Initial programming efforts are underway for Canalside 2012. The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) is seeking proposals from the public – mainly non-profits, though for-profits not asking for public money are also encouraged to submit proposals. As an FYI, the artisan market that was originally scheduled to launch this summer is scheduled to launch in 2012. Ramping up that initiative proved to be more time consuming than expected. Luckily, many of this summer’s successful initiatives that were managed by Buffalo Place, will be back again in 2012, including lawn games (photo), kayak rentals and concerts.
Background Information
Phase 3A
With the completion of the cobblestone streets in 2010, the first phase of Canalside (known formerly as the Erie Canal Harbor project) was ready for full programming and development. This Summer’s programming and events have captured the attention of Western New Yorkers, attracted over 300,000 visitors to date, and have created one of the most active public spaces in the City. ECHDC, through the Canalside Visitor Experience – 2012 Assisted Programming RFP, is once again committed to programming and promoting this waterfront area. The Canalside Visitor Experience – 2012 Assisted Programming proposals should remain focused on Phase 3A of Canalside. A map of this area is included in the RFP.
Phase 3B
The next phase of Canalside development will occur on the former Aud Block, with an interpretive landscape of water features and site amenities that will help visitors understand the history and character of the former canal district and its significance to the City and the Nation. The construction work is expected to commence this winter and be opened to the general public in late 2012. The Canalside Visitor Experience – 2012 Assisted Programming will consider proposals that relate to Phase 3B of Canalside.
At the same time as the Aud Block construction, it is expected that development on the east side of Main Street (i.e., Donovan Block) will begin, with a completion date of early 2013. The Canalside Visitor Experience – 2012 Assisted Programming will NOT consider proposals that relate to development on the east side of Main Street.
Other Waterfront Areas
While ECHDC continues to move waterfront development ahead outside of Canalside, there are no approved plans for the adjoining Cobblestone District, Buffalo River and/or Outer Harbor at this time. The Canalside Visitor Experience – 2012 Assisted Programming will NOT consider proposals that are located in the Cobblestone District, along the Buffalo River and/or on the Outer Harbor.
Submission Details
To submit a proposal, please complete the Application Form (Attachment D of the RFP) and supporting documentation as necessary, as well as the required forms (as outlined in Section IV.D of the RFP).
Applicants should submit completed applications to ECHDC by noon on September 23, 2011. In addition, for those expecting to submit a proposal, a Pre-Submittal Conference will be held at ECHDC on August 31, 2011 at noon (1 hour).
Selection Process
Proposals will be reviewed by members of the Cultural Steering Advisory Group, Buffalo Place, Inc. and ECHDC. Proposals will be considered based upon the applicant’s ability to meet the criteria for each programming category, as defined in the RFP:
General Programming
Story of Buffalo Programming
Special Programming
Over the past few months, ECHDC and its Cultural Steering Advisory Group have been leading a Cultural Master Plan study with Lord Cultural Resources and Ralph Appelbaum Associates. The Master Plan consultants have completed Stage 1 of a three-stage planning process with recommendations on how focusing on the Story of Buffalo could be developed to help meet the programming objectives of Canalside.
A copy of the Cultural Master Plan, Stage 1 Report is on-line at:
http://www.eriecanalharbor.com/canal_side_MGPP.asp
It is recommended that organizations review the Stage 1 Report before submitting a 2012 Assisted Programming
proposal.
ECHDC reserves the right to make any and all decisions regarding the selection of proposals submitted, as well as the capacity to consider proposals received after the deadline.
Available Funds
Funding levels, outlined in the RFP, are specific to each programming category. Attachment A of the RFP provides a cost breakdown for 2011 programming for reference.
RFP Contact Information
Steven Ranalli, Senior Project Manager
Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation
E-mail: sranalli@empire.state.ny.us