Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City leaders are asking business owners, entrepreneurs, and developers to help design the next chapter of the iconic 18th & Vine District. The City has pushed out the deadline for its Request for Proposals (RFP) to Friday, August 8, 2025. This gives people who are interested more time to submit designs that might turn important assets into busy restaurants, retailers, and cultural venues.
The 18th & Vine District is an important part of both Kansas City’s and America’s cultural history. It is noted for its strong ties to jazz, Black history, and the arts. City leaders want new tenants to not just bring innovative concepts to the region, but also honor and celebrate its long history.
Kansas City will have a second Pre-Bid Meeting on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, so that potential candidates can learn more about the opportunities and requirements. Business owners who are interested will be able to ask questions and learn more about the RFP process at the virtual meeting, which will be held on Microsoft Teams from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. If you want to visit the spaces in person, there will be a Public Site Visit on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 1710 E. 18th Street.
One of the available buildings is the well-known corner building at 1512 E. 18th Street. It has 6,485 square feet and is currently the Community Engagement Center, but it used to be Soirée Restaurant. The City is especially interested in restaurant owners who have had a successful business for at least five years and can turn this place into a lively dining attraction that draws in both locals and tourists.
All offers must be sent in through Bonfire, which is Kansas City’s official online procurement site. The platform has detailed submission criteria and RFP materials that give candidates all the information they need to write thoughtful and competitive proposals by the August 8 deadline.
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City leaders stressed that they want new, community-driven initiatives that respect the district’s cultural importance while also bringing new energy and chances to the area. The City and its design team will work closely with chosen partners to plan, design, and get these important sites up and running.
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Kansas City wants to get a wide spectrum of applicants who are willing to help bring back and keep one of the city’s most important neighborhoods alive for a long time. They aim to do this by giving people more time and more opportunity to get involved.
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