Arden Hills, Minnesota — Ramsey County officials broke ground for a massive development in Arden Hills on Wednesday. Rice Creek Commons is located on the site of the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant and will soon be home to much more.
“Today’s groundbreaking is the first of many to come,” Ramsey County Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh stated.
Micro Control Company, an electronics manufacturer, is the space’s first new resident.
“We are delighted to welcome our new neighbors,” said Arden Hills Mayor David Grant.
Grant claims that alone will bring nearly 200 jobs to the area.
This development is not just for one company; according to the county, the 427-acre site will include commercial, residential, and retail space.
“A billion dollars worth of development in a community the size of Arden Hill, approximately 10,000 [people],” Grant told reporters. “That’s a big deal.”
“Creating inclusive economic prosperity with well-paying jobs and much-needed housing at a variety of income levels,” she said.
The area has also been cleaned up. According to the county, the site was one of Minnesota’s most contaminated areas. It has since been cleaned up to residential standards and removed from the state and federal Superfund lists.
According to officials, the development will prioritize renewable energy and clean spaces.
Arden Hills Councilmember Tena Monson stated that planned investments include a hybrid ground source heat pump system that is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65%. “This is a great first step.”
Grant says it’s unclear what will fill the rest of their space, but one thing is certain: they’re ready for more.
“Lot of employees, a lot of excitement, the beginning of a lot of great things to come,” said the president.