17th Street Regional Park Concession Services

Sarasota County is conducting an Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) for concession services at the 17th Street Regional Park, a 95-acre athletics and recreation complex scheduled for completion in 2026. The county is seeking qualified local, regional, or national food services operators to provide comprehensive food and beverage services across multiple concession areas, including a main concession building and two satellite locations. The park will feature eight youth softball fields, three adult softball fields, and four multipurpose synthetic turf fields, requiring a vendor capable of serving diverse athletic events and community recreational activities. The contract will have an initial term of five years with potential renewal options, and the selected respondent will be responsible for all operational costs, including equipment, supplies, staffing, and licensing. Proposals must include a revenue sharing model with a monthly flat fee and percentage of gross sales paid to the county, and vendors must offer a variety of food and beverage options for adults and children, including healthy alternatives. The due date for proposals is November 25, 2025, with the procurement process involving written responses, potential presentations, and negotiation phases. Respondents must demonstrate professional staffing capabilities, customer service standards, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The county reserves the right to review and modify contract terms and may permit additional vendors to enhance the visitor experience. Potential contractors must comply with Sarasota County's Integrated Pest Management Guidelines and local ordinances, including specific regulations for grease traps and kitchen operations. The concession facilities are fully equipped, with a detailed equipment list indicating substantial infrastructure investment, including walk-in coolers, commercial kitchen equipment, and specialized food preparation areas. While specific award values are not detailed, the contract includes provisions for revenue sharing and requires the operator to generate income through food and beverage sales. The concession opportunity extends beyond standard services, potentially including temporary satellite location operations and mobile vending during large-scale regional tournaments. Successful vendors must demonstrate the capability to serve a diverse range of athletic events and community recreational activities within the newly developed 17th Street Regional Park.