City Accepts Donation Check for Payne Maryland Project
The Minnesota Beverage Association, in partnership with the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America, has contributed $30,000 to support construction of an indoor walking track at the Payne Maryland facility in Saint Paul. This donation demonstrates our continued commitment to supporting health and wellness programs that strengthen Minnesota communities.
Supporting Community Health Infrastructure
Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, along with Councilmember Dan Bostrom and Parks and Recreation Department Director Mike Hahm, accepted the donation which will help fund the construction of a state-of-the-art indoor walking facility. The walking track represents a significant addition to the community's year-round fitness infrastructure.
"The Minnesota Beverage Association has a long history of supporting health and wellness programs across the state, especially programs which help combat childhood obesity," said Minnesota Beverage Association President Tim Wilkin. "When we heard about this donation opportunity our grant committee recognized it immediately as a natural fit and we are very proud to be able to donate towards this new permanent asset to the community."
Track Specifications and Features
The indoor walking track will be located on the main level of the Payne Maryland building, positioned above the lower-level gymnasium floor. The facility will feature a durable rubber flooring surface with windows providing both outside views and views of the adjacent fitness center. The track is designed as a two-lane facility measuring six feet wide, with a total length of 276 feet, requiring 19 laps to complete one mile.
Community Partnership in Action
The Payne Maryland Project brings together multiple public and private partners under one roof, consolidating the programming needs of the Arlington Recreation Center, Arlington Hills Library, Arlington Hills Lutheran Church, and Bradshaw Celebration of Life Centers into a comprehensive community center. Construction is scheduled for completion in early 2014.
This collaborative approach reflects the type of community investment that the Minnesota Beverage Association prioritizes—projects that create lasting benefits for residents while promoting health and wellness opportunities for people of all ages.
Commitment to Minnesota Communities
This donation aligns with our industry's broader commitment to supporting initiatives that promote active lifestyles and community health. The indoor walking track will provide year-round access to fitness opportunities, particularly valuable during Minnesota's winter months when outdoor exercise options may be limited.
The Minnesota Beverage Association remains dedicated to supporting projects that enhance quality of life and promote wellness throughout Minnesota communities, recognizing that healthy communities create stronger foundations for everyone.