Landmark Plaza Redevelopment in Saint Paul, MN

Located in the heart of downtown Saint Paul, Landmark Plaza is a key open space that connects the city’s business core to the Mississippi Riverfront. Initiated by the Saint Paul Riverfront Corporation in partnership with the City of Saint Paul, the redevelopment project transformed a central, underutilized site into a lively, flexible, and environmentally responsible urban park.

SRF supported the redevelopment through full design and construction-phase services for the plaza and adjacent streets, leading concept development, preparing construction documents, managing bidding, and supporting implementation. 

Urban Character and Environmental Function

The design process emphasized interactive community involvement, resulting in a park that respects the site’s historic character while serving a wide range of public uses. SRF selected forms and materials that reflect the surrounding mix of historic and modern architecture, giving the space a timeless but distinctly urban feel.

Notable features include:

• Public art that explores the site’s historical context and interprets the park’s stormwater systems
• A donor recognition program celebrating community contributions
• Flexible park spaces that support both daily use and large public events
• SRF-led design of adjacent 5th and Market Streets, fully integrating the park with the surrounding streetscape

Sustainable Urban Infrastructure

A standout feature of Landmark Plaza is its environmentally responsible stormwater system. Innovative on-site treatment and detention strategies were implemented and artistically expressed as a streambed, a nod to the area’s natural and urban histories. The streambed weaves through the park, visually tying together sustainability, functionality, and storytelling.

Long-Term Community Impact

Since opening, Landmark Plaza has become a vibrant public gathering space, supporting both quiet enjoyment and high-capacity events. Its success lies in the balance of civic identity, ecological design, and public engagement, all central themes in SRF’s approach to urban placemaking.

Resource Links:
Saint Paul Riverfront Corporation
City of Saint Paul Parks & Recreation
Landmark Plaza – Saint Paul, MN

Internal Category:
Parks, Trails & Recreation
Community & Transportation Planning
Water & Environment

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Saint Paul, MN