Student Housing Development Ground Lease Opportunity on SUNY ESF Campus

Background

The State University of New York (SUNY) System Administration, in coordination with Abby Lane Housing Corporation (ALHC), is exploring the potential development of new on-campus student housing at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) in Syracuse, New York. This initiative is enabled by legislation allowing a long-term ground lease of state-owned land. The goal is to create financially viable, self-supporting projects that align with ESF's sustainability mission and meet the housing needs of approximately 2,500 students.

Work Details

The RFI seeks information from qualified developers, financiers, operators, architects, and related professionals regarding the development of student housing and supporting amenities on approximately 1.624 acres of land at SUNY ESF. The project aims to primarily support undergraduate and graduate student housing needs while considering complementary uses such as dining facilities or fitness spaces. Respondents are encouraged to propose innovative financing structures, program scales, and operational strategies that enhance project feasibility. The project will be subject to prevailing wage requirements and must adhere to a Project Labor Agreement. Additionally, it must comply with Article 15-A of the New York State Executive Law regarding Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise participation.

Period of Performance

The anticipated timeline for executing a ground lease is within five years from the effective date of the authorizing legislation. The overall project delivery timeline will depend on various factors including regulatory approvals and financing arrangements.

Place of Performance

The contract will be performed on the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry campus located in Syracuse, New York.

Bidder Requirements

Respondents must demonstrate relevant experience with student housing public-private partnerships or ground lease transactions at public colleges. They should also be aware that all construction is deemed public work under New York State Labor Law and must comply with MWBE participation requirements.