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This is a time of transition. The weather has finally tipped toward the cool of fall, the sunlight is coming in at a noticeably different angle, and in the City Council offices, we’re shifting our focus to 2026 as we move closer to adopting next year’s budget.
Personally, this is a time of transition too. A new year on the Jewish calendar began this month, and with the turn in the calendar comes a turn inward – a chance to reflect on how we lived up to our own standards in the past year and how we can be better family members, friends and neighbors in the year ahead.
One of the things I’m always working on, both at home and at work, is being a better listener. I want to listen to my kids, my husband and my co-workers without my mind racing, thinking about the million other things I have to do. I find technology to be the enemy of good listening, so for my birthday last year, I asked my husband for an analog watch – one that would only tell me the time, not track my steps or the news – so I could keep on schedule all day without looking at my phone.
Good listening is also essential for good government, especially as we make critical decisions about our 2026 budget.
Click here to read Rebecca's full note.
 Council President Noecker and city leaders encouraging residents to vote YES on Ballot Question No. 1, allowing the City to enforce ordinances with civil citations, making enforcement more fair and effective. - September 22, 2025
Downtown Action Series Meeting Tomorrow
Join fellow neighbors for our next Downtown Action Series Meeting, a new initiative led by Council President Rebecca Noecker to bring community members together around the future of downtown Saint Paul.
This series of public meetings is designed to keep you informed and engaged in the progress of Saint Paul’s Downtown Investment Strategy. Whether you're a downtown resident, business owner, employee, or simply care about downtown’s future—your engagement matters.
All meetings are held at Union Depot (214 4th Street East) from 4:30 - 6 PM.
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Thursday, October 16
- Thursday, December 11
RSVP here: https://forms.office.com/g/hpTbTkt92m?origin=lprLink
Together, we’ll share updates, collaborate across sectors, and build momentum toward a more vibrant, inclusive, and thriving downtown. Please feel free to share this invitation and bring others who care about downtown’s future. The more people at the table, the stronger our path forward.
Let’s shape the future of downtown—together, hope to see you there!
Join Council President Noecker for an informal conversation on Thursday, October 23, from 7:00 - 8:00 PM at Russell's Saint Paul!
These gatherings are a chance to share your ideas, ask questions, or raise concerns in a relaxed setting. All are welcome!
- Thursday, October 23
- 7 - 8 PM
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Russell's - 656 Grand Avenue
We hope to see you there!
Stream Now: “A Downtown Debate — The Future of St. Paul”
From filling office towers and energizing storefronts to reimagining the skyway system, big ideas are on the table for downtown’s future. Council President Rebecca Noecker joined fellow leaders for a candid conversation about how we can build on downtown’s strengths and make it a vibrant, welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
Check out the conversation, hosted by FOX 9 and streamed from the Saint Paul Hotel, here.
 FOX 9 - St. Paul Roundtable Discussion - September 22, 2025
Rethinking I-94 Update
MnDOT and the Federal Highway Administration are advancing the Rethinking I-94 project into its next phase, identifying four alternatives for further study: No Build, Maintenance B, Reduced Freeway, and Reconfigured Freeway.
Two upcoming public meetings will share details and gather feedback ahead of the formal comment period in late 2025/early 2026:
- Tue, Oct. 28, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. – Minneapolis Central Library
- Thu, Nov. 6, 5:30–7:30 p.m. – Wilder Foundation, St. Paul
This summer, the project team connected with over 600 community members, hearing strong interest in environmental impacts, community connectivity, and at-grade options.
Learn more and explore project updates at Rethinking I-94’s website or email rethinkingI94project.dot@state.mn.us with questions.
Halloween Swap - Several Dates in October!
It's not so spooky! Reduce waste this fall by giving an old item new life! Swap your unwanted or gently used costumes and party supplies at the Costume and Party Supply Swap this month.
Drop off costumes, décor, or party supplies you no longer want, then browse the shelves for something new. You don’t have to bring an item to participate. All items will be exchanged freely.
