The city of Lowell is seeking developers for a 2-million-square-foot transit-oriented waterfront development at its 15-acre Hamilton Canal District.

Located at the gateway to downtown Lowell, the district is being envisioned as a model for smart-growth development, including multifamily housing, commercial development and innovation space.

The area consists of 17 blighted parcels that, if redeveloped, could double the size of the downtown, connecting the existing city center with the Charles A. Gallagher Transit Terminal, MBTA commuter rail station and Lowell Connector. City officials are seeking a design and development team that will incorporate “signature architecture and urban design” that complements the city’s existing historic buildings, according to a press release. The project could be led by a master developer or group of developers.

The available development parcels are fully entitled and require no discretionary permits, according city officials.

“An aggressive construction timeline is incorporated into the RFQ, with the goal of getting shovels in the ground sooner rather than later,” Mayor Rodney Elliott said in a statement.

The city released a request for qualifications today that seeks submissions by Oct. 13. Details are available at www.hamiltoncanal.com. The city hopes to select a developer by the end of the year.