The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (“CRA”) is seeking proposals from qualified firms or individuals (“Consultant”) to serve as the CRA’s Retail Strategy Partner. This Retail Strategy Partner will assist the CRA in launching and sustaining a 4,500 square foot affordable retail space along with approximately 2,100 square feet of accessory basement space at Unit 1 of 1175 Cambridge Street in Inman Square. The CRA intends to develop Unit 1 into the first retail space to be operated under the CRA’s Neighborhood Storefronts Project (NSP). The NSP is intended to provide retail space under flexible lease terms to support the success of independently-owned retail businesses. Through the NSP, the CRA seeks to preserve the distinct local character of Cambridge’s retail districts and expand economic opportunity by providing local entrepreneurs access to lower cost retail space. Building upon previous series of conversations with small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community representatives, the CRA plans to contract with a Retail Strategy Partner who will lead efforts to brand and market the space, advise on the design of the space renovation, establish a framework for the desired mix of businesses and appropriate rents, coordinate outreach to businesses fitting the CRA’s desired profile, manage tenant procurement, connect tenants to technical support resources, and manage the re-tenanting of spaces as they turn over. Additionally, the CRA will consider proposals for direct property management services for the space after the launch.
