California Launches Modernized Portal to Accelerate Commercial Redevelopment on State-Owned Land

SACRAMENTO, CA- The California Department of General Services (DGS) today announced the launch of a modernized Commercial Opportunities Portal, introducing a process that streamlines and speeds the redevelopment of underutilized state properties. The initiative is designed to expand economic opportunities, reduce delays, and deliver greater long-term value to California communities.

Developed by DGS's Real Estate Services Division (RESD), the new portal provides a centralized, transparent, and developer friendly system that significantly shortens the timeline from concept to construction.

Private developers, cities and counties and the public can now submit proposals to lease or purchase state-owned excess or surplus sites for commercial and/or residential uses through a simplified, competitive process. This includes:

• A single, updated GIS-enabled platform where developers can review all available excess and surplus properties
• Rolling proposal submissions, allowing DGS to advance projects as soon as a top scoring proposal(s) are received
• Simplified submission requirements, making it easy to propose on sites while enabling the state to fairly evaluate

"By modernizing how we engage with developers, California is unlocking new opportunities for job creation and economic growth," said DGS Director Ana M. Lasso. "This portal ensures that state land is put to its best use while supporting diverse and emerging developers across the state."

Building on Proven Success

The new commercial process builds on the state's recent success in accelerating affordable housing development. Last year, DGS implemented a similar streamlined approach for housing projects, reducing the traditional 18-month solicitation timeline to just five months and awarding six sites for new affordable housing developments.

By applying the same efficiency to commercial projects, the state aims to broaden access for a wider range of developers and strengthen financial returns to California.