Riverview Corridor project update
Planners working on the Riverview Corridor project continue to analyze and refine the streetcar option in coordination with the city of Saint Paul, Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT), Metro Transit and other project partners. The goal is to develop a design that provides reliable services with convenient access to homes, businesses and key destinations. It’s also to ensure incentives for development and re-investment throughout the corridor with minimal impact.
The project team expects to complete a draft plan for the streetcar option by late summer or early fall. When concept plans for both the streetcar and best bus options are completed, they’ll be shared with the community for review and comment. Community feedback will help refine the design of the two alternatives, providing valuable information to guide the technical team and policymakers. By investing in transit and infrastructure, Riverview Corridor is laying the groundwork for long-term equitable economic growth, job creation and more resilient, healthier communities.
(Image: Traffic, Photographer: Jeremy Noble)
Historic transportation funding passed
Earlier this year, the Minnesota legislature passed a comprehensive transportation bill providing $7.8 billion for the state’s roads, bridges and transit systems. This represents a major investment in the state’s transportation infrastructure. According to Charlie Zelle, Metropolitan Council Chair, “sustainable funding for transit will allow us to provide and maintain a system that helps address our region’s mobility, equity and climate goals.” The transportation bill also includes funding for intercity passenger rail projects (Amtrak), public safety and more. Read the full article by the Metropolitan Council.
(Image: Minnesota State Fair)
Struttin’ our stuff at the Minnesota State Fair
Among the many new food offerings at the State Fair, a few favorites along the Riverview Corridor will have their specialties on the menu this year. While enjoying almost anything on a stick, be sure to check out these Corridor delights.
Spinning Wylde Cotton Candy Cafe, located in Union Depot, will offer their eye-popping Cloud Coolers. Imagine a cotton candy cloud spun around a straw, ready to dip into a delicious lemonade cooler. Fair location: north of Wright Avenue between Cooper and Cosgrove streets, at Family Fair in Baldwin Park.
Afro Deli has been selected as one of seven new vendors at the Minnesota State Fair, with beef, chicken and veggie sambusas—a savory pastry with dipping sauce. Fair goers can also enjoy sweet plantains, Somali tea and fresh mango juice. Fair location: in the food building on the east wall.
Mancini’s Al Fresco, of the W 7th Street iconic Mancini’s Char House, is a must stop on your fair route. From fresh Italian breakfast options to irresistible cannolis, there’s something for everyone. Location: Carnes between Nelson and Underwood.
And don’t miss these Saint Paul classics:
The Minnesota Historical Society is serving up History On-A-Schtick, a fun-filled glimpse of Minnesota's history into a 30-minute performance. Shows run daily in the West End Market's Schilling Amphitheater. Fair location: Schilling Amphitheater at the West End Market.
FAN Central is a hub of hometown sports, featuring activities, player appearances and apparel. From the Saint Paul Saints to the Minnesota Roller Girls, there’s something for everyone. Fair location: Dan Patch Ave and Underwood Street. The Minnesota Wild moved to a new location at the north end of the fair at Underwood Street and Murphy Ave.
Beautiful parks, even for Fido
Riverview Corridor is home to many scenic and historic parks, like Fort Snelling, Mears Park, Rice Park and Irvine Park. But did you know that Saint Paul also has one of the most popular dog parks in the Twin Cities? The High Bridge Dog Park is a seven-acre haven for four-legged friends. Formerly a coal power plant site, the space was given to the city for use as a dog park. Completely enclosed with one primary entrance, it has a cozy little space for small dogs and a huge area for the big dogs to run their tails off. The High Bridge Dog Park is located beneath the Smith Avenue High Bridge, just south of Shepard Road, west of Upper Landing and north of the Mississippi River.
(Image: Visit Saint Paul)
Bring out your inner artist
The origins of the Saint Paul Art Crawl dates back to 1977. In the early 70s, the area known as Lowertown was a neighborhood of empty parking lots and abandoned warehouses. But thanks to the affordability of warehouse spaces in this district, Lowertown quickly became the center of the Saint Paul art scene. Founding artists of the Saint Paul Art Collective organized their first group exhibition at the Union Depot with the hope of educating the public about Minnesota artists and their work.
The Saint Paul Art Crawl continues to shine today. Held in the spring and fall, it's the longest-running art crawl in the United States and now spans into many parts of the city. Stay tuned for upcoming dates and locations at the Saint Paul Art Collective.
Meanwhile, don’t wait for the fall schedule to enjoy these great galleries along the Riverview Corridor:
Or take a class at Art Matters Studio, located in the Schmidt Artist Lofts on West 7th Street.
Saint Paul Saints Home games:
Don’t miss our Saint Paul Saints at CHS Field before the summer ends. There are home games through the end of August and into September. Get your tickets today.
Farmer’s Market at Union Depot:
Shop from over 20 vendors offering fresh food and local products the first Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Each monthly market features a unique theme along with fun activities and giveaways. Final dates are September 6 and October 4. Don’t miss it.
Summer of Sharks at SEA LIFE at the Mall of America:
Stop in at the Mall of America to explore the wondrous world of sharks. Learn more about the special offer, now through the end of August, at Summer of Sharks.
Music at the Bridge:
Listen to live music and enjoy delicious fare from area food trucks at Civic Square at Highland Bridge on August 10, starting at 6 p.m. Learn more at Highland District Council's event calendar.
Fun at Keg & Case:
There’s so much to do at the Keg & Case:
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Nur-D, August 12
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Loki’s Folly, August 26
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Cars and Coffee, every other Sunday through September 24
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Tots & Tales, story time for the little ones, Thursdays through August 31
The Riverview Corridor would like your feedback. What makes this area unique for you? What are your favorite features? What questions do you have for us? Your input is valuable to our team.
If you have an upcoming event, a great story idea or interesting news you’d like to see in ‘Riverview Streets’ email us at info@riverviewcorridor.com.
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