Request for Proposals: Gastonia Conference Center Hotel Pad Deadline Extension

The City of Gastonia, North Carolina is soliciting development proposals for a hotel to be located adjacent to the Gastonia Conference Center. The city-owned property is approximately 0.55 acres and has a high level of visibility and access. The city is seeking a development partner to create a signature hotel that will support the needs of Downtown Gastonia and the Gastonia Conference Center. Key aspects of the proposal include: 1. **Location**: The hotel will be located on a vacant lot adjacent to the Gastonia Conference Center, with a connector to the conference center on the second floor. 2. **Property details**: The property is 23,885 square feet, with dimensions of 116.92 feet by 205 feet. 3. **Hotel concept**: The city is open to a mid-upper-scale or full-service hotel concept, with a preference for a 90-key hotel. 4. **Development team**: The city is seeking a development partner with experience in hotel development, including architects, designers, and general contractors. 5. **Proposal requirements**: Proposals should include a letter of introduction, development team information, development proposal, experience and references, and disclosures. The city will evaluate proposals based on the following criteria: 1. **Development proposal** (30%) 2. **Qualifications and experience of the development team** (20%) 3. **Level of integration of guiding public interests** (20%) 4. **Quality and success of prior development projects** (10%) 5. **Demonstrated ability to execute projects of similar scale and complexity** (10%) 6. **List of active development projects and demonstration of confidence in the project** (10%) The deadline for submitting proposals is July 15, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The city reserves the right to cancel the RFP or waive any irregularities at their discretion. The city is looking for a development partner that can create a unique and innovative hotel concept that will enhance the downtown area and support the Gastonia Conference Center. The selected developer will be expected to work in collaboration with city staff to develop a project that meets the city's needs and goals.