The City of Rochester has issued Request for Proposals (RFP 26-07) seeking qualified developers to redevelop 6.6 acres of City-owned property, located at 161 South Main Street and 7–17 Sawyer Avenue, in the downtown commercial zoning district.
The RFP seeks redevelopment concepts for a new multi-use development encompassing all six adjoining parcels, which are being offered together as a single transaction.
The six parcels include vacant commercial buildings, residential structures, and undeveloped land. The City of Rochester has already invested more than $3.3 million in acquisition and site preparation.
Ideal proposals would feature mixed-use construction, combining residential and commercial uses with pedestrian-friendly design, quality architecture, sustainable features, and landscaped common spaces. Affordable housing is encouraged.
Additionally, the properties are located within both an Opportunity Zone and an RSA 79-E Community Revitalization Zone, which could potentially qualify the project for tax relief incentives.
Key Dates and Details:
- RFP Release: November 1, 2025
- Site Walkthrough: December 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.
- Proposal Deadline: February 4, 2026, by 5:00 p.m.
- Responses Posted: February 6, 2026
- Finalist Notification: March 5, 2026
- All reasonable purchase offers will be considered.
For questions, contact the Purchasing Agent at purchasing@rochesternh.gov or call (603) 509-1908. For questions related to Opportunity Zones and RSA 79-E, contact the Economic Development Department at (603) 335-7522.
Click here to view RFP 26-07