Stillwater Welcomes New Community Development Director to Continue Meaningful Growth
February 19, 2026
The City of Stillwater, Minnesota, recently added Jason Zimmerman as its new Community Development Director. Zimmerman grew up on the west side of the Twin Cities and is excited to embrace life in Stillwater while shaping its future.
“I work with a very enthusiastic and team-oriented group of people in City Hall,” he says. “It’s been easy to step in and build on their positive thinking for the future of Stillwater.”
Zimmerman is already working on the Comprehensive Plan that will shape Stillwater’s community and development efforts for the next 20 years. He is continuing to move projects forward that his predecessors started. See what’s coming up in this part of East Metro MSP and why Stillwater is one of the most popular places to live in Washington County.
Housing, Healthcare, and Groceries Coming to Manning Ave
Stillwater was originally founded along the St. Croix River and expanded westward as it grew. Manning Avenue is the westernmost boundary of the community, but there’s still room for development. The City is currently working on three projects to increase amenities for Stillwater residents.
- The Brixton Townhomes are currently undergoing City approval, with the goal of bringing 108 owner-occupied housing units to the community. This would diversify the housing options in Stillwater and Greater Washington County.
- The new Lakeview Hospital is now under construction. This $400 million facility is expected to open in early 2028 and will offer both specialty and emergency services. Quality healthcare will be just down the street.
- Central Commons is a 35.3-acre property at the intersection of Manning Avenue and State Highway 36. This multi-use center will be anchored by a grocery store and provide multifamily housing and additional commercial amenities to Stillwater residents.
By supporting new development along Manning Avenue, the City hopes to enhance local options for goods and services outside the downtown. “Stillwater has a number of great facilities and opportunities,” says Zimmerman. “And we want to ensure those on the west side of the city have convenient access.”
Riverfront Improvements Add Education and Entertainment
The St. Croix Riverfront is one of Stillwater's biggest assets, and the City continues to improve and add amenities for residents. A few upcoming projects include:
- Lumberjack Landing will be a 15-acre park with pedestrian access points along the Riverwalk. This is done in partnership with the National Park Service to turn the park into both a recreation and educational space.
- Stillwater is home to more than 30 parks and open spaces. It recently received a $6 million grant from the Minnesota Legislature for park improvements, and residents voted on a sales tax increase to improve the riverfront as a whole. This sales tax will fund projects over the next 10 years.
“We want to make sure we’re serving the whole range of our population,” says Zimmerman. “From playgrounds for kids to community gardens and sports facilities.”
Zimmerman also highlights the importance of attracting tourists while still taking a resident-first approach. Investing in different parts of town creates opportunities for residents to enjoy nature, walk, bike, and play without relying on the riverfront.
Stillwater Shines as a Year-Round Tourism Destination
Balancing resident support with the tourism economy is becoming increasingly important as Stillwater attracts visitors year-round. The World Snow Celebration in January brings more than 50,000 people downtown as teams from 16 countries compete to create snow sculptures. Zimmerman gives kudos to Robin Anthony, Executive Director of the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, for her great work in growing that event.
In the warmer months, there’s always something happening downtown. From art fairs and classic car shows to the Harvest Festival in the fall.
“Discover Stillwater and the Chamber of Commerce are very active,” says Zimmerman. “With the lift bridge closing, downtown is more walkable, and there is less car traffic. This has caused the area to really thrive through community events and gatherings.”
Downtown Stillwater businesses can build relationships with their customers year-round while welcoming visitors for the various events and activities put on by the City, private groups, and local non-profits.
“Stillwater showcases how economic development is a team effort,” says Chris Eng, Economic Development Director for East Metro MSP. “All of these improvements, amenities, and opportunities come from countless departments and passionate individuals who want to see their community thrive.”
Explore Stillwater and Other Communities in East Metro MSP
Stillwater is an exciting place to live in Washington County, but it is flanked by other growing communities. Discover the City of Newport, which has strong plans for its own riverfront, or the community of Forest Lake, which continues to be a popular choice for families. The hardest part of moving to East Metro MSP is choosing where to live. Each township boasts welcoming residents, strong amenities, and plenty of things to do. We can’t wait to see you here.
