Mayor of Eden Valley.“We have a tranquil community, and it is incredibly neighborly. People look out for one another. That is one of the best things about living here. Neighbors help neighbors and care for each other.” That deep-rooted sense of belonging continues to draw people back. “We have an aging population, and we are also seeing young people move home,” Mayor Bengtson adds. “They’re coming from larger cities, bringing new energy and ideas. Some are even stepping into local government. It shows how engaged our residents are — and how much they want to see this community thrive.” MAIN STREET RENEWAL PLAN Eden Valley’s central corridor tells the story of many rural towns that have watched big-box retail and online shopping draw routine purchases away from local storefronts. Rather than dwelling on what has been lost, city leaders are focused on creating beauty, vibrancy, and opportunity right where they stand. “We are working on a beautification effort,” Mayor Bengtson says. “We want to help property owners refresh facades. That can mean paint, repairs to brick, or updated signs. We are designing a matching program so that the cost of materials is not a barrier.” Curb appeal matters because first impressions matter. “When people drive through town, they notice whether a main street is cared for,” Mayor Bengtson says. “A well-maintained block sends a message of pride and vitality. Even if there are fewer storefronts than there were decades ago, the feeling of a welcoming place invites people to stop.” Alongside paint and brickwork, the city is open to small-scale commerce that fits the season and the times. “We have a building owner who is leasing microspaces for pop-up shops,” Mayor Bengtson says. “It gives makers and small vendors a chance to try retail in the winter months and helps fill empty windows. It also draws visitors who may not have planned to turn off the highway.” CONNECTING PEOPLE, PLACES, AND PURPOSE Eden Valley’s focus has shifted from restoring buildings to strengthening the spaces between them, the routes where community life unfolds.The city is collaborating with neighboring towns and regional partners to develop a trail network that connects parks, neighborhoods, and downtown destinations. “There is a new committee forming to look at a regional trail system with Watkins and Paynesville,” Bengtson says. “We want safe places to walk and 81 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11 EDEN VALLEY, MN
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