DMC / The District
Destination Medical Center Shapes Rochester for the Future
Destination Medical Center (DMC), the largest public-private economic initiative in Minnesota history, is positioning Rochester as a global center for the future of medical treatment and care.
In just its first five years, the ambitious $5.6 billion, 20-year initiative brought thousands of additional hotel rooms at a variety of price points, new housing – including affordable housing and downtown residences – and an increase of new businesses locating in Rochester to be near like-minded businesses focused on the future of healthcare, including Mayo Clinic and others.
More Progress Ahead
Destination Medical Center is only beginning to come to fruition. With years of planning for the initial phases of the 20-year plan completed, the vision for Destination Medical Center is starting to be seen on the streets of downtown Rochester. Future development plans include more pedestrian-friendly features, greenery, and residential and hotel units. Near-term projects include:
- Full occupancy of Two Discovery Square. Its first tenants are bringing greater energy and creativity to the entrepreneurial spirit already alive in Rochester.
- Construction of Discovery Walk, the pedestrian-friendly passage from downtown to Soldiers’ Field Park that will connect to miles of trails.
- Enhancements to the public realm on the downtown waterfront, Peace Plaza and primary pedestrian corridors in downtown.
Discovery Square District – A Place to Work, Live, Play
Destination Medical Center is comprised of 6 sub-districts within downtown Rochester, each with a unique focus and personality. The Discovery Square District, adjacent to Mayo Clinic, is home to One and Two Discovery Square and is the hub for innovation and development of emerging and yet-undiscovered life science applications.
You’ll also find a burgeoning city life within the district. Newly constructed residential apartments and condos are drawing millennials, executives and empty nesters into downtown and invigorating the food, dining and entertainment scene.
