Request for Proposals: Downtown Parking Study for the City of Bad Axe
Introduction
The Huron County Economic Development Corporation is seeking proposals from qualified firms to conduct a downtown parking study for the City of Bad Axe. The study will assess current parking conditions, identify potential challenges related to the current conditions, and define solutions for expanding downtown parking, if necessary.
Project Background
The City of Bad Axe is interested in assessing and studying its current parking infrastructure in an effort to provide the City and other stakeholders with a clear understanding of the effectiveness of the existing structure while identifying needs for the City’s vision of a vibrant downtown that supports people living, working, eating, walking, and shopping.
Scope of Work
The selected consultant will be responsible for:
1. Data Collection & Analysis: Gathering relevant data to address the following questions:
How is existing parking being used? Who is using existing parking and when, where, which spaces, streets, and lots? Are employees parking in the preferred/closest spaces related to their own business? What time(s) of day presents the biggest challenges?
Are on and off-street parking and existing lots being utilized effectively?
Are current parking systems contributing to the City’s downtown vision?
Explore public perceptions about downtown parking and how those perceptions align with data and professional observations.
Is there sufficient parking for commercial needs in the downtown? Is there a need to increase capacity and if so, what are the best locations for expansion using a cost benefit analysis.
2. Utilization Assessment: Conduct an examination of existing downtown parking spaces and lots to understand when and how these spaces are being used. Include factors such as turnover rate/dwell time, time of day, utilization/occupancy rate, etc.
3. Community Benefits Analysis: Assess potential enhancements that will benefit the community while examining the costs.
4. Stakeholder Engagement: Partner with the EDC to engage local officials, businesses, and residents to collect quantitative and qualitative data.
5. Final Report & Presentation: Deliver and present a comprehensive parking plan report with actionable recommendations based on best practices, including thresholds and justifications for implementing, organized by Immediate, 1-5 years, 5-10 years, and 10+ years.
Proposal Requirements
Interested firms should submit a proposal that includes:
1. Firm Background & Qualifications: Summary of relevant experience.
2. Project Approach & Methodology: Description of how the study will be conducted.
3. Project Team: Bios of key personnel involved.
4. Timeline & Deliverables: Estimated schedule for study completion.
5. Cost Proposal: Detailed budget breakdown.
6. References: At least three references from similar projects.
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
1. Experience & Qualifications
2. Methodology & Approach
3. Cost Competitiveness
4. Project Timeline - project must be completed no later than May 30, 2026
5. Stakeholder Engagement Plan
6. Preference Given to Michigan-Based Firms and Proximity to Project Location: Additional consideration will be given to firms based in Michigan and those located closer to Huron County, though all eligible firms are encouraged to submit a proposal.
Submission Details
1. Submission Deadline: January 26, 2026 at 4pm EST
2. Submission Format: Only electronic PDF submissions will be accepted.
3. Submit to: Samantha Schnettler - info@huroncounty.com
4. Questions & Clarifications: Inquiries should be directed to Samantha Schnettler at the Huron County EDC via the email address above or 989-269-6431
Additional Information
The Huron County EDC reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal and request modifications as needed. The selected firm will be required to enter into a professional services agreement with the EDC.
Issued by:
Huron County Economic Development Corporation
250 E Huron Ave, Suite 303
Bad Axe, MI 48413
info@huroncounty.com
989-269-6431
RFP Issued January 12, 2026