01/06/2026
✨Project Spotlight: Wakan Tipi Center✨
Did you know that in May 2025, the City of Saint Paul adopted the recommendations of state Tribal Historic Preservation Officers to rename two culturally significant and sacred Dakota sites? The cultural landscape encompassing Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary and Indian Mounds Regional Park is now designated as Imniżaska (white cliffs, pronounced e-me-NE-zha-ska). Within this landscape is the new Waḳan Ṭípi Center, a 7,300 SF ground-up building located in Saint Paul. Named in honor of the sacred Waḳan Ṭípi Cave, this space serves as an intergenerational gathering place that connects people to the surrounding landscape through immersive experiences in the Daḳota history, language, and values. The building features an exhibit hall, classrooms, ceremonial space, community gathering areas, and a teaching kitchen and garden. Together, these elements support cultural healing, lifelong learning, and inspiration for generations to come. This project reflects the city’s commitment to preserving Indigenous heritage and strengthening its long-standing partnership with Dakota leaders and communities.
Big shoutout to our Project Team, Kurt Gillund & Brad Brey, for taking this project from start to finish! None of this would have been possible without the help of our amazing subs- Dimke Excavating, RTL Construction, Atlas Foundation Company, High Five Erectors, Legacy Companies, Davis Mechanical Systems Inc., and more. Thank you to everyone involved!