A Holistic Vision

Seward Commons was born out of an extensive neighborhood planning process aimed at envisioning life alongside the then-new Light Rail line. What would a diverse, thriving, transit-oriented community look like? Following robust community engagement, Redesign spent over 15 years bringing this collaborative vision to life and reimagining this once-industrial area that was previously isolated from the rest of the city.

Key Features of Seward Commons:

• Multi-Phase: Over 15 years, from 2009 to 2025, Seward Commons was developed one property at a time, reflecting a phased approach that allowed for thoughtful growth and adaptation.
• Transit-Oriented: Strategically positioned along the Light Rail Blue Line and adjacent to the Hiawatha bike path, Seward Commons enhances connectivity through improved pedestrian access and cycling connections. As part of this project, 22nd Street was reconnected with Cedar Avenue, making it easier for residents to connect to the rest of the city.
• Mixed-Use, Mixed-Income: Seward Commons includes a range of housing options to accommodate various income levels, featuring:
  • 60 affordable units for seniors at 50% AMI
  • 40 deeply affordable units with onsite services for individuals with persistent mental illness
  • 128 units of market-rate housing
  • 39 affordable units for people and families at 30%, 50%, and 60% AMI

In addition to residential spaces, Seward Commons provides nearly 31,500 square feet of commercial space for 11 arts organizations, small businesses, and nonprofits to launch, incubate, and grow.

This project stands as a testament to community-led transformation, integrating intentional and sustained economic development, environmental cleanup and remediation, and innovative public art and placemaking strategies. Seward Commons is a prime example of the long-term work that only a community-led organization like Redesign can see through to fruition.