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Hey everybody, this is Lisa from the Greater East Side District 2 Community Council, and you're listening to the D2NU Podcast. The show that recaps everything happening on the East Side of St. Paul for people who love to be in the know. We have lots to talk about today, so sit back, grab a cup of coffee, or your favorite drink of choice, and let's get to it. Hey everybody. This is Lisa from the greater east side district two community council. And this is D. And you today, we are talking to Christine Williams from the St. Paul port authority. We will be learning about what the port is, what they do and about the Heights project that they are spearheading in our neighborhoods. So thank you so much for joining us today, Christine. Thank you for having me. Let's start by telling everyone a little bit about you. How long have you been with the port authority while it will be. Eight months next weekend. You're still a newbie. So what exactly is your role with the port? My official title is the director of real estate. so my expectation was that I would help with the leasing status. the lands that the port owned help with acquisitions and dispositions. And it sort of turned into a lot more. Construction focused then that with our Heights project. It's all been great. Those other duties as assigned. Exactly. So, what do you say is the most difficult part of your job? I think for me, the most difficult part is stepping into the Heights. In the middle. Oh, I want to make sure that I am very respectful of the decisions that have been made up to this point. but I'm at a place where we're sort of trying to take those big ideas and actually put them in the ground and there's decisions that have to be made of how does this work? How much does it cost? What alternatives would be good. My biggest challenge is really just finding the ability to keep moving that project forward and still take the time to understand what happened and why decisions were made the way they were before I came. One of my. Peers, I guess, over at the district six community council, Carrie always says, you have to find a way to honor that authentic work that went before you. And that's always that balance of, like you say, moving forward. But still keeping in mind what happened before. I'm like, yeah, isn't that cool. What is your favorite part of your job? Hands down the people I work with. You do work with some great people. I got to say too, I work with this group of really, really smart people who genuinely like each other. and there's so much just respect in the work that we do. And when I have a question, I know I have this, this opportunity to ask people in the office and I'm going to get a thoughtful answer. And if we can't find the answer, we'll figure it out. And. And they're just really fun. It was really fun people and that makes a difference. It makes it easier to come to the office every day. And knowing you have that support system, especially when you're still relatively new. And I think of, you know, I've been here at district two for 20 years, so, and it took me a good four or five years to really get a handle on what the heck I'm doing. So I can only imagine, especially with the Heights project, that there's a lot of things you still feel like. Maybe you're learning. And just to have like a say that support system behind you, that must mean a lot. It really does. It really does. It makes my job. Maybe the favorite job I've ever had. Awesome. That's great to hear. Make sure. Make sure Todd Hurley. Yes, make sure that all the bosses hear that. what is one thing people are surprised to hear about you? people are surprised that my past career with the railroad brought me to Canada. I moved my family up to Calgary for a few years. I took over a big responsibility with the railroad out of their headquarters. And it was really interesting. And during the pandemic, it just wasn't the right place for us. But, I moved my family to Canada and my parting comment to my mother was they don't close the border to Canada. Mom, you can always come visit. But take your only two grandchildren across the border and then the borders closed. So. I found my way here, but it turned out to be a really good choice. It was just an interesting, direction that I took to get to the port. Where did you start? Where you, uh, are you a native Minnesotan or? Okay. I grew up in an OCA. Oh, I worked for the railroad out of the Minneapolis office. And then moved to Canada. Wow. Well, welcome back. Thank you. So when I think about the city of St. Paul. I think river. but I don't necessarily think. Pork. What exactly is the port authority and what do you do? So the port authority has a really important role in managing river commerce in St. Paul, but that's not all that it does. We do have, four terminals in the city. It's the Northern most terminal on the Mississippi river. I think. Many people would probably be surprised how much of the things that we use every day or buy or components that go into development, or things that are going on in our community actually arrive. Because the river. And a lot of our commodities leave the other river as well. So managing that river commerce is, is an important part of our economy, not just for St. Paul, but for the state of Minnesota. Um, but in addition to that, the port authority has