GREENSBORO, N.C. — Early steps towards constructing a new building that would house the Guilford County Sheriff's Office have started. The county is seeking qualified architects do indicate interest in bidding for the project. They sent out a "Request for Letters of Interest and Qualifications for Architecture Services for Sheriff's Office Building."
"We are looking to see if there are any architects or engineering firms in the state that have experience with designing law enforcement building, that want to be considered for a contract to do the design work," said Marty Lawing, manager for Guilford County.
In late March, County commissioners approved a new plan to move the office to where the old jail stands.
Crews will tear down the old jail and the current Sheriff's office next door in the old Otto Zenke Building on W. Washington Street. The building has been plagued with several structural problems including flooding. There are several visible cracks in walls and many railings and architectural fixtures have fallen apart. Several sandbags also lined along the foundation of the building.
The old building would give way to a 2-storey, 35,000 sq. ft. law enforcement center with an adjoining parking lot with space for 185 cars.
"We are happy to get the project started. This is kind of the kick-off, the first thing is to select an architect and that's crucial to having a successful project, having a successful design team," added Lawing.
"I hope we get a lot of interest from a wide range of firms who have a lot of experience with law-enforcement building design and after that point, once those are received, we will put a team together, an expert team of county staff from facilities, and law enforcement to review the proposals," concluded Lawing.
The budgeted cost for the new building project is about $12 million and funded through sold government bonds. Construction is expected to be completed by the middle of 2021.
Prospective architectural firms have until Friday, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. to make inquiries about the project and process while the deadline to send in proposals is Friday, Sept. 27 at 2 p.m.
For more information contact the county's procurement department at 336-641-4821