Virginia Beach solicits development proposals near convention center

The Virginia Beach government is seeking proposals from developers for a commercial or residential project near the city’s convention center — with the hope that new development will revitalize and boost the economy of that part of the city.

The site in question is a 1.73-acre property owned by the city, located on the eastern portion of 825 18th St. and at the southeast corner of 19th Street and Parks Avenue. The property is currently used as a parking lot and has 109 spaces.

The request for proposals calls for the construction of a public structured parking facility, as well as other complementary uses, which may include commercial, office, residential, restaurant or retail spaces.

Peter Gaytan, a planner with the city’s Department of Economic Development, notes that the city would like to see more parking, possibly as a multi-story garage, on the property.

Gaytan said the intent would be for the developer to own the property, but the city would continue to manage the parking facilities on the site.

The Virginia Beach Development Authority “desires to unlock development potential within this area and is seeking a proposal that contributes to the city’s goal of creating a diverse, world-class, year-round coastal community for residents and visitors,” the RFP states.

Developers have until 3 p.m. Oct. 20 to submit their proposals.

Afterward, a review committee will evaluate the proposals based on various criteria, including their anticipated fiscal impact. The committee will assess fiscal impact based on the respondent’s combined financial contribution to the project as well as the project’s financial and operational viability. The city aims to evaluate whether the proposal offers a realistic and well-structured financial model that ensures long-term success. The proposal must clearly state whether it hopes for the city government or VBDA to provide any contributions.

Other criteria the committee will evaluate include the number of public parking spaces and how quickly they could realistically be achieved, respondents’ credentials, compatibility of plans with a parking structure, and whether the proposal aligns with the city’s Central Beach Small Area Plan vision and adjacent ViBe Creative District.

The highest-ranking proposals’ backers may be shortlisted for interviews with the review committee, according to the RFP. Based on ranking and potential interviews, the review committee will make a recommendation to the VBDA and City Council.

As for when construction is likely to begin, Gaytan said that it depends on how many proposals the city receives and what the proposals entail, although he expects groundbreaking in 2026.