The City of Greensboro has just released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the sale and redevelopment of the property at 817 Summit Ave. – which was formerly known as Summit Executive Center.

Anyone interested in the project has until the day before Halloween to send in their proposal.

“The City of Greensboro through the Housing and Neighborhood Development Department requests proposals from for-profit and non-profit developers for the acquisition and development of multifamily units located at 817 Summit Avenue in Greensboro,” the request reads. “The City of Greensboro seeks a developer to purchase and improve the property as affordable, supportive housing for individuals transitioning from homelessness with a particular focus on persons affected by HIV/AIDS.”

 Greensboro officials note that the rehabilitation of the property is likely to be the most cost-effective option; however, the city will consider other options for housing development, as long as it’s “feasible” for both the site and the neighborhood.

There’s expected to be roughly $1.8 million in federal funding available to support the project. When these types of federal grant funds from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development are used to support permanent housing developments, there are only three legal ways to do it: the rehabilitation of existing structures, building community-based residences like congregant living or group home facilities, and, finally, the new construction of single room occupancy units.

Michelle Kennedy, the director of the City of Greensboro’s Housing and Neighborhood Development Department, said this is a continuation of the city’s effort to provide housing people can afford.

“Facilitating the development of affordable rental units like this project is critical in the face of increasing housing demands,” Kennedy stated in a press release this week announcing the RFP. “Part of our continued efforts is to ensure everyone in the Greensboro community – regardless of their financial situation – has access to quality housing options.”

The city has posted a current appraisal and a whole lot of other information at the project’s website: www.greensboro-nc.gov/HNDRFPs

Developers are being encouraged to inspect the property before submitting a response.

Federal Community Development Block Grant funds were used to buy the site, and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS grant funds are expected to be used to help pay for the development of some form of affordable housing at the former Executive Center.

The Request for Proposals is asking for an overview of the development team’s structure and for clear identification of the lead developer as well as detailed documentation regarding the development team’s current financial position.

City staff will evaluate all completed responses and intends to select a recommended development team to enter into negotiations to reach a development agreement.

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