Delray Beach CRA Extends RFP Deadline for Workspace Operator
The Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has officially extended the deadline for the 98 NW 5th Ave Workspace Operator Request for Proposal (RFP) until August 10th, 2023 at 12:00 PM. We are seeking a highly-qualified entity with a strong track record in delivering exceptional services and supporting burgeoning businesses in a shared workspace setting. The services will be provided at the CRA-owned commercial property at 98 NW 5th Avenue, specifically the second-floor workspace.
In the historic NW/SW 5th Avenue corridor, once a bustling business area dominated by black-owned enterprises, the vision for 98 NW 5th Avenue is set forth in the West Atlantic Master Plan and CRA Community Redevelopment Plan. This vision includes a vibrant local economy accommodating a diversity of businesses, from retail stores to service providers. The location is seen as a thriving district with a strategic mix of neighborhood shopping, services, and cultural facilities designed to enhance overall business and pedestrian activity.
Since the CRA’s acquisition of 98 NW 5th Avenue in 2018, the property has undergone significant transformation and now stands as a two-story, affordable commercial rental space. The ground floor contains five individual units, while the upper floor houses a shared workspace. This redeveloped building is intended to serve as a beacon for further development, fostering a place where the authenticity of a historical community intersects with small business development, and untapped opportunities can catalyze entrepreneurialism, culture, and education.
The Workspace Operator will play a key role in achieving this vision. This operator will be instrumental in managing, programming, and overseeing the second-floor workspace, promoting its services and programs within the local community, and supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses. The operator will also contribute to implementing a comprehensive business plan, maintaining facility operations, and providing quarterly financial and programming reports to the CRA. The aim is to cultivate an environment conducive to career training, education, and business skill development.
The agreement with the chosen operator will be a negotiation process, with the terms and conditions agreed upon mutually. Pending CRA Board approval, the initial agreement will last for two years and may be renewed for up to four additional one-year periods.
We’re inviting proposals that not only demonstrate proven experience and capability in managing shared workspaces but also show a commitment to honoring and celebrating the rich heritage and spirit of The Set community. The Successful Proposer will be a paying tenant of the second-floor workspace, with the rate and the fee structure to be negotiated as part of the proposal process.
The CRA will provide keys and access to the workspace, maintain property insurance, and pay taxes for the property, amongst other responsibilities.
This RFP represents an exciting opportunity for operators to contribute to the revitalization and cultural vibrancy of the NW & SW 5th Avenue corridor. It’s more than just managing a workspace. It’s about fostering a hub of economic activity, inspiring innovation, and supporting the aspirations of current and next-generation residents.
We look forward to receiving your proposals and joining us on this journey to further enhance the local economy of Delray Beach.
To learn more and submit your proposal, visit delraycra.org.