Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

Hennepin Ave. reconstruction project, led by City of Minneapolis Public Works, will be reconstructed between 12th Street and Washington Avenue beginning Spring 2019.  The project will reconstruct the pavement from building face to building face, including improvements to public and private utility infrastructure, and improved infrastructure for pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and vehicles.

.

Latest Project News

 

Both Public and Private Utility construction continues throughout the corridor.  This work is continuing to be more and more as we go through the season.  Traffic lane restrictions will continue on Hennepin Ave. as well as the cross-streets.

What's Coming Up 

Both 7th Street and 9th Street will be reduced significantly to cross street traffic starting Monday next week.  Expect delays.  9th St will then be closed to cross traffic starting Friday 8/23 through the end of the month.

Xcel and Centerpoint continue their work on the north end of the project between 5th and Washington.  The City Sewer contractor continues work at 9th and progressing south, while Xcel is starting their work at 7th St.  Xcel will continue to head south along the corridor to 12th.

Please see update attached for more details

Hennepin_Update_Vol10.pdf

For more information on this project contact: 

Construction Manager, hennepinCM@minneapolismn.gov or 612-225-4049

www.hennepindowntown.com 

Joint Statement from Five Minneapolis Organizations Regarding Mayor Frey's 2020 Budget Plan for Public Safety

Via a joint statement from mpls downtown council, MPLS Regional Chamber, BOMA Greater Minneapolis, Warehouse District Business Association and North Loop Neighborhood Association regarding Mayor Frey’s 2020 budget plan for public safety:

Our City and downtown continue to experience too much violence and other dangerous behavior. This is a time for clarity, both in understanding the situation we face and the need for action. Policing is not the only response needed, but it is an essential response which must be better supported.

None of us deny the importance of investing in the future of our community and its residents through affordable housing, workforce training and quality education. In fact the private sector is frequently a key partner in such endeavors.

None of us deny the importance of implementing a wide range of strategies to keep neighborhoods and commercial districts safe. In fact, businesses and several of our organizations fund outreach, prevention and activation programs as priority components of a comprehensive approach to public safety.

But when it comes to denial, we are concerned that too many City Council Members deny the obvious need for investments in the Minneapolis Police Department.  Today, all the core functions of the MPD are stressed by the lack of available personnel. We are too often seeing the results on our streets.

Mayor Frey’s 2020 budget plan addresses long-term solutions, embraces a range of public safety strategies, and importantly adds additional resources including 14 sworn officer positions to the Police Department consistent with Chief Arradondo’s vision. His plan has our support.

Community health and vitality starts with confidence in personal security. Effective law enforcement is a necessary part of making our City secure. It’s essential that the City Council face this reality and provide MPD the additional resources needed to do their job of protecting residents, workers and visitors.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

Editor's note - This is an ongoing series of updates as the North Loop Reconstruction and Pedestrian Improvements project.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

The North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements Project consists of two separate projects:

1. A full street reconstruction along 3rd St N between 10th Ave N and 5th Ave N
2. A pedestrian improvement project generally bounded by 10th Ave N on the north, 1st Ave on the south, West River Parkway on the east, and 4th St N on the west

North Loop Reconstruction Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

5th Ave N

• Placing the first lift of asphalt today between Washington to just past 4th St N

7th Ave N

• Completed curb placement
• Placed the second lift of asphalt pavement
• Completed most of the sidewalk placement
• Continuing with the driveway placement

8th Ave N

• Granite curb placed
• Sidewalk placed at Washington Ave
• Second lift of asphalt placed at Washington

9th Ave N

• Sidewalk placed at Washington Ave
• Second lift of asphalt placed at Washington

3rd St N

• Completed pavement removals, with the exception of the south sidewalk
• Finished water work
• Finishing up the storm and sanitary work
• Started removing poor soils at 5ht Ave N and working towards 10th Ave N

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

5th Ave N

• Curb and gutter installation will follow asphalt
• Driveway placement will start next week
• East side sidewalk placement will start next week

7th Ave N

• Complete driveway installation
• Complete sidewalk installation
• May place the 3rd lift of asphalt
• Access at Washington will open Monday 8-19
• Work will begin work on the north side of Washington Monday 9-19 – the lane closure that is currently on the south side of Washington will shift to the north side of Washington

8th Ave N

• Grading for walks and driveways
• Start placing sidewalks
• Start placing driveways
• Access at Washington will open Monday 8-19
• Work will begin work on the north side of Washington Monday 9-19 – the lane closure that is currently on the south side of Washington will shift to the north side of Washington

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

North Loop Pedestrian Improvements Updates

The concrete crews are off site until the end of the month, however the sewer and water crews will be doing intermittent work in the next few weeks.

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

• 1st St N & 4th Ave – Continuing water work
• 2nd St N and 3rd Ave N – Continuing sewer work

REMAINING WORK ON THIS PROJECT

1st St N

• 2nd Ave SE corner
• 4th Ave SE and NE corner

2nd St N

• 1st Ave N - All corners
• 2nd Ave N – NE, SE and SW
• 3rd Ave N – All, currently the City is working in this intersection, pedestrian ramps will be done after the sewer work is complete
• 5th Ave N – SE corner
• 8^th Ave N – South side and NE corner
• 10th Ave N – SE and SW corners

4th St N

• 10th Ave N – NE corner
• 7th Ave N – South side

 Other

• All signal installation will start late in September due to long lead times on materials
• Remaining concrete work will continue through September

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

Miscellanious

Stakeholder Meeting -These meetings are informal, held biweekly and intended to offer residents and businesses on the job an opportunity to get construction updates, ask construction and access related questions.

Sate/Time: August 21, 7:30 am to 8:30 am

Location:  Corner Coffee 514 N 3rd St #102

.

Contact Information

Project Manager:

Stephanie Malmberg, stephanie.malmberg@minneapolismn.gov, 612-673-3365

Chief Field Inspector:

John Benjamin, john.benjamin@minneapolismn.gov, 651-443-1096

NIEBNA Board of Directors Meeting Agenda for August 15

Thursday, August 15, 2019
6:30 - 8 pm
Our Lady of Lourdes Church (Hofstede Hall)
1 Lourdes Place

NIEBNA meetings are open to the public and handicap accessible. If you need any special accommodation, contact Chris Lautenschlager at chris@niebna.com five (5) business days in advance of the meeting.

