City Seeks Events Partner For East Harlem's 'La Marqueta'

EAST HARLEM, NY — New York City is accepting bids to partner with community organizations interested in planning events at East Harlem's La Marqueta underneath the Park Avenue viaduct, according to city officials.

The city Economic Development Corporation released a request for proposals this month to partner with a neighborhood group to "independently plan, produce, and execute marketing activities and cultural programming at and on behalf of La Marqueta," according to the EDC's website. The city agency will retain all operational duties at the outdoor market located on Park Avenue between East 111th and 119th streets.

A virtual info session will be held on Aug. 5 for community groups interested in planning events at La Marqueta. Bidding groups will be assessed on their experience planning events, the quality of their proposal and proposed fees, according to the EDC. Responses to the city's RFP must be submitted by Aug. 25.

The outdoor events space at La Marqueta, called La Placita, reopened in 2019 following a $5.5 million renovation project. The new La Placita features upgraded lighting and seating fixtures, new restrooms, concession and exhibition spaces and a retractable stage, city officials said.