Request for Proposal (RFP): Agricola Street Gateway Sign
Introduction
The North End Business Association (NEBA) is seeking proposals from qualified artists, sign makers, or teams to design, fabricate, and install a gateway sign at 3055 Agricola Street, Halifax. The sign must prominently display the word "Agricola" and embody the cultural, historical, and entrepreneurial spirit of the North End community. This project offers a unique opportunity to create a significant landmark in this vibrant area.
To further assist with the scale, context and understanding for the project, in 2023 NEBA completed a similar gateway "Gottingen" signage project at the corner of Cogswell and Gottingen. The signage desired for Agricola should draw inspiration from the Gottingen signage, but does not have to replicate this.
Project Requirements
The gateway sign must:
Feature "Agricola": The word "Agricola" should be prominently displayed.
Reflect Community Values: The design should capture the cultural, historical, and entrepreneurial essence of the North End of Halifax.
Durability: The sign must be constructed from materials suitable for all weather conditions.
Visibility: The sign must be visible from a distance. Power can be provided for illumination but not a required element.
Height: The sign must rise above the existing fence at the property for visibility (see attached image).
Budget: The total project budget is $30,000 plus HST, covering all costs associated with design, fabrication, and installation. NOTE: Landscaping around the signage is not required as part of this project.
Submission Requirements
Interested parties are requested to submit a proposal that includes the following:
Concept: A preliminary description and/or any visual representations for the proposed sign that you feel is relevant. Note: a concept design is not required at this time.
Materials and Durability: An overview of the proposed materials and how they ensure durability in all weather conditions.
Timeline: A projected timeline from concept development to final installation.
Budget Estimate: A preliminary budget outline including costs for design, materials, fabrication, and installation, as well as demonstrate a commitment to their personnel and financial capacity to undertake the project in their proposed timeline.
Previous Work Examples: Images and descriptions of two previous projects, preferably similar in scope.
References: Contact information for two references from previous clients.
Submission Guidelines
Please submit your RFP electronically in PDF format to info@gonorthhalifax.com by August 2, 2024 @ 11:59 PM ADT. The subject line should read "Agricola Street Gateway Sign". Your submission should include the following:
A short statement about your interest in the project
An outline of your artistic practice
How you will address the project requirements
A short statement about how your past experiences qualify you for this opportunity
If you are working as part of a team please include the details of that relationship
You may submit up to 6 images of past work relevant to this project, clearly indicating the title of the work, description, medium, dimensions, date the work was completed and the associated budget.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on:
Artistic Merit: Alignment with the spirit of the North End community.
Supporting Business: Consideration for the unique identity, culture, and values of the local business community.
Durability: Suitability and weather-resistance materials.
Budget: Adherence to the $30,000 budget and clarity of budget outline.
Experience and References: Quality of previous work and client feedback.
Phase I - Selection Process
The NEBA Placemaking Committee will undertake the selection process comprised of representatives from NEBA, and the North End business and arts community. NEBA reserves the right to reject any or all proposals if none meet the outlined requirements or if a suitable design is not received. This RFP does not commit NEBA to proceed with the project or award a contract.
The Placemaking Committee will review all eligible submissions using the above outlined criteria.
Phase II – Design Proposal
Once identified, the selected artist will be asked to prepare a concept proposal for presentation to the Placemaking Committee. This proposal must take into consideration feedback from the committee. The outlined criteria will be considered for the final design selection, along with a review of the submitted proposal based on the following:
Artistic merit of the proposal
Technical feasibility of the proposed concept including, but not limited to: safety, structure, ability to meet budget and schedule
How well the proposal meets the project requirements
The design must meet the permitting requirements set forth by the Halifax Regional Municipality for permanent signage.
NEBA reserves the right to request any alterations to the proposal in collaboration with the designer. Work on the project is expected to begin upon receipt of the award. The total $30,000 plus HST award is expected to be used to cover all costs including design fees, fabrication, shipping, and installation.
Next Steps
Upon review of the submissions by the Placemaking Committee, the chosen artist will be notified by August 9, 2024.
Contact Information
For any inquiries or further information, please contact:
North End Business Association
We look forward to receiving your proposals and working together to create a landmark that celebrates the unique identity of Agricola Street and the North End of Halifax.
The usable space is the red area outlined in the image below. You are not expected to fill the entire space.
“Height: The sign must rise above the existing fence at the property for visibility (see attached image).”
Could you please attach the image. Thanks!