GDOE accepts revised TRMA contract terms for Simon Sanchez demolition package

The Guam Department of Education, GDOE on Monday confirmed that it has formally accepted revised contract terms from Taniguchi Ruth Makio Architects, TRMA under RFP 006-2020 for a standalone Simon Sanchez High School demolition package.

The authorization supports the procurement process for demolishing the existing campus as part of the effort to build a new school for the Simon Sanchez community.

On Nov. 6, the Department of Public Works, which is leading the procurement for the project, said it had pursued a "two-track procurement strategy," separating demolition of the existing campus from the public-private partnership (P3) procurement for construction of the new campus.

DPW said the strategy allows demolition activities to advance while the "more complex" construction procurement moves through the review process.

DPW previously said the authorization and completion of the remaining work would allow the department to advertise and administer the demolition invitation for bid.

"We appreciate the continued coordination and assistance from Deputy Superintendent of Finance and Administrative Services Franklin Leon Guerrero, GDOE Legal Counsel, TRMA and the Department of Public Works, and we are ready to provide any additional documentation, approvals, or actions needed to proceed with the demolition package," Won Pat said.

Separately, DPW said preparation of the P3 request for proposals for construction and leaseback of the new Simon Sanchez High School campus is complete.

"The procurement package has undergone internal review and will require final review by the Office of the Attorney General before issuance. DPW intends to provide the completed procurement package to the incoming administration for consideration and implementation, including completion of the remaining review requirements and subsequent procurement activities," DPW said.

The proposal evaluation process is in line with the Ma Kåhat Act, which requires participation by designated representatives from multiple government agencies, including agency heads. DPW acknowledged that those positions are subject to the upcoming transition of government from the Leon Guerrero-Tenorio administration to the Ada-Calvo administration.