News from the Downtown Alliance
March 19, 2021
A note from the president

Friends,

Obviously, I love downtown Saint Paul, but you have also probably noticed that I love downtowns in general. Our Speaker Series events lately have featured some great national and international experts that have sparked some rich conversation and news reports. Most recently, our Future of Office event really seemed to get folks talking and even got reporters to notice that in spite of all the speculation, there is real reason for optimism in downtown Saint Paul. You can check out their stories here and here. The Downtown Alliance has a lot of great partners working together on efforts to accelerate our recovery; many downtown buildings owners have taken the long-view and been flexible with their storefront tenants; and there have been a lot of new lease deals signed in the last year. 

Its not just the great weather and a weekend of wall-to-wall college basketball this weekend that is putting me in an optimistic mood (although both do); its vaccinations; strong partnerships and good planning; our new Downtown Improvement District and our Safety Communications Center; and our employers and cultural institutions making plans to bring our people back. There is real reason for us all to be optimistic, and I simply can’t wait to have you all back in downtown. 

Finally, if you have not yet had a chance to take the pedestrian survey please considering taking a few quick minutes to share your thoughts. Additionally, any business owners (large or small) in downtown are encouraged to share their experiences regarding signage here.

Take care and enjoy the weekend,

Joe Spencer
President
Saint Paul Downtown Alliance
Downtown YMCA project udpates
The YMCA's vision for a new downtown facility and wellness center located at Osborn370 could become a reality in the next few years. The new location is part of an overall fundraising campaign the Y began in 2017. The project has already received strong support from local foundations and individual donors but the final factor will likely be determined by whether or not state bonding dollars can be secured. If successful the 20,000 square foot facility would span two floors as well as the existing outdoor patio behind the tower.
Cossetta's launches surprise new bar
If there's one silver lining to spending most of our time at home, it may be that surprises are easier to pull off. Earlier this month Cossetta's teased that something new was coming but I'm not sure anyone guessed it was a whole new restaurant! Frank's Levee Tavern opened earlier this week and features an all new menu. It's location on the second floor, tucked between the classic cafeteria line and Louis on the roof, is perfect for taking advantage of their outdoor balcony seating.
Reminder - Tell us about your pedestrian experience in downtown Saint Paul
If you did not have a chance to take the brief pedestrian survey last week there is still time - responses will be accepted until 10 p.m. today (Friday, March 19).

Over the past six months, the Downtown Alliance has been working with the CapitolRiver Council and graduate students at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs to evaluate signage and wayfinding throughout downtown, in order to improve the overall navigation system downtown.

We're asking for your help to complete a brief, five-minute survey about your experiences navigating the streets and skyways.

After completing the survey you'll have the option to leave your contact information to be entered into a drawing to win one of four $50 gift cards to the downtown business of your choice.
Downtown restaurant and retail options
Stumped for where to order dinner from these days? Or who has a patio to visit?

Have questions?

Banner photo cred : Visit Saint Paul