Destination Medical Center Corporation Approves Funding for Three Downtown Historic District Projects

Press Releases

(Rochester, Minn.) December 5, 2024 – At their quarterly meeting, the Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) Board of Directors approved funding for three projects as part of the Downtown Historic District preservation program. The three projects are proposing a variety of investments including building preservation & safety, building system upgrades, and adaptive reuse.

“Honoring our city’s history while fostering new opportunities is key to Rochester’s continued growth and vibrancy,” said DMCC Vice Chair Kim Norton. “The adaptive reuse of a vacant second-story space into housing exemplifies how historic preservation can address modern needs, creating livable spaces while maintaining the character of our downtown. These projects are investments in our community’s past and future, and we are excited to see them come to life.”

For more information about the DMC Downtown Property Preservation program, visit this link.

Also on the board’s agenda was approval for an amendment to the 2025 DMC Capital Improvement Plan to support the Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester initiative. This additional investment of $1.6 million is designed to take advantage of a time sensitive opportunity as construction of the proposed North Parking Ramp begins in early 2025. Mayo Clinic will be installing infrastructure in the area and the city believes this to be an optimal time to make additional municipal improvements, such as modernizing and upsizing sanitary and storm sewer lines and the installation of a cycle track element which will connect with future legs of the track as further street upgrades occur.

“This amendment to the Capital Improvement Plan reflects our commitment to strategic investments that position Rochester for long-term success,” said DMCC Board Chair Pam Wheelock. “By aligning municipal improvements with Mayo Clinic’s infrastructure work, we maximize resources and enhance connectivity with projects like the cycle track. These efforts not only support the Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester initiative but also ensure the building blocks of this community are laid for today and for the future.”

The board also took action to recognize outgoing board member Brooke Carlson. Carlson served on the DMCC board for four years as a City of Rochester representative. During her tenure, she championed City and DMCC efforts to secure more than $100,000,000 in federal grants, as well as supporting programs and projects to advance economic equity and community co-design.

“It has been an incredible honor to serve on the DMCC Board and contribute to the transformative work happening in Rochester,” said board member Brooke Carlson. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together to enhance our community, create opportunities, and lay a strong foundation for a thriving future.”

The next DMCC Board meeting is set for Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 9:30. a.m.

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About DMC

 

Destination Medical Center (DMC) is the largest public-private economic initiative in Minnesota’s history. The 20-year plan to transform Rochester into a global destination for health and wellness will attract developers, investors, startups, and entrepreneurs to live, work and play in America’s City for Health. For more information, visit dmc.mn.

Request for Proposals: DMC Impact Analysis

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The DMC EDA is soliciting proposals for the provision of economic and fiscal impact analysis that measures progress toward DMC’s five major goals from 2015-2024.

Those goals are:

  1. Creating a comprehensive strategic plan with a compelling vision that harnesses the energy and creativity of the entire region;
  2. Leveraging public investments to attract more than $5 billion in private investments to Rochester;
  3. Creating more than 30,000 new jobs, with workforce development strategies that support that growth;
  4. Generating approximately $7.5–$8.0 billion in new net tax revenue over 35 years (2015-2050); and
  5. Achieving the highest quality patient, visitor, and community member experience both now and in the future.

Proposals should seek to identify metrics, data sources, and other pertinent information that demonstrate quantitative and/or qualitative impacts in each of DMC’s five goals. Additionally, Respondents will compare the gathered data to the growth and investment assumptions made in the 2015 DMC Development Plan and provide a comparison of actual-to-assumed growth across DMC subdistricts and priority areas.

The entire Request for Proposals (RFP) may be found here.

Questions may be directed to Patrick Seeb, DMC EDA Executive Director, at [email protected].

Proposals are due by 4:00 P.M. Central Time, December 18, 2024.

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Exciting Investments Come to Life at Soldiers Field

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With the first full season post-improvements drawing to a close, the facilities at Soldiers Field Memorial Park enjoyed a significant increase in attendance. Parkgoers enjoyed the new aquatics center, inclusive playground and basketball courts, all decorated with eye-catching public artwork.

