Request for Proposal (RFP) Yuma Street Cultural Center and Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills Entrepreneur Hub
Request for Proposal (RFP)
Yuma Street Cultural Center and Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills Entrepreneur Hub
Manhattan, Kansas
Issued by: Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills, 501(c)(3)
The Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is issuing this Request for Proposal (RFP) for the design-build of the Yuma Street Cultural Center and Entrepreneur Hub, a landmark redevelopment initiative located in the historic Yuma Street District of Manhattan, Kansas.
This project will restore and transform Shepard’s Chapel, the last standing structure in this nationally recognized district, into a dynamic center that blends cultural preservation with entrepreneurial innovation. The center will celebrate African American history, spark economic development, and serve as a vital community and tourism destination in the Flint Hills region.
Note: This RFP is being released in anticipation of final funding confirmation. BEFH is in the final stages of securing investment from a financial institution. Proposals are requested at this time to ensure a timely project start upon confirmation of funds.
Project Overview:
The Yuma Street Cultural Center will include:
A multipurpose event space
Entrepreneur training areas and a Rotating Restaurant Incubator
Exhibit space dedicated to local African American heritage
A café, commercial kitchen, meeting rooms, and administrative offices
Outdoor gathering space for markets and cultural events
The design-build team is expected to integrate modern functionality while preserving the historical integrity of Shepard’s Chapel.
Summary Scope of Services:
1. Pre-construction:
Site analysis
Feasibility studies
Budget development
2. Design:
Architectural design with historical preservation
Engineering services (structural, MEP)
Outdoor/landscape design
3. Construction:
Permits and code compliance
Construction and project management
Final inspection and occupancy
4. Post-construction:
As-built drawings
Warranty support and maintenance plan
Revised Probable Timeline (subject to funding confirmation):
Milestone
RFP Issued -April 11, 2025
Pre-Proposal Meeting - April 17, 2025 - Schedule a time slot here
Deadline for Questions - April 24, 2025
Proposal Submission Deadline - May 10, 2025
Selection of Design-Build Team - May 30, 2025
Contract Awarded
Pending Funding Confirmation (Target: May 23, 2025)
Project Start Date - Fall 2025
Project Completion Date - Fall 2026
Selection Process / Criteria:
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following:
1. Experience and Qualifications (30 points):
Demonstrated experience in similar historical and cultural projects
Relevant experience of key personnel
2. Project Approach (30 points):
Understanding of project goals and objectives
Proposed methodology and timeline
3. Design Excellence (20 points):
Creativity and innovation in design
Sensitivity to the historical context
4. Cost Effectiveness (10 points):
Alignment with project budget
Value-added services
5. References (10 points):
Positive feedback from past clients on similar projects
Directions for Submission:
All proposals must be submitted by May 10, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Submit one (1) electronic copy (PDF) to: director@blackflinthills.com
And one (1) printed copy to:
Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills
120 N. 4th St, Suite K
Manhattan, KS 66502
Proposal Requirements:
Each proposal must include:
Cover Letter
Introduction of the design-build team
Summary of the team’s qualifications
Table of Contents
Project Team Organization
Organizational chart
Roles and responsibilities
Resumes of key personnel
Qualifications / Experience
At least two similar project examples with photos, descriptions, and client references
Project Approach
Design and construction methodology
Timeline with key milestones
References
Contact information for at least three references
Download RFP here
Contact for Questions:
Sheila Ellis-Glasper
Executive Director
Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills
engage@blackflinthills.com
Thank you for your interest in partnering with us on this legacy project. Together, we will reclaim, preserve, and reimagine Yuma Street for future generations.
Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills
http://yumastreet.org
