RFQ Posted Here: https://www.cityofevanston.org/home/showpublisheddocument/102321/638984630367900000
The City of Evanston (“City”) invites qualified real estate developers to submit statements of qualifications for the purchase and redevelopment of City-owned property located at 801-811 Main Street. The City seeks a qualified development partner capable of delivering a high-quality, contextual, mixed-use project that strengthens the Main Street business district, establishes a gateway presence at Main and Sherman, and incorporates community benefits including inclusionary housing, parking solutions, and active ground-floor uses.
The City’s vision is a contextual, mixed-use building that responds to the site’s unique location and neighborhood context. Specific preferences include:
-A 4 to 5 story mixed-use development with active ground floor uses is preferred.
-Ground-floor at the corner of Main and Sherman should feature an active commercial use (not limited to residential leasing offices or building amenities).
-Activates the street frontage with transparent windows.
-Incorporates the architectural vocabulary and materials of Main Street.
-Provides a sensitive transition of height and massing to the residential district.
-The project must comply with the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance.
-Provide a higher proportion of 2+ bedroom units than typically delivered in market-rate projects.
Price TBD: The City is awaiting completion of an independent appraisal of the property for internal reference. While the appraised value will inform negotiations, it will not be disclosed at this stage. The City seeks to collaborate with a development partner on a project that achieves both fair market value and meaningful public benefit. The final purchase price and terms will be subject to negotiation based on the project’s overall merit, financial feasibility, and alignment with the City’s development goals.