City of Barnwell Seeking Project Proposals for Former Bookworm Property

43Jefferson St.

Former Bookworm Property – General Guidelines

Anyone wishing to propose a project for consideration at the location of the old Bookworm property located downtown for consideration of Hospitality Tax funding should provide the following:

Project Description – A brief narrative explaining the proposed project, its purpose, and how the property would be used.
Tourism Impact – An explanation of how the project would attract visitors, encourage tourism, support events, or otherwise bring people from outside the City into downtown Barnwell.
Visual Concept – At least one photograph of a similar project, sketch, drawing, site plan, or rendering showing what the completed project could look like.
Community & Economic Benefit – A brief explanation of how the project would benefit downtown Barnwell, local businesses, residents, community organizations, or the local economy.
Operation & Sustainability – An explanation of how the project would be used, operated, maintained, and supported after completion.

Project Budget Cap – The total proposed project cost must not exceed $1,500,000.

Submission Deadline – All project proposals must be submitted by December 1, 2026, either in person at Barnwell City Hall or by email to dholcomb@cityofbarnwell.com.

Please Note: Submission of a proposal does not guarantee funding or approval. All proposals will be reviewed for eligibility for Hospitality Tax funding, availability of funds, overall benefit to the City, and final approval by the appropriate City governing body. This specific project will be funded through existing eligible Hospitality Tax revenues and will not create an additional tax burden for City residents. The City of Barnwell reserves the right to combine elements from multiple submitted proposals to develop a more comprehensive project that best serves the interests of the community, enhances tourism opportunities, and maximizes the overall benefit of the project.