The City of Saint Paul is planning major improvements along George Street, from Cherokee Avenue to State Street/Cesar Chavez Street, aimed at making the street safer, smoother, and more accessible for everyone who lives, works, or travels through the area.
These upgrades are part of the city’s ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure and pedestrian safety in our neighborhoods. Work is scheduled to begin in Fall 2025.
What’s Included in the Project?
Street Resurfacing (Mill & Overlay)
-
The surface of George Street will be milled (2 inches removed) and repaved with new asphalt.
-
Fresh striping will be added after paving is complete.
-
This process typically takes 2–4 days per segment, depending on weather.
Pedestrian & Traffic Safety Enhancements
-
New curb ramps at intersections to improve accessibility for all, including people using wheelchairs, strollers, or bikes.
-
Bumpouts (curb extensions) at key intersections to improve visibility and shorten crossing distances.
-
Pedestrian refuge islands (medians) to allow safer, two-stage street crossings.
-
Outdated traffic signal at George & Stryker will be replaced with a safer and more efficient four-way stop.
Intersection-Specific Improvements
-
Ohio Street: Bumpouts on the south side and into Ohio Street where feasible to slow drivers and improve visibility.
-
Bidwell Street: Bumpouts added to address unique curve, realign traffic, and enhance pedestrian safety.
-
Manomin & Hall Avenues: Installation of pedestrian refuge islands to help people walking or biking cross George Street more safely. These locations are part of the city’s Bicycle Boulevard Plan.
-
Note: No more left turns or through traffic at these intersections; only right turns and east-west travel along George Street will be allowed.
-
Utility Work Along the Corridor
In coordination with the street improvements:
-
Saint Paul Regional Water Services will replace any lead water service lines.
-
Private utility providers may also perform underground work during this time.
Expect some temporary disruptions, but access to homes and businesses will be maintained as much as possible.
Community Meeting – Drop In & Learn More
Want to learn more or ask specific questions? There will be an open house-style meeting:
📅 Wednesday, April 9, 2025
⏰ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (drop in anytime)
📍 Riverview Library (Basement Meeting Room)
📍 1 George Street E, Saint Paul, MN 55107
City staff will be on hand to talk one-on-one about the project plans, schedule, and how these changes will affect you and your neighbors.
What You Can Do to Prepare
-
Remove personal items (plants, decorations, sprinklers, etc.) from the boulevard areas near intersections. These may be impacted by construction and will not be replaced.
-
Watch for a flyer on your door if sidewalk or ramp work will occur near your property.
Why These Changes Matter
These improvements are designed with input from the community, along with recommendations from the West Side Safe Routes to School Plan and the Saint Paul Bicycle Plan. Goals are to:
-
Slow down vehicle traffic
-
Improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians
-
Make crossings safer and easier
-
Support safer biking and walking options for all ages