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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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 season 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.

 

 

Joined by interactive exhibits from partners, Destination Medical Center held its annual meeting on the 5^th 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

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 1^st 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

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.

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

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 Plaza

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!

Our Guide to Outdoor Dining  

In Minnesota, we wait all winter for patio season, and it’s finally here! Are you looking for some recommendations on where to grab happy hour outdoors with friends or eat dinner under the stars? Luckily, Rochester has a wide array of restaurants that provide opportunities for some fun in the sun.

Here is a list of some DMC favorites:

International Cuisine

ThaiPop – ThaiPop’s colorful patio area is sure to catch your eye. Located on Historic 3^rd Street, this Thai restaurant has won numerous awards, including best Asian restaurant by Rochester Magazine, and best bar for mocktails by Travel and Leisure. ThaiPop features dishes that are just as vibrant as their patio; they are currently offering their summer menu, so stop in for wings, curry, coconut brisket and more.

BeBap – A colorful mural adorns the outdoor space at BeBap. Enjoy delicious Korean dishes in a lively setting. BeBap features a happy hour, shareable dishes, and a wide selection of cocktails. It’s the perfect place to hang out after work and unwind or stop in for their lunch specials. You can enjoy dishes such as bulgogi beef, kimchi fried rice or seaweed fries.

Grab a Beer and a Bite

The Tap House – Tap House’s 3^rd Street location features a rooftop patio where you can enjoy craft brews and a burger while taking in the view of the city from above. Tap House has a rotating selection of craft beers, so you will always have a shot at trying something new. If you can’t make up your mind, they also offer flights so you can sample multiple brews.

507 Pub(lic) House – This downtown pub boasts cuisine from around the world, with dishes such as chicken tikka masala, Irish meatloaf, and Moroccan meatballs. 507 Public House also serves a variety of tap beer selections, wine and cocktails. Brunch is also served on the weekends. Enjoy the buzz of downtown while savoring their international fare.

Date Night Destinations

Our Paladar – An airy and open patio adorns this Cuban influenced restaurant. Enjoy a variety of seafood options and Cuban sides like yuca fries, patatas bravas and plantains. Our Paladar is an ideal spot for date night or dinner and drinks with friends. They also offer a happy hour, so stop in and enjoy a bite and a delicious cocktail before your dinner.

Victoria’s Ristorante & Wine Bar – With a convenient location on 1^st Avenue, Victoria’s is an ideal spot to enjoy dinner and a glass of wine. They have a happy hour available on their patio and at the bar. Their signature Italian dishes include pasta, pizza and seafood. Provimi veal is also featured in a number of their dishes.

Gluten-Free Dining

Twigs Tavern and Grille – Twigs’ patio is a local favorite. With an abundant amount of greenery, guests can dine outside into the evening, with the backdrop of lanterns and a nearby stream. Those who are gluten-free can rest assured that they will be able to find a wide variety of entrees. Twigs also prepares gluten-free items in a separate kitchen to prevent cross contamination. They also feature “hot rock” grilling, which lets diners grill their own meat or seafood on a 650-degree rock, brought right to their table.

Stop by any of these destinations all summer long! Your taste buds will thank you.

If you work downtown, you know there’s no shortage of great places to grab a tasty lunch to fuel your afternoon. But don’t stop there. Rochester’s food scene is bursting with options for fun happy hours, delicious dinners and weekend cuisine adventures.

“It’s been exciting to see the energy downtown, with more people and families coming to check out new restaurants and visit old favorites,” said Patrick Seeb, DMC Economic Development Agency Executive Director. “There’s a lot of positive momentum and we’re happy to be part of it. It’s great to see our city flourish and grow.”

Here’s some tasty food for thought when you’re feeling hungry for a downtown experience.

Dining Delights

Bleu Duck Kitchen

Look no further than Bleu Duck Kitchen, a locally owned restaurant and event space where “white linens meet a casual feel” and every customer is treated as a friend. Choose from an ever-changing menu featuring fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, along with the largest oyster bar in Rochester. Want to learn their cooking secrets? No problem – cooking classes are available throughout the year.

