Parkway Closures for Saturday, April 9

The following parkways will be temporarily closed on Saturday, April 9, for  Goldy's Run 10 Mile from 7:30am-Noon:

SE Main Street, West River Parkway, East River Parkway

Click here for the course map and additional event info.

Mill City Museum Announces Mill City Live Summer Concert Lineup

The Mill City Museum recently announced the lineup for its annual summer concert series, Mill City Live. Attendees with be able to enjoy outdoor concerts with local artists every Wednesday in August, starting at 6:00pm in the museum’s dramatic Ruin Courtyard.

This year’s artists are:
• August 03: Black Market Brass
• August 10: Dan Israel
• August 17: Salsabrosa
• August 24: Jelloslave
• August 31: Maurice Jacox

United Properties, JMI Realty and Greystar Unveil New Design for Gateway Development in Downtown Minneapolis

United Properties and new development partners JMI Realty and Greystar unveil new design for Gateway development in downtown Minneapolis

Iconic five-star hotel involved in project design as discussions continue

MINNEAPOLIS (April 6, 2016) — United Properties and its new project partners, JMI Realty and Greystar, unveiled a new design for the mixed-use Gateway development at Third Street and Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis at a Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association meeting last night.

The project is still in the concept planning stages but will soon move forward to the City of Minneapolis review and approval process, which is expected to take place during the remainder of 2016.

Changes that were unveiled on Tuesday include:
• The tower has expanded to 35 floors, which will result in a total building height of approximately 530 feet, including a new architectural spire.
• The approximately 164 luxury apartments will have an average size of 1,700 sq. ft.
• The top two floors will be comprised of penthouse units.
• JMI, the hotel partner, is targeting a 300-room, five-star hotel that will include meeting space, a 10,000-sq.-ft. state-of-the-art ballroom, luxury amenities and 7,500 sq. ft. for a world-class restaurant.

“Our hotel partner, JMI, is in active discussions with Four Seasons and we believe they would be a great fit for this project,” said Bill Katter, president and chief investment officer for United Properties. “While the discussions are ongoing, we are doing all that we can as a development team to make this the most attractive site for a five-star hotel like Four Seasons to enter the Twin Cities market. This would be a stunning addition to Minneapolis – and one that we believe would be warmly embraced by the community.”

Katter added that the overall project would be “a tremendous addition to the City of Minneapolis and a major leap forward for the north side of Nicollet Mall.”

The Gateway development additionally incorporates street-level retail and three levels of below-grade parking for up to 575 vehicles. It will be connected to the greater Minneapolis skyway system through the Minneapolis Central Library, and is a key link between the Minneapolis Central Business District (CBD) core and the transition to the Warehouse District/North Loop across Hennepin Avenue.

JMI Realty, a national hotel developer, and Greystar, a leader in the investment, development and management of rental housing properties, are well-known firms with successful projects on both U.S. coasts.

“We are very pleased that, along with our new project partners, we have been able to bring this project forward with a stunning new design that can fulfill the iconic vision we shared with the City of Minneapolis when we were selected in 2015,” said Katter. “Our new partners JMI Realty and Greystar have brought forward an outstanding mixed-use project that increases the stature of Minneapolis as a world-class city.”

“We are excited to be a part of this fantastic, skyline-changing, mixed-use development,” said Greg Clay, president of JMI. “A five-star hotel with 'super luxury' residential units will expand an already impressive cultural and culinary scene, and will provide an option that does not exist today. This project has the potential to be a true landmark and THE gateway to downtown.”

“Greystar is excited about the opportunity to collaborate with United Properties and JMI on this best in class iconic mixed-use development in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. Bounded by Hennepin, Washington and Nicollet Mall, this site is a true Gateway location as a connection of the CBD to the warehouse district and riverfront, and enjoys unparalleled access to many of the City's most notable cultural, business, entertainment and recreational assets,” said Gary Wallace, managing director of development for Greystar. “For those seeking the excitement of living in the bustling Minneapolis' CBD, we look forward to pursuing a high-quality residential development complemented by the services and experience of a five-star hotel.”

