The Minnesota State Capitol, located just north of downtown Saint Paul, is an iconic landmark on the city’s skyline. The Capitol, its grounds, and surrounding neighborhoods are more than a place for visitors, they are also a vibrant community where residents work and live. The Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board (CAAPB) is tasked with regulating the zoning, planning, development, and design of the 60-block, 330-acre area. While the neighborhood is part of the City of Saint Paul, CAAPB plays a unique role in regulating and protecting this cherished district. Cardo, in collaboration with Opticos, was hired to write the updated Zoning and Design Rules for the Minnesota Capitol Area.

The 2040 Comprehensive Plan for the Capitol Area encapsulated the community’s goals and was the guiding document for the process. The update provides an opportunity to create a more cohesive and vibrant Capitol area experience. The updated Rules help connect the Capitol to downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods, provide opportunities for a broader range of housing types, and create a more walkable environment for decades to come.