(Seguin) – The actual search for a unique development project officially gets underway in the city of Seguin.
City officials say today is the day that they begin seeking qualified partners – partners who want to work with them on the redevelopment of the historic Nolte property abutting downtown’s Central Park.
Seguin officials recently purchased the property and are working with renowned TBA Douglas Architects to create a development plan that will reimagine the site. The city is now issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) from experienced developers. Interested parties today can begin to sign for the receipt of a RFQ.
The RFQ is part of a strategic real estate initiative, in which the city aims to divest its interest in the property, while facilitating a visionary project that enriches the fabric of the community. To pave the way for this transformation, the city, in collaboration with stakeholders, has designated a General Land Use Plan (GLUP), that allows for a diverse but targeted range of potential uses on the property.
Seguin Director of Economic Development Josh Schneuker says the city is excited and eager to work with qualified developers on this monumental project.
“This property has great potential, and we have no doubt that it will be an asset to the residents of Seguin in whatever form it takes. We look forward to working hand in hand with innovative teams to come up with a plan for these great buildings,” said Schneuker.
The issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) marks the initial step in a two-step process, culminating in a Request for Proposal (RFP), to identify a developer capable of executing the city’s vision and objectives. City officials say they are especially eager to see what developers have in mind for the property, with the expectation that it should catalyze economic growth, foster community engagement and preserve cultural heritage.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to invite a new and exciting development to our city,” said Mayor Donna Dodgen. “We are ready to work with qualified teams that will help us create a more fulfilling downtown experience for our residents and visitors.”
The property, located at 101 East Nolte in downtown Seguin, consists of an entire city block just south of Central Park. The site consists of four buildings lining E. Nolte and a large surface parking lot to the south of the buildings. Officials say two historic buildings, the Nolte National Bank Building and the Post Office, located at the northwest corner of the site, will be major components of the redevelopment project.
The property sits on 0.92 acres in the heart of downtown and in its current configuration, the buildings encompass 40,000 square feet across two stories.
Following the issuance of the RFQ, the City of Seguin will host a site tour at 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 5, 2024, for interested developers. Those interested may go to visitseguin.com/thenolte/. A formal Request for Proposals will be sent to selected teams at a later date.
Meanwhile, the city council plans to select a developer based on these proposals, with the intent to negotiate the redevelopment of the property and kick-start what officials say will be “an exciting new chapter for Seguin’s downtown.”