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Committee debates whether RFQ should seek a master developer or enable phased/multiple developers
Summary
Committee members weighed asking for a single master developer against inviting phased or multiple developers in the RFQ, with several members urging clear community priorities (authentic architecture, green space, walkability) and staff saying updated maps and environmental data will be provided to applicants.
Committee members spent substantial time discussing how the draft RFQ should frame development expectations for Water Street: should the city seek one master developer with a long‑term plan, or allow multiple/phased developers to build smaller projects that create momentum?
Diana Gonzalez and other members urged the RFQ to make community priorities clear. "Our identity needs to be in there," one member said, urging repeated references to green space, walkability and preservation of pre‑war architectural character so proposals that run counter to community goals can be rejected.
Others warned that an overly prescriptive master plan could deter applicants in the current market. Consultants and staff recommended giving developers flexibility while requiring brownfield experience and clear commitments to the values the committee identifies.
Members also agreed to include updated maps and drone/video footage in the RFQ package so developers can better assess the site and to solicit redlines from committee members before the next meeting. Visioning sessions scheduled for next Wednesday will feed community preferences into the RFQ. The committee did not adopt a final, binding decision on master developer versus phased approach during this meeting; staff will circulate redlines and return the item for further discussion.
