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.

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.

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 2^nd 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

• Mobile Food Unit Zone Permit Application
• City of Rochester Mobile Food License
• Mobile Food Unit Guidance on Vending in the City of Rochester

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.

(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 2^nd 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 2^nd 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.

(Rochester, Minn.) May 23, 2024 – At their quarterly meeting today, the Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) Board of Directors committed nearly $12 million for projects in the DMC District, focusing on housing and historic preservation.

The housing projects include a mixed income development at Civic Center North by Sherman Associates and an affordable senior housing development at the West Transit Village by Aeon.  Once completed, these developments will add more than 400 homes to the downtown area, all within walking or easy transit to jobs, services, restaurants, and entertainment.

DMC’s support of the Sherman development ($3.0M) will ensure that it connects to Rochester’s newly established Geo-Thermal district energy system.  The Aeon project is the first of several new developments that will provide housing options at the west end of Rochester’s Bus Rapid Transit system (LINK).  DMC’s commitment of $3.9M will advance the project as it pursues other funding sources. The vision for the West Transit Village is to create a vibrant, desirable community that enhances the BRT experience, offering a better alternative to car travel.

“The totality of these projects will help address the housing shortage in Rochester,” said DMCC Board Secretary Paul Williams. “It’s encouraging to see a mix of market-rate, affordable, and senior housing in these developments.”

The board also took action to designate the Downtown Historic District as public infrastructure, making it eligible for DMC funding. The DMCC board approved $5 million to support eligible capital improvements in the 28 contributing properties in the district. Projects must fall within four categories of investment:

• Adaptive reuse: Converting property use, such as office to retail or restaurant, or renovating vacant second-story space for housing or commerce.
• Building system upgrades: Improvements to HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other systems.
• Building safety and preservation: Exterior envelope sealing, accessibility improvements, and more.
• Code modernization: Upgrades to ensure compliance with ADA or other regulations, and preparations for future reinvestment or sale.

“It is vital that we continue to support our downtown properties,” said DMCC Board Member Brooke Carlson. “Downtowns contribute to the fabric of every community; this program will ensure Rochester’s historic properties can be improved and preserved for the future.”

Board members also discussed DMC investment priorities in preparation for the 2025 DMC funding request. Strategic direction from the board, along with DMC goals, guiding principles, and priorities, will shape the annual request before it is presented to the DMC EDA Board of Directors, DMCC Board, and Rochester City Council for approval.

The DMCC Board will consider the 2025 budget at its next meeting on September 26, 2024, 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.

(Rochester, Minn.) February 27, 2024 – Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency (DMC EDA) announced the hiring of Kylle Jordan to the position of Business Development Manager. She previously held the position of Global Principal for Medical Alley Association.

In her role as business development manager, she will expand upon DMC’s business attraction and recruitment strategies to bring new businesses to Rochester. She will report to DMC EDA’s

Senior Director of Economic Development Michael Flynn.

“Kylle’s extensive experience working with life science and MedTech companies from around the world, as well as her tenure working within the Minnesota life science and MedTech ecosystems makes her the perfect fit for Destination Medical Center, and our aggressive program of work,” said Flynn.

At Medical Alley, she helped to attract over 30 internationally based life science companies to Minnesota, as well as building key stakeholder relationships to promote the Minnesota ecosystem for life science investment. Prior to that she worked for Greater MSP as their director of business investment.

Throughout her 15-year career in economic development, Kylle was focused on investment recruitment, industry marketing, and awareness building, all areas that fit closely in the DMC EDA business development program of work. She also has extensive experience working with MedTech companies evaluating Minnesota for investment opportunities.

Kylle started her new position on February 26. She has a bachelor’s degree in international relations and French from St. Cloud State University and a master’s degree in global finance, trade, economic integration from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver.

DMC EDA also announced the hiring of Lauren Jensen to the position of Energy and Sustainability Manager. She previously held the position of Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Rochester.

As Energy and Sustainability Manager, she will lead DMC’s participation in the Downtown District Energy system development, community electrification campaign, electric vehicle strategy, and other related initiatives. Director of Public Infrastructure and Development Strategy Catherine Malmberg will be overseeing this position.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lauren Jensen as our new energy and sustainability manager. She brings a wealth of experience to our Rochester community alongside fresh ideas that will be invaluable as we continue to work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a more sustainable DMC district. We look forward to the positive impact Lauren will have as she helps chart a greener future for our community,” said Malmberg.

