NYC Parks Request for Proposal (RFP)

Requests for proposals (RFPs) are issued for a variety of NYC Parks concessions. These include snack bars, restaurants, golf courses, ice rinks, tennis facilities, stables and marinas.

Businesses submitting proposals are evaluated by a committee of NYC Parks employees. They will use the criteria provided in the RFP to decide which proposal is best overall. The concession will be awarded to the business with the top proposal based on these criteria. This information is designed to help you understand what is needed to respond to an RFP with the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation.

Remember that you must obtain all necessary permits for the lawful operation of the concession from the Department of Buildings, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Fire Department.

• Businesses that are corporations or partnerships must have an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Sole proprietors may use their Social Security number.

• Corporations, limited liability companies and S-corporations need a stamped copy of the Certificate of Incorporation or a filing receipt (by NYS Secretary of State), and a copy of a Corporate Resolution or Minutes of Meeting, dated within the last year and listing the principal officers.

• Proposal deposit (rate varies for different requests for proposals (RFPs))

• Completed W9 and contract affirmation forms

• Completed VENDEX questionnaires, when required

• Carry insurance naming the City of New York and NYC Parks & Recreation as additional insured. The type and amount of insurance required depend on the concession.

• The proposal deposit, which varies, is required at the time of submission.

• List of accepted payment methods:

  • Certified check (for proposal deposit, security deposit and monthly fees; all checks payable to New York City Department of Parks & Recreation)

  • Money order (for proposal deposit, security deposit and monthly fees)

  • Personal check or business check (for proposal deposit, security deposit and monthly fees; all checks payable to New York City Department of Parks & Recreation)

NYC Parks issues requests for proposals (RFPs) for different concessions on a regular basis. RFPs include information about project background (history, existing conditions, etc.), project components (operations, maintenance and programming), financial improvements and investments, design review fees, and responsibilities during the permit/license term. Proposals are evaluated on a variety of criteria, including fee offer, experience, proposed financial investment and design, planned operations, and financial capability.

When responding to an RFP, individuals must submit a proposal deposit and a fee offer. Proposals that don't meet these minimum requirements or that are submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

The duration of these permits/licenses vary depending on the concession type and the capital investment required.

• Review all information in the RFP.

• Submit your proposal and the proposal deposit (rate varies; the RFP will include the deposit amount) in person or by mail to the NYC Parks Revenue division by the given deadline. No late submissions will be accepted.