“This is a rare opportunity to breathe some new life into the last remaining underutilized structure on Boston Common,” noted Boston Parks Commissioner Antonia M. Pollak. “Our department is interested in hearing creative plans to revitalize this empty building in a centrally-located and well-traveled part of America’s oldest public park.”

The purpose of the RFEI is to determine the type of information and materials to be incorporated into a Request for Proposals (RFP), gauge the interest in the building, and identify the market for a potential RFP. Built in the 1920s for use as a public toilet facility, the Men’s Comfort Station has been closed to the public since the 1970s. The 660-square foot building is located on Boston Common between the athletic fields, tennis courts and the Parkman Bandstand. It is a heavily trafficked, highly visible area with minimal existing services or concessions.

Owned by the Parks Department, the Men’s Comfort Station is one of nine historic structures on the Boston Common. The single story building is octagonal in shape and made of cast stone with remnants of a glazed copper roof. There is one point of entry, four clerestory windows, and seven blind masonry panels around the building’s exterior. The structure will require hazardous material abatement, exterior stabilization and renovation, reconnection of all utilities, and there is currently no known sewer or water connection. The interior of the structure requires a full renovation. All renovations planned for the building’s exterior will require review and approval by the Boston Landmarks Commission.

“Because this is a national and local landmark protected by law and Parks Department regulations, there are both great opportunities and challenges,” explained Commissioner Pollak.

While the Boston Parks and Recreation Department is interested in Expressions of Interest that include food concessions, interested parties are encouraged to submit any reuse ideas compatible with the historic character and current uses of Boston Common.

The deadline for all RFEI submissions is October 5. For full details please go to www.cityofboston.gov/parks/RFEI or call (617) 961-3014.