HomeMy WebLinkAboutDesign 5 - Contractors-All Trades & Services-Parks & Rec Dept. - Due 8_27_26 at 3_00pm (RFQ)From:Ryan Hamilton
To:Bozeman Procurement
Cc:Troy Scherer; Jenny Scherer; Ryan Holdorf
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Contractors-All Trades & Services-Parks & Rec Dept. - Design 5 - Due 8/27/26 at 3:00pm (RFQ)
Date:Friday, August 14, 2026 10:15:17 AM
Attachments:RFQ Response Design 5 - Contractors-All Trades & Services-Parks & Rec Dept 26_0827.pdf
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City of Bozeman,
Attached please find Design 5 Landscape Architecture’s response to the RFQ entitled
“Contractors-All Trades & Services-Parks & Recreation Department,” which is due on
8/27/26 at 3:00pm.
Please let us know if you have any questions.
Your response to confirm receipt would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
Ryan Hamilton
Senior Associate
111 North Tracy Avenue
Bozeman, Montana 59715
O: 406-587-4873
C: 406-580-2260
www.design5la.com
111 North Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715 406.587.4873
www.design5la.com
August 14, 2026
Via Email: procurement@bozemanmt.gov
City of Bozeman
P.O. Box 1230
Bozeman, MT 59771-1230
SUBJECT: RFQ Response
Title: Contractors – All Trades and Services – Parks and Recreation Department
Due Date: Thursday August 27, 2026 at 3:00pm
To City of Bozeman:
We are pleased to submit the enclosed RFP response for professional services in support of
future projects to be undertaken by the City of Bozeman Parks and Recreation Department.
Design 5 Landscape Architecture has been fortunate to collaborate with, and work for, the City
of Bozeman Parks and Recreation Department on many projects over the years, and we look
forward to continuing our work together for the benefit of the City and its people.
Please feel free to contact me anytime to schedule an interview or if you have any questions
regarding the enclosed information.
Sincerely,
Troy Scherer, PLA, ASLA
Owner/Principal
Design 5 Landscape Architecture
troy@design5la.com
O: 406-587-4873
C: 406-600-0342
111 North Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715 406.587.4873
www.design5la.com
August 14, 2026
PROJECT RFQ Response
Title: Contractors – All Trades and Services – Parks and Recreation Department
Due Date: Thursday August 27, 2026 at 3:00pm
FIRM INFORMATION
Experience:
Design 5 has designed, permitted, and, in most cases, provided construction observation services
for many successful projects in Bozeman and southwest Montana. Below is a list of representative
projects and the project location, scope, and client contact information.
1) Bozeman Public Safety Center
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Native landscape design, permitting, construction observation
o Client: City of Bozeman
o Contact: Jon Henderson
o Phone: 406-582-2303
2) Bozeman Fire Station #2
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Landscape design, permitting, construction observation
o Client: City of Bozeman
o Contact: Jon Henderson
o Phone: 406-582-2303
3) Gallatin County Courts (Justice Center)
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Landscape design, permitting, construction observation
o Client: ThinkOne Architects
o Contact: Bill Hanson
o Phone: 406-586-7020
4) Bikefill Community Bike Park
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Park Master Plan, Landscape design, permitting, construction observation for
hubs and playground
o Client: Gallatin Valley Land Trust
o Contact: Matt Parsons
o Phone: 406-587-8404
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111 North Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715 406.587.4873
www.design5la.com
5) Story Mill Park
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Master planning, design, construction observation, and trail planning
o Client: Trust for Public Land
o Contact: Maddy Pope
o Phone: 406-522-7450
6) Southwood Park
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, and construction observation for playground, dog park, trails
and pathways, pavilions, amenities, etc.
o Client: RTR Holdings
o Contact: Randy Hecht
o Email: randy_hecht@yahoo.com
7) Aaker Park North
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, and construction observation for playground, picnic area,
pavilion, bridges, amenities, dog park, trails and pathways, etc.
o Client: West University
o Contact: Connor Brown
o Phone: 406-599-6116
8) Canyon Gate Park
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, and construction observation for playground, picnic area,
trails and pathways, pavilion, amenities, etc.
o Client: Homebase Partners
o Contact: Andrew Gault
o Phone: 406-404-1788
9) City of Bozeman Alley Enhancement Project
o Location: Bozeman (alley between North Tracy Ave. and North Black Ave.)
o Scope: Alley beautification, design drawings including lighting, signage, artwork,
amenities, permitting, and construction observation
o Client: City of Bozeman and Downtown Bozeman Partnership
o Contact: Ellie Staley
o Phone: 406-581-3827
10) Blackwood Groves Park
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, and construction observation for playground, dog park, trails
and pathways, etc.