At the City of Rochester, Lauren worked to create a culture of sustainability through environmental, economic, and social equity components while collaborating to build capacity between stakeholders and community partners to develop communities that are truly sustainable for all.

Lauren started her new position on February 26. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources & Industrial Relations from the University of Minnesota and a Certificate in Social Media Management from Minnesota State Community & Technical College.

(Rochester, Minn.) February 1, 2024 – At the quarterly Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) Board of Directors meeting, the board directed DMC EDA staff to develop a program to support capital improvements to downtown properties. Board members discussed the importance of a vibrant historic Mainstreet experience. “The downtown is vital to the growth and success of Rochester,” board member R.T. Rybak said. “Beyond the cultural and historical significance, downtown contributes significantly to the tax base and to the overall health of this community.”

DMC EDA staff will collaborate with the City of Rochester and other stakeholders and return to the board with a recommended approach at the next regular meeting of the DMCC board.

The board also noted the importance of accelerating housing development, noting the current and future unmet needs.  Members discussed strategies such as tax increment financing (TIF) for market-rate housing that has been used in other communities.

“This is a broader community question,” said board member Paul Williams. “I would like to see goals set and be more visible in how we push toward those goals. I applaud the city for setting aside TIF funding for affordable housing.”

In other action, the board officially affirmed DMC as a partnering organization in the Minnesota MedTech 3.0 (MMT3.0) consortium. The purpose of this action was to meaningfully contribute to the MMT3.0 grant application project plan, the goal of which is to be awarded $40-$70 million in U.S. Economic Development Administration funding to grow Minnesota’s global market share in the medical technology industry.

“This is an unprecedented opportunity for Rochester and for Minnesota,” said board member Jim Campbell. “To be able to tap into federal dollars to advance our standing on the world stage is a winning proposition.”

MMT3.0 is a strategy to build a MedTech ecosystem that is even more connected, more strategic, and “smarter” through the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. The growth of this ecosystem will attract Smart MedTech businesses from the region and around the world to invest in Minnesota.

Additionally, the board unanimously approved the resolution to submit the DMCC-City Annual Report to the Minnesota Legislature. The statutorily required report includes the DMC development plan, progress on projects in the development plan, actual costs & financing sources for projects completed in the past two years, estimated costs & financing sources for the next two years, as well as debt service schedules for outstanding obligations of the city for debt service issued for projects identified in the plan.

The next regular DMCC Board meeting is set for May 23, 2024 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.

Nationwide, Black History Month will be celebrated in February 2024. This presents a rich opportunity for the Rochester community to honor its local and regional Black history and to celebrate the vibrant and dynamic community that makes up Rochester today.

The City of Rochester in partnership with Olmsted County and Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency (DMC EDA) will kick off the exhibition tour of a new traveling exhibit entitled Still We Rise: Rochester’s Black Legacy on Monday, February 5th, 2024 at 10am. The launch will feature an exhibition opening at the City Hall Rotunda and a brief program including remarks from Mayor Kim Norton and DEI Director Chao Mwatela. Due to space limitations, the launch event is limited to invited members of the community, City and County governance, and the press. The exhibit will be on public view in the City Hall Rotunda after the event from February 5-9 from 8am-5pm.

The Still We Rise: Rochester’s Black Legacy exhibit is a traveling showcase of the key leaders and events that have shaped the local community and its history. First developed through the leadership of Andre Crockett in partnership with the History Center of Olmsted County, the first “Rochester Black History” exhibit is currently installed at the History Center.

The new traveling pop-up exhibition directed by Andre Crockett (Founder and Owner of BarberShop & Social Services and Sports Mentorship Academy), and curated and designed by writer, Nicole Asong Nfonoyim-Hara (Founder of Griot Arts) will be hosted in various community venues and locations to activate dialogue and invite further learning about the city’s own connections to its Black history and a legacy of Black leadership and excellence. This exhibit is the first of its kind in its span of Rochester Black history and its contextualization of this history within the wider state and regional history from the mid-1800s to today.

