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Setting the Stage for Development












A CHALLENGE...



I have a challenge for commercial property owners and real estate brokers along University Avenue: Let's set the stage for new development.

In residential real estate one trend is "Staging" a house to make it appeal to potential buyers. Along University, many buildings are available for sale or lease. But many properties desperately need "staging". I feel the whole Avenue could use a little staging. Here are some photos of available properties. Residential brokers tell you that to sell a house, it needs curb appeal. Building owners need to step up to the plate and remove old awnings and painted signs in the windows. The old car dealerships should get rid of the foil bunting hanging in the lots and the Chevy/Buick logos. The City of St. Paul should enforce sign ordinances to prevent the"over signing" of buildings. And of course, weeds and trash should be picked up.

All eyes will be on University as light rail construction starts. Let's make sure they like what they see.

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