o Client: Bridger Land Company
o Contact: Grant Syth
o Phone: 406-898-3488
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111 North Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715 406.587.4873
www.design5la.com
11) MSU American Indian Hall
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Native landscape design, permitting, and construction observation
o Client: Montana State University
o Contact: Richard Rudnicki
o Phone: 406-994-5560
12) MSU Gianforte Hall
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Native landscape design, permitting, and construction observation
o Client: Henneberry Eddy Architects
o Contact: Jennifer Dunn
o Phone: 406-630-3463
13) Jerry Askin Park at West Post
o Location: Belgrade
o Scope: Design, permitting, and construction observation for playground, picnic area,
pavilion, restroom, pond, dog park, trails and pathways, etc.
o Client: Barnard Group
o Contact: Kent Merselis
o Phone: 406-599-2030
14) Peet’s Hill
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, and construction observation for 12-acre City Park expansion
including trails, lookouts, signage, fencing, medicine wheel gathering area, etc.
o Client: Gallatin Valley Land Trust
o Contact: Matt Parsons
o Phone: 406-587-8404
Professional Personnel:
• Troy Scherer, PLA, ASLA
o Education
▪ University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 2005, Master of Landscape Architecture
▪ Saint John’s University, 2000, Bachelor of History and Environmental Studies
o Experience
▪ All aspects of landscape architecture, park and recreation design, community
outreach, planning, etc.
• Ryan Holdorf, PLA
o Education
▪ University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 2004, Master of Landscape Architecture
▪ University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 2001, Bachelor of Environmental Design
o Experience
▪ All aspects of landscape architecture, park and recreation design, community
outreach, planning, etc.
Page 4 of 6
111 North Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715 406.587.4873
www.design5la.com
• Grant Olson, PLA
o Education
▪ University of Oregon, 2022, Master of Landscape Architecture
▪ University of New Mexico, 2020, Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
o Experience
▪ All aspects of landscape architecture, park and recreation design, community
outreach, planning, etc.
Firm Background:
Design 5 was founded in 2009 and currently operates as a twelve-person full-service Bozeman-
based professional landscape architecture firm with approximately $2.5MM in annual revenue.
Design 5 is dedicated to creating beautiful, functional, and sustainable outdoor spaces that
contribute to the well-being of individuals, communities, and the environment in the Rocky
Mountain West. We have experience in a wide range of civic and private projects including civic
campuses and parks, trails, recreation facilities, urban and ranch planning, resorts, and all types of
residential and commercial developments.
We are experts in the planning and design of innovative, sustainable native landscapes. Our
services include: Planting design, including the selection and placement of plants, flowers, shrubs,
and trees; Fire protection vegetation management and planning; Public facilities and public safety;
Public engagement and outreach; ADA and code compliance; Hardscape planning, including the
design of custom patios, firepits, and stone installations; Natural play features, playgrounds, and
playscapes; Master planning; Trails and pathways; Landscape restoration and reclamation; Exterior
lighting and sound design; Signage and entry monuments; Land and outdoor art installations; Hike,
bike, and ski recreation trail planning; Weed management; Landform grading, erosion control,
irrigation, and water conservation; Pool, pond, and dock design; Hot tub design, including
mechanical systems; and Viewshed framing and enhancement.
Our team embodies a dedicated group of designers, project managers, and planners with extensive
experience and a deep understanding of and respect for the region’s ecology, climate, and culture.
We craft sustainable, functional, resilient, durable, and memorable outdoor experiences that
celebrate the unique characteristics of our diverse and captivating landscape to inspire and delight.
Sustainability and ecology are central to everything that we do. Sustainable design minimizes the
environmental impact, while promoting the long-term ecological health of our region. Our design
team prioritizes ecological sensitivity, which includes the use of native plants, integrating edible
gardens and pollinator species, incorporating green infrastructure and ecological restoration, while
also utilizing storm water management systems to conserve water resources.
Integrating green spaces and recreational areas into public domain contributes to a more livable
and sustainable community. Well-designed landscapes meet the user’s needs, providing
opportunities for recreation, social interaction, relaxation, and various activities. Facilitating
accessible and inclusive connectivity between different parts of a community are essential aspects
of designing successful spaces so that they can be enjoyed by diverse user groups.
Page 5 of 6
111 North Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715 406.587.4873
www.design5la.com
Each project brings a new sense of adventure. Our team thrives on challenges, embraces creativity,
and celebrates the unique character of every site. We begin by gaining a thorough understanding
of our client’s objectives, evaluating site constraints, and exploring design iterations. Our team
capitalizes on opportunities to add unique design elements, such as a special water feature, a
whimsical playground, or other elements to engage users and enhance the outdoor experience.
Communication with stakeholders is crucial throughout the process as we work together to
evaluate and refine to ensure that the project achieves its established goals.
