Outdoor Spaces Workgroup

As The Heights continues to move from vision to reality, outdoor spaces will play a vital role in fostering community, wellness, and connection to nature. In Fall 2023, the Outdoor Spaces Workgroup came together to help shape this vision, ensuring these green areas reflect the priorities of the community.

This workgroup focused on areas managed by the Saint Paul Port Authority, including trails, wetlands, gathering spaces, and 15 acres of passive open space. While the 5-acre City park will be designed separately, this team concentrated on how the surrounding landscapes can support recreation, reflection, and resilience.

Participants brought deep insight and lived experience to the table, offering thoughtful feedback on accessibility, sustainability, cultural relevance, and the importance of peaceful, inclusive outdoor areas.

We are grateful for the contributions of the Outdoor Spaces Workgroup:
Christopher Baulke, Brenda Childs, Patty Gumbulsky, Joan Huneke, Dao Lor, Kaela Meyers, Melanie Richards, Ashley Torres Gurrola, Sharon Wynne, Mai Xiong, Maytinee Xiong, and Thia Xiong.

Thanks to their engagement, The Heights is taking shape as a place where green space is not an afterthought, but a defining feature.

Outdoor Spaces Workgroup Recommendations