Pre-Advertisement Notice for Blue Heron Nature Preserve Redevelopment

 
 

     
Request for Qualifications (RFQ)
Blue Heron Nature Center Redevelopment
City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation
Section 1 - Project Information
A. Summary
The City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is seeking a qualified
multidisciplinary team (Developer/Operator) with demonstrated expertise in community
hub development, environmental programming, and facility management to reimagine and
operate a publicly accessible nature center at Blue Heron Nature Preserve (BHNP), located
at 4055 Roswell Road NE in Atlanta, Georgia.
Blue Heron Nature Preserve is a 30-acre ecological sanctuary located in the Buckhead
community. As one of the last remaining natural landscapes in this highly urbanized area,
the preserve provides critical wildlife habitat and offers residents a rare opportunity to
connect with nature within the city. The BHNP currently contains a repurposed office
building of approximately 7,500 square feet, originally built in 1979, located within the
proposed nature center project area.
The City seeks a visionary partner to rehabilitate the current building or develop a new
nature center that strengthens environmental education, enhances community
engagement, and advances long-term stewardship of the preserve.
The selected Developer/Operator will be responsible for designing, funding, constructing,
and operating a nature center facility that serves as the primary gateway to the preserve.
The exemplary center should invite people to immerse themselves in the preserve's natural
environments, discover its rich biodiversity, and experience moments of wonder that
deepen their connection to Atlanta's natural landscape. DPR's goal is the creation of a
destination that not only educates and inspires but also strengthens the community's
sense of stewardship for this extraordinary urban sanctuary.
Blue Heron's exceptional ecological value, its prominence as one of the last natural
sanctuaries in Buckhead, and its 30-acre expanse within a densely developed area present
a unique opportunity for a transformative project. The nature center will strengthen BHNP's
role as a hub for environmental education, community engagement, and conservation
while advancing the goals and outcomes outlined in Activate ATL, DPR's 10-year
comprehensive plan.

 
 

     
The selected Developer/Operator will operate the center and provide programming and
hospitality that reflect the preserve's history, commitment to community partnerships, and
environmental mission.
Whether through rehabilitation of the existing structure or construction of a new facility, the
nature center should serve as a welcoming gateway to Blue Heron Nature Preserve and
become a regional destination for environmental education and urban conservation.
Finalists will be invited to interview with DPR leadership. The selected Developer/Operator
may advance into pre-development negotiations leading to a Construction Agreement and
Lease Agreement to deliver the project. If DPR and the preferred Developer/Operator are
unable to reach mutual agreement, DPR may elect to proceed with another qualified
respondent.
B. Site Context
Blue Heron Nature Preserve spans 30 acres and comprises four distinct habitat types:
meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and riparian corridors along Nancy and Mill Creeks,
nestled within urban Buckhead. Its restored meadow ecosystem ("Meadow for Monarchs")
supports native Georgia species such as common milkweed, purple coneflower, bee balm,
goldenrod, and black-eyed Susan, which are crucial for monarch butterflies and other
pollinators. The preserve hosts a diverse wildlife community including painted lady and
black swallowtail butterflies, black-chinned hummingbirds, and beavers. Beaver-
engineered wetlands create ponds that benefit amphibians, turtles, birds, and aquatic life,
adding rare habitat complexity to an urban setting. Additionally, the preserve supports
endangered amphibian conservation for species such as the Frosted Flatwoods
salamander, gopher frog, striped newt, and tiger salamander.
Blue Heron Nature Preserve is an extraordinary ecological and cultural asset in the heart of
Buckhead. It provides critical habitat and respite in a community with limited green space.
The preserve is deeply rooted in community stewardship, supported by decades of
volunteer work, environmental education, public art, and nonprofit partnership.
The preserve serves as a living classroom for environmental education, conservation, and
recreation. The new nature center will elevate this space as a welcoming gateway to native
habitats and wildlife, offering hands-on programming that inspires stewardship, nurtures
curiosity, and fosters a deeper connection with Atlanta's natural heritage. The
Developer/Operator will build upon a long-standing vision shaped through community
engagement, partnerships, and strategic planning.