Our landscape architects, designers, and project managers work collaboratively, which allows us to
capitalize on each person’s strengths, push each other creatively, and ensure that the best ideas
rise to the top. Since everyone contributes, the whole team has a sense of ownership, pride, and a
shared goal to exceed expectations and meet budget and deadlines.
Design 5 does not intend to use Generative AI in the fulfillment of the services if awarded a
contract, and Design 5 does not have experience with bonding security.
Firm Workload:
Design 5 will be a collaborative, knowledgeable, and qualified team member to assist the Parks and
Recreation Department and the design team in the successful completion of the identified projects.
Our local expertise and deep knowledge of City needs and review processes will benefit the Parks
and Recreation Department.
We intend to be as efficient and effective as possible by collaborating with the team and providing
feedback during the project timeline. We recognize that the nature of each project is to deliver
quality outcomes within the budget, and we have a successful track record accomplishing this goal
for many previous projects. Our detailed and clear plans will provide predictability and will reduce
total installation cost. Bidding assistance and construction observation services can be provided to
help meet budget goals.
The Design 5 team requests at least one (1) month advance notice for most projects so that the
work can be scheduled accordingly in order to meet project timelines and deadlines.
Claims:
In the last ten (10) years, Design 5, LLC has not been assessed or paid liquidated damages after
completion of a project under a contract with a public owner.
Page 6 of 6
111 North Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715 406.587.4873
www.design5la.com
References:
Below please find detailed contact information for the following five (5) projects undertaken by
Design 5 within the past five (5) years:
1) Southwood Park
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, construction observation for playground, dog park, trails and
pathways, etc.
o Client: RTR Holdings
o Contact: Randy Hecht
o Email: randy_hecht@yahoo.com
2) Aaker Park North
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, construction observation for playground, picnic area, dog
park, trails and pathways, etc.
o Client: West University
o Contact: Connor Brown
o Phone: 406-599-6116
3) Canyon Gate Park
o Location: Bozeman
o Scope: Design, permitting, construction observation for playground, picnic area, trails
and pathways, etc.
o Client: Homebase Partners
o Contact: Andrew Gault
o Phone: 406-404-1788
4) City of Bozeman Alley Enhancement Project
o Location: Bozeman (alley between North Tracy Ave. and North Black Ave.)
o Scope: Alley beautification design drawings including lighting, artwork, permitting, and
construction observation
o Client: City of Bozeman and Downtown Bozeman Partnership
o Contact: Ellie Staley
o Phone: 406-581-3827
5) Jerry Askin Park at West Post
o Location: Belgrade
o Scope: Design, permitting, construction observation for playground, picnic area, pond,
dog park, trails and pathways, etc.
o Client: Barnard Group
o Contact: Kent Merselis
o Phone: 406-599-2030
PROJECT PROFILESTORY MILL COMMUNITY PARK
TYPE / PARKS
LOCATION / BOZEMAN, MONTANA
SCOPE / MASTER PLANNING
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
SITE ANALYSIS
SPATIAL DESIGN
HARDSCAPE DESIGN
NATIVE PLANT DESIGN
RIPARIAN RESTORATION
ACCESSABILITY PLANNING
TRAIL & BRIDGE SITING
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATION
Master planning. Demolition. River cleanup. Wetland restoration.
Community meetings. Playground design. From the initial site analysis to the
ribbon cutting eight years later, D.5 was instrumental in every stage of bringing
Story Mill Community Park to life. Throughout it all, D.5 was the central
hub, gathering and synthesizing input from architects, city engineers, stream
specialists; coordinating the work of The Nature Conservancy, the Trust for
Public Land and other key stakeholders; managing the input of hundreds of
community voices; and guaranteeing that every element served the goals of
education, exploration and discovery. The result is 60-acres of play spaces,
multi-use lawns, picnic areas, climbing boulders, and scenic trails surrounding
a nature preserve and a beautifully restored stretch of the East Gallatin River.
STORY MILL COMMUNITY PARK / CIVIC
To create the nature preserve, D.5 removed invasive species and planted native ones, created two small ponds, and restored the original wetland
habitat. Not content to rely on maps and satellite imagery for trail planning, they explored the land on foot in all seasons and all times of day to
identify routes that reveal something new to discover around each bend and meander.
STORY MILL COMMUNITY PARK / CIVIC
D.5 selected a quiet streamside glade for their modern
bird blind. Quiet visitors may catch a glimpse of the
foxes, deer, black bears, and as many as 110 species of
birds that frequent the park’s 40-acre nature preserve.
Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the park’s
public gathering spaces, picnic tables and play areas.
A wide, flat trail leads to this welcoming fishing spot
along the East Gallatin River, the Blue Ribbon trout
stream that winds through the park.
