CITY MEETS NATURE “We have a very urban core with commercial areas alongside some beautiful natural features,” Thunstrom notes. St. Francis boasts a scenic river designated by the state and extensive wetlands, significant natural assets. These features add to the city’s aesthetic appeal and present unique challenges for development. Despite these challenges, St. Francis has embraced the opportunities posed by its natural landscapes, such as the wetlands and rivers, in the context of land use and development.Thunstrom explains that the city has proactively addressed these challenges by fostering creative developer partnerships. These collaborations aim to find solutions that respect and preserve the environment while meeting the community’s needs. The scenic Rum River, flowing through the heart of St. Francis, is a focal point for residents and visitors alike. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The river is also surrounded by beautiful wetlands and parks, providing a serene and picturesque setting that significantly enhances the quality of life in the city. “We value our natural environment and work hard to protect it,” Thunstrom proudly states. This commitment is evident in the city’s approach to development, where environmental considerations are seamlessly integrated into planning and decisionmaking processes. BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE St. Francis is not resting on its laurels. The city is actively engaged in several infrastructure projects to accommodate its growing population and enhance its services.A new city hall and fire station are under construction, serving as the anchor for the downtown area known as Bridge Street. In addition, a significant senior housing project is about to break ground, adding 125 units to the community. This is part of a broader shift from predominantly residential developments to a mix that includes more commercial and retail spaces.“We have a lot of conversations for future commercial and then a couple of multifamily housing developments as well,” Thunstrom says. THRIVING THROUGH CHANGE The city’s proactive approach to development has been necessary in overcoming the challenges posed 159 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 ST. FRANCIS, MN
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