 Left: Luther Theological Seminary in Saint Anthony Park neighborhood in Saint Paul, MN.
Right: University of Minnesota's Les Bolstad Golf Course in Falcon Heights, MN.
Greetings District 3,
Earlier this month, we learned Luther Seminary will be moving to a nimble learning model and will be transitioning from their physical location in Saint Anthony Park. As a pivotal steward in our community for over 100 years, I am sad to see them leave our neighborhood but respect their decision as they seek a new space to meet their needs. The announcement from Luther Seminary, is yet another announcement of a closure in our community within the last couple of months. We’ve also gotten announcements around the closure of Westrock off University Ave. and the University of Minnesota’s Les Bolstad golf course in Falcon Heights. With these departures, our community is also presented with a unique opportunity for what’s to come.
Although both cities (Saint Paul and Falcon Heights) are the land use authority for these respective properties, I am looking forward to working with neighbors, city, state and regional partners, to ensure that we hear all ideas, concerns and questions. We have a once in a generation opportunity to usher in new development that meets the needs of our community. It will be important that we have collaborative efforts that supports local businesses, creates employment opportunities, builds housing, and establishes affordable, sustainable, and thriving neighborhoods for generations to come.
Please feel free to reach out to my office if you have additional comments about the new development opportunities in our district or questions in general. We look forward to talking with you.
Sincerely,
District 3 Updates
Ramsey County Transportation Improvement Plan
In early June, I voted in support of the Ramsey County Transportation Improvement Plan —not because it’s perfect, but because it lays a strong, flexible foundation for our county’s future. This plan does not lock out any single project. It is a living document. It does not signal the end of the county’s involvement in West 7th—despite it being a state road, we will and should stay at the table. This plan also does not remove the county’s commitment to building transit throughout our communities. I believe it is a strategic investment in a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable Ramsey County. I look forward to working with all our partners to build towards the future. You can watch the 2025-217 Eligible Projects for the Ramsey County Transportation Sales and Use Tax Funding vote below:
Critical Corridor Awardees
Congratulations to the Ramsey County Critical Corridors awardees. This program offers assistance to qualifying public, private, and nonprofit organizations, for place-based investments along major transportation, commercial and cultural corridors. My colleagues and I via the Housing Redevelopment Authority (HRA) approved a total of $300,000 in funding for projects throughout the county. Special congratulations to Critical Corridor awardees in District 3: , North End Neighborhood Organization, and Rice & Larpenteur Alliance!
 You can learn more about the Ramsey County Critical Corridor program HERE.
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Dale Street: Paving is complete and traffic lanes are open. Road striping work is ongoing due to several weather delays, therefore continue to watch out for crews. An emergency stormwater repair is complete, while restoration work is ongoing.
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Rice Street: The next phase of construction has started. Roadway excavation and grading, curb and gutter installation, and traffic signal work from Arlington Ave to Wheelock Parkway. Removal and installation of sanitary sewer, water main, and storm lines is ongoing. Rehab of the bridge over the railway continues from Maryland Ave to Cottage Ave continues.
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Arcade Street/E 7th Street: As of June 9th, Arcade Street is closed to through traffic in both directions between Wheelock Parkway and Maryland Ave. In late June, expect closures in both directions between Magnolia Ave and Sims Ave.
Episcopal Homes Visit
 With Senator Clare Oumou Verbeten and Former State Representative Kathleen Vellenga.
In mid June, I joined State Senator Clare Oumou Verbeten for a joint Q&A with the residents of the Episcopal Homes during their Democracy Club. I had a chance to share about the work happening at the county as well as hear directly from folks about their concerns, especially the proposed federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and affordable housing, and the impacts it will have on their lives.
Steamfitters Pipefitters Local 455 Visit
 With Business Manager, Tony Poole and Financial Secretary/Treasurer, Scott Seath.
I had opportunity to tour the Steamfitters Pipefitters Local 455 facility this month. They represent more than 1,500 certified steamfitter/pipefitters working across a 22-county jurisdiction. Their trade includes more than 50 segments ranging from welding to rigging. Members have access to a 5-year apprenticeship program and journeyman training classes at this site. They continue to not only do amazing work to keep our community going but also have great opportunities to give young people valuable, vocational experience.
17th Annual Community Empowerment Through Black Men Healing Conference
 With Mayor Melvin Carter III and Conference Co-Creator and Author, Sam Simmons.
Last week, I was honored to participate in the 17th Annual Community Empowerment Through Black Men Healing Conference. This year’s theme was “Black Fathers”, focusing on the current challenges fathers face in their involvement in their children's lives from prenatal and beyond. Additionally, the conference explored culturally sensitive approaches that celebrate and uplift Black fathers.
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