City of Saint Paul opens applications for Summit Avenue Community Advisory Committee

SAINT PAUL, MN – The City of Saint Paul is now accepting applications for a Community Advisory Committee (CAC) to help inform the Summit Avenue Reconstruction Project. Approximately 12–14 members will review project information and community input, discuss issues and alternatives, and provide advice to the project team.

The City is planning for the future of Summit Avenue through reconstruction of the corridor from Mississippi River Boulevard to Kellogg Boulevard in phases over a number of years. The project, funded by Common Cent, the voter-approved local sales tax, will address aging roadway and underground infrastructure, including sewer and water systems, and improve conditions for people of all abilities walking, bicycling and driving along Summit Avenue. 

The first project segment, between Mississippi River Boulevard and Fairview Avenue, is scheduled for construction to begin as early as 2028. Final design decisions will be determined through the Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) process, with flexibility to amend the design as more data, information and community feedback become available. The CAC will help inform those decisions by sharing community perspectives on design options, safety and accessibility, the avenue’s historic character, and impacts to existing trees.

The Summit CAC application form is available online at stpaul.gov/SummitCAC and must be completed by Sunday, December 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time.

The City encourages applications from people with a variety of connections to Summit Avenue, including those who live or own property on or near the corridor, work or own businesses in the area, attend nearby schools, participate in community organizations or institutions, or travel on and use the avenue. No technical expertise or prior committee experience is required. 

The committee will bring together different experiences and viewpoints on topics such as transportation, accessibility, trees and landscaping, historic preservation, and the needs of nearby residents, businesses, and institutions. 

The CAC will serve in an advisory role, with final project decisions remaining with the City. Communications and community engagement consultants will facilitate and coordinate the committee. Additional opportunities for the public to learn about the project and provide input will be available throughout the process.

The proposed CAC schedule includes approximately seven meetings, primarily during 2027, with additional meetings as needed. Meetings will align with project work and milestones. Members will be expected to review materials, attend meetings, listen respectfully to different viewpoints and participate constructively. In-person meetings are preferred, although some may be held virtually. Dates, times, and locations will be developed with members to support active participation.

The City will consider applicants’ connections to Summit Avenue, experiences and perspectives, availability, and willingness to participate constructively. The selection process will seek a committee that reflects a range of community interests and experiences, including both new and previously involved voices. No particular interest, organization, or viewpoint should dominate the committee.

For application assistance, translation assistance or information about applying in another format, contact publicworksinfo@ci.stpaul.mn.us or 651-266-6100.

To learn more and apply, visit stpaul.gov/SummitCAC.

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