News Release

MONCTON (GNB) – A request for proposals (RFP) has been issued to identify interested and qualified developers to purchase and re-purpose the historic Moncton High School property, and surrounding land owned by the province.

“We are excited about what this project will do to stimulate the local economy and preserve and promote the history of the high school building which will continue to have a key role in the community,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claude Williams.

Moncton High School is at 207 Church St. within the City of Moncton's Heritage Preservation Area.

The request for proposals seeks a mixed-use project for the 77-year-old school which will promote community inclusion and reflect and preserve the building's historic significance. The re-development could include, but is not limited to, arts and culture, community space, residential, retail and commercial space, or green space.

The exterior and interior character of the two-and-a-half storey, Gothic Revival style stone building, including the 1,200-seat theatre, must be preserved throughout so that the defining elements of the historic structure are incorporated into any proposed re-development. Consideration will be given to proposals that include plans to make the theatre open and available to the community for use by school fine arts programs, graduation ceremonies, and arts and cultural events.

“This is an important project for the city and the provincial government,” Williams noted. “We are looking for thoughtful and detailed proposals to make sure the school maintains a memorable presence and remains a vibrant cultural icon.”

Interested developers must submit a detailed proposal demonstrating their qualifications, knowledge, resources, financial capacity, and experience in similar or identical commercial land development and construction projects.

They must describe the nature and extent of the proposed development of the property, preservation of the historic features, timeline for completion, financial viability of the proponent, as well as the economic benefits to the provincial government and the City of Moncton.

This is a purchase, design, re-build and operate mixed-use project. Proposals will be accepted until Sept. 18.

Before issuing the RFP, the provincial government consulted with the City of Moncton, the Greater Moncton Planning District Commission and the Moncton Heritage Preservation Review Board.

“Our discussions with the stakeholder groups examined building history, project management, planning and the financial aspect of re-developing the property,” Williams said. “In particular, I want to thank Paulette Thériault, Catherine Dallaire, Ben Champoux, Brenda Orr, Beverly Barrett, Roxanne Richard, Ginny Cosgrove and Benoît Doucet for their advice and input during our meetings.”

More information on the RFP is available from the central tendering branch, Department of Government Services, at 506-444-4107, or online at the New Brunswick Opportunities Network.

LINK:

●    New Brunswick Opportunities Network