 
 

     
Atlanta's Department of Parks and Recreation has demonstrated a long-standing
commitment to the Blue Heron Nature Preserve through sustained investment in its growth
and stewardship. Over the years, DPR has contributed significantly to land acquisition
efforts that have expanded the preserve's footprint, supported ongoing facility
maintenance, and funded ecological restoration initiatives. DPR is currently advancing
plans for a $1 million capital improvement project to upgrade the preserve's aging dam
infrastructure, safeguarding wetlands and protecting park assets from future flood risks
and climate-related challenges.
Site Facts
* Total acreage: 30 acres
* Existing building is approximately 7,500 square feet and was constructed in 1979.
* There are no known deed restrictions relating to the proposed site of the nature
center.
* Existing utilities include sanitary sewer, storm sewer, domestic water, and power.
* The Developer/Operator will be responsible for securing site surveys and technical
reports prior to construction.
* The Developer/Operator is advised that DPR has identified deficiencies in the
existing building. If pursuing renovation, the Developer/Operator shall be
responsible for further identifying and remedying all such deficiencies.
B.1 Existing Building Opportunity
Respondents may adaptively reuse and rehabilitate the existing structure or propose
construction of a new purpose-built facility. Proposals are not required to maintain the
existing building's size or shape and may expand, reduce, or reconfigure square footage if
appropriate for the project concept and compatible with the preserve's ecological setting.
Proposals must clearly indicate the preferred approach. If constructing a new facility, DPR
will pay for and manage demolition of the existing building. All programmatic and design
requirements apply to both renovation and new construction.
B.2 Retaining Wall and Structural Considerations
If rehabilitating the existing building:

 
 

     
* The Developer/Operator assumes responsibility for fully investigating existing
conditions and bears all costs related to repairs, remediation, or improvements.
DPR will provide no financial support.
* The existing building and retaining wall have exhibited water intrusion, resulting in
moisture conditions that may create hazardous conditions.
* The Developer/Operator is responsible for all inspections, testing, and due diligence
regarding the building, retaining wall, drainage, structural integrity, environmental
concerns, and any mold or remediation requirements, including evaluations by
licensed professionals.
* All work must be fully warranted, with warranties provided to and enforceable by
DPR.
If constructing a new facility:
* DPR will demolish the existing building.
* The site will be cleared, graded, and stabilized for future construction.
* The retaining wall must be considered in facility design.
* All work must be fully warranted, with warranties provided to and enforceable by DPR.
C. Project Partnership Model
This project presents a unique opportunity to operate a public nature center within a major
urban nature preserve.
Lease Terms
DPR will lease the property, including the land and any improvements, to the selected
Developer/Operator for $1 per year under a lease agreement. The final leased area,
including the specific limits of the premises and other details, will be defined as part of the
lease negotiations.
Developer/Operator may generate revenue through:
* Long-term tenant leases (subject to DPR approval)
* Short-term rentals
* Educational programming
* Community programming
* Other revenue-generating ideas proposed by the Developer/Operator pending DPR
approval

 
 

     
Developer/Operator Responsibilities:
* Fund, design, and construct a new nature center or renovate the existing building.
* Fund, design, and construct the parking lot and any associated site improvements.
* Operate, manage, and maintain the facility, parking lot, and site improvements
throughout the lease term.
* Staff and program the center, including:
a. Provide at least ten (10) free publicly accessible programs per year. The
scope and structure of these programs will be determined in coordination
with DPR to ensure they align with community needs and City priorities while
supporting the Developer/Operator's operational sustainability.
b. Partner with DPR to host six (6) field trips per year at no cost to the City.
These field trips will be coordinated with DPR programming and scheduled in
a way that maintains the Developer/Operator's operational sustainability.
c. Offer fee-based programs as desired.
* Pay all utilities, maintenance, and operating expenses for the facility, parking lot,
and improvements.
D. Vision and Design Requirements
D.1 Guiding Vision
The nature center should:
1. Celebrate nature and sustainability through design, materials, and operations.
2. Serve as a community hub for education, stewardship, and exploration.
3. Integrate seamlessly with the preserve, enhancing ecological health, accessibility,
and community connections.
4. Embody inclusivity, accessibility, and design excellence reflective of Atlanta's
cultural and natural identity.
D.2 Required Design Elements
The new or renovated facility shall:
1. Be designed and constructed in full compliance with all applicable federal, state,
and local laws, regulations, ordinances, and building codes, including but not

