GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- GRPS has opened Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to help shape the future use of the former Alexander and Stocking school sites.
GRPS received nearly 300 suggestions for future use from community members through in-person meetings and online engagement. At Stocking, the leading suggestion was for a community hub or center, while feedback for Alexander most frequently pointed to potential housing opportunities. Across both sites, community feedback emphasized the importance of affordable housing, green space, community hubs, and youth-focused programming.
Community input has been incorporated into the RFP and will play a role in the scoring matrix when proposals are evaluated. Proposals will be accepted through April 1.
Here is the anticipated timeline for both sites:
- Week of January 26: Request for Proposals Distributed
- February 4: Site Tours
- February 18: Deadline for Submittal of Respondent Questions
- March 4: Answers to Respondent Questions Due
- April 1: Proposal Submittal Date
- Before April 27: Shortlist Respondents with GRPS Ad Hoc Facilities Committee
- After April 27: Respondent Interviews (if needed)
- May 1: Property Under Contract
To help find new uses for properties that will add value to our community, GRPS has engaged real estate experts at JLL to serve as the district’s owner’s representative.
GRPS launched the Reimagine GRPS with Us! plan in 2022, a comprehensive initiative guiding the district’s long-term planning. As part of this effort, GRPS developed a framework for reviewing and repurposing vacant, closed, and underutilized facilities. The framework outlines district priorities, community engagement expectations, and criteria for long-range decision-making regarding GRPS facilities and properties.
Voters approved a $305 million bond in 2023 to improve school facilities, enhance learning environments, and address excess building capacity across the district. Following the bond’s approval, the Grand Rapids Board of Education voted to close 10 schools as part of the district’s long-term planning efforts, opening new opportunities for property reuse in the community. As part of this plan, the Board has decided to first move forward with the Alexander and Stocking sites.
