Community House Request for Qualifications and Adaptive Reuse Solicitation

Description

CITY OF RICHMOND HILL REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND ADAPTIVE REUSE SOLICITATION FOR THE HISTORIC COMMUNITY HOUSE 10512 Ford Avenue, Richmond Hill, Georgia Issued: September 1, 2026 I. INTRODUCTION The City of Richmond Hill ("City") is soliciting proposals from qualified development teams for the acquisition, stabilization, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of the historic Community House located at 10512 Ford Avenue, Richmond Hill, Georgia. The Community House is a significant historic and community asset located within the Ford Avenue Historic District. The City seeks a qualified development team with demonstrated experience in historic rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, project financing, and implementation of complex redevelopment projects. The selected team will be expected to undertake immediate stabilization efforts, rehabilitate the building in accordance with applicable historic preservation standards, and establish a sustainable long-term use that contributes to the economic and community life of Richmond Hill. Constructed in 1936, the Community House is one of Richmond Hill's most significant historic landmarks and was developed as part of Henry Ford's extensive investment in the community during the 1930s and 1940s. Designed by Savannah architect Cletus William Bergen in the Colonial Revival style, the building served as a community center providing educational programs, social activities, and recreational opportunities for local residents. Purpose-built with classrooms, dormitory accommodations, dining facilities, and a large second-floor ballroom, the Community House became a focal point of civic and cultural life in Richmond Hill, hosting dances, celebrations, educational programs, and community gatherings. Following the Ford-era, the building continued to serve a variety of community-oriented uses, including residential lodging and later a funeral home, while remaining a recognizable landmark on Ford Avenue. A Chapel was added to the building in 1997. Acquired by the City of Richmond Hill in 2022, the Community House retains its historic character, prominent presence, and strong association with the community's history, making its preservation and adaptive reuse a priority for the City. It was individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2024. At this stage, the City seeks to evaluate the qualifications, experience, vision, and implementation approach of prospective development teams.