Public Works Solid Waste and Recycling Facility (60 Sycamore St W)
- Every Wednesday in October from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Saturday, October 25 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
For more information, visit stpaul.gov/garbage
9th Annual Saint Paul Business Awards!
It’s that time of year! The Saint Paul Business Awards are back up! This program serves to uplift Saint Paul businesses that provide rich, diverse, and inclusive experiences to the community. With five different categories, your business is sure to be recognized within their mission and goals!
Categories include:
- Alice O’Brien Award - Honoring a woman-owned business that is committed to equity and empowerment.
- Good Neighbor Award - Honoring a business that shows dedication to improving the community.
- Traditions Award - Honoring a business that has been active in Saint Paul for at least 20 years.
- People’s Choice Award - Honoring a business that is recognized for its excellence by Saint Paul residents.
- New Kid on the Block Award - Honoring a business that has opened in Saint Paul within the last five years.
Visit www.stpaul.gov/bizawards to learn more about award categories, previous winners, and how you can nominate your favorite spot! Nominations close on October 17th.
 Council President Noecker speaking to seniors at Minnesota Math and Science Academy about "Making a Difference: Why I Love Local Government... and You Should Too!" - September 22, 2025
Staying up-to-date on the Digital Security Incident
Since July 25, the City of Saint Paul has been responding to a digital security incident that disrupted some online services, though critical services like 911, fire, police, water, and garbage have remained fully operational.
With help from state, federal, and cybersecurity partners, the City is restoring systems in phases, enhancing security, and launching PAULIE—a new permitting, licensing, inspection, and utility platform.
Online payments for garbage and water are back, and no late fees will be charged while other systems remain offline. Residents are urged to be cautious of fraudulent invoices or suspicious emails and can find updates and contact options on the City’s Digital Security Incident Info Hub.
You're Invited to the Capital City Bikeway Open House
Join Saint Paul Public Works to learn about upcoming projects along Kellogg Boulevard and Wabasha Street in Downtown Saint Paul
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Capital City Bikeway Extension Open House
- Thursday, October 23
- 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
- Minnesota History Center - 345 West Kellogg Boulevard
(1st Floor Heffelfinger Room)
This open house coincides with the Minnesota History Center’s Free Thursday Nights, which includes complimentary admission to family-friendly exhibits every Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
For more information on the CCB Open House and project details, visit the CCB project webpage at stpaul.gov/ccb.
Construction Updates
Area Closures and Restrictions in Downtown Saint Paul, as of October 10
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Exchange Street:
- Eastbound Exchange Street between Wabasha and Cedar streets closed October 13-17 for District Energy work.
- Westbound Exchange Street is open.
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5th Street:
- Lane restrictions between Washington and Market streets and between Cedar and Robert streets.
- 6th Street:
- Intersection with Robert Street closed.
- Closed between Jackson and Minnesota streets.
- Lane restrictions between Minnesota and Wabasha streets.
- 7th Street:
- Lane restrictions between Cedar and Jackson streets.
- 7th Place:
- Intersection with Robert Street closed.
- Local access only from Minnesota and Jackson streets.
- Kellogg Boulevard:
- Westbound lanes closed between Wabasha Street and Washington Street. Eastbound only between Wabasha Street and Washington Street
- Kellogg Boulevard/3rd Street bridge remains closed through 2027. Kellogg Boulevard remains closed between Lafayette Street and Mounds Boulevard.
- For more information about the Kellogg/3rd Street Bridge project, visit: stpaul.gov/Kellogg-3.
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Minnesota Street:
- Lane restrictions between 5th Street and 7th Place.
- Robert Street:
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Closed between 9th Street and 4th Street.
- Intersection closures at 6th and 7th Place.
- Intersection restrictions at 7th and 5th streets.
- Wacouta Street:
- Lane restrictions between 5th and 4th streets.
For more information on construction projects in Saint Paul, visit stpaul.gov/construction.
 Construction map as of October 10, 2025
 Celebrating at the Robert Street Block Party! - October 3, 2025
Fall Events and Activities in Ward 2!
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