 
 

     
limited to the Georgia State Minimum Standard Building Code and City of Atlanta
requirements.
2. Be located in substantially the same general area as the existing building, unless
otherwise approved in writing by DPR.
3. The associated parking lot shall be redesigned and constructed to adequately meet
the operational needs of the facility, including accessibility, safety, and anticipated
visitor capacity.
4. Have a clear architectural aesthetic in keeping with the extraordinary setting.
5. Include interpretive exhibits or a small nature museum that is freely accessible to
the public during operating hours.
6. Celebrate nature and sustainability through design, materials, and operations.
7. Integrate seamlessly with the preserve, enhancing ecological health, accessibility,
and connections.
8. Be supported by a well-designed parking lot and good connectivity to the Preserve
itself.
9. The facility's operating hours shall not exceed BHNP's posted hours of 6:00 AM to
11:00 PM, but the Developer/Operator is not required to be open for this full span. To
determine appropriate hours, the Developer/Operator should refer to the operating
schedules of comparable nearby recreation centers.
D.3 Required Interior Spaces
The facility shall include:
* Programmable space(s) with a minimum seated occupancy of 50, suitable for use
as:
o Community meeting space
o Program space
o Event space
* Public restrooms freely accessible during nature center operating hours
* Administrative office space for operations of the Developer/Operator
* Interpretive exhibits or a small nature museum freely accessible during nature
center operating hours

 
 

     
D.4 Required Site Improvements
The Developer/Operator shall construct a new or rehabilitate the current parking lot and
any associated site improvements needed to support the nature center.
D.5 Optional Enhancements
Respondents may propose elective project elements that enhance visitor experience,
environmental education, or community engagement. All proposed enhancements must
maintain the ecological integrity of the BHNP, ensuring at least 90% of the preserve
remains in a natural condition.
Examples include but are not limited to:
* Educational amenities: outdoor classrooms, demonstration gardens, pollinator
habitat, interpretive trails/signage
* Community spaces: amphitheater, covered pavilion, event lawn
* Environmental features: LEED v4.1 BD+C Major Renovation (for renovations),
ecologically sensitive new construction, rain gardens/bioswales, native
landscaping, renewable energy, responsible materials, high-performance systems,
low-impact site strategies
* Visitor experience: wildlife platforms, boardwalks, interpretive signage
Respondents must describe purpose, benefits, cost, operations, and alignment with DPR
goals. All enhancements require DPR review and approval.
Section 2 - Submission Requirements
Submissions shall be clear, concise, and organized as listed. Total submission, including
narratives, graphics, tables, resumes, attachments, and references, shall not exceed 40
pages (cover letter and table of contents excluded). Graphics may be used but must fit
within the page limit. Pages beyond the limit may not be reviewed.
Interested teams should submit a Statement of Qualifications including:
1) Cover Letter: On firm letterhead, identify the principal contact, providing their name,
title, street address, email address, and telephone number, as well as all persons
authorized to make representations for the respondent. The letter must indicate the
respondent's type of organization (e.g. individual, partnership, corporation, nonprofit,
limited liability company, joint venture). It must briefly summarize the proposal and be
signed by an authorized agent of the respondent.

 
 

     
2) Firm/team Overview: include roles, relevant experience, and key personnel resumes.
a) An organization may serve as the lead applicant on only one proposal but may
participate in a non-lead capacity on additional proposals.
b) Each submission must list all partner organizations. Partners may appear in this role
across multiple proposals.
c) Limit the number of listed team members to seven. Ensure that all references and
project examples directly relate to the individuals included.
d) Provide a link to all organizations and project personnel.
3) Portfolio of comparable projects: Such as nature centers, environmental education
facilities, community hubs, or similar work. Limited to three past projects.
4) A compelling preliminary conceptual design for the new or renovated nature center and
any proposed site improvements. The design must incorporate the parking lot, publicly
accessible educational content, public restrooms, and flexible space for community
gatherings.
a) Including all required amenities, and adding any additional features you propose,
develop a conceptual floor plan that allocates both square footage (SF) and
percentage of total space for each use.
b) Included a narrative to describe how your design and operational approach will
contribute to the sustainability goals of the site.
5) Experience designing and delivering public programming: Summarize your experience
in developing and executing public-facing programs, particularly those related to
environmental education, arts and culture, wellness, or nature-based recreation.
Describe the intended audiences, partnerships involved, and how program outcomes
were measured or evaluated. Emphasis should be placed on programs that promote
equity, accessibility, and long-term community benefit.
6) If applicable to your proposed design, describe your experience managing short-term
rentals and/or long-term tenant management.
7) Project Approach: Describe your team's vision, methodology, and capabilities if
selected to implement the proposed concept. Responses should demonstrate an
understanding of the BHNP's role as a nature preserve, its urban ecological context,
and the City of Atlanta's priorities related to sustainability, equity, and public
engagement. Each item below should be addressed as a distinct narrative. Responses