6:30     
Welcome, Call to Order | Verification of Quorum | Approval of Agenda
Secretary’s Report (Kaufman)

• Action needed: Approval of the June 20, 2019 board minutes

Treasurer’s Report (Hondros)
 
6:35   
2nd Precinct Crime & Safety Report (Meehan)

6:40 
Update from Office of Council Member Steve Fletcher

6:50
Request to move additional NRP funds to existing NRP Phase II Strategy(Friends of the Mississippi River)

6:55
NCR Department’s Steve Gallagher on Neighborhoods 2020, and the recent AUP (Agreed Upon Practices) Audit of NIEBNA

7:30
Parks for All: A Vision for the next decade of the Minneapolis parks and recreation

7:50
ONYX Lounge introduction; a new business to be located at 24 University Avenue NE

7:55    
Announcements
 
8:00    
Adjourn

PowerPoint from August 7 Crime and Safety Public Forum

Photo credit: DMNA

For anyone who was unable to attend the August 7 Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association / North Loop Neighborhood Association Crime and Safety Public Forum at Open Book, they have provided a link to the PowerPoint presentation from that meeting:

DMNA - NLNA Crime and Safety Public Forum 8/7/2019 Presentation

The following people served as members of the panel and helped in gathering information for the presentation:

MPD Deputy Chief Kathy Waite
MPD First Precinct Inspector Billy Peterson
DID Director of Safety Initiatives Shane Zahn
MPD First Precinct Crime Prevention Specialist Renee Allen
MPRB Chief Jason Ohotto
MPRB Lieutenant Calvin Noble
Assistant City Attorney Matthew Wilcox

Hennepin County Sheriff's Office Warns Residents About Financial Telephone Scam

Via an August 13 News Release:

Hennepin County Sheriff's Office Warns Residents About Financial Telephone Scam

The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is warning residents about telephone scams in which individuals pose as representatives of local law enforcement agencies. These individuals are telling residents that there is a warrant out for their arrest because they missed a federal jury date. The phone scammers tell residents that they will be arrested unless they pay a fine, and often suggest purchasing gift cards, calling the scammer back, and reading them the numbers on the cards. The victim is then told to contact their local Sheriff’s Office to get a federal number for proof that the warrant has been cleared.

HCSO and other law enforcement agencies will never contact individuals via phone or email to ask for any kind of payment. If individuals receive such a call, they are advised to NOT provide any personal information to the caller. Rather, they should record the caller’s number, save any voicemails that may have been left by the caller, and contact their local law enforcement agency.

Individuals should not rely on caller ID or recorded messages to verify the origin of a phone call. In some cases, phone scammers are able to use technology to appear as if they are calling from a legitimate law enforcement or government agency number. Scammers have also been known to create fraudulent recorded messages that identify their number as originating from law enforcement.

If you are uncertain about the identity of a caller, hang up the phone, locate the official phone number of the agency, and call the number directly.

Thank You to MacPhail and Everyone Who Helped Make the 2019 National Night Out in the Mill District a Success

Article by Claudia Kittock, Photos by Dave Tinjum

Two months ago, Roque Diaz, the Director of School Partnerships at MacPhail Center for Music, contacted me about discussing National Night Out. Roque had an idea, and that idea was for MacPhail to take the lead in this year’s National Night Out. He wanted to know if Friends of the Mill District would be interested in partnering with MacPhail on this project.

I quickly suggested a meeting with David Tinjum of Mill City Times. We discussed holding the event in Gold Medal Park and soon had the cooperation of Emanuel Housing, Bihi Abdirizak, Open Eye Theater, the staff of The Legacy, Wildflyer Coffee, and scores of neighbors. Everyone and every group we asked said, “Yes! I’ll be there.” Our goal was to bring neighbors out to the park to get to know each other while enjoying music, food, a photo booth, a puppet show, coffee, and so much more.

Click on the picture below to view the entire photo set:

What happened on August 6 surpassed all our hopes. We had a wonderful crowd of hundreds of neighbors, fabulous music, a great puppet show, root beer floats, free coffee, games, picnic dinners, and conversation all around. August 6 was the epitome of what it means to be a community. We ARE stronger together, and that evening was a step in that process. Let’s keep the momentum going.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

About Claudia Kittock

Claudia is a resident of the Mill District. In addition to writing for Mill City Times, she is a founding Board Member of Friends of the Mill District. Claudia is the author of Health Through Chaos, mentors young adults at YouthLink, and has served on the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA).

.

Contact: claudia@millcitymedia.org 

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

Editor's note - This is an ongoing series of updates as the North Loop Reconstruction and Pedestrian Improvements project.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

The North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements Project consists of two separate projects:

1. A full street reconstruction along 3rd St N between 10th Ave N and 5th Ave N
2. A pedestrian improvement project generally bounded by 10th Ave N on the north, 1st Ave on the south, West River Parkway on the east, and 4th St N on the west

North Loop Reconstruction Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

5th Ave N

• All underground utility work completed
• All soil corrections completed
• Started placing gravel in preparation for paving

7th Ave N

• Began curb and gutter placement
• Began driveway placement
• Light foundations and conduit installed

8th Ave N

• Curb and Gutter placed at the Washington end
• Started preparations to reinstall salvaged granite curb

9th Ave N

• Curb and gutter placed at Washington and partially along the west side of 9^th Ave  N

3rd St N

• Finished salvaging brick pavers and granite curb
• Completed pavement removals, with the exception of the south sidewalk
• Finished water work
• Started sanitary and storm work

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

5th Ave N

• Placement of the first lift of asphalt tentatively scheduled for Wednesday August 14,local access to 5^th Ave N between Washington Ave and 5^th St N will be open; however, plan for delays entering and leaving the area
• Curb and gutter installation will follow asphalt placement
• Driveway installation is scheduled to begin the week of August 19

7th Ave N

• Finish placement of driveways, once the driveway has reached the required strength to carry traffic a gravel ramp will be placed at the roadway end of the driveway apron
• Start placement of sidewalks
• Placement of the second lift of asphalt tentatively scheduled for August 15^th – 16^th

8th Ave N

• Install granite curb
• Placement of the second lift of asphalt at Washington tentatively scheduled for August 14^th – 16^th

• Once the second lift of asphalt is placed local access from and to Washington Ave will be allowed
• Concrete crews may begin the installation of concrete parking bays

9th Ave N

• Placement of the second lift of asphalt at Washington tentatively scheduled for August 15^th – 16^th
• Once the second lift of asphalt is placed local access from and to Washington Ave will be allowed

3rd St N

• Complete underground utility work
• Begin amending poor soils
• Begin grading and bringing in aggregate in preparation for paving

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

North Loop Pedestrian Improvements Updates

The concrete crews are off site until the end of the month, however the sewer and water crews will be doing intermittent work in the next few weeks.

