This Request for Proposals (the “RFP”) is an invitation by Owner to prospective proponents to submit proposals for the Old Fire Hall Adaptive Re-Use, Long-Term Lease as further described in Part IV of the RFP Particulars being (the “Deliverables”). 

Newmarket’s Downtown is considered to be one of the most recognized and successful Main Streets in the province.  In 2016 it was awarded the People’s Choice Street Award, which is given out as part of the Great Places in Canada contest by the Canadian Institute of Planners.  Main Street Newmarket has been successfully reshaped, revitalized and reimagined in recent years.  By achieving a balance of culture, history and economic development, it has become an economic success, the heart of the community and a destination for many.

Newmarket has invested heavily in creating and stimulating an active, beautiful and thriving Downtown.  An award winning urban park, revitalized community centre and the recent restoration of the historic Old Owner Hall have all served as a strong foundation for business and culture to thrive.

Dedicated funding administered through the Owner’s Financial Incentive Program (FIP) has also spurred the rehabilitation of Main Street’s building stock while attracting new businesses. With twelve successful restaurants opened since 2012, Main Street has become the go-to “after-five” meeting place of the community. The Owner also works closely with the Main Street BIA to schedule dozens of events and festivals throughout the year that attract thousands of residents and visitors to the Downtown area.

In addition progressive and innovative projects, such as Canada’s first data sensor analytics environment (Soofa), illustrates just how successful and unique Newmarket’s Downtown has become.  This RFP intends to build upon all this success.

In 1952 the Owner of Newmarket constructed a fire hall at 140 Main Street.  Located in the heart of the Downtown, this building is commonly known as the Old Fire Hall.  The property has served as a fire hall for the majority of its life, however it has seen various uses over the past few decades.  The main floor is comprised of three main garage bays with doors fronting Main Street.  The upper level is comprised of standard office space.

The property is adjacent to both the Elman W. Campbell Museum (to the north) and a residential property to the west, which is also under Owner ownership.  Located at the apex of Main Street south, the property is seen as a strategic piece.  Its location provides an opportunity to compliment Main Street south while simulating future developments and enhancements north along Main Street.  The site plays a very important role in the ongoing maturity and expansion of a very successful and vibrant Downtown core.

The building is currently vacant and as a result the Owner is seeking proposals from organizations and/or businesses for a commercial adaptive re-use of the property through a long-term lease that meets the vision, goals and other requirements of the Owner as set out in Item 3 – Project Scope