News from the Downtown Alliance
February 15, 2019
A note from the president
Happy belated Valentine’s Day downtown!

Saint Paul was declared the Most Romantic City in America in recent years and yesterday demonstrated that we still got it. I was happy to pick up treats at Legacy Chocolates and a token of my affection at Gypsy Moon, both in the beautiful Pioneer Endicott building. Between that and what is always a great day of business for all of our restaurants, I feel like our downtown continues to represent itself well as the most romantic city.

Over the past several months, the Downtown Alliance has been studying best practices in other downtowns, and working to articulate our vision for downtown Saint Paul. This has included a number of conversations about local and state policy changes that would support our goals for growth and vitality. This week we had the opportunity to visit with folks at the Capital River Council about these ideas. More to come on this, but I want to thank the staff and volunteers for inviting me to present our ideas. 

PS - Congratulations to GreaterMSP on naming Peter Frosch as the new CEO. Peter’s work has been really helpful in Saint Paul and the entire region. He will be fantastic in his new role as the head honcho over there!

See you all around (down)town,

Joe Spencer
President
The Saint Paul Downtown Alliance
Design process progresses for Pedro Park
Two design concept videos were recently released by the city of Saint Paul Parks & Recreation department that show both daytime and nighttime versions of the future for Pedro Park. Greenery abounds along with ample seating, shade, water features and more. We can't wait to watch this space transform into the newest community asset downtown.

Neighborhood STAR Program now accepting applications
The City of Saint Paul is now accepting applications for the 2019 Neighborhood STAR Program, through March 21. Any public, private or non-profit entity located in or doing business in Saint Paul is encouraged to apply for a grant or loan for a project or program that results in capital improvements in the community.
 
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City Council Gold Line public hearing next week
Make your voice heard about amendments to the Gold Line Station Area plans next Wednesday at the Saint Paul City Council. A public hearing will be held in City Council chambers at 5:30 p.m., where all comments concerning the draft plan amendments will be heard. Want to share your thoughts, but can’t make the meeting? Submit your comments in writing via email to Bill Dermody at [email protected] or address them to: Office of the City Council, 310 City Hall, 15 Kellogg Blvd. West, Saint Paul, MN 55102.
 
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