Youthset Teen Center Expansion Gets Final Approval From St. Cloud City Council

(KNSI) – The Youthset Teen Center is moving forward with a major expansion at its 1415 5th Street North location after the St. Cloud City Council gave its approval Monday night.

The approved Planned Unit Development amendment allows the nonprofit to expand community center operations into unoccupied portions of the existing building. Plans call for converting the high-bay warehouse area into an indoor gymnasium, replacing an overhead garage door on the northeast side with a new entryway, and adding two changing rooms along the western wall. Future phases include a reception area, classrooms, a dance studio, dining area, art and salon space, a gaming lab, and a possible coffee shop.

Executive Director Tyrone Reynolds told KNSI News the expansion will give teens more room to grow, work, and connect with the community. “We are excited to make magic happen in the community. We are looking to increase the space and expand the space for our teens to do more.”

Youthset currently serves about 300 teens annually within the 742 School District. Reynolds says the expansion will allow the organization to reach more youth and eventually grow into the Sauk Rapids School District as well.

The project is being tackled in phases. Reynolds says the front portion of the building, including the gymnasium, is targeted for completion this summer, with the remaining buildout aiming for September. “I can’t wait for you to be able to walk into these new glass doors, meeting our generous staff at the welcome desk, opening up to a nice, comfortable, relaxed seating area with a nice deli.”

Youthset is using $75,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds toward the project and will launch a fundraising campaign on June 11th to cover the remaining costs. A community showcase is planned for Friday, May 29th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the center.

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the PUD amendment 6-0 in April. Youthset has operated a community center function at the site since 2024, when the PUD was first amended to allow the use.