The Town of Abingdon is soliciting bids from qualified, licensed and bonded contractors to design and facilitate the rehabilitation and restoration of an existing building and site into a cultural heritage center and rental event space. The core principles of the rehabilitation of Retirement and the Muster Grounds shall include: Restore Retirement using best and most sensitive preservation practices, thus allowing the building to be open to the public. Improve access and parking opportunities for the public to utilize the site in a multitude of ways. Continue to provide the public with spaces and venues to enjoy the Town’s historic and recreational opportunities. Support and maintain Abingdon’s history to reinforce the community’s sense of place. Support the objectives and principles of the Town of Abingdon’s Comprehensive Plan concerning the promotion of history and preservation. Contribute as a culture heritage hub for Southwest Virginia to better support and inspire surrounding localities and organizations in the region to promote the importance of maintaining historic buildings while promoting the benefits of historic preservation. Promote cultural heritage tourism and other related activities by attracting out-of-town and visitor spending.