STORY MILL COMMUNITY PARK / CIVIC
D.5 created the conceptual design for a one-of-a-kind playground inspired by Bozeman’s natural and human
history. Kids can climb on a huge wooden osprey or explore the two-story “grain elevator,” outfitted with a
climbing wall and a slide, which echoes historic Story Mill. D.5 sited the playground along a hilltop row of
narrowleaf cottonwood trees which provide shade, sound and shelter for kids and families as they play.
STORY MILL COMMUNITY PARK / CIVIC
An allee of Autumn Blaze maples
defines the park’s promenade and
frames the view of the Grand Pavilion
and the Bridger Mountains beyond.
Like all the playground elements, the
enormous bison skull is both a bold design
feature and an interactive structure meant
to be played on, around, and within.
Given the rare opportunity to “design from dirt,” D.5 meticulously
envisioned a Town Center Plaza that could be used year-round for
recreation, connection, and community gathering. Anchored by
the elegant Wilson Hotel, D.5 imagined every feature that lies
outside its doors: patios for outdoor dining, paths that encourage
exploration, and the lawns, plantings, benches, and seating areas
that invite visitors to stay. The result is a vibrant public space
that welcomes tourists and locals, supports the surrounding
restaurants and shops, and provides a perfect venue for concerts,
farmers markets, and festivals.
PROJECT PROFILEBIG SKY TOWN CENTER PLAZA
TYPE / COMMERCIAL
LOCATION / BIG SKY, MONTANA
SCOPE / MASTER PLANNING
SPATIAL DESIGN
LANDSCAPE + HARDSCAPE DESIGN
LIGHTING + SOUND DESIGN
FURNITURE + FIXTURE DESIGN
ART SITING
CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATION
BIG SKY TOWN CENTER PLAZA / COMMERCIAL
Custom lamp posts, artfully hung twinkle lights and purpose-built fire pits make the Plaza a warm and welcoming
space even on cold winter nights. The build includes a play area for children, charging stations and free wifi for
adults, and public art, attractive plantings, and artfully framed views for the enjoyment of all.
BIG SKY TOWN CENTER PLAZA / COMMERCIAL
D.5 worked with the Big Sky Arts Council
to select the ideal spot for Winter, the only
publicly-displayed work by famed Montana
sculptor Deborah Butterfield in the state.
Gently corralled by local boulders and
native plants, Winter is just one of several
sculptures that D.5 incorporated into the
Plaza master plan.
The Plaza’s design motifs are repeated along Town Center Avenue, creating a cohesive visual experience and framing views of Lone
Peak. A simple palette of plants was chosen for their ability to thrive at high altitudes and provide bursts of color in the fall.
BIG SKY TOWN CENTER PLAZA / COMMERCIAL
Shaded tables welcome hikers,
bikers and shoppers in summer.
Custom-designed benches and
beams hold overhead heaters to
warm visitors in colder weather,
and cleverly hide surround-sound
audio equipment for performances
and large events on the lawn.
Twinkle lights add festive energy
and keep the Plaza safe and
usable well into the night.
PROJECT PROFILECANNERY DISTRICT
TYPE / COMMERCIAL
LOCATION / BOZEMAN, MONTANA
SCOPE / MASTER PLANNING
SPATIAL DESIGN
HARDSCAPE DESIGN
NATIVE PLANT DESIGN
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
BIOSWALE DESIGN
PLAZA + ROOFTOP DESIGN
CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATION
The Cannery District vibrantly repurposes historic architecture to
create new opportunities for Bozemanites to live, work, dine, and
shop. D.5 was instrumental in turning the derelict processing hub
for what was once the nation’s “pea capital” into a thriving multi-
use community. Collaborators on the master planning for the entire
12-acre site, D.5 designed its extensive hardscaping — creating
paths, patios, and places for visitors to park, eat, and gather — and
surrounded it all with an innovative, high-performance native
landscape that is as functional as it is beautiful.
CANNERY DISTRICT / COMMERCIAL
While most commercial parking lots drain into the city’s stormwater system, nearly every drop of rainwater that hits Cannery District pavement
flows into a densely planted “bioswale” where it is taken up by plants or absorbed into the soil. This helps reduce stormwater pollution in the
nearby East Gallatin River, assists with groundwater recharge, creates habitat, and adds beauty and color to the District’s paved spaces.
CANNERY DISTRICT / COMMERCIAL
The planting plan, created in collaboration with native plant guru Linda Iverson, provides
wave after wave of perennial color in all seasons and at all times of day. This sidewalk was
once the site of a train track that helped move 13,000 cases of peas to market each day. The
brick banding in the concrete is a visual nod to the rhythm of those long-lost railroad ties.
CANNERY DISTRICT / COMMERCIAL
This romantic alley is protected from the lights and noise of the highway and the wind off the Bridger Mountains. D.5 identified it as
an ideal gathering spot for patrons of local businesses, and a pathway that invites discovery of the stores and restaurants beyond.
Twinkle lights highlight the 100-year-old brick of one of the District’s original buildings.