Water Works Building RFP

The City of Manistee has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking a creative development partner to redevelop the historic Holly Water Works building located at 540 Water Street. The procurement targets the adaptive reuse of a 3,200 square foot historic building situated on a 0.36-acre lot near downtown Manistee, with proposals due on September 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM. An optional site tour is scheduled for August 19, 2025, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM, allowing potential developers to explore the property. The project is open to various commercial and mixed-use developments, including retail, dining, residential, and community-oriented uses within the Neighborhood Commercial District zoning. Evaluation criteria will focus on the developer's experience, project scope, alignment with community goals, economic impact, and project completion capability. Developers must submit comprehensive proposals detailing their vision, experience, financial plan, and anticipated project timeline. The City Council is expected to review and consider proposals on October 7 or 21, 2025.

The RFP offers multiple development incentives to support the project, including Commercial Facilities Exemption, Historic Preservation Tax Credits, and Brownfield Tax Increment Financing. While no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types are explicitly mentioned, the City emphasizes a preference for developers who can maintain the building's historic integrity while creating a sustainable and economically beneficial reuse. The procurement does not indicate existing incumbent vendors or specific infrastructure integration requirements. The RFP suggests the City is flexible regarding the potential award value and is primarily seeking a development approach that aligns with community revitalization goals. Developers are encouraged to propose innovative solutions that will activate the unique historical space and contribute positively to the downtown Manistee area's economic and cultural landscape.