 
 

     
should be grounded in real-world experience and tailored to the unique opportunities
and challenges of operating within a protected natural area.
a) Experience with conservation, stewardship, and sustainable development:
Provide examples of prior work that reflects your organization's commitment to
environmental values, whether through ecological restoration, sustainable design,
regenerative landscapes, or green infrastructure. Describe how these experiences
have informed your design or operational philosophy. Projects that intersect urban
conservation and public access are particularly relevant.
b) Demonstrated capacity to fund, develop, and operate a public facility: Describe
your organization's capacity to successfully finance, design, construct, program,
and manage a public facility under a lease agreement. Outline any relevant
experience with capital projects, operating budgets, public-private partnerships, or
third-party lease arrangements. Provide evidence of financial stewardship,
fundraising success, or earned-revenue models that support long-term viability.
c) Collaboration with DPR and community stakeholders: Explain how your team plans
to engage in an ongoing, collaborative relationship with DPR and community
partners throughout planning, implementation, and operations. Detail your
approach to co-creating the vision, refining the programmatic mix, and adapting to
community needs over time. Identify any key roles, advisory groups, or engagement
strategies you propose.
d) Approach X-Factor: Additional programs, partnerships, or operating models: Use
this section to present any innovative concepts, collaborations, or operational
frameworks that go beyond the core requirements of the project. These may include
unique community partnerships, earned revenue strategies, volunteer models,
shared-use arrangements, or programs that amplify the center's impact and
deepen its connection to the surrounding community and landscape.
e) Site and Grounds X-Factor: Articulate the distinctive qualities of your site vision.
Describe the elements of your approach that will meaningfully enhance the visitor
experience while honoring the ecological integrity of the preserve. Examples may
include, but are not limited to, sustainable building certifications, innovative
landscaping, interpretive features, or other design strategies that elevate both
environmental and visitor value.
8) High-level construction cost estimate: Submit a high-level construction cost estimate
that reflects the full scope of your proposed concept, including the new nature center,
parking lot and any associated site or amenity improvements. Your cost estimate

 
 

     
should be organized by category, with clear justifications and unit costs where
applicable. The following budget categories must be included. Note that a zero-dollar
allocation is acceptable in any category where it is not relevant to your concept.
Building Cost Estimate Categories
a) Design and Professional Services - including architectural, engineering, landscape
design, permitting, and related professional fees.
b) Building Construction / Restoration - cost per square foot based on proposed size
and materials, including:
c) Core and shell
d) Interior build-out
e) Site and Grounds Improvements - any proposed enhancements such as trails,
outdoor learning areas, planting, stormwater management features, or other
landscape improvements.
f) Furnishings, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) - all movable and fixed items required
to operate the facility.
g) Contingency - funds set aside to cover unforeseen conditions or changes during
design and construction.
h) Escalation - projected increases in costs over time, including inflation and market
adjustments.
i) Other Soft Costs - such as legal fees, surveys, insurance, environmental
assessments, or other indirect project costs.
9) Operations Budget
Submit a proposed operations budget outlining anticipated annual expenses once the
facility is operational. This should include projected costs for:
a) Building maintenance and utilities
b) Personnel (e.g., staff for programming, administration, or facility management)
c) Programming
d) Insurance and administrative overhead
e) Partnership or volunteer support structures (if applicable)
f) Any revenue generating operations