Letter from the Public/Private Partnership Leaders

Dear Friends of Saint Paul:
Almost 14 years ago a partnership was created, dedicated to leveraging public and private resources to revitalize the urban core of Minnesota’s Capital City. Since then, Capital City Partnership has led the way and accelerated Saint Paul’s urban economic growth and revitalization through this strong, committed public/private partnership.

Today, downtown Saint Paul has not only transformed its bricks and mortar, but has also trans- formed the quality of life and spirit of its people. A positive energy has emerged, creating confidence and certainty for future investment. This transformation is evidenced by the growing number of businesses in the city’s down- town urban core, a growing residential population, an expanding entertainment district, and world- class arts and cultural venues.

In the midst of one of the toughest economic climates in decades, we continue to experience signs of economic success. In August, Microsoft moved 26 employees to Saint Paul from Minneapolis, and in November, Cray, Inc. relocated 235 employees to downtown. These moves give Saint Paul a boost during a particularly difficult economic downturn, and help market downtown as the smart choice for your business. They join other firms like Lawson Software and Gander Mountain that previously relocated their headquarters to downtown Saint Paul.

Capital City Partnership is proud to have helped form a new foundation for Saint Paul’s extraordinary future, but our work is not done. Our commitment is stronger than ever before, and we will work to strengthen our existing partnerships, forge new partnerships, continue the positive momentum, and implement the shared vision for Saint Paul. We will continue to organize and channel the energies and resources of the business and professional community to form effective public/ private partnerships to plan, develop, promote, and market downtown Saint Paul.

Mayor Christopher B. Coleman, Andy Bessette, and John J. Labosky

The spirit of collaboration that formed Capital City Partnership continues. The unique public/private partnership continues to lead Saint Paul in realizing its potential as our state’s Capital City. Capital City Partnership will continue to help navigate new economic challenges, development opportunities, and a changing global environment.

We’d like to thank the Capital City Partnership Executive Committee and Board of Directors for their dedication, support, guidance, and commitment in pursuing our mission. Downtown Saint Paul’s urban revitalization is an astounding success story, and we believe that the best is yet to come. Saint Paul is poised for a prosperous, exciting future, and Capital City Partnership will continue to serve as a catalyst to make it happen.

Very truly yours,

Christopher B. Coleman
Mayor City of Saint Paul

Andy Bessette
EVP and Chief Administrative Officer The Travelers Companies, Inc. Chair, Capital City Partnership

John J. Labosky
President and Chief Executive Officer Capital City Partnership