REMAINING WORK ON THIS PROJECT

 1st St N

• 2^nd Ave SE corner
• 4^th Ave SE and NE corner

 2nd St N

• 1^st Ave N - All corners
• 2^nd Ave N – NE, SE and SW
• 3^rd Ave N – All, currently the City is working in this intersection, pedestrian ramps will be done after the sewer work is complete
• 5^th Ave N – SE corner
• 8^th Ave N – South side and NE corner
• 10^th Ave N – SE and SW corners

4th St N

• 10^th Ave N – NE corner
• 7^th Ave N – South side

 Other

• All signal installation will start late in September due to long lead times on materials
• Remaining concrete work will continue through September

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

Miscellanious

Stakeholder Meeting -These meetings are informal, held biweekly and intended to offer residents and businesses on the job an opportunity to get construction updates, ask construction and access related questions.

Sate/Time: August 21, 7:30 am to 8:30 am

Location:  Corner Coffee 514 N 3rd St #102

.

Contact Information

Project Manager:

Stephanie Malmberg, stephanie.malmberg@minneapolismn.gov, 612-673-3365

Chief Field Inspector:

John Benjamin, john.benjamin@minneapolismn.gov, 651-443-1096

New Fillmore Minneapolis to Become One of America's Most Beautiful Music Halls

Via an August 8 News Release:

New Twin Cities Concert Venue Scheduled to Open in February 2020

Plans to create one of the most beautiful venues in the United States were unveiled today for The Fillmore Minneapolis music hall, that will pay tribute to both the roots of the Minneapolis music scene and to one of the most legendary music halls in the history of rock. The concert venue, next to Target Field Station at 521 N. 5th Street in Minneapolis, is slated to open for shows in February 2020.

The 36,000-square-foot, 1,850-person capacity Fillmore Minneapolis will continue Live Nation’s growth in the Twin Cities market.  Live Nation is a long time promoter in the area, having produced shows in venues such as Target Field, U.S. Bank Stadium, Xcel Energy Center, Target Center, The Armory, The Hennepin Theaters and more for many years.  The last two years in particular have seen rapid expansion with the addition of operations at Varsity Theater, the booking of the 2019 Basilica Block Party, and a show count that has more than doubled over that period. Minneapolis talent buyer Tamsen Preston will book for The Fillmore Minneapolis whose music lineup announcement is scheduled for October.

The state-of-the-art intimate venue featuring incredible sightlines plans to host 175 concerts and events per year. The Fillmore Minneapolis music hall, VIP lounge and private box seats feature thoughtful design elements, including Fillmore nostalgia from the original San Francisco venue, traditional signature Fillmore red velvet drapes, a wood dance floor, murals, chandeliers and other local Minneapolis features to ensure a night out at the Fillmore will always be special. Box seats and premium tickets are on the venue’s mezzanine level, featuring custom artwork paying homage to Prince. Also, on the mezzanine level will be the luxurious BG’s Lounge, named for legendary Fillmore promoter Bill Graham, showcasing framed Fillmore posters featuring Minnesota artists and bands who have played at The Fillmore music venues. BG’s—with its unique elevated vibe—is planned to be the premium club within a club for fans to relax pre- and post-shows and even book for private parties.

“The Fillmore Minneapolis will be a redefined concert experience for the Twin Cities, and we’re thrilled to unveil this unmatched venue right next to Target Field near downtown in the North Loop,” said Ron Bension, president, Live Nation’s Clubs & Theaters division. “At every Fillmore we welcome our guests to make a night of it, not just with our incredible lineup of world-class performers, but also with delicious food, inventive cocktails and craft beers.”

Around the country, Fillmore music halls pay tribute to an early Fillmore San Francisco tradition of placing a basket of apples in the lobby with a sign encouraging guests to take one or more. It was Fillmore San Francisco music promoter Bill Graham’s way of saying “You’re family when you’re in this house.”

The Fillmore Minneapolis is being built in partnership with United Properties. For more information, visit fillmoreminneapolis.com, Facebook, along with Twitter and Instagram @FillmoreMPLS.

Joining San Francisco, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Denver, Detroit, Miami, Charlotte, NC and Silver Spring, MD, The Fillmore Minneapolis will be the 9th one in the country. The concert venue will be paired with a restaurant, Trax Burgers and Bar, slated to open in mid-February and an Element by Westin Hotel, which will open early 2020. 

About Live Nation Clubs & Theaters

A division of Live Nation Concerts, the world’s leading live concert company, Live Nation Clubs & Theaters promotes over 25,000 shows in 1,700 venues with more than 20 million fans in attendance annually. As the world’s premier network of intimate live music venues, Live Nation Clubs & Theaters oversees legendary spaces including The Fillmore theaters, House of Blues clubs, the Academy Music Group portfolio and more.

FINNOVATION Lab Announces Second Cohort of Social Entrepreneurs for Fellowship Program

Via an August 6 News Release:

Nine Entrepreneurs Chosen for Nine-Month Program Aimed at Growing and Scaling Bold Business Ideas for Sustainable, Systems-Levels Change

FINNOVATION Lab, the social business catalyst known for helping local entrepreneurs launch and scale their ventures, selected nine early-stage social entrepreneurs to make up a second cohort within the FINNOVATION Fellowship Program. The nine-month incubator kicks off this September and will support the fellows as they foster their business ideas in pursuit of lasting social impact.

The selected fellows will receive a grant of $50,000 to cover living expenses in addition to a health insurance stipend, one-on-one mentorship, and tailored curriculum with an emphasis on leadership development and business planning and strategy. Dedicated workspace and business resources are available to the fellows in the FINNOVATION Lab space within the FINNEGANS House (817 5th Ave S. Minneapolis 55404).

The nine fellows, up from five in the first cohort, were selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants who submitted ideas for mission-driven businesses that produce sustainable, systems-level change. Applicants were exceedingly diverse across race, gender, and education compared to the 2018 pool: 57% identified as people of color, 63% female or non-binary, 18% LGBTQ+, and 38% as the first in their family to attend college. After narrowing down to 20 finalists, a panel of innovation leaders judged and scored applicant pitch presentations, looking for top contenders who demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, resilience and passion, and business plans that showed potential for financial stability, growth, social impact, and innovation.

“Our first cohort exceeded all expectations. We saw a group of early-stage entrepreneurs, each building incredibly diverse businesses, accomplish individual goals to build something meaningful,” said Connie Rutledge, Managing Director at FINNOVATION Lab. “What we didn’t fully anticipate was the camaraderie and the team spirit within the group. When selecting our second cohort, we chose individuals with a wide range of skills and experiences, knowing they’d all bring something unique to the table.” 

