Construction manager sought for WTC memorial, museum.

In preparation for the start of construction, the World Trade Center Memorial Foundation, in cooperation with the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, released a Request for Proposal for a construction manager for the memorial and memorial museum.

The release of the RFP will allow the Foundation to prepare for the start of construction in the spring of 2006 to meet its expected opening in 2009.

"This is an important next step in our efforts to build a lasting memorial at the World Trade Center site," said Foundation chairman John C. Whitehead said. "As chairman of both the WTC Memorial Foundation and the LMDC, I am pleased that we are on track with meeting our schedule of starting construction early next year. The construction manager will help ensure that the construction of the memorial and museum is kept on time and within budget."

The RFP can be broadened to include additional facilities, including a visitor and orientation center and performing arts center at a time when designs are ready and funding is available. The RFP lays out a schedule for selection of the construction manager, the types of services to be provided, the selection criteria and a strong program to support minority and women-owned business enterprises to participate in the project.

The Foundation is asking for the construction manager to provide services in two phases. The first phase will include pre-construction services which will result in submitting a guaranteed maximum price for the project to be agreed upon by the Foundation--this GMP means that the selected contractor will be responsible for all costs above that agreed upon budget. The second phase will include construction services for the project.

According to Lou Colletti, president of the Building Trades Employers Association, which represents 1,500 contractors, "This is a big deal. My members are excited about bidding on this globally significant project. It's another indication--real and symbolic--that there's progress."

The Foundation has a commitment for the meaningful participation of minority and women-owned business enterprises not only during the selection process, but throughout the life of the construction project. Its evaluation criteria will include a strong commitment to M/WBE.

The Foundation will also review bids based on a strong safety record, performance history, technical and managerial capabilities and other qualifications that can assure the delivery of the project on schedule and within budget. Contractors must demonstrate expertise in providing services for large scale projects in major metropolitan areas.