Saint Paul to Develop Mississippi River Master Plan

Posted by Denae Frampton

February 16, 2010

The City of Saint Paul has commissioned a master plan to be developed for the 17 mile stretch of the Mississippi River in Saint Paul. This plan will help guide the City for future developments, both public and private, that are adjacent to the river. There are currently 3,500 acres of public park lands along the river.

The City is trying to enhance the rivers appeal and access. Currently it is not possible to see the river or gain access to the river along much of where it winds through Saint Paul. Proposals include extending the network of parkways to the river to create more green space and places for walk, bike, run, and simply view the river. With the resurgence in living in the city, especially Saint Paul Condos and Lofts, this work is really past due to highlight the natural beauty that St. Paul and the river have to offer.

If the green ways are extended and access to the river is enhanced, we should see a positive affect on Saint Paul real estate prices. With the population expected to grow by 40,000 people by 2030, adding these enhancements will allow Saint Paul more space to infill with new housing developments that rival other cities. This will be especially important in the West Seventh Street area, which is by the river, but unfortunately has some of the oldest and most neglected housing stock in Saint Paul. With the city tearing down many of these older properties, the new river access should help encourage developers to build new housing stock on those lots.

The master plan will be completed in 2011 with several opportunities for Saint Paul residents to voice their concerns or opinions at public meetings. Once completed, it will be used as a road map for all future real estate development in St. Paul for the years to come.

I am a licensed Realtor in the State of Minnesota. This website is not a multiple listing service, but each Minnesota & Minneapolis real estate agent is a member of the Regional MLS of MN, inc., a provider of the Minnesota MLS.

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