Grand Avenue Working Group

Grand Avenue is not only one of our neighborhood’s main thoroughfares and a place that many call home. It is also one of Saint Paul’s premier shopping destinations and the setting for the largest street festival in the Midwest.

In response to changes on the avenue and community input, the Summit Hill Association is working with the Grand Avenue Business Association (GABA), the Mac Groveland Community Council, and the City of Saint Paul to develop practical, actionable steps to improve Grand Avenue.

Working group goals

1. Fill existing vacancies, especially the long-term vacancies. This includes building vacancies attributable to the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio.

2. Improve the built environment. This includes cosmetic updates to the avenue, making Grand Avenue a more attractive place to explore.

3. Bring more community-oriented programming and events to Grand Avenue.

4. Highlight and promote existing businesses on Grand Avenue.

5. Establish partnerships, funding, and regulatory changes to help Grand Avenue respond to a changing retail environment.

 

Get involved!

Grand Avenue is OUR avenue. Your voice is a critical part of ensuring that it remains a vibrant corridor that reflects our strong community. There are a number of ways you can get involved in revitalizing Grand Avenue:

Shop local.

The best way to support Grand Avenue is by supporting those who have made investments in the avenue. We have dozens of local entrepreneurs offering exciting food, home goods, and services up and down the avenue. Next time you’re heading out to grab a few things, think Grand Avenue first!

Adopt a Tree.

We are looking for businesses and neighbors to adopt one (or more) of the young East Grand Avenue trees to ensure they stay watered and cared for. This is an easy commitment that directly supports Grand Avenue. Full instructions can be found here.

Roll up your sleeves.

Revitalizing the avenue will not be easy. We need creative, action-oriented individuals to be part of the conversation. The Grand Avenue working group meets regularly to explore solutions. Contact us to get involved: director@summithillassociation.org.

Progress

The work of this group will not happen overnight, but there are short-term successes to celebrate:

Adopt a Tree

SHA and GABA are partnering with Saint Paul Parks and Recreation to care for the new trees along parts of East Grand Avenue that replaced those lost to emerald ash borer.

Summer flower baskets

New hanging flower baskets were installed along Grand Avenue in summer of 2023, a practice we will aim to continue. A small step, these baskets help create a sense of place and beautify the avenue for all to enjoy.

Past Work