Snelling and University

Commercial Corridor

University and Snelling Avenue is one of several commercial corridors receiving funding from the City of Saint Paul. This funding advances economic development projects and programs as part of the Commercial Corridor Organization Assistance Program.

Overview

Hamline Midway Coalition (HMC) is utilizing 2025 Commercial Corridor Organization Assistance Program funds to carry out a comprehensive creative placemaking and corridor activation initiative along key commercial stretches of Snelling Avenue and University Avenue within the Hamline Midway neighborhood. This project is grounded in a bold but practical vision: to transform these critical corridors from underutilized, misunderstood spaces, into vibrant destinations that reflect the culture, creativity, and resilience of the Midway community.

Specific components of the initiative include a business spotlight campaign which will include digital storytelling and a marketing campaign featuring local businesses. HMC is engaging the community and utilizing consultants to create a plan for neighborhood branding, placemaking initiatives, and events. HMC is also hosting a series of community events to gather input and support pop-up events as part of the overall community engagement strategy. 

Explore Commercial Corridor projects

News from the corridor

Art in the Park

On October 11, the Hamline Midway Coalition hosted “Art in the Park” at Dickerman Park as part of the Fall 2025 St Paul Art Crawl. This event was part of the St. Paul Art Crawl and featured free t-shirts, pin-making, and canvas-making. The event was made possible through funding from the City of St. Paul’s Commercial Corridor Organization Assistance Program.

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Black Garnet Books

Black Garnet Books Date: Saturday, January 24Time: 1:00–3:00 PMLocation: Black Garnet Books (1319 University Ave W) Join us for our January Midway Meet-Up at Black Garnet Books, a locally owned, community-rooted bookstore right here in

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