Paul Widman, Rochester Director of Parks & Recreation, remarked on the improvements to Soldiers Field saying, “These changes at Soldiers Field Park represent a significant improvement in the quality of life for all residents, providing enhanced recreational spaces that welcome the entire community. The upgrades make the park more accessible and inclusive.”

Together with federal funding and state grants, the City of Rochester brought these investments to life at Soldiers Field, with the input of Destination Medical Center and the Rochester community. The System Wide Parks and Recreation Master Plan, developed and approved in 2016, laid the foundation for the changes taking place.

“DMC is proud to see the renovations to Soldiers Field completed,” said Patrick Seeb, DMC Economic Development Agency Executive Director. “It was important to us to help the City of Rochester bring this project to life in partnership with the Rochester community.”

As we look ahead to the next season, here is what visitors to the park can look forward to.

Inclusive playground and new basketball courts  

Two new and improved play areas have been added at Soldiers Field. At the new Nature Play area, kids can enjoy colorful and interactive structures placed thoughtfully among native plants and trees. Head to the east side of the park, the Roy Sutherland Playground expansion added multiple new play structures, as well as accessible swings. Nearby, two brand-new lighted basketball courts have also been installed and are ready for play. The new basketball courts have become a popular amenity at Soldiers Field, and as an inclusive sport, its renovation was a priority for DMC.

A thoughtfully designed Aquatics Center

With pools for all ages and skill levels, the Soldiers Field Aquatics Center is a great place to spend a summer day with family and friends. The newly completed aquatics area opened for the seasonYoung girl going down a water slide. in 2024. It features a lazy river, three waterslides, a fully renovated bathhouse, 50-meter lap pool, and both a shallow pool and splash pad. Through the input of the community co- designers, the new bathhouse’s design features gender-neutral restrooms and changing facilities to foster a safe and inclusive space for all. New activities and swim clubs rolled out this season as well, so keep an eye on the aquatics center’s Facebook page for fun new programs to come in 2025.

Engaging with local artists

The project incorporates the work of three local artists (Mary Beth Magyar, Sophia Chai and Kelly Hutchinson) into various aspects of the park. Magyar’s mosaic whale design is prominently featured at the entrance to the new pool area. Chai’s Beckoning consists of four pedestrian lights that gradually dim up and down together as if they are breathing. Hutchinson’s interactive nest and butterfly designs are featured in the Nature Play area.

Other amenities and community favorites are still open and accessible  

Other amenities at Soldiers Field, including the golf course and Veterans Memorial, have remained open during the renovations. While you are enjoying the park, don’t forget to stop by local favorite Townies Grill’d Philly Subs and More for a bite to eat.

To learn more about the improvements at Soldiers Field, visit the official page here.

 

 

City of Rochester Receives $84.92 Million Federal Grant for Transformative Link Bus Rapid Transit Project

Press Releases

October 25, 2024 – ROCHESTER, Minn — In a significant boost to Rochester’s largest public infrastructure project, the Link Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), the city was presented today with an $84.92 million federal grant from the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA). The funds will support the $143.4 million project, which aims to transform downtown mobility, promote economic growth, and improve community connectivity.

The milestone event, held at the Mayo Civic Center Plaza, featured a check presentation by the FTA. The event brought together U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, Rochester Mayor Kim Norton, Patrick Seeb, Executive Director of the Destination Medical Center (DMC), and Doug Holton, Chair of Facilities at the Mayo Clinic. They highlighted the transformative impact the Link BRT will have on Rochester, stressing its vital role in driving economic growth, enhancing downtown mobility, and strengthening community connections.

“It was great to be in Rochester for this exciting milestone in the Link Bus Rapid Transit Project,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “Rochester is one of the fastest-growing cities in our state and deserves a state-of-the-art transit system. I worked to secure significant federal funding for this project because we know investments in infrastructure are investments in our long-term economic well-being.”

“Each day, transit systems connect Minnesotans to their jobs, schools, childcare and countless other opportunities – all while reducing traffic congestion and pollution,” said Senator Tina Smith. “This new Bus Rapid Transit line will help connect people across Rochester with a fast, free way to get around the city. I’m thrilled to announce this project is on its way to serving Minnesotans. I worked hard to deliver the federal funding needed for this project and look forward to when the Link BRT is up and running.”

