The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation has issued a Request for Proposals in search of at least ten firms that will provide landscape architecture services for upcoming park improvement projects. 

“We are seeking experienced design firms to advance projects that improve parkland across the five boroughs with a focus on equity, sustainability, and access,” said NYC Parks Deputy Commissioner for Capital Projects Therese Braddick. “The landscape architecture firms selected through this RFP will have the chance to make a lasting impact on New York City's park system by reimagining greenspaces for the communities they serve.”

While NYC Parks designs about 70% of landscape architecture projects in-house (its capital division employs nearly 500 team members, including more than 100 landscape architects), the department also works with consultants on a number of projects. The selected landscape architecture consultants will help ensure that various capital projects maximize the long-term benefits of parks for both the staff who operate and maintain them and visitors. 

As detailed in the department’s RFP announcement, “Proposals should demonstrate successful relevant experience in public space design and familiarity with areas such as sustainability, accessibility, adaptive reuse, and historically sensitive restoration. A background in parks is encouraged but not required.” The department is also encouraging the participation of Disadvantaged/Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprise (D/M/WBE) firms. 

Interested practices must submit proposals through the department’s Procurement and Sourcing Solutions Portal (PASSPort) no later than April 12, 2022.