9/9/2024 – The deadline for RFIs has now passed. The City is open to additional submissions, however initial submissions will be prioritized.
Request For Information (RFI) – City of Ellsworth
Potential Alternative Site Locations for a New Ellsworth Courthouse Sought
AUGUST – 2024
The City of Ellsworth, in coordination with the Maine Judicial Branch, is seeking information from property owners regarding the availability of potential suitable alternative site locations for the construction of a new courthouse to serve the residents of Hancock County.
The following will be among the criteria considered in site selection:
- A location that allows proximity to the central urban core of Ellsworth.
- A location that provides reasonable access to public transportation/walkability and is visible and accessible from major routes.
- A parcel of at least five (5) contiguous buildable acres with room for a building footprint of at least 30,000 square feet and parking space for 125 public and 33 staff vehicles
- Southern exposure with rooftop solar potential
- 3-Phase electric
- Public water and sewer
- Paved road with 200 feet of frontage on a significant roadway
Those interested in selling property that could be developed under such criteria should submit the following information, if available:
- Property description and present use
- Location/address
- City map and lot numbers
- Site survey, with wetland delineation
- Environmental assessments
- Geotechnical data
- Public utilities and electrical service details
- Existing structures
- Photos
- Contact information such as name of property owner, email, and phone numbers
Property owners who may meet some but not all of the above criteria are still encouraged to submit sale proposals. Certain criteria such as five buildable acres, southern exposure, and close proximity to the major urban core are non-negotiable. Other criteria such as immediate access to public water/sewer, and 3-phase electric etc. may not be required at this stage of the RFI process. Depending on the suitability of the location in meeting core criteria/cost, the city of Ellsworth, in coordination with its partners in the state, federal, private, and non-profit sectors may assist in site development to create ideal suitability.
Please note that this is not a request for bids but sell price information is welcome. No contract will be awarded on the basis of any response to this RFI. This RFI also in no way precludes the suitability of the currently proposed Surry Rd. site location already under consideration.
Responses should be submitted to Ebony Kramp Dowling at edowling@ellsworthmaine.gov with the email title “Alternative Courthouse Property Proposal.” The initial proposal deadline for submission will be September 8th, 2024 though the RFI may be opened beyond that deadline should it be deemed necessary.