The Link BRT, a high-capacity public transportation project, is designed to offer faster, more reliable transit service by utilizing dedicated lanes, signal priority, and specialized stations. The project will connect critical areas of downtown Rochester, including the Mayo Clinic Campus, Downtown Waterfront, Rochester Public Library, recreational amenities, educational institutions and key businesses along a 2.8-mile route on 2nd Street SW. By connecting to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, the line will make it easier for patients and their families to travel to its campuses and services without having to drive.

“Link BRT is a milestone project for Rochester that will help meet the transportation needs of thousands of residents, visitors and employees every day,” said Mayor Kim Norton. “As the first project of its kind outside of the Twin Cities, we are proud of this collaborative endeavor and hope Link BRT can serve as a model of innovation for other cities moving forward.”

“As Rochester grows and changes, transportation options must evolve too,” said Patrick Seeb, Executive Director of Destination Medical Center. “The Link BRT route was strategically designed to support Rochester’s major downtown redevelopment sites, which will create even greater regional impact. This is an exciting project that will continue to elevate Rochester as a local and global destination.”

The project is expected to address the city’s growing need for efficient and reliable transit, supporting residents, visitors, and businesses as Rochester continues to grow.

The Link BRT will play a key role in enhancing Rochester’s transportation infrastructure, serving 5,900 riders daily with fast, reliable service. The project will provide a convenient option for both commuters and visitors, making it easier to navigate the downtown area. A major benefit of the Link is that all rides will be free, ensuring the system is accessible to everyone.

In addition to its free service, the Link BRT will prioritize speed and efficiency, with wait times as short as five minutes during peak hours. This will allow riders to quickly move between key downtown destinations, reducing travel time and stress for those who depend on public transit.

The system’s seven heated stations will further enhance rider comfort and accessibility, offering protection from the elements and features designed to accommodate all passengers. By providing these modern amenities, the Link aims to improve the overall transit experience for everyone.

Beyond improving individual mobility, the Link BRT is expected to have a positive impact on the city as a whole. Today, the 2nd Street SW corridor is one of the city’s most heavily traveled roads, carrying more than 21,800 vehicles and 13,000 transit riders every day, including more than 40 buses during peak hours. By reducing the number of cars on the road, it will help ease traffic congestion, lower noise levels, and decrease the demand for downtown parking, making the city more livable and sustainable for residents and visitors alike.

With construction expected to begin in March 2025, the Link BRT project will play a crucial role in Rochester’s future, supporting not only daily commuters but also visitors to the Mayo Clinic and businesses throughout the city. Service is expected to begin in 2026.

The fully electric buses will include state-of-the-art features, such as level boarding for easy access and bike racks to accommodate multimodal commuting. Stations will be designed for comfort and safety, with heating, lighting, real-time schedule information, and enhanced bicycle and pedestrian connections.

The estimated cost of the Link BRT project is $143.4 million. With contingency funding, the project budget could reach a maximum of $161.5 million.

For more information on the Link BRT project, visit Rochestermn.gov/LINK.

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About Link BRT

The Link BRT is designed to provide faster, more reliable transit services for the downtown area. It will connect major hubs such as the Mayo Clinic and the Downtown Waterfront, while supporting the city’s growing infrastructure needs. The project is funded by federal, state, and local contributions, including support from the Destination Medical Center and the Mayo Clinic.

Discovery Walk welcomes mobile food units at lunchtime

Press Releases

September 30, 2024 – ROCHESTER, MINN. Licensed mobile food unit operators are invited to vend in the recently completed Discovery Walk from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day of the week.

Two-week permits for the launch of the new Discovery Walk mobile food zone are available at no charge, now through the end of October. This mobile food zone is located on the west side of the 300 block of 2nd Avenue SW and has 30A hook-ups available for vendors to use at no charge. All vendors must hold a City of Rochester Mobile Food License

Discovery Walk is a linear parkway along 2nd Avenue SW in downtown Rochester that connects the Heart of the City to Soldier’s Field Park. It is a high-amenity pedestrian area while also maintaining flexibility for bike and vehicular access, civic events and future development.

