Demolishing Midway CVS is a step forward, St. Paul business owner says

March 18, 2026 - 18:42

The demolition of a long-vacant CVS Pharmacy building in St. Paul's Midway neighborhood is underway, a move being celebrated by local entrepreneurs as a critical step toward revitalization. The building, located at the prominent intersection of University and Hamline Avenues, has been empty since the pharmacy closed its doors in 2022.

For nearby business owners, the sight of the structure coming down is a welcome sign of forward momentum. The vacant property had become a symbol of stagnation and a deterrent for potential customers in the bustling commercial corridor. Its removal clears a significant physical and psychological hurdle for the area.

The cleared lot is slated for redevelopment, with plans calling for a new mixed-use building featuring retail space and over 150 units of housing. This project aligns with broader community goals to increase density, add vitality, and create a more walkable, integrated streetscape. The infusion of new residents and commercial activity is anticipated to provide a substantial boost to existing businesses that have persevered through the site's vacancy.

The demolition marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for this key corner. It represents a tangible shift from a vacant eyesore to a future of potential, offering hope for a stronger, more connected neighborhood economy. The redevelopment is seen not just as a new construction project, but as a foundational investment in the community's long-term health and prosperity.