Savannah Convention Center Landscape Services

GEORGIA WORLD CONGRESS CENTER AUTHORITY
ON BEHALF OF THE SAVANNAH CONVENTION CENTER
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
RFP #SCC092826RB
LANDSCAPE SERVICES
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SECTION I
PROCUREMENT OBJECTIVE
1. Summary Statement
Notice is hereby given the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (hereafter referred to as "Authority" or "Owner") is
soliciting competitive sealed proposals from experienced firms specializing in providing Landscape Services for large public
facilities as further described herein and in accordance with the terms, conditions, and requirements set forth in this Request
for Proposal (RFP).
This procurement will be for the Savannah Convention Center located in Savannah, Georgia. The contract, if awarded, will
be administrated by the Savannah Convention Center Building Maintenance Department or other designee, located at One
International Drive, Savannah, Georgia, 31402.
All respondents to this RFP are subject to instructions communicated in this document and are cautioned to completely review
the entire RFP and follow instructions carefully. The Authority retains the right to reject any or all submittals and/or proposals,
and to waive technicalities, irregularities, and informalities, and retains the right to cancel or conclude this procurement at
any time without selecting a firm to provide the described services, without any liability to any respondents, or any other
person or entity, and is under no obligation to make an award relating to this RFP to any person or entity. The final terms of
any Agreement for the project contemplated by this procurement will be determined by the Authority, subject, in all cases, to
strict compliance with the applicable provisions of the laws of the State of Georgia.
A. IMPORTANT- A RESTRICTION OF COMMUNICATION IS IN EFFECT FOR THIS PROJECT.
From the time of advertisement of this solicitation until final award is made to a successful respondent and such award
is announced, interested firms are not allowed or permitted to communicate about this solicitation or scope with any staff
or any official representatives of the Authority, GWCC, or other facilities of the Authority, or their consultants, except
for submission of questions as instructed in the RFP, or as provided by any existing work agreement(s). Apparent
Awardee(s) are restricted from making public statements or press releases about their selection as finalists or their
apparent award. For violation of this restriction, the Authority reserves the right to reject the submittal of the offending
respondent.
2. Issuing Officer and Authority Contract
This RFP is being issued by the Georgia World Congress Center Authority, which is the only office authorized to change,
modify, clarify, etc., the provisions of this RFP and to award any contract(s) resulting from the RFP.
The Issuing Officer and sole point of contact for administrative and technical issues regarding this RFP is:
Roni Bell, Issuing Officer
Georgia World Congress Center Authority
285 International Boulevard, NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30313-1591
Telephone: (404) 223-4217
E-mail: ronbell@gwcc.com
The Issuing Officer may designate others to act on his/her behalf. The Authority may change the Issuing Officer or the limits
of his/her authority at its discretion.
3. Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference/Site Visits
The Mandatory Proposal Conference/Site Visit will be held: October 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Savannah Convention Center
Jasper Boardroom-Ronnie Hickman, Senior Director of Operations & Special Projects
One International Drive
Savannah, GA. 31402-0248
Late arrivals shall be subject to dismissal; all vendors are cautioned to arrive on time. Attendance at Pre-Proposal
Conference/Site is mandatory from start to finish to be eligible to submit proposal(s). A maximum of two (2)
representatives from each firm may attend. Directions to the facilities are available at Savannah Convention Center.
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For information regarding this conference contact the Senior Director of Operations at 912-447-4070, Ronnie Hickman.
All potential respondents are encouraged to have a copy (ies) of this solicitation for the Pre-Proposal Conference, as copies
are not guaranteed to be available.
The purpose of this conference will be to clarify the contents of this Request for Proposal in order to help ensure a thorough
understanding of the Authority's requirements. Any questions as to the requirements of this Request for Proposal, or any
apparent omission or discrepancy should be presented to the Authority's representatives at this conference. This conference
also provides a forum by which interested parties will have equal access to relevant RFP information prior to the final proposal
submission.
4. Schedule of RFP Events
The following Schedule of Events represents the Authority's best estimate of the schedule that will be followed. All times
indicated are Eastern Standard Time. The Authority reserves the right to adjust the schedule as deemed necessary. If a
component of this schedule, such as the close date, is delayed, the rest of the schedule may be shifted as appropriate.
