The Baltimore Development Corp. on Tuesday issued two requests for proposals dealing with the construction of a new arena in Baltimore City.
The BDC issued one request for the design, development, construction and operation of a new 18,500-seat arena at the site of 1st Mariner Arena in downtown Baltimore.
“It’s really taking the next step in a serious and precise manner,” said M.J. “Jay” Brodie, president of the BDC. “This is much more detailed, down to the facts of the project.”
The arena design “should be of the highest standards, reflecting the caliber of Oriole Park at Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium,” according to the request.
The request stressed the developer should propose a project “funded with maximum private financial support” and “select an experienced and creative operator to attract and promote events on a regular basis.”
“Ideally, there would be a team [developer and operator] that has worked together before,” Brodie said.
The request also asks for suggestions for a temporary events facility during construction of the new arena, Brodie said.
Arena development proposals are due to the BDC by Nov. 26.
The BDC also seeks a consultant to assist in the analysis of development proposals for a new arena. All consultant proposals are due to the BDC by Sept. 26.
The BDC and a panel of city and state officials last month announced plans to pursue a $300 million venue at the site of the 46-year-old 1st Mariner Arena.
The panel selected the current arena site over proposals from seven developers in alternative city locations such as Canton, Westport and the stadium complex. Brodie said several of those development teams have expressed interest in the current site.
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