Downtown Master Plan RFP

The City of Livingston, Montana is seeking consulting services to develop a comprehensive Downtown Master Plan through Request for Proposals (RFP 20015). The procurement solicits professional services to create a strategic vision for downtown development, focusing on promoting high-quality growth while preserving the city's historic character. The Downtown Master Plan will cover the area north to the Burlington Northern railroad tracks, encompassing the Urban Renewal District, Downtown Historic District, and Central Business District Zoning District. Required deliverables include an existing conditions analysis, a Wayfinding Plan, a Streetscape Improvement Plan, identification of priority development projects, and implementation recommendations. Key project objectives involve inclusive public engagement and targeting diverse community stakeholders. The evaluation criteria will assess firm qualifications (30%), team history (10%), public involvement approach (30%), project methodology (20%), and references (10%). Critical dates include an RFP issue date of April 11, 2023, a question submittal deadline of April 26, 2023, and a proposal submission deadline of May 11, 2023, with an anticipated project completion date of May 31, 2024.

The RFP does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged business enterprises. An optional additional project scope, contingent on funding availability, includes a combined Housing and Parking Study to identify vacant/underutilized housing units and evaluate parking needs. The project has a budget of $85,000, funded through the Montana Main Street Program Grant and a Local Organization Grant. The Urban Renewal Agency, established in 2004 and bonded through 2034, will be involved in the planning process. The City anticipates awarding a firm-fixed price contract and reserves the right to modify the project scope as needed. The Planning Director will manage the consultant, the Planning Board will review draft plans, and the City Commission will be responsible for final plan adoption. While a Historic Preservation Specialist is not explicitly required, the project area encompasses the City's Downtown Historic District, suggesting a preference for expertise in historic preservation and urban planning.