JMU-P3-2026 Detailed Phase

James Madison University is requesting proposals for the Detailed Phase of a Public-Private Education Facilities Act (PPEA) partnership project under RFP JMU-P3-2026, with proposals due November 16, 2026. Only offerors shortlisted in the Conceptual Phase are eligible to respond.

The project scope comprises design, construction financing, and long-term operations of a mixed-use development on JMU's campus including approximately 600–700 student housing units across multiple buildings, ground-floor retail and dining, and structured parking to replace surface parking. The private partner will design, finance, and operate the facilities over an extended concession period while JMU retains land and facility ownership. The development must adhere to JMU's master plan, comply with local zoning and building codes, meet sustainability standards, and include provisions for student housing affordability and accessibility.

The private partner will recoup investment and generate returns through ground leases, revenue-sharing arrangements with the university, and ancillary operational revenue streams. The concession term extends long enough to enable the partner to recover capital and achieve project returns. This is a performance-based partnership where the university retains ownership and the private sector assumes development, financing, and operational risk.

The RFP requires comprehensive technical proposals, financial models, and operational plans demonstrating the respondent's technical capacity, financial capability, and relevant experience in public-private partnerships in the educational sector. Addendum 001 was posted on September 21, 2026, clarifying submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and procedural modifications to the original solicitation. The project is located in Rockingham County, Virginia.