The Gateway project team includes:
• United Properties, the Twin Cities leading developer;
• Greystar, the nation's largest operator of apartments;
• JMI Realty, a national luxury hotel developer; and
• ESG Architects, principal design firm.

The project's general contractor will be selected in the near future.

About United Properties
Formed in 1916, United Properties acquires, develops, manages, finances and disposes of the company’s real estate investments, which includes nearly 50 office, medical, industrial, mixed-use and retail assets in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Colorado. United Properties also provides development services for the retail, residential, office, medical and industrial sectors. In addition to a large presence in the Minneapolis-St. Paul market, United Properties’ Denver office develops retail, office and industrial buildings. For more information, visit www.uproperties.com or follow on Twitter at @unitedpropertie.

About Greystar
Greystar is a leading, fully integrated real estate company offering expertise in investment management, development, and property management of rental housing properties globally. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina with offices throughout the United States, Europe, and Latin America, Greystar is the largest operator of apartments in the United States, managing approximately 410,000 units in over 130 markets globally. Greystar also has a robust institutional investment management platform dedicated to managing capital on behalf of a global network of institutional investors with over $12 billion in gross assets under management including $3.9 billion of developments underway. Greystar was founded by Bob Faith in 1993 with the intent to become a provider of world class service in the rental housing real estate business. To learn more about Greystar, visit www.greystar.com.

About ESG
Elness Swenson Graham Architects (ESG) is an award winning design firm with a national practice in urban residential, hospitality, workplace environments, higher education, branding and graphic design. Since the company’s founding over three decades ago, ESG has helped clients create environments for community, business, and leisure by providing holistic, creative solutions to complex problems. The company’s mission is to enrich the built environment beyond architecture and buildings; to deliver the superior, the timeless, the memorable and the unique; and to design environments that capture the human spirit and uplift our lives. Headquartered in Minneapolis where the firm enjoys a leadership position in redevelopment, ESG was recently recognized with the American Institute of Architects Minnesota (AIA-MN) Firm Award for “innovation in urban residential mixed use design.” www.esgarch.com

MacPhail Spotlight Series: Taiko Drums to J-Pop, April 16

Mischa Santora, Artistic Director the Spotlight Series at MacPhail Center for Music, discusses the next Spotlight Series performance, Taiko Drums to J-Pop, taking place Saturday, April 16.

The MacPhail Spotlight Series showcases the exceptional talents of MacPhail teaching artists and special guests, providing an intimate listening experience in MacPhail’s state-of-the-art Antonello Hall.

Traffic Alert - Hennepin-Lyndale Reconstruction Update

Via an April 1 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Traffic Alert - Hennepin-Lyndale Reconstruction Update

The repaving of one of Minneapolis’ busiest thoroughfares begins Monday, April 4. Crews are reconstructing the intersection of Hennepin Avenue and Lyndale Avenue, just west of Loring Park, between Franklin Avenue and Dunwoody Boulevard. Hennepin-Lyndale will have lane closings, but most of the construction area will remain open to traffic during this work.

Beginning Monday, April 4, the inside two lanes of Hennepin-Lyndale will close to traffic until later this summer, and drivers will use the outer lanes. Once the inside two lanes are reconstructed, traffic will move to those lanes and the outer lanes will close for reconstruction. All lanes are expected to open to traffic by December.

The one major street closing associated with this project is the section of northbound Hennepin Avenue from Franklin Avenue to its merger with Lyndale Avenue, which closes late Sunday night and will remain closed for approximately two months. However, the onramp to eastbound Interstate 94 from that closed section of northbound Hennepin Avenue will stay open throughout construction.

Also, the intersections of Oak Grove Street and Groveland Avenue will close periodically, with some of these closures lasting up to 30 days at a time. However, these two cross streets will never be closed at the same time, and detour routes will be posted.

