Hospitality Focused Development Opportunity Grant

The City of Birmingham has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a hospitality-focused development opportunity intended to serve as a key economic and community catalyst. Issued by the City’s Department of Innovation & Economic Opportunity, this RFP targets qualified development teams capable of designing, financing, constructing, and operating a high-quality hospitality-centered project on city-owned land located at 1129 Carraway Boulevard and 2615 12th Avenue North. This initiative seeks to further economic growth, tourism, and neighborhood revitalization through strategic use of these parcels, both of which are situated in the Norwood neighborhood near Birmingham’s urban core. The City envisions the development of a branded, midscale to upscale hotel or mixed-use project with at least 100 guest rooms. Key objectives include enhancing the surrounding urban environment through architectural quality and public realm improvements, integrating guest amenities that contribute to Birmingham’s tourism value, and incorporating sustainable design and operational practices. Amenities might include meeting rooms, fitness facilities, a restaurant or bar, and publicly accessible outdoor spaces. The selected partner is expected to align with the City’s broader goals of downtown redevelopment, tourism stimulation, and lasting public benefit. To support this endeavor, the City is prepared to negotiate a tailored incentive package that may include land conveyance or long-term lease agreements and infrastructure improvements. These incentives will be based on the development team’s qualifications, proposed concept, and expected public and economic benefits. Financial viability and the ability to meet financial commitments such as earnest money or preliminary investments will be critical factors in proposal evaluation. Applicants must submit comprehensive proposals that include a cover letter, executive summary, detailed development team bios, a development concept plan, relevant experience, financial models and assumptions, and plans for job creation, community engagement, and timelines. A Community Benefits Plan is also required and may include public art, green space, and accessible meeting areas. Proposals will be evaluated based on experience, feasibility, financial soundness, and alignment with City priorities. A mandatory pre-bid meeting and site visit will take place on October 2, 2025. Questions regarding the RFP must be submitted by October 10, 2025, with responses posted by October 17. The final submission deadline is October 31, 2025, at 5:00 PM Central Time. Proposals may be submitted electronically or in hard copy to the City’s Department of Innovation & Economic Opportunity. Interviews for selected finalists will be held on November 21, and partner selection notifications will be issued between December 1–5, 2025. All inquiries should be directed to Coreata' R. Houser, Interim Director, with a copy to Valencia Fisher, Administrative Services Manager, at ieo@birminghamal.gov or 205-254-2799.

Attend required pre-bid meeting. Align proposal with tourism and public value. Include local job impact.