District 12

Lucid Thomas leaves District 12

Lucid Thomas, District 12’s renter outreach coordinator for the past two years, has left his position to join the East Side Freedom Library (eastsidefreedomlibrary.org).

While at District 12, Lucid helped renters find their voice and place in the community, said Zev Radziwill, executive director of St. Anthony Park District 12 Community Council. “He led outreach across District 12—hosting renter forums, guiding activities at the Westgate Commons Park Summer Activation program, and playing an integral role in community meals and the Hampden Park ice cream social.”

Upcoming Highway 280 closure

As the Minnesota Department of Transportation prepares for a full closure and reconstruction of Highway 280 in 2026, District 12’s Transportation Committee Co-Chairs Pat Thompson and Scott Jensen recently led a small group of neighbors and officials on a guided look at the Raymond Avenue and Energy Park Drive intersection, an area expected to experience heavier traffic during the detour period.

The discussion focused on pedestrian and bicycle safety, potential increases in semi-truck use and the importance of keeping the corridor safe and connected.

MnDOT’s Highway 280 project will include major bridge work, resurfacing, drainage improvements and stormwater upgrades between I-94 and I-35W. Local traffic reroutes are expected along Raymond Avenue, Territorial Road, Hampden Avenue, and Energy Park Drive.

“This isn’t just a transportation project—it’s a community project,” Thompson said. “We want to make sure that when 280 closes, our neighborhood remains safe and connected for everyone.”

District 12 officials will continue coordinating with MnDOT and Ramsey County to keep residents informed and address safety concerns as construction begins next April. A phone number will be provided to report any trouble spots.

Connecting at renters forum

District 12 officials on Oct. 29 hosted a renters forum at The Legends at Berry, an affordable senior apartment community in south St. Anthony Park, home to longtime neighbors, new immigrants and elderly residents.

Residents from across Westgate Park learned about District 12’s work, met council members and explored ways to get involved. Attendees shared feedback on programs like this past summer’s Westgate Commons Park Summer Activation, a series of pop-up play days and community events.

Upcoming District 12 meetings

District 12 encourages neighbors to attend monthly committee meetings, available in-person and online. Find meeting dates at sapcc.org.

Submitted by District 12 executive director Zev Radziwill.