Qualified development teams are invited to apply for the South Field redevelopment opportunity in Delaware City.
South Field Redevelopment
Prequalification Now Open
The South Field redevelopment prequalification is now open at Fort DuPont in Delaware City. Through the South Field redevelopment prequalification, FDRPC has started the first phase of selecting a development partner for this 15.82-acre site. Next, shortlisted teams will move into a design competition. As a result, FDRPC can compare qualifications, ideas, and delivery strategies before choosing a long-term partner.
Why the South Field
Redevelopment Prequalification
Matters
South Field offers the largest remaining site for new construction on the Fort DuPont campus. In addition, the site sits beside the historic mixed-use core. FDRPC’s 2024 Master Plan identifies South Field as a key mixed-use opportunity area. It also notes that the site will need a more creative approach than a conventional subdivision. Therefore, FDRPC wants a team that can strengthen the campus core and respect Fort DuPont’s historic character.
A Walkable Mixed-Use
Neighborhood
FDRPC wants a walkable mixed-use neighborhood at South Field. More importantly, the site should support housing choice and quality design. Teams should show how new development can fit the campus and create a strong sense of place. At the same time, teams should present a practical phasing strategy. They should also identify adaptive reuse opportunities where they make sense.
Missing Middle Housing in Delaware City
The vision for South Field centers on missing middle housing. For example, teams may propose duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, cottage courts, townhomes or rowhomes, small walk-up buildings, and live-work units. These housing types can add variety without losing neighborhood scale. Because of that, FDRPC sees South Field as a chance to respond to housing need in a more thoughtful way.
Mixed-Income Goals
and Site Conditions
FDRPC also wants a meaningful mixed-income component. Specifically, submissions should identify a target number of units affordable to households earning about 80 percent to 120 percent of area median income. In addition, teams should explain how they will achieve and maintain affordability over time. Partnerships with experienced affordable housing entities are strongly encouraged.
South Field presents real site challenges as well. For instance, teams must address floodplain constraints, brownfield considerations, and portions of land still affected by federal 6(f) restrictions. Even so, the site offers strong redevelopment potential for experienced teams that can manage complexity and move toward implementation.
How the Process Works
This is not a standard real estate offering. Instead, FDRPC is using a two-phase process. First, teams respond to the prequalification. Then, FDRPC expects to shortlist three to five firms for a stipend supported design competition. This structure allows FDRPC to compare ideas before selecting a partner.
Key Dates for the South Field Redevelopment Prequalification
April 7, 2026
Prequalification Release
April 27 to May 1, 2026
Nonmandatory Site Conference
May 8, 2026
Deadline for Questions
May 29, 2026
Submissions Due
June 12, 2026
Shortlist Notification
July 3 to September 4, 2026
Design Competition Phase
September 11, 2026
Final Selection