the ability to be involved in really exciting redevelopment projects. Um, we're we think of ourselves as the industrial development arm for the city. So we worked very closely with the city of St. Paul and we try to compliment each other in the work that we can do to address. Brownfield sites like the Heights and create new communities from spaces that are either underutilized or even too polluted, perhaps, So the port authority has the opportunity to work as the city of St. Paul's industrial development arm. Okay. We like to think of ourselves as public sector, heavy, but private sector nimble. And a lot of times the private sector doesn't have the funding available to take on and do the cleanup work like we've done historically for the business centers throughout. St Paul. And that's a really important component of what we get to do as the port authority. And then do that also by executing on our mission and make sure we're doing it in the right way and being respectful and good stewards of the community's resources. And creating things that are appropriate for St. Paul. Sure. So let's talk about those resources a little bit. How is the port authority funny? You say you're the, redevelopment and commodities agent for the city. How is the port authority actually funded? is it funded through the city government or is it separate? How does that work? So it's funded in part by the city. There's a levy that funds a lot of the work that the St. Paul port authority does. And then we also try to find ways to generate our own funds to keep the lights on. So our nonprofit arm of Capitol city. Properties is an important component of how we're able to raise money to keep doing. The important things that we're doing and, and pay. For the people that I enjoy working with so much. And in the building that is so beautiful. We get to work in yes, downtown. Very nice. so you mentioned things that you do beyond the river. what are some other projects maybe here on the east side or beyond that folks would recognize right away? Oh, that's a port project or, oh, Hey, I didn't even realize that was a port project, but I know that project. What are some of those. Might be in the consciousness of our neighbors. Sure. I mean, the first that comes to mind is not on the east side, but the treasure island center. Yeah, there you go. Our offices are downtown. That was a port project, the port, it's the general, partner in that project and continues to manage that building with the other partners in that. And then, on the east side, beacon bluff was the last business. Center that was redeveloped. it was a Whirlpool site. Yes, it was. And it had a lot of environmental challenges on that site. Private sector. Wasn't super excited about taking on a managing so that the port. Through a number of years was able to take on that project and leverage their ability to achieve, receive grants. Both federally and state wide and Really shepherd that land to a new use. We're finalizing the last couple of available sites out there. And it's a really interesting place to see what it used to be and what it is now. Um, and then there's, you know, there's over 30 business centers throughout the city of St. Paul St. Paul port authority has been part of over its tenure. So you have to look really closely for those little St. Paul port authority signs. Very cool. So let's shift now to the biggest project that's impacting our neighborhood, which Wendy, the Heights project. How did the port authority get involved with that? And what made the port interested in this opportunity? So the port authority became involved because that golf course, the former Hillcrest golf course was contaminated with mercury. Yes. it was part of the youth to keep. You keep mold from growing on the teas and, at the time it. didn't perhaps didn't realize that was such an impact. Two right. On that site. But it made it really challenging to redevelop in, in the economy that we were in at the time. Sat vacant for a number of years. And the port took it over because it was an interest of the city to see this 112 acre site., it should be repurposed into something that is a really positive for that community. And it is a big piece of property. It's just a little bit smaller than the Ford site. So the impacts of that is going to be huge to the neighborhood. the plan right now is for a thousand housing units and a thousand jobs. How is that determined? Did the port determine that or was that done somehow differently? How was that determined? Do you know? so what I've heard is that that was, really a combination of listening to the city, the community, and then sitting down and scratching our heads, thinking what can we do? And. They were nice round numbers, then they're still our target of what we can achieve. When we back the numbers out, it, kind of makes sense. The site is big enough with, The way that we've been able to sort of shoe horn, all of the things we want. There's a lot going on in a little bit of space. And that finding ways to layer some of the amenities and the utilities and everything is, is pretty close together. But, yeah, that's our. That's our goal. what role has the neighborhood had in the process? Now? I know from our perspective, what role we've had. And we've been very happy so far. but from the port perspective, what role do you feel like you've had with the neighborhood? Well, I