Building 'the Most Livable City in America' is a goal the city of Saint Paul, Minnesota has set out to achieve. As the quieter, yet more historically charming twin of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Saint Paul has kept under the radar in terms of new development and urban planning in past years. However, with the near completion of the Green Line LRT (i.e.: Central Corridor Light Rail Transit) and the most recent rehabilitation and grand re-opening of Union Depot, Saint Paul is starting to emerge as the regional multi-modal transportation hub.

Already home to the State's Capitol and various corporate headquarters, Saint Paul is emerging as an important central business district (CBD). Saint Paul's CBD seeks to create a unique mix of retail, arts and entertainment, quality of life, prosperous businesses, and open green space via the 'Rebuild Saint Paul' initiative, launched in 2010. Through a combination of public and private funding, the initiative consists of a series of projects set out to create jobs and vitality for businesses, workers, and residents. The various projects stem from infrastructure, transportation, and healthcare facilities to new lofts, ballparks, notable restaurants, performing art centres, and even the Church of Scientology.

The new and more sustainable Saint Paul will undoubtedly place this historically significant city on the map as an innovative leader in economic and community development and regional transportation. Through the initiative of creating unique projects aimed at creating connections to local and regional centres, the city will once again appeal to the young professionals who want to reside there.

What initiatives or factors can historically significant cities undertake in order to retain the working and professional population who will want to reside and remain in the city after working hours?

Credits: Images by Jasna Hadzic. Data linked to sources.