Event Date Time
a. Authority issues RFP 09/28/26
b. Mandatory Proposal Conference/Site Visit
10/8/26 01:00PM
c. Deadline for submission of written questions and requests for
10/13/26 2:00PM
clarification
d. Answers to questions posted 10/15/26 2:00PM
e. Deadline for submission of Proposals 10/26/26 10:00AM
5. Obtaining Proposal Documents
The complete RFP package Documents, scope of work, proposal form and associated Addendum (if issued) will be
PUBLICLY POSTED on the GEORGIA PROCUREMENT REGISTRY at the following web address (and may be
directly downloaded using Acrobat 7.0):
https://ssl.doas.state.ga.us/PRSapp/PR_index.jsp.
6. Proposal Submission and Deadline
Proposals are to be addressed and delivered, on or before the submission deadline, as follows:
One (1) Original (Clearly Marked) and One (1) USB Drive containing a complete copy of solicitation response to:
Georgia World Congress Center Authority
Purchasing Department
285 Andrew Young International Boulevard
Atlanta, Georgia 30313
Attn: Roni Bell, Issuing Officer
All copies of the proposal shall be submitted in a sealed, opaque envelope or box, words "SEALED PROPOSAL", RFP #
SCC092826RB "Savannah Convention Center Landscape Services" clearly indicated, along with Proposer's name and
address, on the outside of all the sealed envelope(s) and/or box(es). No telephone, email, or facsimile proposals will be
considered.
Sealed proposals sent by courier, mail, etc., should be addressed to the Issuing Officer and should be received no later than
the proposal deadline (October 26, 2026).
Proposers are solely responsible for ensuring delivery of proposals to, and in the hands of, the Issuing Officer by the date and
time indicated. The mere fact that the proposal was dispatched or mailed may not be considered. Any proposal received after
the date and time specified or improperly marked, prepared, or submitted may not be eligible for consideration and may be
returned unopened. Proposals will not be publicly opened.
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7. Duration of Offer
Once submitted, a proposal becomes the property of the Authority and constitutes an offer by the Proposer that may not be
revoked or withdrawn after the time set for deadline for receipt of proposals and shall remain open for acceptance for a
period of One Hundred and Twenty (120) days following such time, and thereafter only in writing.
END OF SECTION
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SECTION II
BACKGROUND and INTENT
General Information
1. Organizational Context
The Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) campus, which includes Georgia World Congress Center,
Centennial Olympic Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Signia by Hilton Atlanta, is the largest combined convention, sports,
and entertainment campus in North America. Since 2014, GWCCA has managed and operated the Savannah Convention
Center (SCC) - marking the industry's first-ever private-to-public facility management agreement. These facilities exist for
the primary benefit of promoting and facilitating events and activities that generate economic benefits to the citizens of the
state of Georgia as well as enhance the quality of life for every Georgian.
Centennial Olympic Park
Commemorating the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park (COP) is a 22-acre urban oasis in the center
of Atlanta's dynamic downtown entertainment district and is operated by Georgia World Congress Center Authority. COP's
great lawn provides natural seating for 20,000 and new features make it the ideal location for a variety of events. Centennial
Olympic Park is located adjacent to the Georgia World Congress Center.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium/The Home Depot Backyard
The 71,000-seat Mercedes-Benz Stadium (MBS) is home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United and annually hosts the
AFLAC Kickoff Game, Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, SEC Football Championship Game along with other special events and
concerts that provide fans with an unparalleled experience while contributing to the economic growth and success of Atlanta
and the state of Georgia. Sitting in the former footprint of the Georgia Dome, The Home Depot Backyard functions as a fan
experience zone and parking lot during events at MBS, and as greenspace open to the public on non-event days.
Savannah Convention Center
In 2014, the Georgia International Maritime and Trade Center Authority (now Savannah-Georgia Convention Center
Authority) approved the selection of GWCCA to manage and operate the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center
- today known as Savannah Convention Center (SCC) - marking the industry's first-ever private-to-public facility
management agreement. The 330,000-square-foot SCC currently features 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 367-seat
auditorium, 50,000 square feet of prime meeting space consisting of 13 meeting rooms, a 25,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom,
and four executive board rooms. In fiscal year 2020, the Georgia General Assembly approved $70M in bonds for an expansion
project that will double the exhibit hall space as well as offer a 40,000 square-foot ballroom, 15 new meetings rooms, and a
900-space parking deck. The SCC expansion project broke ground in March 2021.
Signia by Hilton Atlanta
Owned by GWCCA and managed by Hilton Management Services, Signia by Hilton Atlanta is the city's largest downtown
ground-up hotel development project in 40 years. The 453-foot-high, 976-room hotel overlooks Mercedes-Benz Stadium and
is connected to Georgia World Congress Center's Building C. Signia by Hilton Atlanta offers more than 100,000 square feet
of meeting space, including the largest hotel ballroom in Georgia, an outdoor event deck and lawn, and three boardrooms.