think the neighborhood has really played a key role in helping to identify what could and what should be redeveloped on that site. And, the neighborhood has had the opportunity through, I mean, you know, there's been engagement process for a very long time. There continues to be. we really want to respect that neighborhood and the unique characteristics that it has, and then find a way to compliment and enhance that with the new development. That's going to happen. The former golf course. So exciting. It really is. this is a huge site, like I said, and with some big housing and job goals. what about parks, space and ponds that are existing, that will there'll be places for kids to play and for neighbors to enjoy nature? Oh my goodness. Yes. Yes. So we're so excited. There's a great big park. It's about 20 acres in the center of the site. 20 acres. That's huge. It will be a really significant park and it's beautifully situated. It's nice tall. Be able to see lots of things around it. And the St. Paul Parks department. we're working very closely with them. They're just beginning their engagement process. And I suspect at least that you have a lot of resources that you could probably share. Absolutely. so there are in their early planning phases of what that park will look like. But in addition to that, we have a number of those areas trying to put so many thousand homes and thousand jobs on this site. We have to find ways to utilize what space we have to manage stormwater, and to make sure that we're respecting the wetlands that were there. So we have. Four outlaw parcels that are going to serve a lot of different purposes for us. They're part of our stormwater management system. They're wetland spaces that will be open. And we are trying to design them in a way that will invite the public to come and experience that. Maybe it's not just a pond that you walk by with a fence around it. We are planning some boardwalk features, so you can get really close to the wetland space. And we'll have lots of information about what types of birds you're likely to see what types of animals you're likely to encounter. It's important to us that we respect the fact that was once the open space. And we want to do the best that we can to create an ability for anyone in the neighborhood or not from the neighborhood to come and experience all of those spaces. That's amazing. And we actually in a. A couple of episodes ago, we met with the watershed and they were talking about how excited they've been working with the port to make sure that the storm water stuff is going the right way, but also, the plans for improving those out lots and making sure that folks have that opportunity to Just enjoy the nature of the site. With habitat, probably being the first to start. When do you anticipate them to break ground on their portion? So they're going to be starting very soon. Probably June. Wow. That's tomorrow. Very soon, especially if you drive by and see the snow has just melted. There's not really roads yet. So we're working. As fast as we can to help make that happen. That habitat will be in the ground in June. That's fantastic. And for more information on the habitat project, especially the Carter work project, that'll be happening later this fall. check out our episode four interview with Chad Dittman. habitat for humanity. we have heard that Xcel energy will be one of the commercial tenants. Has there been any other that are signed on or close to? I mean, you don't have to reveal any secrets, but as someone who hates empty bill things, Are you close to getting there with folks? Or has there been interest, I guess let's put it that way. Yes, there is. There's a lot of interest in the site. under, especially with the new geothermal opportunities that we have that. Yes. Key part of building on that site. we have, I think, I think John will be okay with me sharing that a one. One X is one of our. our other tenants that are very excited about moving in. I'm very excited about the building that's proposed there. And I think it would be a great addition to the site. Truly an example of an organization that shares the sustainability goals that the port has in constructing something new and bringing jobs to that community. And specifically to our Heights project. Do you know, if they'll be a standalone buildings similar to. Oh, excellent. Yes. Cool building. Oh, cool. Really cool. I'm excited about that a lot. And then we have, we have other opportunities we have, in partnership with the port authority, we are working on a project that would be a for lease multi-tenant industrial building. It would be an opportunity for. St. Paul businesses that aren't quite ready to build their own space. The Heights. Just still be able to come and be a part of a very sustainable and very nature driven development. We're excited about that. And we're excited about that partnership. Yeah. we have some others that are interested in, in sort of a workforce training type. center early discussions with them on that. Very important. Yes. Very important. A great, addition to everything that we want to see as we redevelop the Heights, and then we have one six acre parcel available. So we're looking for about a 90,000 square foot building. I would love to talk to anyone who is excited about sharing our sustainability goals and the goals of bringing jobs to the east side. So