August 4, 2015

RFP out for 3 Seattle Center sites

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The Next 50 Pavilion & Annex is next to the monorail terminal and has two spaces.

Seattle Center draws 12 million visitors a year, with the Space Needle, Pacific Science Center and EMP Museum among the biggest attractions on the 74-acre site.

That's a lot of foot traffic — and perhaps a good opportunity for businesses looking to cash in on the crowds.

Three of the center's more overlooked spaces are up for lease: Next 50 Pavilion & Annex, Thomas Street Shop and International Fountain Pavilion.

Seattle Center has issued a request for proposals for the spaces. Minimum lease terms range from one to three years, with a maximum of 20 years.

Here's a little more about what's available:

• Next 50 Pavilion & Annex. The structure is next to the monorail terminal and has two spaces: the 3,100-square-foot Next 50 Pavilion and the 1,600-square-foot Annex. Proposals may use one or both areas.

• Thomas Street Shop. The 2,700-square-foot gift shop is near the Space Needle ticket booths, and on the busiest thoroughfare at Seattle Center. Seattle Monorail's administrative offices are on the upper level.

Seattle Center says it will consider proposals for a range of activities, as well as those that include redeveloping both levels.

• International Fountain Pavilion. The 4,500-square-foot pavilion sits west of the International Fountain. It has three levels that are connected by steps and ramps, and is currently used for event rentals. Seattle Center sees the building as a redevelopment opportunity.

The center says it will accept proposals for commercial activities as well as those that primarily serve public purposes. It will also consider a range of redevelopment plans for the structures. It's up to the new tenants to pay for any redevelopment.

Responses to the RFP are due by 5 p.m. Oct. 1 to the Seattle Center Executive Office. For more information, email Lizzy Melton at lizzy.melton@seattle.gov or view the RFP online at ebidexchange.com/seattle.