Project Updates
November 2025
Global Specialty has made great progress this fall on construction of the concrete stairs at Chestnut Plaza! Colder temperatures are coming and work will likely slowdown as we move into November. Our hope to have the second run of concrete stairs poured this week. The larger seat steps that go from the path to the river’s edge will likely be on hold until spring 2026.
Global is also planning to install the large plumbing tank this fall and may do some utility work for the fountain as well.
Please note the contractor plans to re-open the pathway closest to the river when they are no longer actively working on site this winter. They will re-close the pathway when work resumes in 2026.
September 2025
Renovation of Chestnut Plaza is set to begin on Monday, September 15th. The project is anticipated to be completed early July 2026, but this is subject to weather and river levels. Website will be updated as construction progresses.
Please note the pedestrian and bicycle detour during construction. Users will be directed to Sam Morgan Trail along Shepard Road at Washington Street for users traveling east bound. West bound trail users will be noticed of the trail closure at Ontario Street (the intersection to District Energy and Science Museum) and Sam Morgan Trail.
City House will remain open during construction.
March 2025
Community feedback informed the revised concept plan for Chestnut Plaza. Overall, there was a desire for a direct connection to the river versus an overlook to the river. There was concern about providing clear sight lines to the rivers edge from the pathway.
Final concept plan provides a direct connection via a stairway to the river and removes the overlook retaining wall. Options for additional landscaping were explored but determined that adding planting beds within the stairs would be difficult to establish and maintain.
City is planning to advance the work and bid the stair work as a “bid alternate” this spring.” Click down below for the preferred concept and survey results.
- Chestnut Plaza Concepts - 03.07.2025.pdf (6.16 MB)
- Chestnut Survey Results - 02.05.2025.pdf (424.86 KB)
Project Overview
The City of Saint Paul’s Parks and Recreation Department is rehabilitating the fountain mechanics at Chestnut Plaza. The project improvements include the relocation of the existing water feature pumps to a higher elevation. This will allow the water feature to function when there are higher river elevations. Modifications the lower fountain area are also being explored as part of the project.
The funding source for this project is the 1% Common Cent Sales Tax.
Project Scope
Project Scope Images.
Upcoming Engagement
The City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department presented the project and concepts at the Fort Road Federation Land Use Committee Meeting on Wednesday, February 5th at 6:30 pm via Zoom.
Please provide feedback on the two concepts via a short survey.
The survey period has ended.
Anticipated Project Schedule
Spring 2025: Permitting and Bidding
Summer 2025: Construction
