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Town Center RFP moves forward; board hears business concerns and $2M federal funding opportunity
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Summary
Trustees reviewed a draft RFP for the Town Center redevelopment that increases flexibility on unit mix and entitlements; staff noted a potential $2,000,000 congressionally directed allocation and business owners urged protections for existing downtown commerce.
Town staff presented a draft request for proposals (RFP) for the Town Center redevelopment and told trustees the document intentionally adds flexibility on affordability levels, parking and height to improve feasibility for private partners. Staff also said a newly-identified $2,000,000 congressionally directed spending opportunity would be included in RFP materials as a potential funding source, though they cautioned that access and spendability are not guaranteed.
Staff said the RFP seeks full proposals rather than just qualifications, arguing that this project requires detailed financial and construction modeling. "It's a $30,000,000 project," a staff member said, adding that the town should expect teams to provide substantial front-end work so evaluators can weigh realistic proposals.
Public comment came from Chester, founder of the Main Street Business Alliance, who urged the town to maintain flexibility for ground-floor commercial and to avoid proposals that dilute existing downtown merchants. "As Main Street business owners, we... ask that you think really carefully about what's dilutive versus additive to the core of our main street," Chester said, asking the board to prioritize commercial forms that support, not undercut, existing businesses.
Several trustees and business representatives recommended that the RFP encourage nontraditional commercial uses (for example, incubator spaces, small ready-to-use units) and ask proposers to consider tenant-ready or low-fit-out costs to make spaces viable for local small businesses. Trustees discussed selection process logistics, potential timelines, lead time for proposals and the value of bringing in teams who can demonstrate financing strategies.
Staff said they will circulate the RFP, ensure adequate lead time for respondents and coordinate outreach, including liaison work with a newly formed Downtown business alliance and an upcoming Downtown Colorado Inc. event in late May. No final contract award or selection was made during the meeting; staff will return with RFP issuance and later shortlist recommendations.
