St. Paul seeks Ford site construction manager

William Morris//January 20, 2020//

St. Paul is seeking an owner’s representative to oversee the parks and infrastructure phase of Ryan Cos.’ $1.3 billion Ford site master development, expected to begin construction this spring. (Submitted image: Ryan Cos.)

William Morris//January 20, 2020//

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In another sign that the long-awaited Ford site redevelopment is nearly upon us, St. Paul is looking for a construction manager for the project.

The Ford owner’s representative will provide on-site construction management and financial oversight for the infrastructure and parks construction phase. The city approved a redevelopment agreement in December with Ryan Cos. US Inc., chosen by Ford Motor Co. as master developer for the 122-acre site plan that envisions $92 million in new streets, utilities and other infrastructure investment as part of the broader $1.3 billion project.

The owner’s rep will report to a project lead in the mayor’s office and a technical lead in the Department of Public Works. A city spokesperson said the request for proposals seeks a consultant familiar with St. Paul who has deep expertise in construction management, particularly pertaining to infrastructure and utilities.

Ryan closed on the former factory property in December and has announced partnerships with CommonBond Communities and Project for Pride in Living to build affordable housing, and Weidner Apartment Homes for market-rate apartments. Construction will begin in earnest this spring. The finished development, expected to build out over 10 years, will include 3,800 mixed-income housing units, 265,000 square feet of office space, 150,000 square feet of retail and acres of parks, plazas and water features.

The Ford owner’s representative RFP is available at stpaulbids.com, with proposals due Feb. 5.