Project Overview

The Falcon Heights City Council has authorized the purchase of the property at 1407 Larpenteur Avenue, also known as “Get Pressed”. The acquisition will allow the City to address environmental contamination on the site and explore future redevelopment opportunities. Funding for the purchase will come from the City’s fund balance reserves.

The site has been vacant since the late 2010s, and the existing building has been condemned. In recent years, the property has become a source of blight in the surrounding neighborhood.

Site History

The property has a long history of commercial use. Most recently it operated as a dry cleaner, with cleaning activities conducted off-site. Earlier operations included on-site dry cleaning under a different operator and, prior to that, a fuel station. Sealed underground storage tanks remain on the property.

Environmental Assessment

In 2023, the City received a Brownfield Assessment Grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The grant funded Phase I and Phase II environmental assessments, which included extensive soil sampling and testing both on the site and nearby properties. These assessments confirmed contamination and produced a Response Action Plan (RAP) outlining the steps needed to remediate the property.

Why the City Is Acquiring the Property

City ownership of the property will strengthen the City’s ability to secure grant funding for environmental cleanup and coordinate remediation efforts. By acquiring the site, the City can work directly with partner agencies to access funding and technical assistance for the cleanup process, including:

• Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)
• Ramsey County Environmental Health Services
• Metropolitan Council

Looking Ahead

The final use of the property has not yet been determined. After environmental remediation is complete, the City will evaluate redevelopment opportunities based on community needs and regional priorities. Potential future uses may include housing or other development that supports the City’s goals for the Larpenteur Avenue corridor.

Project Status

• City Council has authorized the purchase of the property.
• Environmental assessments and a cleanup plan have been completed.
• The City will pursue additional grant funding to support site remediation and future redevelopment planning.

Contact

Hannah Myhren – Community Development Coordinator

hannah.myhren@falconheights.org