Council launches RFP for missing‑middle housing on eight city‑owned lots along 20 Second Avenue SW

City staff presented and council approved a resolution March 25 to initiate a request for proposals (RFP) to dispose of eight city‑owned vacant parcels along 20 Second Avenue Southwest and adjacent parcels for redevelopment with a preference for small multi‑unit (missing‑middle) housing.

Jeff Rosencraft of Community Development explained the site is roughly one acre composed of eight vacant lots currently zoned Urban Village Residential (UVR/UVG referenced variably in staff remarks). The parcels are in the 100‑year floodplain and were acquired after the 2008 flood; proposals must meet the city’s floodplain ordinance. Staff said the RFP objectives include alignment with the 2019 Czech Village‑New Bohemia Area Action Plan, compatibility with urban village residential zoning, consideration of half‑width alley paving where applicable, integration with views from the B Street Promenade, and financial feasibility for the developer.

Rosencraft said proposals will be due April 25, with council consideration and potential selection on May 13 and negotiation of a development agreement anticipated this summer. Councilmembers praised the initiative: Councilmember Ashley Van Orni thanked staff for flood‑protection investments that made redevelopment possible, and Councilmember Dale Todd suggested the RFP and eventual development agreement include timeline provisions and clawback authority if a purchaser delayed development.

Councilmember Poe moved adoption of the resolution to initiate the RFP; Councilmember Overland seconded. The motion carried on a voice vote.