Varina on the James - Phase I

The purpose of this Request for Qualifications is to obtain from interested contractors (“Applicants”) their applications for prequalification (“Qualification Statements”) so that the County may establish a list of contractors prequalified to submit sealed bids for the Varina on the James – Phase I project (the “Project”).

In 2023 and 2024, the County of Henrico, Virginia (the “County”) Board of Supervisors voted and approved the acquisition of Varina Farms, a 2,095-acre former plantation along the James River to be preserved for its historical significance, natural beauty and sensitive environment.  Varina Farms is also known as Varina Plantation and Varina on the James and includes a two-story, Classical Revival-style home built in 1853 that includes cosmetic damage attributed to cannonball fire and other fighting during the Civil War.  Varina Farms is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.

The Project focuses on exterior repairs and stabilization of the home/building. Scope includes brick masonry work such as repairing, repointing, and cleaning of existing surfaces. Select areas of damaged wood rafter framing and other structural framing will be replaced. Deteriorated wood lintels and sills will be replaced and refinished, along with refinishing of wood trim and sills at historic windows. Existing wood windows, doors, and exterior trim will be repaired and refinished to preserve their historic character. Copper gutters and downspouts will be removed and replaced, and modifications will be made to the roof framing, followed by roof replacement in selected areas. Interior work during Phase I will primarily consist of demolition, with some targeted wood framing repairs. Additional tasks include demolition of the existing porch, termite soil treatment, and replacement of the existing concrete vault cap. Phase I represents the initial portion of a multi-phase project, with a future phase planned to complete the interior renovation.