Located prominently along the banks of the Willamette River, the Steam Plant is an iconic representation of our community’s history and is ripe with possibility for the future. The redevelopment of the Steam Plant is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to honor the historic significance of the Downtown Riverfront site while embracing its potential to be a place the community is proud of. With the strategic redevelopment of the building, the Steam Plant can become a world-class destination and anchor of activity that serves the community, enhances the riverfront experience, and retains the historic nature of the site.
To realize the community’s vision for the Downtown Riverfront and to maximize the building’s potential, the Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Eugene is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the redevelopment of the Steam Plant. Through this RFQ, the Agency is looking for the right team of community-minded people who can help to reveal the layers of history embedded in this site, revitalize a defining piece of Eugene’s urban fabric, and create a special place for people to enjoy the Downtown Riverfront.
The Agency is looking for creative, out-of-the-box ideas driven by collaboration, innovation, excellent design and careful renovation. “The City is looking for a team of people who can invest in the history, legacy, and the special Eugene aesthetic that is contained in this extraordinary building that is part of our City’s history,” said Mayor Lucy Vinis.
The Eugene Water and Electric Board built the Steam Plant in 1931. As the demand for steam declined, this hard-working building was finally decommissioned in 2012 after serving our community for more than 80 years.
The Agency purchased the Downtown Riverfront property, including the Steam Plant, in mid-April. The Agency Board approved the use of an RFQ for the Steam Plant’s redevelopment at their April 23 work session. Following the RFQ, the Agency may choose to request proposals from one or more RFQ respondents or pursue another option.
Working together the community has the opportunity to restore one of its signature and most recognized buildings. The RFQ will be posted on Thursday, May 3, with responses due in June. Read more about the Steam Plant and the RFQ process.
View Steam Plant video
