A new look for the St. Cloud downtown area has been unveiled and while nothing is set in stone, the plans may have an impact on a popular spot for veterans.

  • VFW may be forced to move due to new vision for Centennial Park
  • City calling new look St. Cloud’s Front Porch
  • Project meant to promote economic growth

The train station that once stood on New York Avenue welcomed many soldiers to town in the late 1800’s. Now the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3227, stands in its place.

But city officials want to transform what’s next door-- Centennial Park by using the whole block, which may cause the VFW to move. The post has been up for nearly 80 years. And for those part of the VFW it’s more than just a building.

“Build around the VFW. Leave it where it is because we still want to be part of the downtown area,” said John Lasky the commander of the post.

The proposed vision for Centennial Park or St. Cloud’s Front Porch as the city is calling it includes adding a water feature as a focal point. Closing off 9th street in front of City Hall and placing an amphitheatre there. Creating green space, seating areas and a walk through time historical memorial.

Others involved with the VFW say this possible relocation can give them something to look forward to. Jean Ann Fritz is the president of the VFW Auxiliary 3227.

“I personally think it might be a good thing if they can do their park and you know… It might be a good change,” Fritz said.

City manager, Joe Helfenberger says the project is meant to promote economic growth.

Helfenberger says the efforts are voluntary and that they want to work with the nearby property owners. He also says the city will present a proposal to the VFW.

“Paper is cheap compared to tearing things out. We want to get it right the first time. That’s why we want to do the master planning, we want to do it with plenty of public input so that we make sure we are going in the direction our community wants,” Helfenberger explained.

If this plan goes through, the VFW could be replaced with a welcome center or a veterans’ museum. But for this commander-- All he really wants is for this piece of history to be untouched. “They presented their long range plan 5, 10, 20 years down the road, well hopefully the VFW is still going to be here,” Lasky added.

The next public workshop regarding this St. Cloud project is tentatively scheduled for September.