1.1.        BACKGROUND
The City of Ocala (“City”) is seeking proposals from qualified development teams to design, develop and construct a creative new development project on approximately 2.56 acres of City-owned property located at 2400 W Silver Springs Blvd.

The City intends to create a mutually beneficial redevelopment partnership with the selected development team. Proposed projects should enhance and complement the surrounding amenities.

For historical information on West Ocala, visit the West Ocala History Webpage .

1.2.        PROJECT OVERVIEW
The City is seeking proposals which strengthens and complements surrounding amenities and activities. The City will select a development team that demonstrates the ability to develop the project site consistent with the City’s vision and development objectives described in this Invitation to Negotiate (“ITN”).

The City will consider all creative proposals, including the following uses or combinations of uses:

•        Primary Use - addresses the current food dessert within the Ocala community.

o        Grocery Store – providing fresh fruit, nuts, and vegetables;

•        Secondary Uses

o        Professional and business offices;

o        Medical and dental offices;

o        Other complementary commercial uses;

City desires the Property be developed to include a neighborhood Grocery Store and other uses consistent with and in furtherance of the City’s West Ocala Vision & Community Plan (Exhibit F). The City encourages active uses that are open to the public along Silver Springs Boulevard. The intent is to provide Farm-to-Table, locally sourced, quality and affordable farm produce to the West Ocala community. Project components should complement and not compete with surrounding uses. We encourage inclusion of locally and regionally owned businesses within the mix of tenants. The development of a grocery store will further efforts such as Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) sidewalk improvement projects and the Heritage Trail community park project to revitalize the West Ocala Community.

West Ocala’s importance to Ocala Vision 2035 is rooted in the foundation of its rich culture and heritage and is an unfolding of this community’s vision for being a dynamic, diverse, friendly, safe, and connected community with vibrant residential, business, governmental, cultural, educational, and entertainment centers.

Respondents are encouraged to review Exhibit F - West Ocala Vision and Community Plan in preparing proposals.

Attachments

Exhibit A – Community Business (B-2) District Code

Exhibit B - Map

Exhibit C – Property Appraisal (will be posted as an addendum to this ITN at a later date)

Exhibit D – Boundary Survey (will be posted as an addendum to this ITN at a later date)

Exhibit E – Form Based Code

Exhibit F – West CRA Vision & Community Plan

Appendix I - Preliminary Term Sheet

Please review the Invitation to Negotiate, Scope of Service, and exhibits for full overview of project.