The 20 finalists during FINNOVATION Lab's Selection Day for the Fellowship Program

The second cohort of fellows includes:

·       Lyndsey Calvin: Ascension Medical Devices is revolutionizing post-operative care for transgender women who undergo gender affirming vaginoplasty procedures through a newly developed vaginal stent.

·       Nestor Gomez Jimenez: Litty Solar brings transactive blockchain technologies to solar panel installation, aiming to speed up the adoption of renewable energy while creating accessible employment opportunities in underserved communities.

·       La’Shante Grigsby: Ju+Co Café, a social enterprise café, connects, employs, and inspires women of color through youth development, personalized coaching, and economic opportunities.

·       Judd Grutman: Vonzella aims to provide mission-driven insurance products to underserved and uninsured communities, starting with bail insurance for defendants navigating the bail process.

·       Shannon TL Kearns: Uprising Theatre Company partners with local organizations working on social justice issues to turn emotional engagement into concrete action.

·       Mohamed Malim: Epimonia supports the education and advancement of refugees, creating employment opportunities for refugees and donating 50% of profits to non-profit partners.

·       Katie Myhre: RED Market is an online marketplace connecting sustainable farmers with wholesalers, helping farmers deliver local products and build interdependent relationships with buyers.

·       Jules Porter: Seraph 7 Studios develops console video games with diverse heroes and storylines and offers an applied STEAM work-study program and summer camp.

·       Alysha Price: The Price Dynamic uses empowerment, motivational techniques, and meditation practices to support co-parenting for those working to restructure their families.

FINNOVATION Lab is the brainchild of FINNEGANS Brew Co. Founder Jacquie Berglund, an established social entrepreneur in her own right. She launched the FINNOVATION Lab following four business pillars: Leadership Development, Causes and Context of Social Problem, Human-Centered Design, and Business Planning.

“This Fellowship Program is further solidifying Minnesota as a leader in social innovation,” said Berglund. “It was hard to make our final selections because so many of our applicants were strong contenders. It’s inspiring and only makes us want to keep supporting and encouraging these types of mission-driven ideas.”  

Programming for the second cohort of the Fellowship Program will run through mid-June. It is made possible through generous support from the Bush Foundation, known for its commitment to innovation and creative problem solving.

About FINNOVATION Lab

FINNOVATION Lab’s mission is to create a space for intentional and constant cross-pollination of social entrepreneurship concepts, ideas and networks. Through original programming and partnerships with organizations such as the Neighborhood Development Center, the organization empowers and provides system change leaders with venture service support and access to capital increasing and accelerating their impact. For more information, visit Finn-Lab.com. 

The Southern Theater Announces the August Installment of Good Night at The Southern

Theater, Music, and Dance on The Southern Stage at 7:30 pm on August 19th

Good Night at The Southern on August 19th will offer works ranging from new pieces to revised favorites by Brenna Mosser Dance Works, multi-disciplinary artist Eric Larson, choreographer Jennifer Mack, and performing artist Queen Drea.

Brenna Mosser Dance Works will present work-in-progress Serve Id,  a modern dance quartet performed as a duet for this presentation, inspired by whitetail deer that investigates natural environments found in Minnesota. Toot, a whirlwind of collaborators, ideas, and practices led by Eric Larson, recently began rehearsals for Tweezer Burn and will be sharing initial discoveries. Jennifer Mack will be presenting 3 new works along with dancer, Hannah Benditt. A duet, "No Words just cut in Two" is based off the connection of two family members over space and time. The solo "Occultation" explores losing your grounding, feet, or self and trying to find it again from the perspective of yourself or the audience. The third piece is a brand new work, untitled as of yet.

In "From Black Wombs," created by Queen Drea and collaborators Ryan-Olivia McCoy and Jianna Reynolds, Afro-futurist sisters navigate a bleak world where due to AmeriKKKa's school to prison pipeline, there are no black men. The stress from this reality has left them disoriented and barren. Using poetry, electronica, and movement they seek to heal their wombs by laying waste to the prison industrial complex and giving birth to a NEW America.

The Southern Theater, located at 1420 S Washington Avenue, is thrilled to share the work of these artists and hopes you will join us at the bar starting at 6:30 for a local beer, glass of wine, pop, or a snack.

Tickets are Pay What You Can and are purchased at the door. All proceeds from this event will go to support the artists and The Southern Theater.

American Red Cross Urgently Needs Blood Donations!

The American Red Cross revealed they are facing a shortage of blood types A, B and O. Through their Missing Types campaign, they've issued an emergency call for blood and platelet donors to give now and help save patient lives. The Red Cross currently has less than a three-day supply of most blood types – and less than a two-day supply of type O blood – for patients. At least a five-day supply is desired.

You can help!

Donate now. Download the Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule your blood or platelet donation appointment. Consider inviting a friend to join you in giving. Another way to help is to host a drive.

Water Works Excavation - A Delicate Operation

Editors Note: Mill District resident Doug Verdier has been documenting the digging taking place during late July as he monitors the progress of the excavation phase of the Water Works project. Below is a photo essay of some recent activity.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 

Taken from West River Parkway side of the Columbia Mill. Digging to locate a railroad scale that was buried there years ago, and to locate depth of foundation wall. People in photo are the contractor and archaeologists who are overseeing project. They found the scale! It is said to be about 50 feet long and was used to weigh rail cars when loaded with grain. Not certain what will be done regarding the scale at this point. It’s down pretty deep.

Some of the debris excavated from around the Columbia building foundation. A lot of junk and debris was dumped there at one time.

Digging to locate base of foundation of Columbia building on West River Parkway side.

Wide shot of excavation of Columbia foundation. RiverWest is in the background.

Exterior wall of Columbia structure showing temporary stabilization.

Taken July 25, 2019 - Excavating interior of Columbia Mill wall and foundation.

Taken July 25, 2019 - Excavating interior of Columbia Mill building. Fuji Ya can be seen in background.

Closer shot of excavation showing Columbia Mill exterior wall and Fuji Ya exterior wall.

Shot of work site from S 1st Street.

Following are additional photos of excavation of Columbia Mill interior taken July 26. Workers are removing old tires and brick that were placed in window openings of the building when the foundation was filled to prevent collapse of the wall. 

Clearing old tires and debris (mostly dirt and old brick) from window openings must be done by hand to prevent damage to remaining structure.

Archeologist in foreground monitoring excavation.

July by the Numbers

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

Mpls Downtown Improvement District and Hennepin Theatre Trust launch Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival August 15–17

The Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) and Hennepin Theatre Trust today announced their collaboration on the inaugural Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival, which will take place next month on Hennepin and Nicollet from August 15 through 17. 

The Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival brings together artists from the worlds of visual, performing, craft and food arts and unleashes them together for the first time onto the streets of downtown for all to enjoy. This free and accessible festival breaks down barriers between the arts and downtown residents and visitors.  Festival-goers will relish in several arts-centered experiences, including chalk art installations, a short film showcase, several live performances, and an outdoor craft market. Additionally, there will be food and beverage vendors on-site to fuel the fun.  

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Thursday, August 15 

Downtown Farmers Market Preview  |  10 am-2 pm
The activities begin with a Minneapolis-Nicollet Farmer’s Market preview on Thursday midday, when celebrated chalk artists Shawn McCann and Kimberly Wood will be near 6th and Nicollet for an impromptu demonstration. Fresh from their participation as one-half of Team USA at the Coloured Earth Festival in the UK, McCann and Wood will show-off their chalk art techniques.  

Downtown Street Art Festival Kick-off and Short Film Showcase  |  8:30 pm
The festival officially kicks-off Thursday evening at 8:30 pm on the rooftop at Hennepin Theatre Trust event center at 900 Hennepin Avenue. Catch a free concert from a Street Show competition winner as the sun sets, enjoy a drink from the cash bar, and relax into the evening with a short-film showcase about art in public places.  

Friday, August 16

Nicollet Chalk Art Festival  |  9 am-9 pm
The centerpiece of the Downtown Street Art Festival is a two-block-long series of chalk installations by more than 15 local and national chalk artists. Come watch beginning at 9 am as amateur and professional artists begin to transform the sidewalks of Nicollet between 6th and 8th streets with their unique artistic vision in vibrant chalk. Enjoy live Street Show performances and a variety of street games for all ages. Channel your inner artist and contribute to our community mandala in chalk. 

3D Chalk Installations  |  9 am-9 pm
Visit one of three special 3D chalk installations in progress, located on the plazas at Westminster Presbyterian Church (Nicollet & Alice Rainville Place), IDS Center (mid-block on Nicollet between 7th and 8th streets) and Hennepin Theatre Trust (900 Hennepin Avenue). See how these artists create these visually arresting artworks using advanced techniques and anamorphic perspective to create the illusion of depth in the artworks.

Live Spray Paint Demos  |  10 am-2 pm
Catch local spray paint artists Sig and the Funky Diabetic as they lay the groundwork for two mural-scale works live #OnNicollet between 7th and 8th streets.

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Bauhaus  |  10 am-2 pm
Join artist Lee Noble #OnNicollet between 6th and 7th streets as he collaborates with local access TV station MTN to explore connections between Minneapolis and Weimar, the city in which the influential art school and cultural movement was founded in 1919. Part of the Bauhaus100 Bonanza Show presented by the Goethe Pop Up Minneapolis.

Street Eats on Nicollet  |  10:30 am-2 pm
Enjoy lunch from a selection of food trucks and street vendors #OnNicollet between 6th and 8th streets.

zAmya Zone with the zAmya Theater Project  |  11 am-noon

This community-based theater brings their unique perspective to the street with a live performance on Nicollet at 7th Street that builds understanding and connection between people with and without experience in homelessness.

Malamanya in Concert at the Marq  |  4-7 pm
Enjoy a late afternoon concert on the great lawn at the Parq at the Marq (between 3^rd and Washington #OnNicollet) featuring local favorites Malamanya as they welcome the official start of the weekend. Bring Your Own Blanket and Beverage as winners of the Street Show competition warm up the stage before the vintage afro-latin all-stars take over at 4:45 pm. Dinner will be available for purchase from Elevate Food Hall onsite, along with free lawn games for all ages.

Saturday, August 17

Nicollet Chalk Art Festival  |  9 am-9 pm
See the Nicollet sidewalks come alive with color as more than 15 local and national chalk artists put finishing touches on their chalk art installations on the sidewalks of Nicollet between 6th and 8th streets. Enjoy live Street Show performances and a variety of street games for all ages. Channel your inner artist and contribute to our community mandala in chalk.

3D Chalk Installations  |  9 am-9 pm
Visit one of three special 3D chalk installations, located on the plazas at Westminster Presbyterian Church (Nicollet & Alice Rainville Place), IDS Center (mid-block on Nicollet between 7th and 8th streets) and Hennepin Theatre Trust (900 Hennepin Avenue). These visually arresting artworks use advanced techniques and anamorphic perspective to create the illusion of depth in the artworks and make ideal photo opportunities.

Live Spray Paint Demos  |  10 am-8 pm
Local spray paint artists Sig and the Funky Diabetic tag team the finishing touches on their two mural-scale works live #OnNicollet between 7th and 8th streets.  

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Bauhaus  |  10 am-4 pm
Join artist Lee Noble #OnNicollet between 6th and 7th streets as he collaborates with local access TV station MTN to explore connections between Minneapolis and Weimar, the city in which the influential art school and cultural movement was founded in 1919. Part of the Bauhaus100 Bonanza Show presented by the Goethe Pop Up Minneapolis..

Street Eats on Nicollet  |  10 am-9 pm
Enjoy lunch from a selection of food trucks and street vendors #OnNicollet between 6^th and 8^th streets.

Nicollet Makers Market Street Art Festival Edition  |  noon-6 pm

Catch a special weekend appearance of the Nicollet Makers Market (www.nicolletmakersmarket.com), our bi-monthly downtown craft and art market that features locally made and designed goods. More than 15 artists and makers will bring their unique wares to the street, including live screen printing and artist demos. 

Throughout the festival

Downtown Street Art Festival Media Hub

Throughout the Festival, you can catch program highlights, images of the artworks in progress, live performance feeds and the schedule of events at the Street Art Festival Media Hub at 8th and Hennepin. Hosted by Hennepin Theatre Trust.

“This event is for everyone,” said Joan Vorderbruggen, Hennepin Theatre Trust’s Director of Engagement in the Hennepin Theatre District. “From the Bob Dylan mural on 5th and Hennepin to street music shows and 5 to 10 on Hennepin, we are always looking for exciting new ways to help make downtown Minneapolis a vibrant and welcoming place. Mpls DID has been a great partner for years, and we’re excited to create an accessible new festival together.”

“So many people come downtown to experience the arts, but often it happens inside iconic buildings and behind gallery doors. We’re excited to be working with Hennepin Theatre Trust on a new signature art event that will draw people downtown to experience street art of all kinds—whether it’s chalkers creating visual art, craft artisans presenting their handmade goods or street performers playing for the passersby,” said Lisa Middag, Director of Nicollet Activation for the Mpls Downtown Improvement District. “Street art is integral to animating our downtown public spaces, and we’re thrilled to bring more attention to our vibrant artist community.”