DMC Corporation Approves Funding for Downtown Historic District

Press Releases

(Rochester, Minn.) September 26, 2024 – At the quarterly Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) Board of Directors meeting, the board approved funding of close to $85,000 for long-term improvements to a property in the Downtown Historic District under the DMC Downtown Property Preservation Program. This is a program designed to assist property owners and tenants in the Downtown Historic District with up to 50% of eligible project costs.

“Preserving and revitalizing the Downtown Historic District is essential to maintaining Rochester’s unique character and vibrancy,” said DMCC Board Chair Pam Wheelock. “By supporting the character of historic buildings, we not only honor the city’s past but also create opportunities for future economic growth, attracting businesses and visitors alike. Destination Medical Center’s commitment to these efforts ensures that Rochester remains a vibrant, thriving community for generations to come.”

Eligible project categories include:

  • Adaptive reuse: conversion of property use, such as office to retail
  • Building system upgrades: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, etc.
  • Building safety and preservation: exterior envelope sealing, accessibility improvements
  • Code modernization: improvements made to legacy properties in relation to ADA or other regulatory compliance

For more information about the DMC Downtown Property Preservation program, visit this link.

The board also took action to approve the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan, totaling more than $38 million. The projects in the CIP include a variety of initiatives to achieve DMC Development Plan goals. Some of these projects include:

  • Chateau Theatre analysis and planning for future capital needs
  • Interim wayfinding activities to ensure employees, residents, visitors, and patients can successfully navigate through areas impacted by upcoming construction disruptions
  • Link Rapid Transit construction activities on 2nd Street SW and U.S. Federal Transit Administration required contingency funding
  • Sixth Street Bridge, Roadway Safety and Riverfront Improvements project design and planning

“The Capital Improvement Plan we are approving marks a significant step in shaping Rochester’s future,” said board member Williams. “These investments will drive growth, enhance public spaces, and improve infrastructure in ways that benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike. This plan will fuel the city’s transformation, ensuring long-term economic vitality and a stronger, more connected community.”

Also on the board’s agenda was a request for private development funding from a local developer. The request was for assistance with a 94-unit apartment complex located on 2nd Ave SW, south of One and Two Discovery Square. The project was denied funding based on the following factors: the size of the public subsidy request was over six times the amount that an average project has received from DMC in the past, the design submitted did not meet City of Rochester guidelines for street level activation, nor did it meet DMC goals for affordable housing.

“While we wish to see the successful development of this site along Discovery Walk, we believe that the applicant’s request was not the best use of limited DMC resources,” said DMC Executive Director Patrick Seeb.

Furthermore, the DMCC board approved the DMC Economic Development Agency’s (EDA) 2025 workplan and budget. Strategic direction from the board and DMC goals, guiding principles and priorities helped shape the request. It will be presented in October to the Rochester City Council for approval.

The next DMCC Board meeting is set for Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 9:30. a.m.

Healthy Community, Healthy City: Celebrating Progress and Looking Ahead at DMC’s Annual Meeting

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Joined by interactive exhibits from partners, Destination Medical Center held its annual meeting on the 5th Floor of Two Discovery Square, gathering business and community leaders to reflect on progress and discuss future plans for Rochester. Themed “Healthy Community, Healthy City,” the event showcased significant milestones and outlined the exciting path forward.

Looking Back and Moving Forward

Executive Director Patrick Seeb opened the meeting by recalling the 2019 Annual Meeting, which took place at the same location. At that time, the celebration marked the opening of One Discovery Square and the vision for Discovery Walk. Four years later, Seeb highlighted how that vision has come to life, transforming the DMC District into a vibrant community hub. “I am filled with immense pride and optimism when I look around this room and see this cross-section of our community working together to do big, powerful, challenging, creative, innovative things, and doing it together and in collaboration,” Seeb said.

Celebrating Accomplishments

DMCC Board Chair Pamela Wheelock reflected on the past year’s achievements, including the completion of Discovery Walk, improvements at Soldiers Field Memorial Park, and progress on new housing initiatives. She emphasized the collaborative spirit that focused on equitable engagement and development to benefit the entire community. “What we do matters, and we have a lot of work left to do, but our ability to come together and to share ideas and build consensus is a cornerstone of our progress. It’s the foundation of our innovation and creates a sense of community pride in every project that we do,” said Wheelock.

