FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 4, 2025
CONTACT:
Liz McDonald
Liz.McDonald@ci.stpaul.mn.us
651-266-6367 (o)
651-505-6171 (c)
SAINT PAUL – The City of Saint Paul today celebrated the grand opening of Pedro Park, a new green space in downtown that fulfills a decades-long community vision. The nearly one-acre park replaces the former Pedro Luggage Center and Public Safety Annex Building with a welcoming destination for neighbors, workers, and visitors.
“Pedro Park brings new life to downtown Saint Paul,” said Mayor Melvin Carter. “After 20 years of advocacy, we’re proud to fulfill a promise and transform the family's gift into a vibrant, welcoming public space.”
The property encompasses the site of the former Pedro Luggage Center, donated to the City of Saint Paul by the Pedro family in 2009. After the demolition of the Public Safety Annex in 2023, and strong community advocacy, funding for the new park became possible through a mix of state bonding, city general funds, HUD grants, Common Cent sales tax, private fundraising, and ongoing support from the Saint Paul Parks Conservancy and Friends of Pedro Park.
"The opening of Pedro Park is a win for our downtown community and the entire city,” said City Council President, Rebecca Noecker. “It’s a place where neighbors gather, friends connect, and everyone enjoys a breath of fresh air. This long-awaited park brings to life the community space that neighbors have been imagining for years."
Pedro Park features a custom play structure, Saint Paul’s first synthetic turf dog run, a picnic and event pavilion with performance space, shaded gathering areas, public art, and expansive gardens inspired by designer Piet Oudolf. Volunteer support will help maintain the gardens, honoring the legacy of Carl Pedro, Jr., an avid gardener and longtime community member.
With its mix of nature, art, and gathering spaces, Pedro Park joins a network of well-loved parks anchoring our downtown Saint Paul community.More information on the construction project can be found at www.stpaul.gov/pedroparkproject.
About Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is a nationally accredited and gold medal award-winning organization that manages 186 parks and open spaces, AZA-accredited Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, 26 city-operated recreation centers, more than 120 miles of trails, an indoor and two outdoor aquatic facilities, a public beach, a variety of premium sports facilities, municipal golf courses, and Great River Passage – which is the new identity for all proposed public development along Saint Paul’s more than 17 miles of Mississippi riverfront. For more information about Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, visit www.stpaul.gov/parks.