City Opens Development Opportunity for Downtown Lot
Tonight the Pierre City Commission took steps to redevelop the downtown lot that houses Pierre’s old City Hall. By a unanimous vote, the group decided to issue a Request for Qualified Developers (RFQD) for the site.
The RFQD is a basic ask for interested developers, contractors, or investment groups to come forward with a plan to redevelop the site into sales-tax generating space.
Development consultant Toby Morris told the Commission that the RFQD tool is new to the Pierre market.
“Although the RFQD isn’t something Pierre has used before, it’s an instrument that has been used successfully in a number of South Dakota communities to diversify local retail options,” said Morris.
The RFQD outlines the City lot located at 222 East Dakota Ave., as well as potential to include redevelopment of Hughes County property located at 302 East Dakota Ave. However, the document does not dictate development type.
“We’re really looking for an interested party to come to the table with a plan to maximize the space while enhancing our business landscape,” said Morris. “That could take the shape of a retail development, a commercial venture, something in the hospitality industry, or any other number of options.”
The former City Hall building is included on the development site, though City leaders say that they anticipate it will be demolished as part of the development process.
“This could be a really exciting opportunity for a developer and for our community,” said Pierre Mayor Steve Harding. “This is prime real estate along our community’s biggest traffic corridor. I’m hopeful we’ll see a development plan that can complement our current commercial and business environment.”
Developers have until May 17 to submit a proposal to the City. The City will then review the proposals and select the developer that is best qualified to do the job and that has a plan that most benefits the community.
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