NYC Parks today issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the operation and maintenance of Wollman Rink in Central Park and a separate RFP for the operation and maintenance of the Friedsam Memorial Carousel, also in Central Park.
First up, Wollman Rink: Solicitation # M10-(5)-A-IS-2020. The concessionaire will be required to operate and maintain a seasonal ice rink, summer activities, and a food service facility at the licensed premises, located in the southern portion of the park between 62nd and 63rd streets.
Wollman Rink first opened on December 21, 1950, thanks to a gift from philanthropist Kate Wollman. Its creation continued the tradition of ice skating in Central Park, which dates back to the 1850s. Visiting Wollman Rink has since become a beloved winter activity for New Yorkers and tourists alike.
NYC Parks is seeking a concessionaire to operate the facility for a five (5) year term, with the option for an additional six-month extension. No longer term will be considered. Proposals should include a detailed operational plan; a timetable outlining all design, improvements and capital work; and a description of environmentally-friendly practices. Plans for a programming component are encouraged.
All proposals for this RFP must be submitted electronically no later than Friday, March 19, 2021. All interested parties considering responding to this RFP are encouraged to join the remote proposer meeting on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 2 p.m. To download the RFP, visit Parks’ website at www.nyc.gov/parks/
The Friedsam Memorial Carousel in Central Park: Solicitation # M10-37-CL-C-2021. The concessionaire will be required to operate the carousel year-round daily and maintain the licensed premises, located in the center of the park, near 64th Street.
There have been several carousels in Central Park since the first one opened in 1871. The Friedsam Memorial Carousel was originally crafted in 1908 and features two chariots and 58 hand-carved painted horses, all on a turntable 50 feet in diameter. A Central Park highlight since the 1950s, the carousel is one of the largest and most popular in the country.
NYC Parks is seeking a concessionaire to operate the facility for a one (1) to five (5) year term. No longer term will be considered. Proposals should include a detailed operational plan; a timetable outlining all design, improvements and capital work; and a description of environmentally-friendly practices. Plans to operate a non-motorized pushcart for the sale of gifts and souvenirs and up to three non-motorized mobile food units for the sale of snack food items are encouraged.
All proposals for this RFP must be submitted electronically no later than Friday, March 5, 2021. All interested parties considering responding to this RFP are encouraged to join the remote proposer meeting on Monday, February 22, 2021 at 2 p.m. To download the RFP, visit Parks’ website at www.nyc.gov/parks/