(Rochester, Minn.) May 22, 2025 – At the May 22, 2025 meeting, the Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) Board advanced a series of transformative projects aligned with DMC’s mission to position Rochester, Minnesota, as America’s City for Health. The board took action to support high-impact developments focused on innovation infrastructure, housing affordability, and public realm enhancements.
“This is a transformational moment for Rochester,” said DMC Executive Director Patrick Seeb. “The scale and variety of projects under consideration demonstrate the impact of sustained public-private partnership and the momentum we’ve built over the last decade.”
BioLabs in Rochester: Shared Lab Infrastructure at Two Discovery Square
The DMCC Board approved DMC support of up to $8 million for the construction of a shared lab facility in Two Discovery Square. In partnership with Mayo Clinic, Mortenson, and the City of Rochester, BioLabs in Rochester will bring globally recognized innovation infrastructure to the Midwest, supporting early-stage life science companies and Mayo Clinic collaborations.
“BioLabs in Rochester represents a bold investment in the future of this community,” said Pam Wheelock, Chair of the DMCC Board. “It will create new opportunities for local innovators, attract talent to our region, and help grow companies that strengthen Rochester’s economy and identity as a hub for health and life sciences. This will make Rochester the envy of many communities in Minnesota.”
Civic Center North Public Realm Enhancements
The DMC Corporation Board took action to update its support for the Civic Center North development, a mixed-use housing project led by Sherman Associates. The Board affirmed its support for up to $13.5 million in tax increment financing (TIF) for the project and approved a new $500,000 investment to support enhancements to the riverfront public realm adjacent to the site.
“The Civic Center North development remains a key opportunity to bring new market-rate and affordable housing units to downtown Rochester while activating a currently underutilized riverfront site,” said DMCC Board Member Kim Norton. “It’s the kind of project that advances our community goals around housing, sustainability, and vibrant public spaces.”
Loom Apartments and West Transit Village Aeon Projects
The board approved up to $4 million in funds to support the Loom Apartments project, a 141-unit affordable housing development. Located along Civic Center Drive, the project includes on-site geothermal heating and cooling, ground-floor commercial space, biking amenities, and public electric vehicle (EV) charging.
The DMCC Board also reauthorized a $3.9 million commitment and recommended up to $4.9 million in TIF for Aeon’s 75-unit senior affordable housing project, contingent upon coordination with the adjacent Mayo parking ramp and BRT infrastructure. This development is a key part of the West Transit Village master plan and helps position the project for future state funding while advancing affordable housing in the DMC district.
Supporting Historic Preservation and Economic Activity
In addition to these major development initiatives, the DMCC Board approved funding requests for infrastructure improvements in Rochester’s Downtown Historic District. These investments will help preserve the character of Rochester’s historic core while enabling continued commercial vitality. Projects approved included:
- 216 1st Ave SW (Bebap Korean Eats): HVAC, exhaust, and ductwork improvements
- 324 S Broadway (Fagan Studios): Renovation of a second-story tenant space
- 22 3rd St SW (John Kruesel’s General Merchandise): Tuck-pointing and roof replacement
- 326–328 S Broadway: Foundation tuck-pointing
These upgrades aim to support small businesses, preserve architectural heritage, and maintain safe, usable space in one of Rochester’s most recognizable areas.
The next DMCC Board meeting is set for Thursday, September 25, 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.