City Announces Next Steps for Somass Lands Redevelopment

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

Port Alberni, BC – The City of Port Alberni is taking the next step in redevelopment of the Somass Lands, a 43 acre waterfront property where the somass division sawmill formerly operated.

The City has successfully completed a Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) process launched in early September 2022. A total of 16 responses were received, indicating a significant and diverse interest from organizations desiring to occupy a portion of the redeveloped Somass Lands and from developers interested in leading the redevelopment in partnership with the City.

A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process will be launched in March 2023. Participation in the RFQ will be by invitation extended to developers that have demonstrated experience and capability. The qualified list of developers will be invited to engage with the City through a structured and detailed RFQ process. The RFQ may be followed by a Request for Proposals (RFP).

“Redeveloping the Somass Lands is a multi-step process,” said City of Port Alberni Mayor, Sharie Minions. “Launch of the RFQ process gets us one step closer to building a thriving and accessible waterfront at the former Somass Lands site. City Council is excited by the strong interest in this project from the development community, and mindful that taking the right steps now will provide the best long term results for our community.” 

The City will receive and review responses to the RFQ in 2023 – that process will allow the City to develop a short list of qualified potential development partners, before potentially undertaking a RFP process and considering final selection of a partner.  

“We are thankful to all developers, businesses, residents, organizations and social enterprises that provided submissions to the REOI,” said Scott Smith, Director of Development Services | Deputy CAO. “This process was an important step in informing and developing the upcoming RFQ, and we look forward to reviewing responses from qualified proponents.”

To stay updated on the project, visit letsconnectpa.ca/somass-lands.

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For More Information

Scott Smith, Director of Development Services/Deputy CAO

City of Port Alberni

250.720.2807

scott_smith@portalberni.ca