The allure of redeveloping 52 acres of prime South Beach real estate, including the Miami Beach Convention Center, City Hall and the Jackie Gleason Theater, is attracting high-profile developers.

Eight companies responded to the city’s request for qualifications, a first step on the path to selecting a developer to partner with the city on the massive project. The development will impact the area north of Lincoln Road between Alton Road and Meridian Avenue that is known as the Miami Beach Convention Center District.