Seattle Center Issues RFP for Redevelopment of South Fun Forest Area

Seattle Center today issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to redevelop all or some portion of the 1 ½ acre Fun Forest south area available later this year following the departure of Fun Forest Amusements, LLC from the area south of the Seattle Center Monorail station. Seattle Center, a City of Seattle department, will consider a broad range of proposals for temporary, long-term use (up to 20 years) of the area in keeping with the vision and mission of the department and the aspirations of the Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan.

Seattle Center will accept proposals for revenue generating activities as well as those that return substantial public benefits. Selection criteria include a proponent's demonstrated ability to fully fund, implement and operate the proposal.

The RFP states the preference for public use of the space to commence no later than summer 2011. The desire is to have a completed attraction in place by the six-month celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the 1962 Seattle World's Fair in 2012.

The Fun Forest south area, a relatively level, open space with an asphalt surface and 21,600 square-foot, concrete brick arcade building, is located to the southeast of Center House. Fun Forest Amusements, LLC has operated the Fun Forest for 47 years. It intends to vacate the space at the end of September 2010.

Seattle Center will cast its RFP net widely in hopes of attracting proposals from a broad range of proponents from across the region and beyond. Proposals must be submitted by June 4, 2010, as specified in the RFP. Those seeking to submit proposals must register through the City of Seattle ebid eXchange system. For more information on the Request for Proposal: Redevelopment of Seattle Center South Fun Forest Area, visit www.seattlecenter.com or email to: Neal.Erickson@seattle.gov.

About Seattle Center

Seattle Center draws you in. Its vibrant pulse brings together people of all ages and walks of life to create thousands of extraordinary experiences that enrich millions of lives each year. Entertainment options abound - starting with nearly 500 free and affordable public activities and over 5,000 campus shows and events annually. The 74 - acre campus, with its 17 acres of open space, is home to more than 30 cultural, educational, sports and entertainment organizations. This premier urban park exists to delight and inspire the human spirit in each person and bring together our rich and varied community. The 12 million visits to Seattle Center each year generate $1.15 billion in business activity and $387 million in labor income for King County. For more information, visit http://www.seattlecenter.com.