Episcopal Homes in spotlight at national Rail-volution conference

Episcopal Homes of Minnesota was honored to be featured in two of the 24 mobile workshops of the 20th annual Rail-volution Conference, held this year in the Twin Cities. This national conference convened over 1,200 developers, architects, transit operators, non-profit and business leaders, planners,  and government officials, to explore and share experiences focusing on building livable communities with transit.

“Episcopal Homes was a natural fit for this  conference,” said Donna Drummond, Director of Planning, City of St. Paul, Planning and Economic Development. “Their impressive housing and mixed-use developments, including affordable options, on multiple sites, are superior examples of quality living possibilities within Saint Paul, right on the light rail.”

The Episcopal Homes presence in several locations along University Ave. with the new Green Line light rail right outside their door has captured the attention of those who want to see what we are doing and learn from our expertise.

On Sept. 21 a group of 30 individuals from all corners of this country and from as far away as New Zealand, arrived by the Green Line to learn about the extensive funding partnerships that have resulted in the creation of Midway Village at University and East Lynnhurst. They toured the building to see its unique mix of three distinct housing types and amenities. Marvin Plakut, Episcopal Homes CEO, and Diane Nordquist, Principal Project Manager for the City of St. Paul, led the workshop, which was organized by Adam Maleitzke of the Metropolitan Council.

In the afternoon, another group of 30 arrived by the Green Line to visit Kings Crossing Apartments and small businesses within Frogtown Square.  Participants were enthusiastic about the design of this development, its positive impact on the surrounding neighborhood, and the unique collaboration of community partners to combine HUD 202 affordable senior housing with small business development. It is recognized as a superior example of transit-oriented development. Marvin Plakut and Mike Temali, CEO of the Neighborhood Development Center, led this workshop, which was organized by Donna Drummond, City of St. Paul.