Chester’s Kitchen and Bar

If you have a taste for savory American cuisine with a side of comfort, you can’t beat Chester’s.  Nestled in the heart of Peace Plaza, Chester’s upscale fare features everything from salads and sandwiches to delicious burgers, seafood and steaks. If you’ve been there, you know why it consistently receives high marks not only for its food, but for its atmosphere and service as well.

Wanting Weekend Vibes?

Benedict’s

What’s more “weekend-y” than a modern diner that serves up the classics as well as new takes on old favorites? That’s Benedict’s, where contemporary chic meets comforting homestyle charm every day from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy familiar favorites for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, along with inventive pancakes, house-made tater tot hashes, and nine varieties of eggs Benedict. And don’t forget to toast your weekend with your choice of fresh morning cocktails.

Bitter and Pour

For those of you interested in the best nightlife has to offer, Rochester’s own Bitter and Pour has been rated one of the Top 50 speakeasies in the United States and Canada (as rated by Yelp). Housed in the Merchant Exchange building on Historic 3rd Street, visitors must enter via concealed bookcase after answering a riddle. The throwback-meets-modern drink menu includes house creations with fun names (Chubby Ginger and The Rich Uncle, for example), classics (also with fun names like First World Problem and Soul Crusher), mocktails like Virgin Ginger and Zero Expectation (“no alcohol but twice the love”) as well as wine and spirits. Come for the unique cocktails and stay for the great atmosphere!

Keeping it Quick and Easy

Al Madina Restaurant

Plan your next international food adventure just down the street at Al Madina Restaurant. Step through the doors of this family-owned oasis and you’re immersed in authentic Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean décor and tantalizing smells of flavorful shawarma, falafel, hummus and more. Dine or take out – and don’t forget their homemade desserts. You’ll definitely be booking a return trip this summer!

City Market

If an urban deli is your style, stop by City Market. With its big New York-style sandwiches featuring large portions of freshly sliced meats, gourmet cheeses, crisp vegetables and one-of-a-kind spreads on bakery fresh bread, it’s no wonder that City Market has been voted Rochester’s best deli and sandwiches for the past seven years. Not in the mood for a sandwich? They also have signature salads, soups, and homemade desserts. Come and go or linger in the outside seating area and enjoy the city sunshine.

The First Avenue Food Court

Can’t agree on a restaurant for lunch? Take the skyway cuisine tour in the First Avenue Food Court. Choose from six different global cuisines including Taste of Philippines, Cedar Taste Mediterranean Food for shawarma and falafel, Chinese Chinh’s Express, Thai Garden, Blue Diamond Indian Restaurant and Wabi Sabi for sushi and noodles. Quick, easy, tasty and convenient – and everyone gets what they want.

Are you hungry yet? Us, too! Bon Appetit.

One of our community’s favorite summer activities, Thursdays Downtown, is back for another exciting season. This year marks the 20^th anniversary of this beloved gathering, still as popular as ever, with 15,000 visitors expected each week. Originally started in 2004 to attract visitors to Rochester, Thursdays Downtown has become a summer mainstay not only for out-of-town guests but also for those of us who live, work, and play downtown, enjoying all that Rochester has to offer.

Made possible by the Rochester Downtown Alliance, Thursdays Downtown has something for everyone, no matter what you are in the mood for.

In the mood to shop? Check out local vendors.

Shopping local is a great way to support and get to know your community. The 2024 list of vendors is available in the Thursdays Downtown event guide, with details on all the offerings and the dates vendors will be downtown. From beautifully designed (and environmentally friendly) Biyaya Bags to the unique, handmade perfumes of Osmofolia, children’s books by author and illustrator Kutie Kari, and fun wine-tasting events with Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery. Each week offers a different selection of vendors, so you can plan your walk ahead of time with the event layout guide to make sure you get to everyone. Vendors selling organic products are also indicated in the guide. You can also stop and shop at the Galleria at University Square, a short walk away from the festivities. Find a new shop or return for an old favorite!