To learn more about the Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival, visit MplsStreetArtFest.com or follow along @MplsStreetArtFest on Facebook and Instagram, or @MplsStArtFest on Twitter,

The Downtown Street Art Festival is organized by the Mpls Downtown Improvement District and Hennepin Theatre Trust with support from our hospitality partner AC Hotel Minneapolis Downtown. IDS Center (Accesso Services),  the Minneapolis-Nicollet Farmers Market, the Susan G. Komen Twin Cities 3-Day and Westminster Presbyterian Church are site sponsors, and event presenters include the Goethe Pop Up Minneapolis, the Parq at the Marq (Marquette Plaza), zAmya Theater Project, and the Warming House.

Mill City Museum’s Water Lab Exhibit Gets First Major Updates Since Opening in 2003

The interactive Water Lab offers new ways to explore Minneapolis history along the Mississippi, thanks to support from the Henry S. Crosby Jr. Fund.

This week Mill City Museum unveils the first major additions to its Water Lab since the museum opened in 2003. An interactive exhibit that teaches visitors how the Mississippi River powered Minneapolis industry for over a century, the Water Lab has long been a visitor favorite, but the space needed a refresh after 16 years. 

Thanks to a generous $250,000 grant from the Henry S. Crosby Jr. Fund, Mill City Museum can now offer visitors a Water Lab experience that is better than ever.

Henry S. Crosby Jr. passed away in 2009 and was the great-grandson of John Crosby, whose partnership with Cadwallader Washburn formed the Washburn Crosby Company—the predecessor to General Mills—whose Washburn A Mill is now home to Mill City Museum. The Henry S. Crosby Jr. Fund was established to continue his legacy of philanthropy and environmentalism.

Build a Mill City water table

New Direct-Drive Waterpower Interactive

New Water Lab features include:

• New Direct-Drive Waterpower interactive: This 7-foot tall exhibit shows how water-powered turbines were key to operating the mills on the Minneapolis riverfront. Visitors can open and close gates to control the water flow and see how various belts, pulleys and machines spring into action. 
• A revamped Build a Mill City water table: This water table now offers an expanded and more detailed model of the riverfront in 1916, the peak of the Minneapolis milling industry. The table has more than 100 3D puzzle pieces of mills, railroads, bridges, and more, which visitors can put together to build the Mississippi riverfront as it appeared in the 1910s.
• New exhibit graphic panels: New panels around the room explore the 12,000-year story of St. Anthony Falls—called Owaniyomni in Dakota—including Native people’s relationship with the falls.
• Work to improve visitor experience: After 16 years of operation, staff replaced aging components in existing interactives and worked to reduce noise, including installing quieter motors throughout the space. 

In conjunction with the revamped Water Lab, this fall Mill City Museum will host an event series titled “River, Water, Stories,” examining the relationship between people and the Mississippi River in the past and today. Events include a new exhibit exploring the history of St. Anthony Falls; a panel discussion on caring for Minnesota’s rivers, lakes, and land; and a family day to enjoy water-related activities and explore the new Water Lab. 

About Mill City Museum
Built within the ruins of the Washburn A Mill, a National Historic Landmark, the award-winning Mill City Museum chronicles the flour milling industry that fueled the growth of Minneapolis. The story comes to life through the eight-story Flour Tower, Water Lab, Baking Lab and other hands-on exhibits.

The museum is located at 704 S. Second St. in Minneapolis. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The site is also open on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in July and August. For more information, call 612-341-7555 or visit www.mnhs.org/millcity.

The Minnesota Historical Society is a nonprofit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs and publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories and connects people with history. 

The Minnesota Historical Society is supported in part by its Premier Partner: Explore Minnesota Tourism.

Project Update: Cedar-Riverside Recreation Centers Predesign

Following are several updates, including upcoming engagement opportunities, for the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board's (MPRB) Cedar-Riverside Recreation Centers Predesign project:

Follow-up: Community Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting Number 1

The agenda from the July 16 meeting, a presentation and meeting notes are all now available on the project website - or you can access them using the links below: 

CAC Meeting No. 1 Agenda [PDF]

CAC Meeting No. 1 Presentation[PDF]

CAC Meeting No. 1 Notes [PDF]

August 17: All are invited on a project tour of recreation center locations and facilities

Join MPRB staff to tour proposed locations for Cedar-Riverside recreation centers (one is in the area around the existing Coyle Community Center; the other, at an Augsburg University surface parking lot). Afterward, we'll tour two recently built MPRB recreation centers. Everyone is invited but please RSVP so that tour preparations can be made accordingly. 

Date and time: Saturday August 17, 2 pm

Tour meeting place: Coyle Community Center 

RSVP: Contact MPRB project planner Siciid Ali (Sali@minneapolisparks.org / 612-230-6576) 

August 20: Engage with the project team

The project team holds "office hours" at Coyle Community Center as an opportunity for Cedar-Riverside residents and the general public to engage with them outside of the CAC meetings.

Date and time: Tuesday August 17, 3 pm to 4:30 pm

Place: Coyle Community Center 

September 17: CAC Meeting Number 2

Times and Topics:

5 pm: Short-term recreation programming
5:30 pm to 8 pm: CAC for Cedar-Riverside Recreation Centers Predesign project

Place: Coyle Community Center, 420 15th Ave. S., Minneapolis

All are welcome! Children’s activities and a light dinner are provided.

Other scheduled CAC meeting dates include November 19, 2019; January 21, 2020; March 17, 2020; May 19, 2020 (third Tuesday every other month).

About the Cedar-Riverside Recreation Centers Predesign project

The project explores two new recreation centers in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood:

1. One would be integrated into a larger development on the east end of the Augsburg University campus
   
   
2. The other would renovate/relocate the Brian Coyle Community Center, currently located in Currie Park

The outcome of the project will be two Predesign reports: one for each center. The reports will be used to apply for State Bond Funds to fund each center independently. 

This project is not a Design and Construction project. Additional funding will be required to design and construct one or both recreation centers. 

About the community advisory committee (CAC)

A community advisory committee (CAC) provides volunteer opportunities for stakeholders to share insights and resources related to a park or recreation center project. The CAC serves to build and sustain relationships between the community, partner agencies, and the MPRB.

CAC members are expected to represent the views of park/recreation center users and to work collaboratively with each other and the public to provide comprehensive recommendations about the project to the MPRB. They are appointed by MPRB commissioners and an MPRB selection committee. 

