Big highlights for Saint Paul - and it's Primary Day!

Last week had great highlights for the city of St Paul – and today is your day to vote in the Primary!
 
Before we get started, a brief note to our entire membership: as you know, the St. Paul Area Chamber and Minneapolis Regional Chamber have been exploring a joint venture. On August 20, both chamber boards will vote on the formation of such a joint venture through the creation of a new regional chamber. Members have questions, so we’ve created an FAQ page. There will be more questions, but the intent is to address the most-asked questions to date. Thank you!
 
We were thrilled to support the Grand Victoria groundbreaking ceremony on August 6, marking the start of construction for a $44 million, 6‑story mixed‑use development at Grand Avenue and Victoria Street in St. Paul’s Summit Hill neighborhood.  It will replace Victoria Crossing East Mall and the former Billy’s on Grand. Lead developer is Ari Parritz, Afton Park Development, in partnership with the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.  Scope of the project: 90 market-rate residential units and 12K SF of street-level retail. Construction is underway, leasing expected in 2027. 
 
And then all of us celebrated at the re-lighting of the 1st National Bank Bldg.  Yes, John Cosgrove, “we finally know ‘who’s on 1st.’”  Nice. This relighting marks a major milestone in the building’s restoration and is a symbol of downtown revitalization. We couldn’t be more excited – and are thrilled to support developer Jamie Rand’s efforts in this building and others in Saint Paul. 
 
Today is your opportunity to use your voice in the Primary. Primaries decide the menu, not just the winner. Whoever emerges from a primary, shapes what the general election is even about - which issues get emphasized, which candidates get taken seriously, which coalitions get built. And low turnout amplifies your voice – so be sure to use it!
 
See you in the trenches, 
 
B

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