Originally published in the Park Bugle, June 2025.
Smurfit WestRock has announced the closure of its paper recycling plant at 2250 Wabash Avenue in St. Paul, resulting in the loss of 189 jobs. The facility, a fixture in the community for decades, is scheduled to cease operations by the end of June. The company attributes the closure to a reevaluation of current and future capacity needs and operating costs.
This development opens up significant possibilities for the future of South St. Anthony Park. The 40-acre site, located near I-94 and the Green Line light rail, is being considered for redevelopment. Local officials and community members are beginning to explore how the area can be transformed to better serve the neighborhood.
“While this loss is significant, it also presents an opportunity to reimagine the space and its role in our community,” said Kenny Niemeyer, Co-Chair of SAPCC’s Land Use Committee. “We encourage neighbors to add their voices to the conversation.”
The Land Use Committee will discuss this issue at its next meetings – held on the 2nd Thursday of event month at 7:00 p.m. at 2375 University Ave W, Suite 110. For more information, visit sapcc.org/events.
[Editor's note: SAPCC's office has since moved to 2171 University Ave W, Suite 400. Check sapcc.org/events for current committee meeting dates and locations.]