Prime Rochester Site Left in Limbo After Proposals Rejected

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The future of the former Seneca Foods site in southeast Rochester remains in limbo.

Olmsted County acquired the 10 acre property in 2019 after Seneca Foods announced it was closing its canning facility. The site, which included the historic Ear of Corn a water tower, was purchased for $5.6 million and Olmsted County also spent approximately $1.1 million on demolishing the former canning plant and restoring the landmark water tower.

Rochester's Ear of Corn Water Tower (TSM)

It was announced in February that Olmsted County had received an offer to purchase at least a portion of the site, which is adjacent to Graham Park, formally known as the County Fairgrounds. The receipt of the offer prompted the County Board to solicit offers from other interested parties.

photo courtesy Olmsted County

In seeking potential buyers, a County indicated it was interested in hearing from parties with the ability, credentials, financial means, and experience to purchase and develop the property.

“This is prime real estate, and we are excited to see the ideas developers have for this site,” said Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Thein. “This property is in a dynamic and evolving area in the heart of Rochester. The location is unmatched – it’s a future growth hub with endless opportunities.”

The Olmsted County Board met in a closed session yesterday evening to discuss proposals for the site. A news release says two proposals were reviewed and discussed by the commissioners before the elected officials decided not to pursue either development proposal. Details about the proposals have not been disclosed.

Mark Thein for County Commissioner

County Board Chair Mark Thein says the commissioners determined "that neither proposal was in the best interest of the community."

The news release states that Olmsted County does not have any further plans for the property at this time.