In a clear push to propel the economy and drive forward an inclusive vision for the future, Ramsey County has sealed a deal with Ryan Companies for a grand stretch of land that once housed munitions but now eyes a transformation into a bustling commercial haven. The unanimous vote by the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners earmarked $12.7 million for a 40-acre parcel next to Rice Creek Commons in what is already shaping up to be a major overhaul of the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant site, as per an official release by the county.
The property, known as "Outlot A" and zoned for commercial use, unlocks potential for development that promises to weave corporate campuses, research hubs, and manufacturing powerhouses into the fabric of Arden Hills, alongside perks like retail and restaurants. Ryan Companies aims to erect up to 600,000 square feet of built-to-suit space, setting the stage for hundreds of jobs and climbing tax revenues, substantial progress by any measure especially for a fully developed county this project could be the golden ticket for growth, according to a statement obtained by Ramsey County.
Ramsey County Commissioner Nicole Frethem, lauded the vote, highlighting Ryan Companies' alignment with the county's energy ambitions, "Today’s vote advances our vision for creating economic prosperity and building an inclusive economy at Rice Creek Commons," Frethem remarked, underscoring the drive for sustainable and climate-smart development.
Following a competitive vetting process that began last April with six firm proposals and culminated in Ryan's selection by the Joint Development Authority (JDA) marking a new chapter for Rice Creek Commons, JDA Chair Jon Wicklund expressed his satisfaction in a Ramsey County interview, "We’ve consistently heard from the Arden Hills community about the importance of creating stable, well-paying job opportunities at Rice Creek Commons Ryan Companies’ plan is expected to bring hundreds of quality jobs to the north metro and will set the tone for a vibrant, thriving development."
As part of the sprawling redevelopment vision, Ryan intends to sprinkle in green spaces and outdoor communal areas, while the overall Rice Creek Commons endeavor, with its billion-dollar prospects, gears up for more milestones in 2024. There's a concerted effort to entice state funding, specifically requesting $25 million from the Minnesota Legislature to fuel critical infrastructure such as stormwater systems and public roadways that will stitch together the community with County Road H and Highway 96.
The tale of Rice Creek Commons is one of redemption, rising from its polluted past to a potential paragon of eco-conscious living and working spaces. The diligent clean-up has lifted its Superfund status, and now, Ramsey County looks to sew a new narrative thread: a climate-forward and equitable community that once armed forces, now aims to arm its populace with opportunity and prosperity.
