RFP: Sale and Redevelopment of the Winooski Armory Property

Background
The City of Winooski is considering the sale and redevelopment of the Winooski Armory, a 1.51-acre parcel located at 255 LaFountain Street in Winooski’s residential neighborhood development area. This redevelopment aims to enhance the vibrancy and diversity of Winooski’s neighborhoods and expand housing options to address Vermont’s housing affordability challenges. The Armory, recently decommissioned by the Vermont National Guard, is slated for demolition, environmental remediation, and sale. The City plans to transfer the property to a developer who will create much-needed housing to meet community demand.

Work Details
The developer will be responsible for covering all costs associated with acquiring and developing the parcel according to this RFP. The project concept is for a medium-sized development likely featuring townhomes or a cottage court design. The final design will adapt based on community input, procurement process, funding availability, and timelines.

The City has set foundational goals for this project including expanding homeownership opportunities, offering affordable housing options (both for rent and purchase), and providing larger 3+ bedroom units for larger families. A 50/50 split between rentals and ownership units is recommended by the City Council. All rental units must be affordable with income banding likely in the range of 100-65% AMI. The City requests that lower AMI rental units have Project Based Vouchers from the Winooski Housing Authority.

Period of Performance
The anticipated timeline includes RFP release on March 31, 2024; questions due by April 14, 2024; proposals due by April 28, 2025; bidder interviews on May 12, 2025; notice of selection by May 16, 2025; contract negotiation in late May to June; with an anticipated property sale and transfer in June.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed at the Winooski Armory property located at 255 LaFountain Street in Winooski, Vermont.