City of Elkins Issues Call for Statements of Qualifications for Streetscape and Riverfront Projects

ELKINS, W.Va. — July 7, 2026 — The City of Elkins is seeking statements of qualifications (SOQs) from qualified engineering teams for two major initiatives that will revitalize its downtown and riverfront. SOQs are due by August 7, 2026, and must outline each team’s qualifications and experience in engineering, urban design, and related technical services.

The projects aim to enhance connectivity between downtown and the riverfront areas through the creation of community-centered public spaces that strengthen Elkins’ economic development, recreation opportunities, walkability, and community identity.

The City of Elkins has completed a conceptual streetscape improvement plan and conceptual riverfront design. The selected engineering team will refine these plans through collaboration with landscape architecture and urban design professionals to produce construction-ready permit sets for multiple phases. The City of Elkins expects the selected team to engage the public throughout the design phase and develop final designs that are responsive to community input.

“Our vision for downtown and the riverfront is ambitious, and we need an engineering team that is equally driven,” said Mike Kesecker, Operations Manager of the City of Elkins. “We are seeking a partner who can effectively manage complex design work, from surveying to permitting, while keeping community input at the core of every decision.”

These projects may include coordination with the City of Elkins’ Tax Increment Financing (“TIF”) initiative, grant-funded activities, future bond-funded improvements, trail and recreation initiatives, utility coordination, streetscape and public space improvements, riverfront enhancements, and related implementation efforts. The streetscape and riverfront projects are two of five infrastructure projects Elkins’ TIF committee has identified for TIF-funded development. More information on the Elkins TIF district is available at https://cityofelkinswv.gov/tax-increment-financing. A map of the TIF district is also available for review.

City officials emphasize that the selected team should demonstrate experience integrating local art, cultural assets, and historical context into public projects. A proven track record in meaningful public engagement, including building trust among local stakeholders and turning community feedback into actionable design, is also vital.

Detailed information, including the full scope of services, qualifications, and submission requirements, is available within this page and in the RFQ document here, also posted on the City of Elkins’ website.