Wichita State University, through its Wichita State Innovation Alliance Inc., has begun the process of securing a developer for an 18.5-acre mixed-use development near the corner of 21st Street and Oliver.

The development, expected to be built in phases on the former site of Braeburn Golf Course, is a key part of Wichita State’s Innovation Campus master plan. Expanded dining, retail and housing options will support university objectives by improving campus life and positioning the university as the core of an innovation district, with year-round residents and amenities.

Among features sought for the project are:

• 10,000 to 15,000 square feet of restaurants, retail, services and entertainment.
• Restaurants that feature a mix of casual, fast casual and fine dining concepts, with outdoor seating opportunities facing a pond.
• A 90- to 100-key, nationally branded hotel.
• 100 to 120 apartments to serve faculty and staff, professionals working in partnership buildings on campus and other adults who would like a university atmosphere.
• Public plazas, gathering areas, a pedestrian bridge across the water feature and green spaces.
• A free-standing coffee shop with a drive-thru window.

Wichita State University President John Bardo said the development represents another tangible step toward the university’s vision of a more vibrant, welcoming campus.

“With the addition of the mixed-use development, we enhance the idea of the WSU campus as a place to learn, work, live and play,” Bardo said. “That type of environment – where academics, students, researchers and entrepreneurs are encouraged to mix and interact creatively – is crucial to fostering innovation, and it immeasurably aids our mission to become the essential educational, cultural and economic driver for Kansas and the greater public good.”

Closing date for responses to the Request for Qualifications is March 31, with the final selection of the qualifier expected in June. Construction is estimated to begin in March 2016. Firms interested in participating must confirm intent to issue a performance and payment bond of not less than $30 million to meet the RFQ criteria.

Go to wichita.edu/biddocs to view the complete RFQ and all related documents.

Go to wichita.edu/innovation for more information about WSU’s Innovation Campus.

About the Wichita State Innovation Alliance

Wichita State Innovation Alliance Inc. (WSIA) is a nonprofit organization that oversees and manages relationships with public and private organizations that engage in innovation-based partnerships that support the mission of Wichita State University.