Project Managers

Dan Elias: 612-230-6435 / delias@minneapolisparks.org 
Siciid Ali: 612-230-6576 / Sali@minneapolisparks.org 
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

Want Better Balance and Strength? Check Out ZeSa Fitness

Article by Brianna Ojard, Photos by Ryan Ojard

Many of us don’t realize it, but balance plays a large role in all of our physical activity.  Something as simple as walking down the street or climbing a flight of stairs demands balance from our bodies.  Good balance can help protect us from injury and is a key component in improving athletic ability.  ZeSa Fitness, located at 1024 Washington Avenue S in the Mill District, understands the importance balance plays in our lives and their classes focus on improving balance and increasing core strength (the two go hand-in-hand). This is done with an Activator, a unique piece of equipment created by co-owner and instructor Shanti Rainey. Simply described, the Activator is a rotating platform that sits on top of a partial sphere and allows for 3-dimensional movement – forward and backward, side-to-side, and rotationally.

ZeSa stock photo

I met with studio co-owner and instructor Cindy Varva in ZeSa’s beautiful studio space to learn more about the benefits of incorporating balance training at ZeSa into a fitness routine. First things first – ZeSa is accessible to all ages and fitness levels. There are 4 levels of Activators used in class, allowing you to level up as your strength and balance improve. To give you an idea, you can start at a Level I Activator, which is the rotating platform on a slightly less than ¼ sphere, and work your way up to the Level IV Activator, which is the rotating platform sitting atop a ¾ sphere (that takes some crazy balance!). And if the Level I Activator is too much for your current abilities you can start on a Stimulator, which incorporates the rotating platform of the Activator but sits on a flat base.  

Cindy explained that the instability of the Activator has neuromuscular benefits such as improved functional abilities, increased muscle strength, better agility, and a decreased risk of injury when taking part in other physical activities. The workouts at ZeSa are low impact and will activate and strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints, which could be beneficial to those suffering from joint pain. Cindy offered to walk me through some of the moves that you’ll find in a typical ZeSa class and I happily, and somewhat nervously, agreed. Turns out, there was nothing to be nervous about. Once I was comfortable getting up on the Activator and finding my balance, it was very fun. We practiced things like lunges, squats, deadlifts, and planks.

Cindy Vavra, left, and Brianna Ojard, right.

Besides the fact that instability made all of the exercises much more challenging, I really loved how the Activator forced me to move through each exercise with much more intention than I would on a flat surface.  I also liked how focused I had to be. There’s not much room for your mind to wander when you’re trying to stay upright. Every Saturday from 10-10:30a Cindy holds a similar session, completely free, meant to let people get accustomed to using the Activators before taking a full class.  

After my one-on-one I was excited to go back and try a couple of classes. I started with ZesaPower, the studio’s signature class. This class is a total body toner that utilizes body weight, free weights, and resistance bands to strengthen from head to toe, all while balancing on an Activator. The class starts with a warm-up to get the muscles loose and the body acclimated to being on the Activator. After that we performed many of the moves that Cindy put me through during our one-on-one. 

I also tried ZeSa HIIT & Kick which, as you may have guessed, utilizes HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) to get the heart rate up, as well as kicking. The kicking definitely upped the instability factor. Something I really enjoyed in both classes was when we flowed through a series of moves. The instructor broke down the exercises and we went through each one a few times, then we connected them all together and flowed through them a set number of times at our own pace. This allowed newbies like me to go as slowly as necessary, and people who were more advanced could flow through the moves at a pace that they felt was challenging.

I can say that ZeSa is one of the most unique and functional workouts I’ve tried. The classes offered at ZeSa will definitely help your fitness level to progress no matter your current capabilities (even athletes in the NFL, NBA, MLB and NBA train with Activators).

I recommend you add some (good) instability to your life and check out ZeSa. Here’s what you should know before you go:

• Your first week is free! You can take as many classes as you want during that time. By the end of the week you’ll be hooked!

• There’s an Intro to ZeSa class every Saturday from 10-10:30am. This is also free and won’t count as part of your free week.

• Classes are performed barefoot.

• There are a variety of classes to choose from: ZeSa Power, ZeSa HIIT, ZeSa HIIT & Kick, ZeSa Cardio Boxing (wraps and gloves are provided), ZeSa Yoga.

• Definitely bring a water bottle. Towels are provided.

• There’s a shower if you need to freshen up.

• There’s free parking located in the Bridgewater retail parking area, accessed from 11th Ave S. There’s also metered street parking available.

You can stay connected with ZeSa on Facebook and Instagram. 

The Best Days of Summer

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

The city of Minneapolis recently celebrated its seventy-ninth Aquatennial; a celebration of the city’s lakes, streams, and river. While the week-long festival isn’t as prevalent as it was during its first few decades, it’s slowly turning back into the highlight of the summer for those who attend. When the sun is glimmering on our refreshing lakes and rivers and the sky is as blue as Paul Bunyan’s Babe, it's time to slap on some sunscreen, create your game plan for getting the best spot for the fireworks show, and enjoy the many events throughout our city’s waters.

Once the United States came out of the Great Depression and our economy was as invigorated as it has ever been, people had the extra income to splurge and celebrate a little more. Events were becoming more extravagant, like the Rose Parade and Mardi Gras, and there’s no way the business community of Minneapolis were going to miss out on the fun, and money. Lead by Winfield ‘Win’ Stevens, a group of businessmen were eager to organize a spectacular festival starting in 1940. A naming contest was held and “Aquatennial” was chosen as the winner. This led to the idea to have the festival focus on the city’s water features to attract tourism.

Aquatennial Parade in 1943

Held during the third week of July every year, the first Aquatennial was a success. People from around the Twin Cities attended all of the events, which included a Grande Day Parade that saw over 200,000 people attend, an air show that had 100,000 people in attendance, an appearance by Gene Autry, boat races on Bde Maka Ska, and the Paul Bunyan Canoe Derby that was a 450-mile canoe race on the Mississippi River from Bemidji to Minneapolis. There was no doubt that this week-long festival was here to stay. Throughout the next decades, more events were added to the schedule including the Aqua Follies show at Theodore Wirth Lake, the Queen of the Lakes contest, concerts by Jefferson Airplane and Buffalo Springfield, milk carton races on Bde Maka Ska, speedboat races on the river between Broadway and Plymouth, the Twin Cities River Rats water ski show, a fireworks show, and the Torchlight Parade, which saw over 750,000 people attend in 1962.

