Request for Proposals (RFP) for Development of the Manchester Avenue Site

The City of Los Angeles Economic and Workforce Development Department, through the Community Investment Department, is soliciting proposals for the commercial or mixed-use development of the Manchester Avenue Site. Located at 1630, 1636, and 1640 W. Manchester Avenue in South Los Angeles, the project involves the design, construction, and management of approximately 0.45 acres of vacant land. The site is zoned C2-1-CPIO (Community Commercial) and must comply with the South Los Angeles Community Plan Implementation Overlay, the Vermont/Manchester Recovery Redevelopment Plan, and the South Los Angeles Alcohol Sales Specific Plan. Due to its proximity to a major transit stop, no minimum vehicular parking is required per California Government Code Section 65863.2. The City intends to select a development team to enter into an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement, which may eventually lead to a Disposition and Development Agreement. Proposals are due by 5:00 p.m. on October 1, 2026, and must be submitted electronically to Michael Cham. Evaluation is based on a scoring system that prioritizes the development team's qualifications and track record in mixed-use projects (40 points) and their financial capacity to secure funding and manage long-term sustainability (30 points). The City favors projects that do not require financial assistance and prefers long-term ground lease structures. Compliance requirements include adherence to California prevailing wage laws for both construction and permanent jobs, as well as participation in the Business Inclusion Program with an anticipated 18 percent goal for Minority Business Enterprises. Submissions must include a cover letter, detailed qualifications, and a comprehensive schedule of performance covering all phases from negotiation through operations.