East St. Cloud Embraces Grassroots Movement for Thriving Community Growth

(KNSI) – A grassroots movement to grow a rebranded east end of St. Cloud appears to be taking hold.

More than two dozen business owners, local leaders, and elected officials attended a meeting on Tuesday about redeveloping East St. Cloud.

Moxie Ladies owner Marla Waseka is one of the organizers and believes the area can become a gem for the city. “We are looking to have a future where that area is filled with rejuvenated buildings and thriving businesses. And we’re bringing people in from out of the area. We’re looking at its potential to be a destination.”

Her company renovates vintage properties, and she owns a building along East St. Germain. Waseka feels they can make the area like another famous Minnesota neighborhood. “If you think about the North loop in Minneapolis, that’s kind of the feel that we’re going for. It is full of eclectic shops, a lot of restaurants, a lot of variety. We have been known for being gritty on the east side. Also, we want to go for a new vibe that’s gritty and eclectic.”

The effort is in its first phase and will soon launch a Facebook page and a website.

The area hopes to add more festivals and community gatherings. They will join next year’s Festi-Fall by bringing a classic car show and live music to the neighborhood. They also want to figure out how to better utilize the Mississippi River.

The group will hold its next meeting on April 3rd, and all are welcome to bring their ideas forward.

In the meantime, if you want more information, email the group at stceastside@gmail.com.

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