Advisory Committee Begins Work to Reimagine the Walnut Street Steps

Photo: Saint Paul Parks Conservancy

A new chapter in the revitalization of Saint Paul’s historic Walnut Street Stairway began this April, as a dedicated Advisory Committee gathered for its inaugural orientation meeting. This group of residents, historians, artists, and civic volunteers has been convened to guide the storytelling, interpretation, and community engagement that will accompany the resolution of the long-closed public stairs connecting Summit Avenue to Irvine Avenue below. 

Rethos, serving as the project’s fiscal sponsor and lead facilitator, launched the Advisory Committee in partnership with the City of Saint Paul, the Saint Paul Parks Conservancy, and the West 7th/Fort Road Federation. The committee will play an essential role in ensuring that the reopening of the Walnut Street Steps is not only a physical restoration, but also a restoration of memory, connectivity, and public voice. 

Community-Led from the Start 

At the April 17 orientation, committee members introduced themselves and began charting the work ahead. The meeting emphasized the importance of inclusive storytelling and public participation, inviting members to reflect on the many stories the steps might tell—from the workers and residents who once traversed them daily, to the stair climbers and neighborhood children who found joy in their ascent. 

“What emerged in our first meeting,” said Rethos executive director Heidi Swank, “was the clear idea that these steps are more than infrastructure—they’re a cultural and social thread connecting generations and neighborhoods.” 

The committee also discussed how the disrepair and closure of the steps form part of the story—one that reflects shifting priorities in public maintenance, urban development, and community equity. 

Advisory in Structure, Essential in Impact 

The committee, as defined in its charter, is not a decision-making body but a trusted source of community input and collaborative vision. It exists to elevate stories, guide interpretation, support public outreach, and build connections. 

Subcommittees are being formed to focus on areas such as: 

• Interpretation & Public Art – Shaping how the steps’ history is shared, including signage, tours, and multimedia. 

• Fundraising & Events – Developing grassroots and grant-based funding strategies through creative events. 

• Historical Research – Identifying gaps in the historical record and working with archives, historians, and residents to fill them. 

Future meetings will focus on oral history gathering, inclusive storytelling, and community events that both celebrate and crowdsource the shared history of the steps. 

Looking Ahead 

The committee is already brainstorming creative fundraising ideas that double as awareness campaigns—from stair-climbing events to public storytelling sessions and even a “buy-a-stair” campaign. Partnerships with health organizations, local schools, and cultural groups are also under discussion. 

As the year unfolds, this committee will help ensure that the steps’ history is told with depth, inclusivity, and pride. Through its work, Saint Paul’s Walnut Street Steps will once again become a meaningful path between neighborhoods—and a symbol of what can be achieved when communities lead the way. 

To follow the progress of the Advisory Committee or explore ways to get involved, visit www.rethos.org.