The Future of the Main Street Stairway

Sara Jesperson and Her Volunteers

With each step up the Main Street stairs, you experience a little piece of Stillwater history. You can't help but imagine how others before you climbed it over a hundred years ago. Then, the stairs were likely made of the wood right from our hometown, perhaps wood that even made a journey down the St. Croix River. Now, the concrete fixture, a gathering place for townies and visitors alike, needs a little TLC. A group of community members are working together to make these stairs beautiful. Sara Jespersen and her team of volunteers won the "Great Idea of 2017 Competition", sponsored by The Stillwater Area Foundation. Their efforts will be used to create more of a community feel to the stairs so it will stand like a treasured pillar in our community.

Many community members stepped up to volunteer their time, talent and funds. We are already removing the buckthorn and taking out old fallen trees and stumps. We will be planting over two hundred different plants, bushes and trees, generously donated by Bailey Nursery. Four brand new benches, all sponsored by community members, will be a welcome resting place for the weary climbers. A light fixture will be added midway to keep the stairs lit and improve safety and security. Finally, there will be a historic sign that will share the story of the stairs as well as note different climb equivalents like the Empire State Building. The work should be completed over the summer in hopes that the plants take root and everything is in beautiful bloom by next spring! We believe if our community cares a little more, the stairs will be much improved.