'Channel Cat' is New Face for St. Croix River Crossing Project

A smiling catfish named 'Channel Cat' is the new face of the St. Croix River Crossing project.

The Stillwater Chamber of Commerce unveiled drawings of 'Channel Cat' at this week's bridge construction open house for area businesses.

The chamber created 'Channel Cat' while working with MnDOT and WisDOT on communication strategies for local businesses affected by construction.

While MnDOT will use its own project logo, the Chamber of Commerce thought it was important for the local community to have its own identity for the project.

"The Chamber’s Channel Cat personality offers a positive image for the project while reflecting care and concern for the St. Croix River Valley’s ecological resources,” said Vanessa Levingston, MnDOT Business Liaison. 

'Channel Cat' will appear in different clothing and accessories to represent a variety of local businesses.

The Chamber hopes to develop a 'Channel Cat' mascot that could visit schools, hospitals and attend events.

Construction on the project is scheduled begin next spring.