Morgan’s Point RFP for architects and support issued
The Government has initiated a search for architects and support service providers as it moves to begin the revitalisation of Morgan’s Point.
A request for proposal, published last week, stated that the Morgan’s Point Development Company was seeking “prospective proponents” to submit proposals for architectural design and support services for the project.
The services include: a redesign of the existing precast hotel guest buildings into service apartments; modifications to previously designed residential condominium buildings; detailed designs of a retail and amenities district; and support services required for the project.
The RFP documents state: “Morgan’s Point, Bermuda, located in the Southampton Parish, is planned to be a mixed-use residential community that will provide a sustainable economic benefit to the citizens of Bermuda.
“One of the key challenges the project hopes to address is a lack of mixed-use retail and commercial development on the western end of the island.
“As such, Morgan’s Point will hope to cater to a wide cross-section of the local Bermudian economy with access to restaurants, shopping and outdoor activities beyond the existing services offered.”
The documents state that the redevelopment of the site would need to maximise the economic value while “restoring the reputation of Morgan’s Point as a hallmark destination”.
“After several design and cost to complete options were evaluated, a decision was made to redevelop the project with 35 residential units, 42 service apartments, 48 amenities district apartments and an amenities village that includes both commercial space and dining facilities,” the documents added.
“A fitness centre, spa, back of house, administrative areas, a central utility plant, beach enhancements and associated infrastructure will complement the development with the existing marina.”
The documents noted that the condition of the structures already on the site would require an assessment, as they have been exposed to the elements.
“While not anticipated to impact completion of these partially constructed structures, demolition and redesign of the existing structures may be considered,” the documents add.
The deadline for submissions is June 30.
The Morgan’s Point site had been earmarked for an 80-room boutique hotel with 313 additional residences and a 325-room luxury hotel with 337 additional residences.
However, funds for the Caroline Bay project ran out, causing work to halt in 2018, and a $165 million government guarantee was subsequently called on the debt.
In February, the Government announced that it would turn the unfinished site into a residential development along with a restaurant and retail complex.
David Burt, the Premier, said the 37-acre site in Southampton would provide opportunities in the hospitality, retail and service sectors. It will cost an estimated $130 million and be backed by a government guarantee.
He later said that the operation will generate cash returns to “more than cover the costs of construction” so that Bermuda can recoup funds that were paid out for the guarantee agreed by the One Bermuda Alliance for the hotel plan.