New Port Richey is seeking developers for a vacant former health department building at Main and Bank streets, putting one of downtown’s most visible properties on the market for redevelopment.
The city plans to release a request for proposals June 8 for the three-story building at 5640 Main Street. Developers may propose renovating the existing structure or replacing it with a new project.
The roughly 14,400-square-foot property has sat vacant since Pasco County relocated the health department to Hudson in 2021. New Port Richey acquired the property in 2022 through an exchange involving city-owned baseball fields at Pine Hill Park.
The building has suffered from years of neglect and deterioration. City officials say its 1950s design, including the lack of windows or doors facing Main or Bank streets, limits its connection to surrounding businesses and pedestrian activity.
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The city is seeking redevelopment rather than a passive investor. Proposals must demonstrate financial backing, redevelopment experience and a plan to create long-term economic value at the site.
City officials said the project should strengthen connections between Main Street and Railroad Square Phase 2 while supporting additional activity in the downtown district.
The city is encouraging concepts that could include retail space, restaurants, cultural uses, upper-floor residential units and mixed-use development. Developers may also propose partnerships involving a future parking deck on nearby city-owned property.
Proposals are due Aug. 3, with evaluations scheduled for the following week. City Council is expected to consider a selected developer Sept. 1. The selected team will then present redevelopment and construction plans later in September.
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