SAINT PAUL, Minn — St. Paul City council approved an amendment Wednesday evening that could change Grand Avenue forever. The plan loosens up building restrictions allowing the construction of buildings over three stories.
Some worry buildings that large would take away the charm of the iconic stretch. Others say it's needed to get more people into the area.
KARE 11 reported a number of stories on Grand Avenue businesses shutting down since the pandemic.
Bryce Quinn's family started up Café Latte 40 years ago.
"We've definitely seen ups and downs on Grand," he said.
He says Grand's historic feel has been good for business. But he's supporting a change.
The proposal would remove height restrictions for this special zoning district, with some stipulations.
"The more the merrier," said Quinn. "Businesses and residents are always a positive addition to any just sort of nice blend of shopping, eating and living."
But some of his customers are a bit more cautious, like Frank Umeojiego. He worries big developers will be capitalizing on that Grand-Avenue feeling without providing affordable options to residents.
"They tend to destroy the beauty and ambience," said Umeojiego. "Ambience is what makes the place what it is. Grand has a character. I cannot say you cannot build but we need to be careful about it."
Abigail Adelsheim-Marshall, co-owner of Mischief Toys, says larger buildings will only help people access the beauty of the street.
"I think one of the number one ways we can help Grand as a shopping and living and dining destination is to encourage investment," she said.