The hotel also features eight signature food and beverage experiences, including three restaurants and three bars, as well as
world-class amenities, including a spa, beauty bar and fitness center with yoga stations, Peloton bikes and more.
The Authority enjoys a strong service reputation based upon our ability to provide a superior facility and related services.
The following Request for Proposals will be used to select an organization to partner with the Authority to deliver a service
to our customers in a manner that complements our ongoing operations and commitment to excellence and sustainability.
2. Intent
The Georgia World Congress Center Authority will consider proposals from qualified and experienced firms ordinarily
engaged in the business of providing landscape services, as described herein and in accordance with the terms, conditions,
and requirements set forth in this Request for Proposal (RFP). The Authority intends to make a single award to the highest
scored proposer (s) meeting all requirements herein but reserves the right to make a split award if deemed in the best interest
of the State.
3. Term
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Initial term of the agreement shall be for approximately two (2) years from the date of execution.
Renewal Option: After the initial term, the Owner reserves the right to extend the term for three (3) consecutive one (1) year
periods at its sole discretion.
The selected Proposer will be required to execute a contract consistent with the terms and conditions of this RFP.
Extension: In the event that this contract shall terminate or be likely to terminate prior to the making of an award for a new
contract for this commodity, the Authority may, with the written consent of the Vendor extend this Contract for such period
as may be necessary to afford the Authority continuous service as provided by this Contract.
END OF SECTION
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SECTION III
SCOPE OF SERVICES
LANDSCAPE SERVICES
I. GENERAL SCOPE / SPECIFICATIONS
The overall scope of this RFP is concerned with landscape services for the Savannah Convention Center. Proposers are
cautioned to completely familiarize themselves with all of the requirements prior to proposing. Contract(s) may be awarded
to one or more contractors for any, all, or portions of, the listed scopes.
The Owner is interested in receiving proposals that address a comprehensive solution to the Landscape Services described
herein. The initial term of each scope of services is two (2) years with three (3) renewal options. It is envisioned that a
successful maintenance program will ensure optimum economic benefit, extend the life of and protect building assets, help
the Owner manage schedules, and provide accountability for services. The General Scopes of Services is as follows:
1. Contractor shall provide services for Landscape Maintenance, including but not limited to mowing,
watering, fertilizing, weeding, spraying, policing, edging, mulching, irrigation, and pruning throughout the
campus grounds including three sixth floor terrace areas.
2. All mulch/pine straw areas will be re-mulched/strawed two (2) to four (4) inches at least twice per year
with spot repairs conducted as needed. All mulching will be proposed outside contract at the time of service.
3. Contractor shall provide all services in a good workmanlike manner, maintaining vitality of all existing lawns
and plant materials.
4. Contractor shall provide monthly inspections of landscape areas and furnish a report of conditions and remedial
actions. Service report shall be turned in monthly describing services rendered, problem area(s), corrective
action(s), etc.
5. The Contractor shall promptly correct any and all work that is deemed unsatisfactory to the Owner.
6. Furthermore, Contractor shall immediately report to Owner any observed deficiency that could cause damage or
destruction to any plant material including any maintenance deficiencies with water supply or the irrigation
systems.
7. All equipment and materials of the Contractor that are stored on site must be stored in areas designated by the
Owner.
8. Operate, monitor and manage all irrigation systems. All necessary repairs will be proposed outside contract.
9. Soil samples shall be taken once per year in October and submitted to the University of Georgia Ag
Services Lab. Their recommendation(s) will be followed to maintain optimum fertility and pH levels. Turf tissue
samples shall be taken in June and also submitted to University of Georgia Ag Services Lab.
10. Staffing: In addition to a once weekly crew visit, contractor shall have one (1) experienced gardener with
vehicle on the property five (5) days a week. Minimum 40 hours per week. Gardener reports to Owner.
11. Quality Control Program: Provide a detailed 12-month program to ensure that your services will meet
or exceed the requirements of the contract. Include all landscape functions and timing. Plan must be
detailed. Plan must also include dedicated equipment for use on property. Include make/model, year, hour
meter (if applicable).
II. Lawn Care:
A. Mowing and Edging:
* Lawns shall be mowed once weekly during the active growing season and as needed during the other seasons.
During extended rainy or dry periods mowing may take place as conditions dictate. Mowing height will be
based on what is horticultural correct for the turf variety taking into account the season.
* Hard and soft edges shall be edged with a metal blade edger to maintain a neat appearance.
