The City of Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) today released a request for offers for the purchase and redevelopment of the former Hafner’s site located at 1570 White Bear Avenue on the Greater East Side of Saint Paul. Offers are due 4 p.m. CST on Monday, December 5, 2022.
The HRA acquired the property in 2002 and demolished the building in 2003. The 2.18-acre, vacant parcel offers proximity and access to transit, parks and natural amenities, the commercial districts along White Bear Avenue and the upcoming redevelopment of the former Hillcrest Golf Course site, now known as The Heights.
“The East Side is home to a growing, diverse community that has long been waiting for development at the former Hafner’s site,” said Councilmember Nelsie Yang. “This project will invigorate and revitalize our Greater East Side neighborhoods and business corridor along White Bear Avenue East. Neighbors can’t wait to see the proposals that come through this process and to be a part of shaping the future progress of the East Side of Saint Paul.”
The HRA is seeking development proposals that align with the Greater East Side District and White Bear Avenue Small Area Plans and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan supports higher density development in the area to take advantage of proximity to nearby commercial and residential development, as well as the transit and amenities found along and near the White Bear Avenue corridor. The neighborhood vision for the area is for a mix of uses, including housing for all ages, incomes, family types and household sizes.
“The Greater East Side neighborhood is excited about the potential and opportunities for development that the site holds,” shared Lisa Theis, Executive Director of the Greater East Side Community Council. “Located on our ‘Main Street,’ development on this site is key to the revitalization of the area.”
The full Request for Offers for Purchase and Development, in addition to more information about the property, proposal timeline, requirements and contact information can be found at stpaul.gov/1570WhiteBearAve.
Proposals are due by 4 p.m. CST on Monday, December 5, 2022.