Aqua Follies in 1952

The Queen of the Lakes pageant was one of the most popular in the nation at its peak. The winners were also the most traveled, by trekking more miles than any other pageant winner in the U.S. except for Miss America. The 1974 Queen of the Lakes, Barbara Peterson, even went on to win Miss America. A proud moment in Aquatennial history to say the least. Organized by the Minneapolis Aquatennial Ambassador Organization, the Queen of the Lakes Contest, which has also added princesses and commodores since its inception, focuses on personality, public speaking skills, and professionalism. It continues to work with females of all ages to help them succeed in life. The 2007 winner, Jessica Gaulke, chose to protect and fight for her city, state, and country when she gave up her crown to fight in the war in Afghanistan. In 2017, the Minneapolis Aquatennial Ambassador Organization hosted the first professional development Women’s Expo at the University of St. Thomas. Nowadays instead of driving and flying to be in different parades throughout the nation, the winners receive scholarships to further their education. The AAO has done wonders for the Aquatennial and the community they serve.

2017 Aqutennial fireworks

This year’s Aquatennial had many fun events, such as canoe rides in Loring Park and the Mississippi River at Boom Island, a 5k, the Twin Cities Caribbean Festival, the Loring Park Art Festival, family fun zones in Loring Park and along West River Parkway near the Stone Arch Bridge, a blood drive, lawn games and activities throughout downtown, a block party hosted by Our Lady of Lourdes Church, and the best fireworks show I’ve ever seen. The Aquatennial is full of fun and excitement no matter which events you attend, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s celebrations during the best days of summer.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -  - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -   

About Michael Rainville, Jr.

A 6th generation Minneapolitan, Michael Rainville Jr. received his B.A. in History from the University of St. Thomas, and is currently enrolled in their M.A. in Art History and Certificate in Museum Studies programs.

Michael is also an intern at the Hennepin History Museum and a lead guide at Mobile Entertainment LLC, giving Segway tours of the Minneapolis riverfront for 7+ years.

He can be reached at mrainvillejr@comcast.net.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

Editor's note - This is an ongoing series of updates as the North Loop Reconstruction and Pedestrian Improvements project.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

The North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements Project consists of two separate projects:

1. A full street reconstruction along 3rd St N between 10th Ave N and 5th Ave N
2. A pedestrian improvement project generally bounded by 10th Ave N on the north, 1st Ave on the south, West River Parkway on the east, and 4th St N on the west

North Loop Reconstruction Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

5th Ave N

• Continuing water work at 5^th and 3^rd St N
• Continue soil corrections between 3^rd St and 4^th St N
• Began storm sewer work

7th Ave N

• Placed 1st lift of asphalt

8th Ave N

• Placed the 1st lift of asphalt (at Washington Ave only)

9th Ave N

• Placed the 1st lift of asphalt (at Washington Ave and the west side of 9^th Ave N)

 3rd St N

• Continued water work between 8^th Ave N and 5^th Ave N
• Finished salvaging brick pavers on the north side of 3^rd St N between 10^th Ave N and 7^th Ave N, and started the south side removals
• Removal of north sidewalk & curb between 10^th & 5^th Avenue
• Frana began work on the Bassett Creek Apartments, currently connecting storm, sanitary, water and a new hydrant into 3^rd St N (this is why 3^rd St N has been closed off at 7^th Ave N)-the utility connections work should be complete by early next week.

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

5th Ave N

• Continuing water work at 5^th and 3^rd St N (8^th Ave N to 5^th Ave N)
• Hydrant installation at 4^th Ave N
• Complete sanitary sewer work
• Complete storm sewer work
• Begin grading and hauling in gravel in preparation for paving

7th Ave N

• Begin concrete installation (curb and gutter placement and possibly driveway placement) starting Monday 7-29
• Access to properties between Washington and 3^rd St N will partially reopen at Washington soon as 3^rd St N removals have begun

8th Ave N

• Begin concrete installation (curb and gutter placement and possibly driveway placement) starting Monday 7-29
• Access to properties between Washington and 3^rd St N will partially reopen at Washington soon as 3^rd St N removals have begun

9th Ave N

• Begin concrete installation (curb and gutter placement and possibly driveway placement) starting Monday 7-29
• Access to properties between Washington and 3^rd St N will partially reopen at Washington soon as 3^rd St N removals have begun

3rd St N

• Possible water work on 3^rd St between 7^th Ave N and 8^th Ave N
• Pedestrian access will be maintained on the south side of 3^rd St N
• Milling asphalt between 5th and 6th Aves N
• Bassett Creek Apartment excavation to commence soon

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

North Loop Pedestrian Improvements Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

1st St N

• 3^rd Ave N-water work completed
• 4^th Ave N- placed concrete on SW corner
• 2^nd Ave N -SW corner removed, storm sewer work in process
• 2^nd Ave N-NE and NW intersections removed
• 8^th Ave N Pour remaining concrete along 1^st Ave N

2nd St N  North Side

• 4^th Ave N – Poured remaining concrete
• 5^th Ave N –Poured remaining concrete
• 8^th Ave N -  Electrical work for Pedestrian Crosswalk system and poured remaining concrete
• 10^th Ave N-North side poured except a few panels

4th Ave and W River Parkway

• North side of Parkway complete

10th Ave N

• 4^th St N – remove pavement on north side
• 4^th St N – Removed trees

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

1st St N

• 1^st Ave N – Asphalt paving
• 2nd Ave N – Finish removals on the north side and begin pouring new ped ramps, curb and sidewalk, asphalt paving
• 3rd Ave N- Asphalt paving SE corner, remove SW corner, remove north side
• 8th Ave N – Complete concrete paving
• 3rd Ave N-Remove SW corner and North side

2nd St N

• 3^rd Ave N – Storm sewer work will begin August 5 on east side. This is a separate project, once it is complete the pedestrian ramps will be constructed
• 4^th Ave N pour remaining concrete
• 5^th Ave N pour remaining concrete
• 8^th Ave N begin installing conduit for new pedestrian flasher system. Pour remaining concrete

10th Ave

• 4^th St N – Relocate hydrant
• 4^th St N- Pour concrete

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

Miscellanious

Stakeholder Meeting -These meetings are informal, held biweekly and intended to offer residents and businesses on the job an opportunity to get construction updates, ask construction and access related questions.

Date/Time: August 7, 7:30 am to 8:30 am

Location: Corner Coffee 514 N 3rd St #102

Contact Information

Project Manager:

Stephanie Malmberg, stephanie.malmberg@minneapolismn.gov, 612-673-3365

Chief Field Inspector:

John Benjamin, john.benjamin@minneapolismn.gov, 651-443-1096