Evans Center RFA Opens For New Community Programs In Palm Bay
Palm Bay opens a new Request for Applications (RFA) for the Evans Center, inviting organizations to propose community programs that deliver measurable public benefit.
Palm Bay, FL – The City of Palm Bay has released a new Request for Applications for the Evans Center at 1361 Florida Avenue NE. The notice invites eligible organizations to propose community programs or services that provide a measurable public benefit and support neighborhood engagement.
Overview of the New RFA
The Evans Center Request for Applications (14-RFA-26) is now open. The City is seeking organizations that can deliver programs designed to expand access to services and improve quality of life for residents in the surrounding community.
The RFA officially opened on November 14, 2025 at 5:00 PM. While participation in the site walkthrough is not mandatory, attending may help applicants better understand the available space and resources.
Key details:
Site Walkthrough: November 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Questions Deadline: November 28, 2025
Application Deadline: December 5, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Submission Portal: Bonfire procurement portal (link provided by the City)
All submissions must be made electronically. Late applications will not be accepted.
What the City Is Looking For
The City’s press release emphasizes that proposed programs must offer clear public benefits. This RFA’s broad language suggests the City is open to a wide range of community-focused initiatives.
The Evans Center sits in a low to moderate-income neighborhood and has historically served as a hub for food access, wellness, youth programs, and community gathering. Because of this legacy, the City appears interested in partners capable of delivering stable, accessible services.
Organizations considering applying should keep in mind:
Programs must demonstrate measurable outcomes.
Services should enhance neighborhood engagement or fill existing community gaps.
Coordination with the facility’s existing tenant, the Brevard Health Alliance clinic, may be required.
Sustainability and long-term viability will likely be key evaluation factors.
How We Got Here
The Evans Center has gone through several transitions in recent years. After the facility faced operational and financial challenges in 2023, the City moved to acquire the property, closing the purchase in 2024. Palm Bay then attempted a youth-focused RFA process, but the nonprofit selected later withdrew.
To date, the City’s total direct expenditure on the Evans Center is approximately $769,692, including demolition costs, construction contributions, and the 2024 property acquisition.
Before the modern facility existed, the site was home to the Evans Supermarket, opened in 1965 by Roosevelt “Ross” Evans. It served as an anchor business in the surrounding neighborhoods until years of decline led to its closure and nearly half a million dollars in code liens. The City took control of the property in 2007, and community-led efforts eventually resulted in the 2018 construction and 2019 opening of the current multi use Evans Center.
During an October council meeting, the City signaled its intent to restart the selection process using an expedited RFA. This new request aligns with that direction.
What Happens Next
After the December 5 deadline, City staff will review submissions and bring a recommendation forward at a future council meeting. From there, the City Council will select the organization that will operate programs within the Evans Center.
Residents interested in the future of the Evans Center should watch upcoming council agendas and stay engaged as the decision approaches. The outcome of this process will determine what services and opportunities the facility will offer in the years ahead.
For questions, applicants may contact Chief Procurement Officer George Barber at 321-952-3424 or visit the City’s Procurement Office at 120 Malabar Road SE, Palm Bay, FL 32907-3009.