Rice & Larpenteur Gateway

The Setting:

The 2-mile low-income suburban segment of this corridor epitomizes post-war development with vehicular-centric infrastructure, drive-through fast food restaurants, amply-parked strip commercial, and gas stations. Nonetheless, valuable local assets such as a 250-plot community garden, local sports complex, and several public schools all present strong development potential.

The Challenge:

Home to many Burmese refugees, the area is economically challenged and has not seen significant reinvestment in public infrastructure or private development in several decades. Further, there is a strong need to integrate critical pedestrian safety and street calming features.

The Health Opportunity:

Through a multi-jurisdictional effort, partner cities (Maplewood, Roseville, and Saint Paul) will help revitalize the area by using a health lens. Organizers will identify key drivers and implementation steps needed to transform the neighborhood into a safe, healthy, well-connected, and economically vibrant area for local residents. This may include transit enhancements, which is currently being studied as part of the visioning process around redevelopment.

Learn More

ULI National Study Visit Presentation – November 2017

Position Letter on the Ramsey County Study of Rice Street – September 2017