Minneapolis is seeking development proposals for an entire city block, commonly called the Nicollet Hotel Block, that is key to many leaders' vision for the Gateway District.

The plot, 30 Third Street South, sits at the intersection of several thriving downtown districts. Bordered by Washington Avenue, Hennepin Avenue, Third Street South and Nicollet Mall. A surface parking lot currently occuplies the 1.7 block.

The city's request for proposals (RFP) outlines its goals for that critical junction:

  • an iconic, high-quality, designed new construction structure(s) of at least 20 active floors
  • a mix of commercial, retail, residential, office and hotel uses
  • active street-level retail
  • integrated green space for the public

"The Nicollet Hotel block has arguably the most potential of any parcel in the city, and consequently we will not settle for anything short of iconic," said Ward 3 Council Member Jacob Frey, in a news release. "In one fell swoop we can add people to downtown, create green space, and trigger connection to the river. We expect that designers and developers will bring their best."

Minneapolis' Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) department staff has a pre-proposal Q&A meeting scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 6 at 11:00 a.m. to discuss the RFP.

Proposals must be submitted by Dec. 11.