The city of Des Moines is seeking proposals to develop a less-than-half-acre site across the street from City Hall.

A request for proposal was announced in December, with a Feb. 1 deadline for developers to submit their proposals for the site at 401 Robert D. Ray Drive. City staff will select a proposal by Feb. 15 to submit to the City Council for consideration.

According to the RFP, the site is 17,168 square feet, or about 0.39 acres, and is zoned DX2, which allows for mid-level intensity mixed-used development. It also is within the Capitol dominance area, which limits the height of buildings to 75 feet so they won’t obscure the view of the state Capitol.

City staff have determined the estimated fair market value of the parcel to be between $1.075 million and $1.35 million. An independent commercial appraisal is being conducted and will be available once its complete.

The RFP notes that the site provides access to the downtown riverfront and its attractions. It is adjacent to the Bridge District redevelopment, which will include 500 residential units when complete. It is also next to a 535-stall public parking garage.

“The city of Des Moines is seeking development teams with an interest in the creative redevelopment of the city-owned site,” the RFP states.

While not dictating the type of development, the city suggests some ideas in the RFP.

First, a proposed project needs to be compatible with the surrounding East Village Neighborhood and continue the growth of the area. The development also needs to be respectful of the “Civic Center Historic District” and the nearby Principal Riverwalk and promenade.

According to the RFP, it also should include a blueprint that allows for enhanced outdoor space for programming by tenants while allowing for greater views of City Hall.

Cody Christensen, director of the city’s Development Services Department, said while there are some requirements for the development, there also is flexibility to allow developers to show off their creativity.

“City staff are anxious to see what is submitted, as this site’s prime location is sure to generate well-integrated, innovative proposals,” he said.