DEPARTMENT: Center City Development & Operations
DEPARTMENT HEAD: John Jacks
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Council District 1
SUBJECT:
RFI for La Villita Culinary Concept Operator
SUMMARY:
This item is a briefing on a proposed Request for Interest identifying a culinary concept and operator for Maverick Plaza located within historic La Villita.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
La Villita is a historic, City-owned facility located within the Inner City Reinvestment Infill Policy Area (ICRIP) and the Inner City TIRZ #11. Mayor Maury Maverick Plaza (plaza) is located at the corner of Alamo Street and Nueva Street within La Villita. The Plaza serves as the main entrance into the facility, is the largest venue, and is currently utilized solely for wedding receptions, private parties, corporate functions, and festivals. The plaza includes a historic fountain, a non-historic concession stand, and restroom facility.
Staff is proposing that a Request for Interest (RFI) be issued to identify a highly qualified, creative culinary operator or team to develop a concept for the plaza. The area available includes all of Maverick Plaza, Buildings 15, 25, 26, and the restroom facility. Building 15 is an adjacent historic structure that is separated from Maverick Plaza by a wall. The interior of the building is currently used to display panels on the history of La Villita. The purpose of this RFI is to measure interest and to obtain information from qualified respondents with the intent to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) or enter directly into contract negotiations for the development of a new anchor concept within La Villita.
The City has recently completed a RFP process to develop a more diversified quality retail store and product mix. This process is part of an overall strategy which has also included expanding programming, infrastructure improvements, and the development of a comprehensive marketing and rebranding strategy. Addition...
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