News from the Downtown Alliance
July 23, 2020
A note from the president

Friends,

Months or years from now when we look back on the coronavirus pandemic, I wonder if what stands out to us the most are the ways in which businesses (and everybody for that matter) needed to adapt at unprecedented speeds. It's possible you've heard me say this before, but one of the things I loved most about performing was the instantaneous problem solving that was required every time I stepped on stage. Every night, things would go wrong in front of a theater full of people, and the team of performers and stagehands worked together to solve problems in real time.

Right now we're seeing this happen in a more consequential way today. Cultural institutions have been streaming performances, membership organizations have been able to provide valuable content to their members remotely, restaurants are expanding both their takeout capacity and their outdoor dining footprints in order to maximize business. Through a number of Emergency Orders, the City of Saint Paul has been trying to find ways to ease some of the hurdles that can slow down the process of making these changes, but it can still be challenging to navigate. The Downtown Alliance is offering assistance to any downtown business owners looking to take advantage of some of the options included in the Emergency Orders or simply navigate the “system.” If you or someone within your network would like to connect please do not hesitate to reach out.

Over the coming weeks we will continue to find ways to work with all of you to bring vitality back into downtown in both new and familiar ways. Big River Pizza and the Downtown Alliance have been working together to host a small concert series in August and September and Lowertown Local is planned to continue Thursday evenings. Keep an eye out for more announcements coming soon. 

Mask up and be well,
 
Joe Spencer
President
Saint Paul Downtown Alliance
Businesses continue to adapt and reopen downtown
Restaurants, retail and service providers continue to reopen their doors downtown and we couldn't be happier to see it. Here are a few spots that have reopened that you might have missed.

Eclipse Records - 419 Wabasha - Stop by over lunch or make a special trip downtown to browse thousands of records.
 
Norwest Stylists Salon - 378 Wabasha - The days of at-home haircuts are over. Norwest is accepting new clients and is open by appointment only.
 
Pillbox Tavern - 400 Wabasha Ave. - Located in Treasure Island Center Pillbox has a fantastic patio with lots of space for outdoor lunch or happy hour drinks.
 
Rico's Ice Cream Parlor - 56 E. 6 th St. - Downtown's only ice cream shop has reopened in the Alliance Bank Building skyway!
 
Station 81 - 214 4th St. E. - Station 81 had just celebrated its grand opening when COVID-19 hit. Luckily they're back for lunch and just as tasty as ever.
 
Uptown Girls Boutique - 101 E. 5th St. - Not only does Uptown Girls have a huge selection of women's clothing and accessories, they also have a masks in stock. 

Lowertown Local Community Gathering

Come together tonight to enjoy an evening in the park with neighbors and friends. 

Mears Park
Thursday, July 23
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

All are encouraged to buy takeout from local businesses or bring a picnic into Mears.

Bring lawn chairs or a blanket. Social distancing must be observed in the park and masks are encouraged. 
MCM Gala goes virtual
The most fun fundraiser of the year is going virtual! The annual Minnesota Children's Museum Ready, Set, Play Gala is happening online this Tuesday, July 28. This event is happening at a time when support is critical for the Minnesota Children’s Museum. All are invited to join and participate in the reception and silent auction from the comfort of their own home. Racing attire optional.

Have questions?