2023-2024 call for cultural/entertainment event proposals for the 1550 beach parking lot

The City of Santa Monica is seeking proposals for cultural and entertainment events to be held at the 1550 Beach Parking Lot during the 2023-2024 event season, with a potential option for the 2024-2025 season. This procurement is specifically targeting unique, large-scale events that extend beyond the previous three-day maximum limit, with a preference for events during January, February, and March. Proposed events must offer a distinctive public experience and are prohibited from focusing on merchandise sales, business promotions, or product launches. The events can have a maximum duration of five months (seven months for exhibit-style events) and must have a minimum duration of four days, including load-in and load-out periods. Evaluation criteria will include educational outreach, environmental impacts, traffic and parking mitigation, economic benefits, and the uniqueness of the cultural or entertainment experience. Proposers must submit their responses by June 30, 2023, at 5:00 pm, with any questions due by June 9, 2023. The city will evaluate proposals based on qualitative factors, reserving the right to select the most advantageous proposal.

There are no specific set-aside designations or restrictions mentioned for disadvantaged enterprises in the provided documents. The rental rates for the space are established at a minimum of $1.18 per square foot for untimed events and $1.50 per square foot for timed events, plus compensation for lost parking revenue. While no incumbent vendors are identified, the proposal documents include a sample license agreement that outlines comprehensive requirements for the selected proposer, including insurance, permit obligations, and site management responsibilities. The city will require a security deposit and expects the selected vendor to comply with local ordinances and safety regulations. The event space is located near the Santa Monica Pier, with aerial photographs and site layout plans provided to potential proposers. Though no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the comprehensive requirements and detailed evaluation process suggest the city is seeking high-quality, professionally managed cultural and entertainment events that will provide significant value to the community.