Anytime a major employer leaves an area there is always a big impact. However, sometimes it brings a blessing in disguise. For many years Ford Motors operated an assembly plant in the Highland Park neighborhood on the east bank of the Mississippi River. In 2008 the company will be abandoning it's operations in the area leaving behind 125 acres of prime development land. This has offered the city an amazing redevelopment opportunity in an area that already has a stable economy and a beautiful residential community.



The care with which this development is being handled is indicative of the value of this piece of land. as it sits upon the riverbanks there is a real possibility of some stunning homes and properties being built. This site will add to the already thriving Highland Park community both in terms of homes and in terms of business development. A task force has been organized to deal with the site planning and is comprised of 25 individuals with members ranging from area residents to members of the business community and environmental experts and representatives of Ford Land Co.

The main focus of this organization is to present and design a plan for a mixed-use development that will be both a legacy for the Ford Motor Company and for the City of Saint Paul. The plan calls for a multitude of different amenities to be constructed in this space. Currently the committee is preparing a recommendation for the zoning classifications and land use regulations as well as a capital improvement plan that shall include all the familiar trappings of a residential community such as streets, sidewalks, utilities and open spaces and parks.

With such a large piece of property in such a great area, the city has it's work cut out for it. However, the prospect of being able to create a new and vital area in Highland Park is a just reward. If the plan is carried out, there should be some amazing homes and community services that will drastically improve the state of affairs in Highland Park. Look forward to seeing great things from the former Ford Assembly Plant.