Jim Crocarel, a prominent real estate developer and key figure in downtown St. Paul, has died at the age of 79.
A native of Clarksville, Tenn., Mr. Kroccarel made St. Paul his home and left a lasting impact on the city's architectural landscape, often at odds with local officials, the Twin Cities Pioneer Press reported.
Crockcarel, who began his career at Ellerbe Beckett in the 1970s, entered the real estate business in the early 1980s with residential properties in St. Paul's Ramsey Hill neighborhood. Over the years, he expanded his portfolio through Madison Equity, eventually holding stakes in about 32 buildings, including iconic downtown office spaces and renovated residential developments.
Crockcarel's investments extend beyond real estate, establishing him as a landlord to the city's trendy restaurants and entertainment venues. Other notable restaurants under his ownership included Noyes & Cutler, The Handsome Hog, and Gray Duck Tavern.
Throughout his career, Crockcarel has had numerous disputes with various parties, including St. Paul City Hall, labor organizations, and business partners. He was known for being an outspoken critic of downtown policies, especially regarding issues such as crime prevention and urban development strategies.
Despite his struggles, Crockcarel remained committed to increasing the vitality of downtown St. Paul. He often advocated urban growth and actively pursued opportunities to revitalize the commercial landscape. His ability to acquire downtown real estate at favorable prices and his vision for urban development made him a notable figure in the local business community.
But Crocarel's accomplishments were not without controversy. His company, Madison Equities, had faced legal issues related to labor practices, including allegations of wage violations by security guards. Despite legal battles, Crockcarel continued to navigate St. Paul's complex urban development.
Concerns about the future of downtown St. Paul persisted as Mr. Kroccarel expressed uncertainty regarding the occupancy of major commercial spaces such as the U.S. Bank Center. He emphasized the importance of bringing employees back downtown following the shift to remote work due to the pandemic.
Upon his passing, Jim Crocarel left behind a legacy in downtown St. Paul. He will be remembered for his contribution to the city's architectural heritage and his sometimes controversial approach to urban development. His influence on the local real estate scene and his role as a champion of downtown will be remembered by many in the St. Paul community.
— Ted Glanser
