Capitol Area Vitality Program

Capitol Area Vitality Program Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board (CAAPB) and Ramsey County Sheriff's Office partnership

The view from my office at Capitol Commons.From these windows, I can see the homes, businesses and streets that make up ...
08/17/2026

The view from my office at Capitol Commons.

From these windows, I can see the homes, businesses and streets that make up this community. It is a daily reminder that the decisions we make here should be shaped by the people who live and work outside these windows.

We have built strong momentum, and I am proud of what we are accomplishing. Now I want residents and business owners to lean in even more.

What should we build upon? What would you like to see more of? What idea or opportunity should be part of the conversation as we move forward?

Leave a comment, send us a message or stop by Capitol Commons at 546 Rice Street. My door is open, and I want to hear from you.

— Inspector Darin McDonald

EXPERIENCE INDIA IN A DAY!IndiaFest returns to the Minnesota State Capitol grounds this Saturday, bringing one of Minnes...
08/15/2026

EXPERIENCE INDIA IN A DAY!

IndiaFest returns to the Minnesota State Capitol grounds this Saturday, bringing one of Minnesota’s largest cultural celebrations right into our Capitol community.

Saturday, August 15
11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
Minnesota State Capitol Grounds
Free and open to all

More than 25,000 people are expected to enjoy over 100 booths featuring Indian food, cultural exhibits, local organizations, clothing, jewelry and traditional handicrafts.

The day will also include a parade, flag-raising ceremony, live cultural performances, classical Indian dance, Bhangra and an evening Bollywood concert.

Come experience the incredible culture, traditions and energy of IndiaFest 2026!

Complete schedule and information:
https://iamn.org/events/indiafest-2026/

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN SAINT PAUL THIS WEEKEND?Another great weekend is taking shape across Saint Paul!SATURDAY, AUGUST 15I...
08/15/2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN SAINT PAUL THIS WEEKEND?

Another great weekend is taking shape across Saint Paul!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15

IndiaFest
11 a.m.–9 p.m. | Minnesota State Capitol
Free food, culture, performances and more than 100 booths.

RLA Summer Block Party
10:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. | 1675 Rice Street
Live music, food, vendors, family activities and community resources.

Saturday Vibe
11 a.m.–noon | George Latimer Central Library
Free creative programming for families.

Nitro Circus: Good, Bad & Rad
CHS Field
An action-packed evening of big-air stunts and daredevil entertainment.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 16

Monarch Fund 5K Run/Walk
8:30 a.m. | Harriet Island
A family-friendly run supporting cancer-recovery research at Hamline University.

Japanese Obon Festival
3–9 p.m. | Como Park
Japanese music, dancing, drumming, food and lantern lighting.

Get out, explore Saint Paul and enjoy the weekend!

Please confirm event details and ticket availability with each organizer before attending.

One small box may save someone’s life.NARCAN can quickly reverse an opioid overdose and provide critical time for emerge...
08/14/2026

One small box may save someone’s life.

NARCAN can quickly reverse an opioid overdose and provide critical time for emergency help to arrive.

Individuals may stop by Capitol Commons to pick up a box to keep at home, in a vehicle, or nearby in case it is ever needed.

You may never need to use it—but being prepared could mean everything to someone else.

Capitol Commons
546 Rice Street, Saint Paul

If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately.

Food Friday at Capitol Commons!Stop by today for hamburgers, french fries and good conversation with your neighbors.11 a...
08/14/2026

Food Friday at Capitol Commons!

Stop by today for hamburgers, french fries and good conversation with your neighbors.

11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Capitol Commons
546 Rice Street, Saint Paul

Everyone is welcome. Come hungry and get to know us!

What a great afternoon with the Economic Development Association of Minnesota as they concluded their “On the Road” tour...
08/13/2026

What a great afternoon with the Economic Development Association of Minnesota as they concluded their “On the Road” tour at the former Sears site in Saint Paul.

Mikeya Griffin, President and CEO of the Rondo Community Land Trust, shared an inspiring vision for transforming this long-underutilized property into a vibrant and welcoming destination—one that can reconnect neighborhoods, create new opportunities, attract investment, support local businesses, and bring lasting energy to the entire Capitol area.

Erik and Peter from the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board also shared their insight and excitement about the possibilities ahead.

I was glad to be part of the conversation. This is more than the redevelopment of one property—it is an opportunity to reimagine an important part of Saint Paul and create something that will strengthen the surrounding neighborhoods for generations.

There is tremendous potential here, and the excitement surrounding what this site could become is growing.

08/13/2026

🎮 Sometimes kids just need a place to be kids.

At Capitol Commons, our Gaming Club is about more than controllers, consoles, and friendly competition. It’s about creating a space where young people can walk through the door, feel welcome, make friends, laugh, and simply enjoy being a kid.

Our young people carry more than we sometimes realize. Between school, social pressures, challenges at home, and everything happening around them, having a safe and positive place to belong matters.

Gaming gives us an opportunity to bring kids together in a way that feels natural to them. While they’re playing, they’re building friendships, learning teamwork, connecting with positive adults, and becoming part of a community that cares about them.

There doesn’t always have to be a lesson, a lecture, or an agenda.

Sometimes they just need a controller, a few friends, some laughs, and a place where they know they belong. ❤️🎮

That’s what we want Capitol Commons to be.

A big thank-you to Jaidyn, Elijah, and Malikhai from Frogtown Football for showing up this morning and helping us restor...
08/13/2026

A big thank-you to Jaidyn, Elijah, and Malikhai from Frogtown Football for showing up this morning and helping us restore the grounds at one of our multi-housing communities.

They cleared weeds, removed overgrowth, cleaned up the basketball court area, and helped make the space safer and more welcoming for the families who live there.

This is what community looks like—young people giving their time, working hard, and taking pride in the neighborhood. We truly appreciate their help and are proud to have them working alongside us.

08/12/2026

Come hang out and get to know us!

Cribbage & Chess | Wednesdays, 4–6 PM
Capitol Commons | 546 Rice Street

Good games. Good conversation. Good people.

If you hear music and basketballs bouncing this afternoon, come check us out at 525 Park Street!Join us today from 5–7 p...
08/12/2026

If you hear music and basketballs bouncing this afternoon, come check us out at 525 Park Street!

Join us today from 5–7 p.m. for Capitol City Rising Stars, hosted by Broken Robotsss and Mizz Mercedez in partnership with Saint Paul Parks and Recreation.

Come support these talented young athletes and enjoy basketball, a live DJ, food, and a great evening of community connection!

Sponsored in part by the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Youth Plus Program and the Capitol Area Vitality Program.

525 Park Street, Saint Paul
Today | 5–7 p.m.

Address

546 Rice Street
Saint Paul, MN
55103

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