UNL has issued a Request for Proposals seeking a developer willing to redevelop the Industrial Arts Building for reuse.

Consultants have recommended the 1913 building be razed to make way for development of Nebraska Innovation Campus, a private/public research campus planned for the area formerly known as State Fair Park.

In response to concerns about the planned demolition expressed by a historic preservation group, the university agreed to seek developers for the building as a test of whether there is potential for reuse.

On March 5, the University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved the plan, authorizing an open process seeking proposals for appropriate reuse. If no viable proposal is received, UNL may remove the Industrial Arts Building, clearing the way to proceed with development of Innovation Campus. Razing of the building would not begin before July 1.

The Request for Proposal and instructions are available online at http://procurement.unl.edu/bids.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. April 2 in the Nebraska Union. Officials will answer questions regarding the Request for Proposals and conduct a tour of the Industrial Arts Building.