 Dear Neighbors,
This week, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners unanimously updated and adopted its Transportation Sales and Use Tax Capital Improvement Plan. This plan was shaped by the All-Abilities 2050 Transportation Plan, Economic Competitiveness & Inclusion Plan, Climate Equity Action Plan, and the Transportation Improvement Program.
I was proud to support this since it’s the first-time ever our Public Works Department will be utilizing these plans to help prioritize where we invest our transportation dollars in alignment with our county goals centering equity, safety, and access to economic opportunities for all residents across our county!
For too long, transportation investments were based only on road conditions and driver efficiency. This plan is different. It centers equity, safety, and access by prioritizing the needs of people with disabilities, seniors, low-income communities, and those who rely on transit. It aims to build the necessary infrastructure for future transit, which will help regional partners realize and invest in our county’s potential transit connectivity. Simply put, the Transportation Sales and Use Tax Funding Plan helps us reach the goals laid out in our All-Abilities Plan.
I’m also excited to share that the plan itself identified several projects across Ramsey County, including projects located in District 6, such as multi-modal improvements along White Bear Avenue, Maryland Avenue, Larpenteur Avenue, and the Purple Line corridor. These are much needed investments for our district and help to create better transit services and walking conditions for everyone.
Finally, I want to emphasize that this plan does not close the door to other projects. In fact, it invites stronger partnerships with cities, Metro Transit/Met Council and the State, so we can build a more connected and resilient future together. As a living document, future projects are anticipated to be presented for board approval.
Watch the Board conversation and my remarks from the board meeting (47:13–50:38).
In solidarity,
Mai Chong Xiong
 Whether you prefer to connect face-to-face or from the comfort of your home, we’re here to meet you where you are. If our scheduled times don’t work for you, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to find a time that does.
There will be no office hours on July 3 and 4.
Sign-up here!
I'm excited to share that the HRA has officially kicked off the 2025 Emerging and Diverse Developers program.
As we brace for anticipated federal cuts to housing programs and other social safety nets that will impact housing, local housing investments matter more than ever. We need developers who reflect our communities to keep fixing and building so our families can access stable, affordable homes.
Through free, hands-on training and one-on-one support, the EDD program equips emerging developers with the tools to lead housing projects right here in Ramsey County. In 2023 alone, EDD developers (pictured above) created 228 affordable units and preserved 53 existing affordable units!
Eligible EDD participants are individuals who have owned or developed less than 25 units of housing or 15,000 square feet of commercial space.
Join the next info session to learn more details about the program and how to apply to the upcoming educational cohort.
- Tuesday, June 24 from 5PM to 6:30PM
- Maplewood Community Library
- 3025 Southlawn Dr., Maplewood, MN 55109
The application for the educational cohort will open on June 26 and close on July 27.
 I was proud to stand alongside our diverse staff to declare June 2025 as PRIDE Month in Ramsey County. This recognition encourages all residents, employees and community members to celebrate PRIDE Month in the spirit of love, acceptance and unity.
Join us for this two-day event featuring live performances, local food vendors and more!
Date: June 14, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Date: June 15, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location:
Dual Citizen Brewing Company
725 Raymond Ave
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Read the proclamation here.
 The Saint Paul Port Authority has shared an exciting update about The Heights development.
Xcel Energy has reached a major milestone in its 320,000-square-foot project at The Heights on St. Paul’s East Side. The structural framework for the main building is now complete, marking the halfway point of the development. Once finished, the new service center will be approximately twice the size of the current facility on Rice Street, supporting expanded operations within this mixed-use site.
Check out their updates here.
 Sneak peek! We’re getting ready to open the new Downtown Service Center on June 16. The redesigned space will offer more seating, a better check-in experience, and printed tickets to help manage flow. Housing Stability is joining as a new on-site partner and will help residents connect to services like coordinated entry, housing navigation, emergency shelter, and more.
The Saint Paul Children's Collaborative plans to award approximately $2 million to community organizations targeting services to young people experiencing gaps in opportunities and outcomes included in our Youth Outcomes Plan.
The average grant amount in previous years was approximately $115,000 total over a two-year grant period, but SPCC does not have a minimum or maximum grant amount. Grant funds may only be used to support direct services to young people and families living in Saint Paul.
Deadline is 5:00 p.m. CST on Friday, July 11, 2025.
Our Work: Grant-Making - Saint Paul Children's Collaborative
Juneteenth at Progressive Baptist Church
 Connect with a diverse group of believers as we honor the history of Juneteenth and the ongoing journey toward racial justice. Discover the promise and vision for what we can do together as Christians when we are equipped and mobilized to continue building a community of healing and reconciliation!
Address: 1505 Burns Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55106
Soil Testing & Healthy Homes Expo
Save the date! Join us on July 15 at the East Side YMCA for the Soil Testing & Healthy Homes Expo! In partnership with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), we are organizing a Soil Screening, Health, Outreach, and Partnership (SoilSHOP) event this summer. Residents will be able to bring soil from their gardens or yards to be tested for lead, free of charge. Stay tuned for more details.
Accessing Arcade Street during Construction
Yes, Arcade Street is currently under construction, but businesses remain open and accessible!
We recognize that road work can make travel more difficult, and we appreciate your patience and continued support. Local businesses and services are still here for you, and your efforts to visit and support them during this time mean a great deal.
Here’s how you can stay connected and plan your visit:
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Call the location for assistance or personalized directions
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Check current road closures at 511mn.org
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Sign up for project updates at MnDOT’s webpage: mndot.gov/metro/projects/e7th-arcade
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Use nearby side streets for parking and access in closure areas
Thank you for showing up for our local businesses and neighbors. Your commitment helps keep our community strong through every phase of improvement.
Seeking Volunteers for Ramsey County Advisory Boards and Committees
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners is currently seeking individuals to serve on various advisory boards and committees.
Details about these opportunities are listed below. Interested applicants may apply online. View more information and access online application.
We have opened Advisory Board and Committee applications and will start recruiting for applicants.
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Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee (CIPAC) - 6 vacancies
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Capital Region Watershed District - 2 vacancies
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Corrections Advisory Board - 7 vacancies Parks and
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Recreation Commission - 1 vacancy (rollover from round 1)
For questions about the Ramsey County Charter Commission, please contact Chief Clerk.
Click here to apply today!
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