Gov’t opens RFP for marina development, operation at Roosevelt Roads
The Local Redevelopment Authority (LRA) for Naval Station Roosevelt Roads recently issued a request for proposal for the design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of an expanded marina. This development at the former naval sStation in Ceiba will include associated residential, hospitality and commercial mixed-use facilities.
“The LRA is looking for a developer and operator who will be able to sustainably expand the existing marina infrastructure to enhance the appreciation of the marina’s natural and scenic resources, while establishing [Naval Station Roosevelt Roads] as an outdoor recreation destination and expanding the local and regional tourism economy,” the public corporation stated in RFP #2024-002, which gives proponents an April 12 deadline.
“Marina expansion may include but is not limited to dry stack storage, nautical tourism-oriented residential and lodging facilities, nautical tourism-oriented commercial facilities, and ancillary services facilities,” according to the LRA.
In the RFP, the agency emphasizes minimizing environmental impacts and protecting and enhancing existing habitats.
“All efforts must be aligned and in harmony with the surrounding environment, following Universal Design principles” and to benefit the community, it states.
Applicants must demonstrate a minimum of $5 million in liquidity and the capability to secure a performance and payment bond of up to $50 million. The RFP clarifies that no public subsidies or financial aid will be available to cover funding gaps or shortfalls.
The LRA manages around 3,400 acres previously belonging to the U.S. Navy base, which closed on March 31, 2004. The land is designated for economic development, airport expansion, conservation and municipal use, with respective parcels transferred to the LRA, Puerto Rico Ports Authority, Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, and the Municipality of Ceiba.
