UNL seeks proposals for 13th & Q national retail opportunity

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is seeking proposals for a national retailer to occupy about 20,000 square feet of the former Nebraska Bookstore building at 13th and Q streets in downtown Lincoln. 

The request seeks proposals from developers who can arrange for a national retailer that will complement the area’s continuing development and whose merchandise will be attractive to university students. UNL's preference is a retail clothing and/or footwear merchandiser, but will accept alternative proposals.

Proposals are due from private developers Sept. 14. The space is expected to be completed and open for business in 2016.

“UNL’s purchase of the former Nebraska Bookstore building creates an opportunity to use half of the building for academic programs while also providing an opportunity to enhance Lincoln’s retail options,” said Christine Jackson, the university’s vice chancellor for business and finance. “There is a strong student market for a national retailer adjacent to campus. It is beneficial to consider how the private-public use of this site can benefit the entire community."

Developers can examine the request for proposals at http://procurement.unl.edu/ebid. If an acceptable proposal is received, it will likely go to the University of Nebraska Board of Regents for approval at its October board meeting. 

Jackson directed questions from potential developers to the website or to UNL Procurement Services at 402-472-4601.