NEW HAVEN PARKS LONG-TERM OPERATOR & PARTNERSHIP REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The City of New Haven Parks Department has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP 2025-RFP-CNH-294) seeking long-term operators and partners to manage over 130 public park spaces under its "All Hands" strategic initiative. This initiative emphasizes a collaborative public-private partnership model that leverages community creativity and external resources to enhance park operations, programming, and sustainability. Prospective partners—such as businesses, non-profits, and educational institutions—are expected to have the financial capacity to operate independently and commit to working closely with the Department in alignment with its strategic priorities, including improving park accessibility for all ages and abilities, increasing outdoor family engagement, promoting sustainable operations, and fostering economic investment in underserved neighborhoods. The partnership stipulates cost-sharing arrangements for on-site maintenance and facility upkeep but does not provide direct funding for off-site organizational operations. Furthermore, proposals must include capacity-building elements that support fundraising for capital repairs and offer in-kind or material support to the parks. Priority is given to entities with proven positive engagement history with the parks and adherence to the Department’s rules, labor agreements, and City ordinances. The procurement process is managed via the City of New Haven’s eProcurement Portal with a submission deadline of January 13, 2026. The RFP outlines a comprehensive evaluation process utilizing weighted criteria focused on scientific and technological merit, technical approach, and management capabilities, with a trade-off basis of award rather than lowest price. Although no explicit pricing or contract value is disclosed, partners will be responsible for submitting detailed monthly and quarterly performance reports detailing financials, participation metrics, and program outcomes. The agreement terms typically cover a three-year base period with two optional one-year renewals and include rigorous compliance requirements with federal, state, and local statutes, including American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding regulations when applicable. The contract framework mandates transparency, regular audits, operational continuity of the parks year-round, and submission of comprehensive reporting deliverables, underscoring a partnership committed to enhancing the long-term quality, sustainability, and equitable access of New Haven’s public parks.