River Balcony | PROMENADE
The River Balcony is a proposed 1.5-mile promenade along downtown Saint Paul’s river bluff, connecting public spaces, civic landmarks, and development sites, providing new connections to the river and sparking economic development along the riverfront.
Project Design
The City of Saint Paul and Great River Passage Conservancy worked with James Corner Field Operations and consultants to complete schematic design for the River Balcony. Schematic design includes site analysis, exploring design concepts, providing a general overview of the River Balcony’s basic features and programming, and getting a general idea of the look and feel of the project. Following months of community engagement, we are excited to present the final schematic design:
The next step will consist of a six-month transition period to create a governance structure, define partner roles and responsibilities, develop a finance strategy and evaluate potential project phases. Stay connected with us to receive updates as the project continues to move forward.

Project Timeline
January – November 2022
Community Engagement
- January 2022 Initial Focus Groups
- February 2022 Presentation and Recording
- June 2022 Presentation
- November 2022 Presentation
November 2022 – May 2023
Transition Period:
- Create governance structure
- Define partner roles and responsibilities
- Develop finance strategy
- Evaluate potential project phases
May 2023 – Beyond
- Fundraising
- Advanced design
- Construction
- Operations
Funders
City of Saint Paul
Ramsey County
Metropolitan Council
Ecolab
Xcel Energy
District Energy Saint Paul
RiverCentre
Visit Saint Paul
Knight Foundation
Securian Financial
Ruth and John Huss
Capital Region Watershed District