3 Minnesota cities are in the running for $25K to revitalize their downtowns

Three Minnesota cities are in the running for $25,000 to spruce up their downtowns.

Northfield, Shakopee and Red Wing were all named semifinalists in the the America's Main Streets contest, and between now and May 28 people can vote once a day for the city they think deserves the money to revitalize its main street.

Twenty-five cities are in the running, with the winner slated to be announced on June 5, according to the contest.

Here's what America's Main Streets said about each Minnesota city.

– Red Wing, which recently lost a contest for $500,000 to revitalize its downtown, is described as a "beautiful river city" that's "tough, strong, built by hand, and full of entrepreneurial spirit" just like the boots manufactured the Red Wing Shoe Company.

– Northfield, which is also described as a river town, is touted for its downtown distract that includes 65 historic buildings, the scenic Cannon River, and various shops, businesses and public amenities, which gives visitors "a taste of quintessential small town life."

– Shakopee, which is located on the Minnesota River, is described as having a rich history in the Twin Cities, once being called "Little Chicago" during the Prohibition era. The downtown area is looking to "gain continued momentum" in the coming years, noting the city invested $1.5 million towards revitalization efforts this year.

For more information on the contest – and to vote – click here.