B. Fertilization:
* Lawns shall be fertilized through multiple applications within the year with a commercial fertilizer. The
number of applications will be dependent on the type of nitrogen used and type of turfgrass. Quantities and
frequencies shall be adequate to produce consistent, healthy, green turf.
C. Fungicide:
* Monitor turf for fungal infections and treat with approved fungicide to control disease-causing damage.
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D. Pesticide:
* Monitor turf for insect activity and treat with legally approved pesticides to control damage-causing diseases
and/or pests.
E. Weed Control:
* Pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides shall be applied as needed to produce a weed free turf at all times.
F. Over Seeding
Over seeding with Ryegrass at 450lbs. per acre shall be done on the area fronting the river,
G. Aerification:
* Aerify all turf once annually to promote root growth and water penetration.
* A hollow tine type of aerator shall be used that removes soil cores. Cores to be left on turf to naturally break
down.
H. Renovation:
* Warm season turf grasses will be renovated by Verti cutting and/or scalping in early spring..
III. Ground Cover Area/Shrub Areas:
A. Edging:
* Edge ground cover as needed to keep within bounds and away from obstacles.
B. Pruning:
* Shrubs and saw grass shall be pruned only as necessary to maintain the natural form of the plant, to maintain
growth within space limitations, to promote new growth and blooming, and to eliminate damage or diseased
wood. This excludes pruning necessitated by storm damage, disease, neglected overgrowth or winterkill.
* Fig vines shall be pruned to remain at a consistent height at all times.
C. Weed Control:
* Keep beds reasonably free of broadleaf and grassy weeds, preferably with pre-emergent and or selective post-
emergent/contact herbicides. Weeds over 4" in height to be removed mechanically.
* Avoid soil cultivation to maintain pre-emergent herbicide effectiveness and root health.
* Post-emerge control broadleaf weeds with selective herbicides.
* Chosen chemical(s) will be recommended and legally approved for the specific weed problem.
D. Fertilization:
* Apply fertilizer as warranted. The number of applications will be dependent on the type of nitrogen used and
the type of plant material. Quantities and frequencies need to be adequate to produce healthy plant material at
all times.
E. Fungicide:
* Apply recommended, legally approved fungicides to control disease causing damage to ornamentals.
F. Pesticide:
* Apply recommended, legally approved pesticides to control insects causing damage to ornamentals.
IV. Tree Care:
A. Pruning:
* Height limitation for tree pruning covered in the specification is 12 feet. On trees over 12 feet only low-
hanging branches that present a hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic will be raised.
* Trees less than 12 feet are scheduled to be pruned in the winter months except for safety-related pruning,
which will be done as needed. Evergreen trees fewer than 12 feet shall be thinned out and shaped only if
necessary to minimize wind and storm damage.
B. Staking:
* Stakes are to be inspected and adjusted or removed as necessary. When trees attain a trunk caliper of 4" or
substantial root development stability has been made they shall be removed.
V. Mulched Areas/Granite Areas:
* Mulched or decomposed granite areas will be inspected weekly and man-made debris removed.
* Weeds and grasses shall be controlled with recommended, legally approved herbicides. In those areas with
excessive mulch build up, alternatives will be discussed with SCC staff with appropriate solution proposed
outside contract.
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VI. Irrigation System:
* Areas should be watered for duration adequate for moisture to penetrate throughout the root zone and as
frequently as necessary to maintain healthy plant growth.
* Watering shall be scheduled with automatic controllers to supply quantities and frequencies consistent with
seasonal requirements of the plant materials in the landscape. Controller programs will be adjusted as dictated
by the weather.
* Where practical, watering shall be done at night or early morning.
* All irrigation equipment shall be maintained in good working condition. All repairs and changes to be
proposed outside contract and must be approved by SCC prior to repair.
* All irrigation equipment shall be properly winterized as to not cause any damage to the equipment or
operation.
VII. Debris Cleanup:
* All landscape areas shall be inspected on days of service and excess debris removed. Gardening debris,
generated from Provider's work, shall be removed immediately from paved areas. This excludes leaf fall
pickup from parking areas, sidewalks, etc.
* Plants and fungus growing in brick pavers should be treated immediately and removed.
* Provider will perform a daily survey of the property for pick-up of trash and debris Monday through Friday.
VIII. Additional Services:
* Seasonal color enhancements, mulch installation, bush-hogging, and additional requested services will be
handled separately of the base landscaping agreement. These services will necessitate a formal price quote,
and such work will be completed after approval by SCC.
* Monthly site visits with SCC and Provider staff shall be conducted. Notes shall be forwarded to Director,
Supervisors, and General Manager for updates and follow-up.
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END OF SECTION
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