Tag: Destination Medical Center

Remember the children’s book series “Choose Your Own Adventure?” The popular young reader series allowed the reader to assume the role of the protagonist and make decisions that would determine the main character’s actions and the plot’s outcome. All the reader needed to bring is enthusiasm and imagination.

As the Destination Medical Center works to become a catalyst for growth, we are invited to start conversations that will help us choose our adventure in planning the future of Rochester and Southeast Minnesota. This blog offers a place to learn more about DMC and the seven areas that are being targeted for development. On a regular basis, blog authors will offer their views on one of the areas of focus for DMC. You’re invited and encouraged to ask questions and share ideas. By doing so, you, like the adventure books, you will help determine the outcome – which is potential and possibilities for Rochester.

Rochester is a vibrant community with a lot to offer. Every day, I talk with people who are passionate about Rochester and Southeast Minnesota. They want to see our community not just grow, but flourish. They’re interested in creating a bright future for themselves and their families.

Here’s our chance to choose our adventure. We look forward to having you participate in the conversation!

Since its inception, the Destination Medical Center has been grounded on input and support from the broad community. Initial research involving Mayo Clinic patients, Rochester visitors and area citizens identified key areas for a vibrant urban Rochester.

Starting in January, citizens will be invited to share their ideas – big and small – in each of these areas for DMC as it relates to the urban framework of our Rochester community. Input will be gathered in , community conversational sessions, public forums and social media for input to inform the DMC development plan.

Opportunities for input:

Ambassador meetings: Join the conversations at the twice monthly ambassador meetings to learn about DMC updates, share thoughts and ideas.
Join a conversation group: Email [email protected] for information on how to participate. Requests must be received by Dec. 1, 2014.
Social media: Join conversations at DMC.MN

Here are some ideas from initial research to get creative juices flowing!

Livable City/Retail/Dining

More downtown living, including affordable housing, walkable access to green space, retail and grocery stores. Add to that a street level that’s engaging and visually interesting.

Sports, Recreation & Nature

Let’s increase activities and areas for sports and recreation and add a green space in the downtown core.

Hospitality/Convention

Integrate and expand access to hotel and hospitality spaces and places, increase accessibility, and offer services at all prices.

Commercial Research and Technology

Offer access, incentives and desirable locations to attract research and technology businesses and jobs to Rochester.

Health and Wellness

Leverage Mayo Clinic’s reputation for excellence in preventative health care to promote health and wellness in all areas.

Learning environment

Work with Rochester’s education community to increase offerings for lifelong learning, education and symposiums.

Arts and Culture/Civic/Entertainment

Add more events and activities during peak patient/visitor times.

Transportation

More parking, more bike trails, and expanded bus service top the wish list.

Choose your adventure

DMC: Areas That Create a Vibrant Community