Recently, the Equitable Development Scorecard team evaluated plans for a 180-unit apartment building at 200 W Plato Blvd near Harriet Island, proposed by Reuter Walton Development. At our upcoming West Side Voices meeting, Reuter Walton will tell us more about the proposed project. The Equitable Development Scorecard team will tell us how they scored the project and why. Then, we'll vote on whether or not we agree with the team's recommended score and whether we want to support the project. View presentation slides from Reuter Walton. Register for the November 10 meeting to get the Zoom link!

Why should we care?

When we use our Equitable Development Scorecard to ask, "Who benefits?" from new development, building by building, block by block, we're creating a neighborhood that fits our vision, values, and priorities – now and for future generations. Developed by West Siders, for West Siders, the Scorecard is part of the official approval process for projects and investments that come into our neighborhood. West Siders identified the following priorities for development: affordable housing, local jobs, and a healthy, safe, and equitable neighborhood.

Register for the meeting to get the Zoom link!

Photo by Elizabeth Flores, Star Tribune

Our new mural proclaims, with pride, what the West Side is all about – resilience, joy, color and culture.

In a compelling and colorful video, watch artists Ernesto Ybarra and Xilam Balam explain the meaning behind the striking symbols, colors and faces they chose to depict on the iconic Robert Street Pedestrian Bridge.

West Side Community Organization is proud to have gotten this project off the ground after years of planning. We're grateful to the artists for their creative vision and work. Watch the video below!

Funding for the project provided by WSCO and the St. Paul Department of Planning and Economic Development’s Commercial Vitality Zone program for the West Side’s District del Sol.

If you're inspired by what you see, please consider making a contribution to support WSCO's work. From supporting public art, equitable development, and renters rights, to organizing for 100% voter participation, we're working toward a more just and joyful West Side.

Do you live in Saint Paul's West Side neighborhood (55107) and are at least 16 years of age? Would you like to help build community and power for your neighborhood? Run for election to be in the WSCO board! Applications are now open. Elections will take place at the WSCO annual meeting on November 19th, 2020.  Board terms will start January 2021.

Give your input

Metro Transit is choosing the next Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors as part of their Network Next project. (BRT is like a regular bus, but faster, with fewer stops!) One of the 11 potential routes goes through the West Side via Robert Street. Check out the potential routes.

Once you take a look at the routes, Metro Transit wants your input on the questions below. Email your thoughts to NetworkNext@metrotransit.org.

1. Which of the 11 potential BRT corridors would you most likely use?
2. Are there any changes you'd make to the proposed BRT corridors?
3. What principles should we use to prioritize or select the next routes to study further?

Find out about other opportunities to engage.

Why should I care?

When all of us – no matter what we look like or how much money we make – can affordably get where we need to go for work and play, we can reduce racial and economic disparities in our community. In addition, when more of us use public transit, we can improve air quality in our neighborhood, and make investments that lay the groundwork for a more sustainable future. Plus, BRT is simply a more convenient way to get around.

BRT is faster than standard local bus service. Here’s how:

Buses make fewer stops, significantly speeding up travel time. It helps buses stay better in sync with traffic flow.

Ticket machines at stations allow customers to purchase tickets before boarding. There’s no need to line up at the farebox.

Low-floor buses and raised curbs at stations, plus wider bus doors and boarding from the front and back, speed up boarding.

Extending the curb at stations saves time. Buses can merge more easily into traffic after serving a station.

Signal priority allows buses to move through traffic lights a bit faster.

BRT provides a more comfortable experience

Enhanced shelters at BRT stations provide protection from the weather and a safe, comfortable and convenient customer waiting space. Features include:

NexTrip signs

Bike racks

Information about the route, transit system and surrounding area

Security cameras

Emergency phones

Enhanced lighting

Push-button heating

Ticket machines for buying a ticket using cash or credit card

Litter and recycling containers

Watch this 2-minute video about BRT to learn more.

Network Next is a 20-year plan for expanding and improving the bus network. Transit improvements under consideration include improved local and express routes, integrated shared mobility options, and new arterial BRT lines. Sign up for updates about Network Next. 

Check out this blog post by Metro Transit to get even more background on the Network Next Bus Rapid Transit project.

Do you know a phenomenal West Side resident who should be recognized for their impact on our community?  Nominate them for the 2020 West Sider of the Year award!  The 2020 West Sider of the Year will be announced at WSCO's Annual Meeting, held virtually on November 19th.