Interested in developing the former Seneca property? Olmsted County is soliciting requests for interest

Effective immediately, Olmsted County is soliciting requests for development interest on land adjacent to Graham Park as well as related parcels near the Ear of Corn water tower. This land once housed the former Seneca Foods canning facility. Olmsted County is seeking responders (e.g., end-user buyer, developer, or development team) with the ability, credentials, financial means, and experience to purchase and develop this unique property.  

“This is prime real estate, and we are excited to see the ideas developers have for this site,” said Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Thein. “This property is in a dynamic and evolving area in the heart of Rochester. The location is unmatched – it’s a future growth hub with endless opportunities.”  

“Our goal through this process is to find a developer with a plan that will best serve the needs of Olmsted County residents and visitors,” explained Olmsted County Facilities and Building Operations Director Mat Miller.  

The request for development interest will be an iterative, multiphase process to select a preferred responder for the development of the Olmsted County Seneca property. Once responses are received, subsequent actions will depend on the availability and suitability of potential responders.  

How to submit a request for development interest 

• Responses must be submitted prior to the response close date and time (March 28, 2025) through the electronic bidding site.  
  • Submissions should not be more than two pages in length and must include the following: 
  • The name, address and contact information of the firm submitting the response. 
  • The amount of land and the approximate boundaries of the land the responder is interested in purchasing. 
  • The price being offered. 
  • A brief statement of the proposed plan or intent for the property. 
  • A general statement addressing anticipated funding sources for a proposed project.  
  • A statement of whether Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is being proposed as part of the project. 
  • A statement addressing compliance with relevant city, county, and state zoning, land use, and historic preservation requirements, and site access, attributable to the site. 
  • Olmsted County intends to preserve the Ear of Corn water tower; thus, responders should indicate how they intend to ensure that preservation in connection with any redevelopment of all or part of the site.   
• Responders who have questions or seek additional information, should use the “Questions” tab on the electronic bidding site. Questions will appear on the website as submitted. Information obtained from any source other than the electronic bidding site shall be considered invalid.