Looking to the Future

Rochester Mayor Kim Norton provided a glimpse into what lies ahead. She discussed Mayo Clinic’s Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester initiative and its transformative impact on the community. Norton also highlighted major projects like the Link Bus Rapid Transit system, the West Transit Village, the new 6th Street Bridge, and efforts to support Rochester’s Historic District. She also touched on sustainability efforts, mentioning the City’s Thermal Energy Network, which advances Rochester’s green and resilient future. “Tonight, as we reflect on this incredible transformation that is happening in our community, I invite you to consider your role in shaping Rochester’s future,” said Norton. “Let’s continue to build a community that we want, that we envision together.

Art Meets Innovation

Artist Sophia Chai, creator of the Punctuated Asymptote installation on Discovery Walk, shared insights into her work. Her installation aligns with the innovative spirit of the DMC initiative, adding a creative dimension to Rochester’s growing public spaces.

In her words, “Comprised of 62 light poles spanning the entire length of Discovery Walk, Punctuated Asymptote serves as punctuated markers that together, draw an asymptotic line against the curve of the land. Each of the 62 lights has a unique length, varying from 4’ to 15’, yet reaching the same elevation from the sea level as the top of the lights draw horizon lines.

Each day the lights will start turning on at sunset, beginning with the southmost light at 6th St SW and turning off at sunrise, starting from 2nd St SW, at 1/2-second intervals. Just as each light has a unique height, each light will turn on and off at a distinct time. The entire turning on/off of the lights will take about half a minute, like the average heartbeat of a person walking, 120 bpm.

Punctuated Asymptote invites viewers to slow down and come to be aware of the gentle sloping of the land, a relic of the geologic history of this area known as the Driftless Region, beckons you to note everyday solar events, and experience the different perspectives and narratives, drawn on this pathway.”

Closing Remarks: Celebrating Progress, Anticipating the Future

Executive Director Patrick Seeb closed the meeting by reminding the attendees of DMC’s roots in building public infrastructure in collaboration with federal, state, local, and private entities. “Let’s do it right. Let’s do it special. Let’s make this a destination for the quality, the innovation, the creativity, the uniqueness, the specialty.”

Thanks to our sponsors

GOLD
Kimley-Horn
Mayo Clinic
Premier Bank Minnesota
RSP

SILVER
Home Federal
University of Minnesota Rochester

BRONZE
Knutson Construction
Kraus-Anderson
SRF Consulting Group
Fredrikson
Weis Builders

Exploring Public Art in Downtown Rochester

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Local artists bring life to public spaces. With the summer winding down, we invite you to make the most of the beautiful weather by taking an “Art Walk” through Downtown Rochester. Downtown is full of sculptures, murals and other creative installations, each with their own stories to tell.

The city of Rochester celebrates its local artists through a variety of online resources. To learn more about the many artworks downtown, visitors can refer to the Public Art Map. On the map, you can discover art installations, see which ones may be on your usual route or plan out an art walk centered around viewing the pieces. Each piece is assigned a number to help you identify it on the map. The website will also point you to nearby pieces to help develop your route.

Interested in taking your own art walk? We put together an example of what one could look like:

Start your walk with a coffee and vibrant murals  

The 300 block of Broadway Avenue is host to a variety of colorful artworks. Eye-catching and selfie-worthy murals such as artist Leah Bee’s Organically Yours (#46 on the Public Art Map) and Maggie Panetta’s Impala (#34) adorn the walls near Café Steam, a favorite local coffee shop. Start your walk off with a latte and a quick photo with a colorful backdrop.

Head northeast to the Triton fountain and Hope sculpture

Make your way over to 1st street to admire two very different yet complementary works: Triton and Hope. Triton (#64), created by Swedish sculptor Carl Milles, is a bronze fountain sculpted in the likeness of Poseidon. Nearby, Hope (#33) stands in striking contrast. Sculpted by Charles Huntington, an American Indian artist of Ojibwe descent, Hope is a steel structure painted in bright, vivid orange.

