Competitive Contracting: Administration And Implementation of the City of Camden’s Camden Strong UEZ Commercial Improvement Program

The City of Camden Department of Planning & Development is requesting proposals to administer and implement the Camden Strong UEZ Commercial Improvement Program, with proposals due August 18, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. and questions due August 11, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.

The Program provides up to $75,000 in forgivable loan funding per business for exterior and interior improvements to commercial properties in Camden's business corridors, with an overall budget of $750,000 less the vendor's administration and management fee. The City anticipates supporting approximately 10 to 15 businesses. Eligible improvements include interior fit-out, electrical and plumbing work, exterior painting, storefront window restoration and repair, signage modification and removal, exterior and display lighting replacement, and awning repair or replacement.

Respondents must demonstrate at least five years of experience administering commercial facade improvement programs, comprehensive knowledge of New Jersey Local Public Contracts Law and the City of Camden Zoning Ordinance and Building Codes, and the ability to facilitate community participation. Three project references completed within the past five years are required, including at least one from a municipality and one from the past 12 months.

The selected vendor must submit a total all-inclusive flat fee covering all administrative, management, and implementation services with no additional reimbursement beyond that fee. Payment is made incrementally on a per-business basis upon completion of each improvement, calculated as a percentage of the forgivable loan amount such that cumulative payments do not exceed the vendor's total flat fee. The vendor must advance all contractor payments pending City reimbursement. Vendors must comply with New Jersey mandatory affirmative action requirements, maintain general liability insurance of $1,000,000 occurrence/$1,000,000 aggregate, and provide a valid New Jersey Business Registration Certificate prior to contract award. Proposals must remain open for 60 calendar days from submission. The City operates under a Transitional Aid Memorandum of Understanding with the State of New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and requires written approval from the Director of the Division of Local Government Services for contract award.