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Council approves RFQ to plan and design Washington City downtown district
Summary
Council voted to release a request for qualifications (RFQ) to solicit firms to identify and design a downtown district core and study area; RFQ to be issued April 1 with submissions due July 2, 2025.
Washington City Council voted March 26 to release a request for qualifications to identify, plan and design a downtown district and a smaller downtown core intended to catalyze development.
Economic Development Director Rusty Hughes told the council the RFQ seeks qualified professional teams to advise on the district boundary, the core development parcels, and code or policy changes needed to implement a downtown vision. Hughes said the RFQ would be issued April 1 (if approved) with statements of qualifications due July 2; the selection committee would shortlist candidates, interview finalists and bring a recommendation to the council in August 2025.
Hughes said the successful respondent would be expected to work with a downtown planning committee, provide regular updates to council, and — if selected — would have a first-right-of-refusal option for development of specific city-owned core parcels. Council members discussed process details, public involvement, the role of the Downtown Planning Committee, and coordination with nearby cities' experiences. Council approved release of the RFQ unanimously.
Why it matters: If funded and executed, the RFQ and subsequent planning process will shape downtown boundaries, the design of core parcels and future zoning or development agreements intended to guide downtown growth.
Next steps: Staff will publish the RFQ April 1 (subject to council edits), receive submissions, and bring shortlist and selection recommendations to council for final approval.