Pedestrians and bikes will be allowed to cross Hennepin-Lyndale throughout construction, with detours posted. Bus routes will also be maintained, but changes may be made to accommodate construction. 

Once the work is complete, Hennepin-Lyndale will have improved traffic flow and a smooth driving surface. Other enhancements will be made as well, including better lane designations and improvements to bicycle and pedestrian crossings. To learn more about this project and to sign up for updates, go to www.hennepinlyndaleproject.com.

Cynthia Froid Group, The Film Society of MSP and Mill City Commons to Host 2 Private Screenings During the April 7-23 Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival

The Cynthia Froid Group, along with The Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul and Mill City Commons, will host two special free private screenings during The Minneapolis St Paul International Film Festival, which runs April 7 - 23.

RSVP with attendee names and screening choice(s) by April 8th and April 15th, respectively, to the Cynthia Froid Group at admin@cynthiafroid.com or 612-279-8215.

Monday, April 11, 1:00pm at St. Anthony Main Theatre
“O Samba,”  North American Premiere
Director Georges Gachot attending
A reception will follow the film in the River Room at the Aster Cafe.
North American premier! This Brazilian film guides us into the world of samba, not only a dance, it is also word, language, text, lyrics or, simply said, a way of life.

Monday, April 18, 1:00pm at St. Anthony Main Theatre
“Minnesota 13: From Grain to Glass” World Premier
Local Filmmakers Norah Shapiro and Kelly Nathe attending
A reception will follow the film in the River Room at the Aster Cafe.
Explore the history of an elite moonshine produced in the heart of Minnesota during Prohibition, and the attempts of a new micro-distillery to resuscitate the brand as a premium whiskey.

Parking available at meters on Main Street and 2nd Street SE, or in the parking ramp behind the theater on 2nd Street SE.

  

April 24 Dame It! to Celebrate Local Women Chefs and Raise Funds for Urban Roots and Others

Sunday, April 24, 2:00pm-5:00pm at Loring Social, 1629 Hennepin Avenue South. Tickets

Les Dames d'Escoffier's upcoming event, Dame It!, will spotlight local women chefs and raise funds for culinary students and the youth gardening project, Urban Roots (you may have purchased produce from them at the Mill City Farmers Market).

Featured chefs at Dame It! include Carrie Summer and Lisa Carlson of Chef Shack; Brenda Langton of Spoonriver; Michelle Gayer of Salty Tart; Jamie Malone of Scena Tavern and Brut; Kylene and Mel Gust of GYST; Anna Christoforides of Gardens of Salonica, and Kim Bartmann of Barbette, Pat's Tap, and Bryant Lake Bowl.

Amy Thielen of the Food Network's "Heartland Table" and author of the bestselling "The Midwestern Table" is the guest host. The silent auction will feature a ride along in the Chef Shack food truck, private chef-prepared dinners, and much more.

Open Streets Downtown Scheduled for July 10; Planning Meeting is April 6

Open Streets Downtown returns this summer.  Attend this information session to learn how your organization or business can participate:

Wednesday, April 6th, 2:00pm - 3:00pm at The Freehouse, 701 N Washington Avenue #101

Better Beer Society University - Beer 101: 9 Week Course at Republic Seven Corners

Wednesdays, March 30 – May 25, 7:00pm – 8:00pm, at Republic Seven Corners, 221 Cedar Avenue South.

Beer 101 is a Program Orientation course aimed at educating students on the fundamentals of beer, as well as the industry that creates and supports it. This course offers students a well-rounded base knowledge and deep appreciation for beer, its elements and the brewing process. Students will learn about beer history and geography while further developing their palates through tasting and building common beer vernacular. Classes also will explore the business side of the industry, from understanding Minnesota beer laws to service industry and best practices.

This 9-week course will include tasting flights, supplies, as well as access to industry experts all in an intimate setting. Space is limited, and there is only one course offered this spring term, so students are encouraged to enroll immediately to guarantee their seat. $99.

