Albert Lea, Minnesota

the core area. We actually added a big splash pad to the end of the road – it’s a great attraction for all ages to enjoy. Our pedestrian numbers have increased quite a bit downtown, which has been a benefit to all the businesses. “Those are some of the big projects, and we’re progressing on from there. A huge fire in 2001 destroyed the Farmstead and Farmland facility, one of our major employers, and that left a large vacancy of 40 to 50 acres in the middle of our community. It sits empty at this time, but it is a redevelopment opportunity that we’re now starting to go after. We made investments to take care of downtown and this is our next goal – what we call the Blazing Star Landing. We’re currently trying to market that land and push the developers to see it as a destination. There are walking trails going into that area, bike trails, and it’s also surrounded by the lakes and the channel. So, we’re trying to incorporate those amenities in a marriage between public and private; eventually, looking at building a community center to help the growth of visitors to that area.” Gabrielatos: “We’re unique in Minnesota – ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes’– because we have a recreational lake within shouting distance of a lake known for birding and hiking that also has a state park. It provides a unique opportunity for residents and tourists to take a boat out on Fountain Lake and then go hike around Albert Lea Lake, as well. We’ve got a lot going for us here and we’re proud of the work we’ve done.” BVM: How do you retain business and attract new companies? ALBERT LEA , MINNESOTA pictured Welding at Pro Advantage. Photo by Teresa Kauffmann