Leaning into Walkable Neighborhoods
If you ask me what makes Saint Paul special, I’d say it’s walkable neighborhoods and the benefits that come from them. Anytime the city leans into this idea, it yields great results. For example, in the mid-2000s, Selby Avenue underwent a major construction project that, among other things, added curb bumpouts (curve extensions), effectively narrowing the street. This had two immediate effects: First, because the street became narrower, traffic slowed. Think about it—who wants to speed down a street with bumpouts that could damage their wheels? Second, for pedestrians, the crossing distance was greatly reduced, making the street safer and easier to navigate. Overall, the combination of speed reduction and bumpouts creates a much better experience for pedestrians.
Fast forward 20 years to today, and look how far Selby has come. I’m not saying making the street more walkable alone produced greater prosperity, but it certainly helped.
Next year, 2026, District 8, represented by the Summit University Planning Council, will see another major road improvement project along Dale Street, from Iglehart to Grand Ave. The project will reduce the number of driving lanes from four to three—one lane northbound, one southbound, and a center turning lane. Bumpouts and pedestrian islands will be added where appropriate. These improvements will significantly enhance safety for pedestrians crossing Dale, bringing the neighborhood closer together. Many institutions on both sides of Dale will benefit, especially those serving children. I’m thinking of the students who will now walk more safely to schools like JJ Hill/Obama Montessori, Capitol Hill, and Benjamin E. Mays, as well as the Walker West Music Academy and the revitalized Carty Park. Neighborhood businesses like Mississippi Market, Primp, Black and Blue, Marc Heu’s, Claddagh Coffee Shop, and Sweeney’s will also benefit from these changes.
I couldn’t be more pleased with the efforts of the county and city governments to calm traffic on Dale. It’s absurd to design streets like racetracks and then act surprised when drivers speed. Let’s create streets that encourage walking and the many benefits that come with it. Let’s build a future where walking is as safe as driving. In another 20 years, I hope we can look at Dale Street and feel proud of what we’ve accomplished.
Ramsey County Summary of Dale Street Project:
Community Feedback from 2024 Meeting:
https://www.ramseycounty.us/sites/default/files/Roads%20and%20Transit/20240725_718_DaleStRedesign_OH3-Boards%20%285%29.pdf