Hungry?

You’re guaranteed to leave stuffed. Stop by for lunch or after a long day of work! With a rotating selection of food vendors, you’re sure to find something delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos or Thai food, pizza, or something sweet, you’ll find it downtown. The event guide indicates vendors selling organic and naturally grown products. Food vendors include Little Thistle Brewing, Popus Gourmet Popcorn, Benedict’s and many more.

Looking to kick back and listen to music?

Thursdays Downtown’s entertainment is weekend-worthy. Musicians will perform on the 1^st Ave and Peace Plaza stages starting at 11 a.m. with a break in the afternoon and return in the evening from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Musicians from a variety of genres will take the stage, including performances from Mariachi Estrella MN, The Soul Train, Uptown Jazz and more. Whether you are stopping by on a lunch break with coworkers or spending an evening out on the town, your ears – and dancing shoes, if you’re up for it – are in for a treat!

Check out the entertainment calendar to plan ahead.

Planning on bringing the kids?

The Family Nook, presented by Mayo Clinic, will feature fun for the kids, including arts and crafts, games, music and more. There will also be a sensory area where children can take a break in a calming environment. Kids can also explore the main event to grab a sweet treat or a gift from a vendor.

Can’t wait for the weekend? Neither can we. That’s why we’ll see you at Thursdays Downtown!

Thursdays Downtown will continue weekly until August 15, except July 4.

Destination Medical Center is contributing to the vibrancy and diversity of Rochester’s downtown by helping attract new dining, retail, and entertainment options everyone can enjoy. Learn more at Destination Medical Center | A Global Destination for Health & Wellness (dmc.mn).

The 2024 Real Estate Development and Investment Summit, a collaboration between Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency (DMC EDA) and ULI Minnesota, promised unprecedented demand and opportunity – and it delivered.

The morning began with an insightful panel highlighting the current and future plans of key stakeholders in Rochester, including Mayo Clinic, the City of Rochester, and University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR). Representatives from Mayo Clinic unveiled their strategic initiative, “Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester,” which aims to revolutionize healthcare through innovative care concepts and digital technologies. Chancellor Lori Carrell of UMR discussed the university’s rapid innovation focus and tailored education solutions.

The City of Rochester, amidst unprecedented levels of public and private investment, nearing $7 billion over the next 7 years, showcased its strategic infrastructure investments and partnerships to support sustainable growth. Deputy City Administrator Cindy Steinhauser outlined the city’s efforts to position itself for transformation while fostering an environment for additional private investment to thrive.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore Rochester’s development opportunities through guided tours:

Link Bus Rapid Transit & West Transit Village: Participants toured the planned 2.9-mile bus route along 2nd Street, learning about development opportunities, including the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) village.

Bold. Forward. Unbound.: This tour showcased the evolving downtown community and Mayo Clinic’s growth, highlighting connections to hospitality, neighborhoods, and public transportation.

Riverfront Small Area Plan: Attendees walked along the Zumbro River to explore Rochester’s community vision captured in the Riverfront Small Area Plan, focusing on potential public and private investment opportunities.

Discovery Square: Dubbed “Healthcare meets Hospitality,” this tour provided insights into the Biomed-tech buildings and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Discovery Square innovation district.

Housing: Tour groups visited Bryk on Broadway, a mixed-income apartment building, and explored the University of Minnesota’s conversion of the Doubletree Hotel into a student housing complex.

The 2024 Real Estate Development and Investment Summit exemplified Rochester’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth, setting the stage for an exciting future in the heart of Minnesota.

DMC and ULI Minnesota would like to thank our sponsors for their support
Gold Level

 

 

 

 

Silver Level

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bronze Level
Kraus-Anderson Construction
Ryan Companies
Premier Bank

2024 Real Estate Development and Investment Summit Resources