Paine-Phalen Neighborhood Guide

Everything you need to know about living, working, and building in Paine-Phalen

📍 Quick Overview

Paine-Phalen is one of those neighborhoods where you can see the changes happening block by block. When we’re doing foundation work here, you get the full spectrum – older houses that have been family homes for generations mixed with newer residents who are fixing up properties and making real investments in the area. It’s close enough to downtown that the commute is easy, but far enough out that you get more house for your money and actual neighborhood feel.

What Makes Paine-Phalen Special

The whole east side sits on rolling terrain with good tree cover throughout most of the neighborhood.

This is a neighborhood in transition – longtime residents who’ve been here for years, plus families and young professionals who are moving in and fixing up properties.

You’re maybe 10-15 minutes from downtown St. Paul, with good bus connections and easy highway access.

Natural Beauty

Community Feel

Convenience

You’re close to Phalen Park and Lake Phalen, which gives you real outdoor space for recreation and just getting away from city noise. The area has several smaller parks scattered around, and the tree-lined streets give it that established neighborhood feel. Views of downtown from some of the higher spots in the area.

There’s a strong community spirit, with people who care about keeping the area safe and improving things for everyone. You’ll see neighbors helping with yard work, kids playing in the streets, and folks who actually know each other’s names.

Close to shopping on White Bear Avenue and Arcade Street, but also convenient to bigger retail areas when you need them. The location works because you get neighborhood feel without being too far from jobs and amenities.

🏠 Living & Building in Paine-Phalen

Neighborhood Amenities

Housing & Development

Parks & Recreation: Phalen Park and Lake Phalen are the big draws – swimming, fishing, walking trails, golf course. Several smaller neighborhood parks for kids and families. Good access to the citywide trail system.

Shopping & Dining: White Bear Avenue and Arcade Street have local businesses, restaurants, and shops that serve the neighborhood. You’re also close to larger shopping areas like Maplewood Mall and other retail strips.

Schools & Services: St. Paul public schools serve the area, with several elementary schools in the neighborhood. Community centers, libraries, and medical services are accessible by bus or short car ride.

Transportation: Metro Transit bus lines connect you to downtown and other parts of the metro. Most residents need a car for convenience, but transit works for commuting. The area is becoming more bike-friendly with trail connections.

Mix of housing from different time periods – 1920s-1940s single-family homes, some post-war construction, newer infill development
Lot sizes are generally good for city lots, often with detached garages and decent yard space
Foundation work varies depending on the age and original construction quality of the house
Many properties are being renovated and updated by new owners who see the potential

“Foundation work in Paine-Phalen covers the whole range – from solid 1930s houses that just need minor settling repairs to properties that need more comprehensive foundation work after years of deferred maintenance. The soil here is typical east side clay, which means watching drainage during heavy rains. We work with a lot of homeowners who are making real investments in their properties and want to do things right. Access is usually straightforward with the decent lot sizes and alley access for most homes.”

🗺️ Area Map

❓ Quick Facts About Paine-Phalen

Neighborhood Stats

Distance to downtown: 10-15 minutes by car, 20-30 minutes by bus

Average lot sizes: Standard city lots, typically 50×120 to 60×140

Zoning: Primarily single-family residential with some small multi-family buildings

Utilities: Full city services available, though some older homes benefit from electrical and plumbing updates

Planning a Project Here?

Foundation work here depends a lot on the specific house – some of the older homes have solid foundations that just need minor repairs, while others may need more comprehensive work. The soil is clay-based with some sand mixed in, generally stable but prone to movement during wet periods. Most utilities run in back alleys, making access easier. Permits go through St. Paul’s standard process. Good time to do foundation work is spring through fall, though basement work can continue through winter.

🚜 Local Foundation Repair Services

We provide foundation repair and basement waterproofing throughout Paine-Phalen and the east side of St. Paul. This neighborhood has a lot of folks who are making real investments in their homes and want contractors who understand that every dollar matters. Whether you’re dealing with basement water issues, foundation settling in an older house, or planning updates as part of a larger renovation, we know how to prioritize the work that matters most and do it right the first time. Paine-Phalen homeowners deserve contractors who respect both their investment and their neighborhood.

Foundation issues in Paine-Phalen? Let’s take a look and give you honest advice about what needs attention and what can wait.