RICHMOND, Va. - The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC), in partnership with the City of Richmond's Economic Development Authority (EDA), today announced the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the design and delivery of a new Downtown Transfer Hub and accompanying mixed-use overbuild. The solicitation marks a major step toward transforming a key site within the City Center Innovation District into a modern transit anchor and vibrant mixed-use destination.

The RFQ was released today. A virtual pre-response conference is scheduled for Monday, December 1, and a Q&A period will remain open until Monday, December 8. RFQ responses are due on January 30, 2026.

Located on a ~3-acre parcel formerly home to the City's Public Safety Building (500 N. 10th St.), the project sits at the convergence of GRTC's East-West routes and the planned North-South Pulse Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line. The selected developer will help advance a two-phase vision:

1. A state-of-the-art, 10-bay Downtown Transfer Hub with rider amenities and operator support spaces.
2. A private mixed-use overbuild that may include residential, commercial, retail, and other placemaking components.

"This project represents the kind of bold, future-focused investment that helps Richmond grow equitably and sustainably," said Mayor Danny Avula. "By strengthening our transit network and activating a critical downtown site with new housing, retail, and public space, we are setting the stage for a more connected, innovative, and people-centered Richmond. I look forward to continued progress as we build a more thriving urban core."

The solicitation seeks qualified and financially capable development teams to deliver both the public transit facility and the private overbuild. Public funding for the transit component is secured or advancing toward approval, and additional financing tools will be available to support the mixed-use development.

Building on the shared vision for equitable access and high-quality transit, GRTC and the Office of Equitable Transit and Mobility (OETM), led this effort to address longstanding inequities across the transportation network. "The GRTC Downtown Transfer Hub is a key initiative supported by Richmond Connects for the development of a dedicated off-street transfer location for bus riders," said Dironna Moore Clarke, Deputy Director of Public Works (OETM). "By integrating a modern transfer hub with mixed use development, we are creating a destination that supports riders, encourages investment, and strengthens the economic heart of the region," said Adrienne Torres, Chief Development Officer, GRTC.

The new Downtown Transfer Hub will replace outdated facilities with modernized operations and enhanced passenger amenities. The project is also strategically aligned with future expansions of GRTC's BRT network.

"This is monumental for GRTC," said Sheryl Adams, Chief Executive Officer of GRTC. "The Downtown Transfer Hub will improve reliability, efficiency, and safety across our system while offering riders a comfortable, high-quality experience. We are proud to lead this effort and to partner with development teams who share our commitment to thoughtful, transit supportive design."

"This is more than a transit project-it's an economic development catalyst," said Angie Rodgers, Director of the Department of Economic Development. "The Downtown Transfer Hub will bring new energy and activity to the heart of the city, while the mixed-use overbuild will create opportunities for housing, entrepreneurship, and job growth. We are ready to collaborate with partners who can help maximize public and private value through thoughtful, high-quality development."

The City and GRTC expect to issue the Request for Proposals in Winter 2026, with final developer selection and negotiations completed by the end of 2026.

Interested parties can access the RFQ here.