The humble sliver of land beneath the Wabasha Street Bridge in downtown St. Paul is becoming a real, upscale park.

After years of planning, the city of St. Paul recently began a $5 million reconstruction of its last true island. Three South Wabasha Street, St Paul, MN  55107 is home to Raspberry Island.  For map and directions > click here.

Raspberry Island is a "little gem in the middle of the river" that steals attention from onlookers at Kellogg Park and across the river on the West Side, said Gregory Page, special projects director for the St. Paul Riverfront Corp. The purpose is to help people find new ways to reconnect to the Mississippi.

The Great Mississippi River Wine & Dine Rendezvous is one of the first and finest events planned to help people reconnect with the Mississippi's past while embracing the elegance of the future.

Known as Navy Island when it was a naval training site after World War II, the island has played host to music concerts and served as a spillover area for Taste of Minnesota. Since 1870, the Minnesota Boat Club has based its rowing operations there.

In the 1970s and '80s, however, the entire island became known as an unofficial parking spot for downtown workers.

By July 2008, fishing enthusiasts will be able to cast their lines by strolling down to the water's edge on a new set of steps. Seating areas across the island will make it easier for downtown residents and workers to catch a concert under the band shell or watch the barges go by.

Public restrooms are available in the restored boat club building, which has become a site for riverfront weddings and other special events.

Raspberry Island is handicap accessible.