Around (down)town : Chalk murals at CHS Field, small business relief grants and more

News from the Downtown Alliance

August 7, 2020

A note from the president

Friends,

For many of us, the first news we received this week was of the fire that occurred Monday at the Seven Corners Gateway project site. We are incredibly grateful both that no one was hurt during or after the fire and for the tireless efforts of the Saint Paul Fire Department. More information about what is currently known can be found here.

I also want to call your attention to some small business resources that are currently available. The Ramsey County Small Business Relief Fund opened a second round of applications this week. Self-employed entrepreneurs and small businesses with fewer than 20 employees are encouraged to apply. Applications are open through August 18, 2020. Pay it Forward is a program through the Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Saint Paul and other local organizations that will help find, train and match experienced financial and business professionals with local business owners who need assistance applying for financial help.

Finally, welcome and congratulations to Nicolle Goodman who is just finishing her first week in Saint Paul as the new director of Planning and Economic Development. Nicolle comes to us from Oklahoma City and has invaluable experience with economic development, job growth and leadership. We're looking forward to working together on the many exciting projects in downtown's future.

Keep reading for updates on events happening in the coming days, recently reopened businesses and more.

Mask up and be well,

Joe Spencer

President

Saint Paul Downtown Alliance

Think Outside Mini Chalk Murals of Hope Project

Local artist Kelly Anderson, whose murals can be found inside The Pillbox Tavern, is working with The Polaris Foundation and Crayola Experience to bring Murals of Hope to the CHS Field Plaza this weekend. 20 artists will create mini chalk murals focused on highlighting hope. This event is free and family friendly and will include onsite activities. Artists will begin working at 7 a.m. and spectators are encouraged to come by anytime to watch.

Photos from Lowertown Local

Photos from Lowertown Local with Nate Amore and the Love Bus on August 6th.

Join us next week to enjoy an evening in the park with neighbors and friends.

Lowertown resident Desdamona will be performing.

Mears Park

Thursday, August 13

6-7:30 p.m.

All are encouraged to buy takeout from local businesses or bring a picnic into Mears.

Bring lawn chairs or a blanket. Social distancing must be observed in the park and masks are encouraged.

Reopened this week

Restaurants, retail and service providers continue to reopen their doors downtown and we couldn't be happier to see it. Here are a few spots that have reopened that you might have missed.

Skyway Masala - Town Square Skyway - 444 Cedar Street
Loon Cafe St. Paul - 426 St. Peter Street
Celeste Hotel Bar - 26 Exchange Street
Pho #1 - 544 St. Peter Street
Taco Libre - 354 Wabasha Street N
Minnesota Children's Museum - 10 West 7th Street

See a map of all the businesses that are open in downtown.

Have questions?

Drop us a line!

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stpdowntownalliance.org