Excelsior and Grand, a $150 million development

Excelsior and Grand, a $150 million development in St. Louis Park, MN, is getting high marks from the local media. A recent article in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune begins thus: “Looking for a way to turn your aging suburban strip into a hip, people-friendly hangout? Check out Excelsior and Grand … . Since the first phase opened a year ago, the ambitious mix of brick apartment buildings, sidewalk cafes, and a leafy town green has brought street life to the inner suburbs.” The article offers glowing reviews from public officials and urban designers of the 15-acre project designed by Cooper Carry (part of a larger grayfield area that was subject to a vision plan by the now defunct new urbanist firm Town Planning Collaborative).