DP: OUA-26-059 UGA State Botanical Garden of Georgia 2026 Master Plan

The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (¿BOR¿) as (¿Owner¿), on behalf of University of Georgia (¿UGA¿), (¿User¿) is soliciting statements of Qualifications from firms interested in providing design professional services for the construction of a project known as Project No. OUA-26-059, ¿State Botanical Garden of Georgia 2026 Master Plan¿ at University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia. This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) seeks to identify potential providers of the above-mentioned services. Some firms that respond to this RFQ, who are determined by the Owner to be especially qualified, may be deemed eligible and may be invited to interview for these services. All respondents to this RFQ are subject to instructions communicated in this document and are cautioned to completely review the entire RFQ and follow instructions carefully. BOR reserves the right to reject any or all statements of qualifications or proposals, and to waive technicalities and informalities at their discretion.
Project Background
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia (SBGG) will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2028. Over the past decade, the Garden has undergone substantial growth and transformation, marked by the completion of several significant capital projects that have enhanced both visitor experience and operational capacity. These include the Children¿s Garden, the Porcelain and Decorative Arts Museum, the Boardwalk and Trails Improvements Project, the Dunson Native Flora Garden ADA Trail, and the annual Winter WonderLights event.
More recently, an individual planning study for the Flower Garden has been completed, and construction is underway for the Gateway to the Garden Project, which will establish a new entrance and parking area off South Milledge Avenue. Collectively, these efforts reflect a period of expanded visibility, increased attendance, and evolving expectations for programming, accessibility, and stewardship.
As SBGG approaches this 60¿year milestone, the Garden recognizes a timely opportunity to reassess its long-term physical framework, ensure alignment with its strategic plan, and establish a cohesive roadmap for future growth that supports its