I think there's been a lot of interest in the market and that's great. And. Hopefully once there's streets in the ground, it will seem a little bit more like an industrial site. A little bit less like a former golf course with no trees. when do you expect Excel to break ground? So we spoke to them recently and they're advancing their design. I think later this year, you'll see some things it's a really big project that they're planning there. So it's going to take them a while to fully develop everything in there. but I think they'll start this year. That is so exciting. there was a lot of dirt being moved. This past fall and winter has all the bad dirt been removed. Yes. We have removed all of the contaminated soils from the site and we are, we are Anxiously waiting for our final report to be accepted by the Minnesota department of agriculture and put that final seal of approval. So we can have a big announcement and hopefully a big celebration of some kind, because that was a really momentous effort. Oh yeah. And I suppose the warmer winter didn't hurt. With that. It definitely allowed us to continue moving soil on site. Although this site was so wet for a while that oh yeah. It may pose some challenges and actually ironically. Part of the work this winter was being saved for when it was frozen. Sure. But, we've certainly been able to extend that work season. Really in a way that we weren't expecting that has really helped us get to where we are today. Oh, that's great. That's great. When do you anticipate, I know there's permitting and all that stuff still to come. quickly, but still to come yet. when do you anticipate like streets and utilities to start? And also when do you anticipate at all to be completed? Well, April 24th. Wow. I would like to see it starting April 24th. So that's our target. That's our goal right now to have the initial permits in place to have our contractor mobilized and ready to move forward. We had our. big meeting this morning to talk through some schedule and things with the city. And I think we're definitely going in the right direction to achieve that. so substantial completion is a milestone for next summer, but honestly, Most of the utility work. And a lot of the initial work on the streets will be done in this year. And then we'll come back in the spring and we'll finish the last, you know, Asphalt, um, some sidewalks and then as the adjacent parcels develop, then you'll start to see the trees and the benches and sidewalks and all of those things that make it really a community. into next, probably into next July. And can you remind our neighbors who are the housing developers for the site? Because I, I know I jumped right into habitat, but there are a few others that are working on the site too. They are. So Sherman associates is our lead housing developer. And they've been a great partner in with us because the port does not have a lot of experience developing residential properties. So Sherman associates is responsible for all of the low density and the multifamily development on the site. So they've partnered with habitat for the low density residential Habitat's doing about half of the size of the space that they're going to be developing starting this year. And then the other two will follow. hopefully at a more leisurely pace. That's only for my own personal. Habitats plans are pretty optimistic. And it's very exciting. so we're doing everything we can. On track. Just hopefully the next ones won't be quite the same. Right. And then, JL companies is building, one building. Or certain, I heard perhaps two buildings. Companies will be stepping in and another great partner of the port and excited to encourage some of the different types of housing of the, be a lot of unique types of housing. through the Sherman's program that there they're still evolving. But the first buildings I would expect to see those starting if. If not some work late this fall, then early spring of next year. You know, again, just to kind of harken back to the Ford plant, it felt like that was in the news for years. And it's still being worked on. And this project seems to be really fast tracked. Especially, like I say that habitat portion of it. That is really again for neighbors. Please go back to that. That episode, we have a Chad Dittman to talk about how fast-tracked it really is and how you can sign up to help volunteer with the Carter work project. This, fall. Is this typical? For a large development like this. So I don't really know how to answer that. My background's in real estate. The development side, but I think that it's unique I think it speaks to the passion of the community and the community members that are involved and the agencies like your agency in the city that are all really so excited and focused on having this vision come to fruition. That, when we all work together and we're all working towards a common goal, I feel like things are just falling into place and. I, it's exciting. It's really exciting. I touched the Ford project long time ago when I worked for Canadian Pacific. And it does feel like it's been going on for a long time. And. I would be curious to hear other people's opinion on why this particular project was able to move forward. But from my perspective, stepping in where I did, I really feel it's, I I've never been part of a project that was quite this scale with