Nine Firms to Compete for Opportunity to Conduct Assessment of I-195 Surplus Property

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August 7, 2008 | Print this page | Share This | Email this page

Collaboration to maximize economic development value of land made available by relocation of I-195 forges ahead as RFP process continues

The relocation of I-195 in Providence will make approximately 19.2 acres of land available for redevelopment. This shift in the city’s landscape has the potential to significantly change the skyline of the capital city and create a new hub of high-wage job growth.

In April 2008 the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) and the City of Providence signed a partnership agreement to maximize this important opportunity for economic growth.

The partnership is facilitating an assessment of the development parcels that will reflect the community’s vision for the redevelopment of the properties. In June 2008, the RIEDC issued a request for proposals seeking a vendor to perform a professional redevelopment and marketing analysis for the surplus property. The analysis will evaluate land use solutions that maximize the economic and tax values of the relocation parcels and enhance the public use and enjoyment of the surrounding areas.

The proposal period closed on July 31, 2008. Nine firms submitted proposals. They are:

“Partnering with the City of Providence and RIDOT on the I-195 relocation project is a key element of RIEDC’s Economic Growth Plan to create a stronger economy and grow new jobs. Outcomes from this assessment will help us optimize the value of the relocation property and achieve the economic development objectives of both the city and the state,” said RIEDC Executive Director Saul Kaplan. “Years from now we will look at our capital city’s new skyline and see proof that the relocation plan was a game changing opportunity for our economy.”

The selection committee for the RFP includes RIEDC Executive Director Saul Kaplan,
RIDOT Executive Director Michael Lewis, and Thomas Deller, Director of Planning for the City of Providence.

RIEDC will receive funding from the RIDOT to cover costs associated with the plan’s production. A final selection will be made in September 2008.