The Saint Paul Parks Conservancy, in collaboration with Rethos and the West 7th/Fort Road Federation, is undertaking a campaign to repair and reopen the historic Walnut Street Stairs. With support from the City of Saint Paul, this initiative seeks to restore a vital piece of the city’s infrastructure, reconnect neighborhoods, and celebrate the diverse stories that these iconic steps represent.
The Walnut Street Stairway, which links Summit Avenue near the James J. Hill House to Irvine Avenue below, has long served as a cherished passage through Saint Paul’s urban landscape. Its closure due to wear and environmental challenges has created a void in the city’s connectivity and left a beloved community resource inaccessible.
To advance the project with community input, an advisory committee is being formed and applications are due by Feb 28, 2025. This committee will gather stories from the community, explore the steps’ historical significance, and develop creative ways to reintegrate the stairway into the city’s broader network of parks and public spaces.
Over the next year, the project partners will focus on:
- Engaging the Community: Collecting personal stories, memories, and ideas about the Walnut Street Stairs.
- Researching Historical Significance: Delving into the history of the steps and their role in shaping Saint Paul’s neighborhoods.
- Inspiring Community Connections: Highlighting the importance of public spaces in fostering community ties.
- Exploring Innovative Uses: Envisioning new ways to enhance the stairway as both a functional and cultural asset.
Get Involved!
If you are passionate about revitalizing this historic treasure, we encourage you to the advisory committee.
🔗 Apply to Join the Advisory Committee
Let’s make the Walnut Street Stairs a symbol of connection, resilience, and shared stories once again.