A note from the president
Friends,
Yesterday was a big day for our downtown. City Council passed the ordinanace to create the Saint Paul Downtown Improvement District on a unanimous vote. With support from owners representing at least 60% of the district I’m confident it will make it through the 45-day objection period. Many thanks to our partners at the City, especially Mayor Carter and Councilmember Noecker for their support. Most importantly, thanks to the building owners for their vision, leadership, and commitment to downtown Saint Paul.
I also want to point out that since July, the City has invested roughly $500,000 to make an immediate impact on safety outcomes and perceptions in downtown and it has paid off. Since that time, we’ve seen a crime reduction of over 30% in grid 133 surrounding Lowertown alone. That’s obviously a need that requires ongoing attention, but I thought it was important to celebrate the improvement and give credit where its due. Thanks to the Saint Paul Police Department and the partners at the City for your ongoing efforts.
Finally, I want to mention that this past Sunday I had one of those magical days in downtown Saint Paul with my family. We went down to Harriet Island to catch a Padelford Riverboat and took a ride up the Mississippi River. Downtown looked absolutely beautiful perched atop the bluff. We had lunch on a patio and took a walk along the river. We closed out the evening by seeing a fastastic show, Live at the Loading Dock, at the Ordway. It was a strong reminder of what a beautiful downtown we have – with amazing amenities you can only find here. I love this place, and am thankful to all of you who make it the wonderful place it is.
Mask up and take care,
Joe Spencer
President
Saint Paul Downtown Alliance