Media Contacts:

Andre Crockett Sr. | [email protected]

Nicole Asong Nfonoyim-Hara | [email protected]

(Rochester, Minn.) September 28, 2023 – At the quarterly Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) Board of Directors meeting, the board approved $9.3 million in continued support of the LINK Bus Rapid Transit project. LINK is a proposed 2.6-mile bus rapid transit (BRT) route along 2nd Street SW that will connect downtown Rochester, the Mayo Civic Center, and Mayo Clinic campuses.

“This fare-free service is a great example of a public-private collaboration,” stated DMC Vice Chair Kim Norton. “It took the City, County, State, and Federal governments, along with Mayo Clinic and DMC to get us to this point in the design process on a project that will benefit local users, Mayo employees, and visitors to our community.

Construction of LINK BRT is set to begin in 2024 with service beginning in 2026.

Additionally, the board approved $7.2 million in funding for an expansion of the proposed District Energy System (DES). The DES could serve several public and private buildings in the DMC Downtown Waterfront sub-district and would assist the City of Rochester and DMC in meeting energy use and greenhouse gas reduction goals. The federal Inflation Reduction Act includes resources to aid in expanding the DES, requiring additional local funding.

“It’s important for Rochester to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the Inflation Reduction Act,” said DMC board member Brooke Carlson. “Leveraging those funds for a more robust District Energy System will go a long way toward meeting our energy use and greenhouse gas reduction goals.”

The board also approved a $4 million request for design and construction of the proposed Sixth Street Bridge project. In 2022, the City of Rochester was awarded a $19.9 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant to support the project. The new bridge will create a connection of street and trail networks across the Zumbro River.

Furthermore, the DMCC board approved the DMC Economic Development Agency’s (EDA) 2024 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 Rochester City Council for approval.

The next DMCC Board meeting is set for Friday, November 17, 2023 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.

Rochester, MN – July 17, 2023 – Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency and the City of Rochester are announcing a partnership with Egg Geo, LLC, a leading provider of geothermal solutions, to host an informational event aimed at showcasing the benefits and possibilities of geothermal energy in Rochester. The event, titled “Heat Pumps and Geothermal: Possibilities for Homes, Buildings and Community,” will take place on July 18 at the historic Chateau Theatre.

Geothermal energy is a clean source of power that taps into the Earth to provide heating, cooling, and hot water for residential and commercial buildings. By utilizing this sustainable energy solution, communities like Rochester can reduce their carbon footprint, lower energy costs, and contribute to a greener future.

The informational event will feature experts from Egg Geo, LLC, who will deliver engaging presentations to educate attendees about geothermal technology and its wide-ranging benefits. Participants will gain valuable insights into how geothermal systems work, the potential savings they offer, and their positive impact on the environment.

“We are excited to collaborate with Egg Geo, LLC, in bringing this informational event to the Rochester community,” said Kevin Bright, director of sustainability and housing at Destination Medical Center and City of Rochester. “Geothermal energy has the potential to revolutionize the way we power our buildings, making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. By hosting this event, we aim to raise awareness and promote the adoption of geothermal technology in our region.”

The sessions will feature information for a variety of audiences including home and property owners, building managers, as well as education and workforce training professionals.

“Geothermal energy offers numerous advantages over traditional heating and cooling systems,” said Jay Egg, president of Egg Geo, LLC. “We are pleased to be partnering with Destination Medical Center and the City of Rochester to share our expertise and showcase the immense potential of geothermal technology. This event will empower individuals and businesses with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about sustainable energy solutions.”

The “Heat Pumps and Geothermal: Possibilities for Homes, Buildings and Community” event is open to the public and welcomes homeowners, building professionals, architects, engineers, and anyone interested in learning more about geothermal energy. Registration is free and can be completed online.

About Destination Medical Center:

Destination Medical Center (DMC) is a unique economic development initiative in Rochester, Minnesota. Established in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic, DMC is focused on positioning Rochester as a premier global medical destination and fostering economic growth in the region.

About Egg Geo, LLC:

Egg Geo, LLC is a leading provider of geothermal energy solutions. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Egg Geo specializes in designing, installing, and maintaining geothermal systems for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

 

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