PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia Parks and Recreation is advancing the next phase of activation for LOVE Park’s Saucer building after a successful Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) demonstrated strong market demand and confirmed the potential of a flexible, partnership-driven approach to reuse. A vendor partner is expected to be selected in April 2026, with work on the site commencing in May 2026.
With interest high and opportunities clear, qualified prospective partners are now invited to take the next steps in bringing the Saucer to life.
Action Required for Interested Respondents
- Mandatory site visit: Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 3 p.m.
Location: LOVE Park, 1500 John F. Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19102
- Submit a proposal online by: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Issued in summer 2025, the RFEI was designed to gauge interest, spark creativity, and explore new operating models for the site. The response exceeded expectations, generating more than 50 submissions from a diverse mix of local businesses, nonprofits, and first-time City vendors, as well as concept ideas from members of the public. Collectively, the submissions demonstrated strong support for specific approaches and provided the City with a clear proof of concept for a lighter, more adaptable model, informing a more strategic approach to the current Request for Proposals.
“The Saucer has always been envisioned as a people-first space—one that complements the park, supports programming, and welcomes both residents and visitors,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. “The RFEI showed us that there are creative, realistic ways to activate the building without overburdening a future partner, giving us the confidence to move forward with a flexible, inclusive model designed for the way people actually use LOVE Park.”
Building on the RFEI’s success, the City is preparing a next-step solicitation to identify a vendor partner for the upcoming season. Officials are encouraged by the caliber, creativity, and vision of respondents who see the site as a unique opportunity to contribute to Philadelphia’s public realm during a landmark year.
To support this effort, City Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr.’s office, District 5, has committed funding for key utility and infrastructure improvements in the building. At the same time, public grants are being pursued to offset capital costs and reduce barriers for a future operator to bring the space online. These investments will allow a vendor to focus on programming, operations, and public engagement rather than upfront construction costs.
“Bringing an active, public-facing partner into the Saucer is a milestone for LOVE Park and for Philadelphia,” said Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr., District 5. “This investment reflects our commitment to activating public spaces in ways that benefit residents, visitors, and the city’s cultural and economic life. I’m proud to support improvements that make the Saucer a welcoming hub for years to come.”
Innovative, collaborative partners are wanted to bring the Saucer to life, creating a flexible, year-round space that welcomes and engages residents and visitors.
For more details on the solicitation and timeline, please visit the PHL Contracts portal. All questions must be submitted through the portal as outlined in the RFP; emailed questions will not be addressed.