St. Cloud Downtown Alliance opens vote for new alley mural

The St. Cloud Downtown Alliance has moved into the next phase of its plan to install new alley art murals in downtown St. Cloud. After vetting seven locations, the alliance selected a high-visibility exterior wall at Stihl Wolf for the initial installation, with six other walls reserved for future projects.

Local artist Megan McDowell has been selected to create the mural and has developed two distinct design concepts rooted in Central Minnesota's heritage. One concept focuses on Minnesota 13, highlighting Stearns County's prohibition-era agricultural resilience and moonshine history. The second concept celebrates St. Cloud's early 20th-century automotive legacy through Pantown Motor Cars, honoring Sam Pandolfo's Pan Motor Company.

Residents are currently invited to vote on their preferred design concept and provide feedback to help prioritize themes and artistic styles for the remaining locations in the Alley of Art.