Make your way to Discovery Walk

The brand-new Discovery Walk is not only home to lush greenery; it also features numerous art installations from talented artists, including Ayub HajiOmar and Sophia Chai. HajiOmar’s Poems in the Park is a collection of poems designed to engage with those passing by. Chai’s Punctuated Asymptote, a series of bright blue lights spanning the length of Discovery Walk, illuminates the walkway by night and day.

Conclude your art walk at the Heart of the City

Five world-renowned artists were invited to collaborate with the Heart of the City design team. Finish your walk with some of the most

A Not So Private Sky

captivating works in the city, including A Not So Private Sky (#2), A Song for Water with De Wakpa Taŋka Odowaŋ (#4), Peace Fountain (#49) and Wakefield (#67). Ending your route here will place you steps away from excellent bars and restaurants to continue enjoying your day downtown.

Destination Medical Center Hosts Annual Meeting on September 19

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Join us on September 19 for Destination Medical Center’s Annual Meeting from 4 – 7 p.m. at Two Discovery Square. This year the DMC annual meeting will highlight public space assets in our community, celebrate the 2024 milestones, provide the opportunity to connect with members and organizations in the community, and learn about what is on the horizon for the coming year. The evening includes a gathering with strategic activities coordinated by community partners and a program. We hope to see you there. REGISTER HERE!

4:00-5:30 p.m. Open House Highlighting Strategic Initiatives and Networking
5:30-6:00 p.m. Program
6:30-7:00 p.m. Networking and Light Bites

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors:

GOLD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SILVER

 

 

 

 

 

 

BRONZE

Knutson Construction, Kraus-Anderson, SRF Consulting Group, Fredrikson, Weis Builders

Family Fun in Downtown Rochester

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Finding summer activities all ages can enjoy

Planning a day out with the kids? Rochester offers so much to do, with activities that appeal to all age groups and interests. We’ve put together a list of ideas for your next family outing in downtown Rochester.

“Rochester is not only a vibrant place to live and work, but it is also a great place to raise a family,” said Patrick Seeb, DMC Economic Development Agency Executive Director. “In our planning efforts, we are always looking for ways to appeal to all stages of life, including implementing features anyone can enjoy downtown.”

Rochester Public Library

Rochester’s downtown library is much more than just a place to check out books. The library offers a steady flow of kid-friendly activities, including story time, crafts, family dance parties and more. The library also hosts visiting performers, so refer to their calendar to see all their upcoming events. For avid readers, there is always the option to drop by and browse the ever-growing collection of books for both children and teens. Stop in and find a cozy nook to read a book!

Play on the PlazaChildren playing in a scrim pool in downtown Rochester.

Each Saturday, during the summer months, families can come to Peace Plaza from 8:30 to 11:30 am to enjoy Play on the Plaza, with fun activities out in the sun. It is free to attend, and events have included family yoga, art activities, and programming from partners such as Threshold Arts and SPARK Children’s Museum. Play on the Plaza also offers an inclusive experience through their partner, Autism Resource Guide, by providing a sensory nook. After the fun wraps up, we recommend heading over to one of the many restaurants downtown to grab lunch.

Rochester Art Center

The Rochester Art Center is well known for its world-class exhibits. During the summer, they offer programming for children. While the adults in the family enjoy the galleries, children can attend Total Arts Day Camp, where they can create their own art, learn from professionals and build their skill set and confidence in the visual arts. Day camp sessions are available for children in grades 1-6.

Soldiers Field Memorial Park

Families can make a whole day out of visiting Soldiers Field. The park is home to an aquatic center, tennis courts, softball, baseball, a play area, and more. The aquatic center recently underwent improvements and now features slides, a lazy river, multiple pools, and a splash pad. Whether guests want to spend a day cooling off at the pool or out on the playground, they can find it here at the park.

Downtown Farmers Market

Each Wednesday afternoon during the growing season, families can pay a visit to the downtown Rochester Farmers Market on Discovery Walk. Visitors can learn about and support local businesses and leave with a gift or sweet treat. Head to the Farmers Market website to learn more about vendors and see what’s in season.

There is so much for families to do and see downtown, and only more to come on the horizon. Keep an eye on our website for more family-friendly events. We are just getting started!