General Scope of Work

The following describes the general scope of work that is the basis for a firm's Statement of Qualifications:

Review and Analysis of Sites and Existing Features

This work will include an inventory and analysis of existing riverfront parks and trails including documentation of the existing conditions and recommendations as to which features and elements should be kept, modified, and removed in future projects in order to keep consistent with the design guidelines. An analysis of future sites, such as those identified as "opportunity sites" in GR Forward is also expected in order to understand the distinct characteristics of each site and how they might interface with the river, contribute to the circulation through the corridor, and serve the public for both passive and active recreation.

Grand River Corridor Design Guidelines Manual

Development of a graphic-intensive Grand River Corridor Design Guidelines Manual that will act as a "menu list" to guide City staff, private developers, and consultants in creating a cohesive river corridor. This manual should include the following:

• A design philosophy which describes the values to be considered when designing and developing river front sides, including the core tenants of safety, connectivity, accessibility, the diversity of users, and responsiveness to the location and how the site interacts with the river.
• A range of design elements that can be used to develop the public spaces along the Grand River corridor with flexibility while maintaining the continuity and identity of the system. This includes, but is not limited to pathway widths, landscape features, site furnishings, art, green infrastructure, structures, buildings, and architectural elements.
  • Consider and detail the interface with the river, accommodate for flooding and provide flood protection while providing for public interaction and access to the river.
  • Consider the unique characteristics of all potential sites and provide design recommendations for each of the three site types (urban, transitional, and anchor sites)as identified in the new Parks and Recreation Strategic Master Plan.
  • Sufficiently meet green infrastructure and low impact design initiatives administered through current City policies and practices as well as sustainable management practices and policies of the Parks and Recreation Department.
  • Sufficiently be fully developed into project specific technical details and specifications that will be quantifiable and biddable by contractors, as well as permittable by regulatory agencies.
• A matrix of the range of materials, including types, styles, landscape species, manufacturers,probable cost, etc. for all proposed design elements. Proposed materials should be able to endure the environment for which they are proposed, including but not limited to local climate,the Grand River and flooding, ice jams and intense public use.
• Cross sections and details of:
  • Proposed design elements in park and trail spaces.
  • Flood protection that meets the 100 Year Base Flood Elevation and FEMA certification requirements while allowing for public access and green infrastructure.
• Narrative to sufficiently describe and facilitate an understanding of the intent and purpose of the design should also be included.
• An asset management plan that includes maintenance regimes, including type, frequency, and cost, for proposed design elements and existing trail and riverfront park conditions. Durability,life-cycles, and replacement cost information should also be included. Design and material recommendations should consider various levels of use that may be anticipated.
• Circulation plan/map for trail and park users and river recreation users, including a portion of a much larger state water trail system.
• Suggested protocols or processes for reviewing proposed riverbank development for consistency with the Design Guidelines Manual.

Schematic Design and Cost Opinion

Develop schematic design and opinion of probable cost for the Leonard to Ann Trail, the current Water Department Storage Yard site, 201 Market, Canal Street Boat Launch and the recently acquired North Monroe property. These designs will be used to demonstrate the elements included in the Manual and will be used to draft a final design and construction documents for development of those spaces. These sites will be used for construction access during the river restoration project and will need to be restored/reconstructed into accessible public spaces in their final state. Community Engagement Develop and utilize a robust public participation program to engage the community which may include but is not limited to a combination of forums, workshops, charrettes, tours, meetings with key stakeholders, and online/digital methods. It is expected that this process will include opportunities for the public to share ideas and provide feedback on potential materials and designs. Reporting and Meetings Conduct and lead monthly project meetings/conference call with the City. Additionally, the project will include the following minimum meetings. The consultant will be responsible for developing an agenda, in consultation with the City, developing presentation materials, and compiling meeting notes.

• One (1) Planning Commission
• Two (2) City Commission briefing sessions
• One (1) Historical Preservation Commission
• Two (2) Downtown Development Authority
• Two (2) other authority presentations within the DDA district
• Two (2) Parks and Recreation Advisory Board presentations
• One (1) presentation with Grand Rapids Whitewater and river revitalization project partners
• One (1) City Design Team