Columbus launches dual effort to advance transformational downtown development

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The City of Columbus, in partnership with the Columbus Capital Foundation (CCF), has issued a coordinated Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and a Request for Information (RFI) to accelerate transformative downtown redevelopment initiatives aligned with the Columbus Downtown 2030 Strategic Plan.

The two initiatives invite experienced development teams to shape the future of downtown Columbus through the flagship project, the “4-Pack,” and a broader portfolio of strategic opportunity sites.    

The RFQ focuses on finding a Lead Development Partner to guide redevelopment of the “4-Pack”, which includes the former Sears building and its parking lot at 4th and Brown streets. The “4-Pack” is a group of high-impact, “catalytic sites” that advance the plan’s vision of a vibrant, connected downtown.   

The project is expected to include a hotel and conference center, mixed-use development, a public event plaza and market hall, and enhanced pedestrian connections. The selected partner will lead all aspects of redevelopment. This includes financing, partnerships, infrastructure, and implementation.   

The city and CCF are also issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to complement the RFQ. The RFI will seek innovative development concepts for additional properties, pursued independently, or with the “4-Pack.”   

Key sites for the RFI include:    

• Water Street Site (18.8 acres): Potential for destination-oriented activities, riverfront district entertainment, possible new residential neighborhoods with park space, trail connections, and river access
• 3rd and Lafayette Site (2.25 acres): Targeted for multifamily housing with possible retail components
• Irwin Block (5th Street): Prominent redevelopment opportunity for boutique hotels, residential uses, and high-design architecture    
• Post Office Site: Long-term redevelopment opportunity with potential alignment with the "4-Pack" if relocation occurs    

The RFI process seeks to collect innovative and market-oriented concepts for future development requests. Both efforts advance Columbus’ identity as a dynamic “campus” environment, fostering community, economic vitality, and design excellence.    

Both the RFQ and RFI support the Downtown 2030 Plan objectives:   

• Expanding housing and mixed-use development
• Strengthening key corridors like 4th, 5th, and Washington Streets
• Enhancing connectivity to Mill Race Park and the riverfront
• Creating new destinations and public gathering spaces

The RFQ and RFI build on recent investments, including riverfront redevelopment, mixed-use housing, streetscape improvements, and expanded programming, like the SEARS Winter Market pilot.    

Responses are due July 31, 2026. A Lead Development Partner and potential site concepts will be selected later in 2026. The RFQ and RFI are available here.