, state-specific RFPs and the execution of various design and procurement tasks associated with greenhouse infrastructure. The scope includes all aspects from initial environmental assessments to the final commissioning of greenhouse equipment and systems.
This RFP will be utilized to select a design team that will guide the successful formulation and subsequent implementation of Project Everberry.
Project Objectives
The core objectives of Project Everberry are as follows:
– To address sustainable agriculture needs through the development of state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities.
– To ensure optimal food access for local communities in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia.
– To enhance agricultural resilience and productivity by incorporating environmentally sustainable designs and technologies.
Scope of Work
The selected design firm will be responsible for delivering the following scope of work in relation
to the project:
1. Environmental Requirements and Reports
– Provide detailed, project-defined environmental requirements.
– Complete and provide geotechnical, zoning, and permitting reports to ensure compliance with local regulations and conditions.
– Conduct a comprehensive climate study and communicate the results, focusing on the specific needs and conditions in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia.
– Conduct water sample analysis, providing recommendations for water use, treatment, and sustainability.
2. Greenhouse Design & Procurement
– Greenhouse Structure & Glazing Design/Drawings & Procurement: Design and produce detailed construction drawings for the greenhouse structure, including glazing and material specifications. Procure necessary materials for construction.
– Greenhouse Benching Design/Drawings & Procurement: Design and provide procurement services for greenhouse benching systems to ensure optimal growing conditions.
– Greenhouse Heating Design/Drawings & Procurement: Develop heating system designs, including drawings and procurement of heating equipment.
– CO2 System Design/Drawings & Procurement: Design and procure CO2 system to maintain optimal greenhouse atmosphere.
– Natural Greenhouse Ventilation/Cooling Design/Drawings & Procurement: Develop ventilation and cooling designs, including detailed drawings, and procure systems for temperature regulation.
– Supplemental Lighting Design/Drawings & Procurement: Design and procure supplemental lighting systems to maximize plant growth, including energy-efficient solutions.
– Irrigation/Nutrient Delivery System Design & Procurement: Design and procure advanced irrigation and nutrient delivery systems to ensure sustainable water and nutrient usage.
– Environmental Controls System Design & Procurement: Design and procure
environmental control systems to regulate climate variables such as temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration.
3. Coordination & Integration
– Coordination with Other Design Consultants & Trades: Ensure seamless integration with other design consultants and construction trades.
– Coordinate Building Layout with Civil & Other Consultants: Ensure building layout aligns with civil engineering and other consultant work for an efficient and effective design.
– Coordinate Utility Requirements/Loads with Local Utility Providers: Work with local utility providers to coordinate and confirm utility requirements, including energy, water, and waste management.
– Provide Required Information for Energy Incentives & Rebates: If applicable, provide necessary documentation to utility providers for energy incentives and rebates related to greenhouse equipment.
– Coordination of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) Delineation: Work with general contractors (GC) and other trades to define responsibilities and materials for MEP installation.
4. Budgeting and Construction Support
– Development of Construction Budget: Work with the team to develop a
comprehensive construction budget that incorporates design, procurement, and construction costs.
– GMP Budgeting: Assist in General Contractor GMP (Guaranteed Maximum Price) budgeting.
– Start-Up Support of Greenhouse Equipment: Provide start-up support for the greenhouse equipment in the designated greenhouse area.
5. Commissioning & Testing
– Commissioning & Functional Testing of Greenhouse Systems: Conduct functional testing and commissioning of all greenhouse systems, ensuring that each system meets design specifications and operates as intended.
Proposal Submission Requirements
Design firms interested in participating in the proposal process must submit the following information:
1. Firm Profile: Overview of your firm, including years of experience, relevant expertise in greenhouse design, sustainable agriculture, and previous project examples.
2. Team Composition: Detailed information on the key members of the project team, including qualifications and experience.
3. Approach & Methodology: A description of the approach you will take to complete the project, including any specific strategies or unique solutions you intend to apply.
4. Timeline: A detailed timeline for each phase of the project, including milestones for design, procurement, and commissioning.
5. Budget Estimate: A preliminary budget estimate for the design and procurement work outlined in this RFP.
6. References: At least three references from past clients with similar projects.
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
– Experience: Proven experience in designing and implementing greenhouse systems and sustainable agriculture solutions.
– Approach & Methodology: The clarity and feasibility of the proposed approach and methodology.
– Technical Expertise: Demonstrated expertise in relevant systems, including greenhouse heating, CO2 systems, irrigation, environmental controls, and sustainable building practices.
– Budget and Timeline: Alignment of proposed budget and timeline with project goals and constraints.
– Sustainability Focus: Commitment to sustainable agriculture and energy-efficient design solutions.
Submission Instructions
Please submit your proposal by Wednesday, June 18, 2025 to the following address:
Jodi Adams
Grow Ohio Valley
1006 Grandview St.
Wheeling , WV 26003
[email protected]
For any inquiries or clarification, please contact Jodi Adams at
740-921-8488 or
[email protected]
Conclusion
Project Everberry represents a critical initiative in promoting sustainable agriculture, food access, and environmental responsibility. The selected design firm will play a pivotal role in shaping this project and ensuring its success. We look forward to receiving your proposal and working together to achieve the project’s goals.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
INTEL – June 4, 11, 2025
Sponsored by ZMM Architects and Engineers