this big of a change that it seemed to me. Everyone was excited to see the change and everyone was helping to point that that momentum in the same direction. Yeah. And I think too, with, from the neighborhood perspective is we've been, rather uninvested in and under-resourced, and to have all these eyes looking at us, we're going to take advantage of it. And we're going to try and work with as many folks as possible to partner on this project to not only take care of this Juul, which is the Heights, but also the box around it. We want to make sure our libraries are up to grade and, the rec centers. And all of these amazing things so that when the Heights is built up, we can sustain some of these resources here in the neighborhood. what is, The plan for upcoming events or workshops. Is there any way for neighbors to kind of get involved in the project or get updates for the project? Absolutely. so we have a new construction hotline that I, as I'm looking at you now, I realize I did not bring with me. We're setting that up and there's been some hiccups there. There's a construction information email. There's a construction hotline. And we are going to share that with all of the residents that are on our. Our email list in the next couple of weeks. Great. so we'll have all of those updates available. And then, you know, that as far as public events, I feel like you're probably going to see more from habitat over the next few months. Then it's been from. The port are, our focus is really on starting night utility work and starting the road work. but when there's an opportunity to have another community event, I know that we will be. Advertising it as widely as we can and inviting all of the neighbors on our mailing list. Excellent. there are a couple of questions that we ask all of our guests. first, what's your favorite spot? Or think about the east side. Oh, my gosh. The food is so good. Over here. That's a really common answer. I grew up in a NOCCA and this is like amazing. How lucky are we that we get to experience all of these cultures? Through their food in the best way, in my humble opinion. Yes. But I can't stop thinking about the eggrolls at cups and chairs. We had a community event and it was a great event, but the girls really. You know, the it girls for me were the star. Oh yeah. Oh yeah, absolutely. And then, if you met someone today, Who had never been to the site. Where would you send them? And why. Beyond the egg rolls. At hubs and cheers of cars. Well, if you asked me that question in 18 months, Sends you to the Heights to experience all of the natural interaction that we're incorporating into that site. And just to walk around and experience the trails. But, because that's not quite ready for everyone to walk on. Hold that thought everyone. Yes. I would suggest, you know, if you've not been to the hub at beacon bluff, that is a very small little preview into what we're planning. And on a larger scale at those areas at the Heights and the hub is this really great little interactive. water resource educational center, and then there's also some great places to eat around there. That doesn't hurt, which doesn't. But that's a great, that's a great example of some of the things that St. Paul port authority has been able to contribute. Very cool. Are there any final thoughts you want to leave with our neighbors or, is there a website that they can go to to get more information there? Absolutely. As the St. Paul port authority, our website has a whole page dedicated to the Heights. And on that page, there's an opportunity to sign up with your email for email updates. We're going to try to send those email updates weekly. That hasn't always happened. It hasn't been as much exciting things to tell you over the winter, but you'll start to see weekly updates of the construction progress. As I said, we'll release that construction. Question number and email. And that's a great way to stay in touch with us and a great way to take a closer look at in detail. Some of the things that are happening out there. And that website again is spa.com, S P E a. Dot com. And, I'm assuming you're on socials and the whole bag and people can just find you through just Googling the St. Paul port authority. Right? You can. Our Facebook page is fairly active. I heard that our LinkedIn page also updates. Regularly. Yes. Yes. We try to keep, we try to keep engaged as we can. We all do what we can, right. Well, thanks again, Christine, for coming in today, I hope you'll be willing to come back in a future because I know there will be plenty of updates that folks can find not only on SPP, a dad com but also, as things come forward. I hope you'll be willing to come back and let our neighbors know. I would love to. Thank you. Take care. Hi neighbors. Actually Christine was able to get that construction hotline for us. It is 6 5 1 7 2 4. Nine to nine to. Or you can email at info at the Heights. S P P a.com. And we will also add this in the show notes so that you'll be able to access them again. That phone number is(651) 724-9292. Thank you for listening to today's episode of D two, and you, if you are new here, welcome and be sure to hit, follow or subscribe. So you never miss an episode. Check out our website@greatereastside.org for further information. And what is happening in the neighborhood? Thanks again. And we'll chat with you next time.