Rice Creek Commons
Rice Creek Commons will be a cohesive mix of residential and commercial neighborhoods surrounding a town center, a unique community where young and old can live, work and play. Photo credit: John Autey, Pioneer Press.
In 2013, Ramsey County purchased a 427-acre parcel of the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant from the U.S. Government with the intent to clean up, redevelop, and return the property to the economic engine it once was – this time with homes, businesses and retail. The site was renamed to Rice Creek Commons in 2014.
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Vision
The Rice Creek Commons plan lays out a vision for the site to create economic prosperity, build an inclusive economy, have a long-term sustainable development and develop an energy-forward community by providing much-needed housing at a variety of income limits – including affordable housing – and creating well-paying jobs.
Current status
Rice Creek Commons awarded LEED for Communities Platinum level precertification
In March 2026, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awarded Rice Creek Commons a LEED for Communities Platinum level precertification, the highest level possible under the framework. LEED for Communities was developed by experts in the built environment industry and provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable urban planning, design and development. This recognition places Rice Creek Commons on course as the second project in the State of Minnesota and one of fewer than 60 communities globally to achieve this international distinction. The full certification application process is expected to begin later in 2026.
Site remediation
Work to clean and clear the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant – formerly the largest contaminated site in Minnesota – has been completed. The site was cleaned to residential standards, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency have removed the site’s soil and surface water from the state and federal Superfund lists. The U.S. Army will continue to be responsible for groundwater treatment until cleanup goals are achieved and groundwater is delisted from the National Priorities List.
With 427 acres cleaned, revitalized and brought back to the tax rolls, Rice Creek Commons will create significant economic and social opportunity for Ramsey County, the City of Arden Hills and the entire Twin Cities.
Construction almost complete at first phase of Outlot A development
On April 30, 2025, officials from Ramsey County, the City of Arden Hills and Ryan Companies celebrated the groundbreaking for Micro Control Company’s new headquarters, signaling a major milestone in the development of Rice Creek Commons. The 157,000-square-foot advanced technology project is the first phase of developing Outlot A, a 40-acre parcel on the north end of Rice Creek Commons that is zoned for commercial use. Micro Control Company is on schedule to move into their new headquarters in early summer 2026.
2025 annual report
The JDA reviewed the 2025 Rice Creek Commons annual report at its March meeting. The annual report features updates on meetings and work sessions, communications, land use, development progress, and clean energy and sustainability.