Information and registration

Spots Open on the Minneapolis Bicycle Advisory Committee

Via a March 23 e-newsletter from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board will appoint three people to serve two-year terms on the Minneapolis Bicycling Advisory Committee.

Applications due by April 29

Applications are now being accepted for open positions on the Minneapolis Bicycle Advisory Committee (MBAC). The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) will appoint three at-large members to serve two-year terms on the MBAC. The selected committee members will represent park interests and serve terms beginning June 1, 2016 and expiring May 31, 2018. 

Those interested in serving on the MBAC should submit an application by 4:30 pm Friday, April 29, 2016. Applications are available on the MPRB website or by calling customer service at 612-230-6400.

About the Minneapolis Bicycling Advisory Committee

The role of the Minneapolis Bicycle Advisory Committee is to promote both commuter and recreational bicycling, advocate for bicycling infrastructure improvements and encourage safe riding and public involvement in bicycling issues throughout our city.

The committee functions as an advisory body to the Mayor, City Council, and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. The 29-member roster contains one appointee from each of the city's 13 wards, three appointees selected by MPRB and 13 staff members from various public agencies.

Read More

Minneapolis Downtown Council Offers $5,000 Reward For Information About Recent Downtown Assault

Via a March 22 Press Release from the Minneapolis Downtown Council:

MINNEAPOLIS (March 22, 2016) — The Minneapolis Downtown Council (MDC) announced today that in collaboration with CrimeStoppers it is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of an individual who assaulted a St. Patrick’s Day Parade participant last Thursday in Downtown Minneapolis.

The incident took place near the intersection of 5^th Street South and Marquette Avenue South at approximately 8:15 p.m. Anonymous tips can be called in to CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or text your tip to the number 274637 (CRIMES). All tips to CrimeStoppers are anonymous and eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

“This was a particularly senseless, reckless and illegal action,” said Tom Hoch, Minneapolis Downtown Council Board Chair. “The victim had enjoyed participating in the parade with his family and was plainly and simply sucker-punched without provocation. This, despite a strong presence of Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and Metro Transit Police throughout downtown, and within sight of where the incident occurred. There were numerous youth serving agencies mobilized that evening. Shockingly, these deterrents did not prevent did not prevent this irresponsible act, and the individual must be identified and held accountable.”

“The Minneapolis Downtown Council is offering this reward because someone knows who engaged in this unlawful conduct,” said Steve Cramer, President & CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council. “We ask them to come forward. As a community, we must agree to define such behavior as outside the bounds of what we will accept. We simply won’t tolerate it, nor will we cede our streets to such brazen acts.”

About the Minneapolis Downtown Council:

Founded in 1955, and one of the oldest central business associations in the nation, the Minneapolis Downtown Council (MDC) is a membership-based entity that works to create an extraordinary downtown. The MDC’s collaborative developments of Intersections: The Downtown 2025 Plan was designed to help downtown businesses, community leaders and citizens build on downtown assets and implement future goals. For more information, please visit DowntownMpls.com.

Minnesota Made Movies at the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival, April 7 - 23

The Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF) runs April 7 - 23.

Look for 200+ feature length and short narrative and documentary films from 60+ countries at multiple venues, including St. Anthony Main Theatre, the year-round home of The Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul.

Click here for trailers and info on films with Minnesota roots.

1st Annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/Cleanup to be held April 23

The Great River Coalition, in partnership with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, recently announced the 1st Annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/Cleanup will take place on Saturday, April 23. The 5K Bee Run/Walk/Cleanup will be held as a part of “Earth Week” at Boom Island Park along the banks of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis to support and promote the rivers “Pollinator Pathway”. 

Registration opens at 7:30am, Run/Walk starts at 9:00am, and River Cleanup starts at 9:30am  (bags & gloves will be provided).

Nicollet Mall Farmers Market Finds New Home This Season At Hennepin County Government Center South Plaza

Via a March 16 Press Release from the Minneapolis Downtown Council:

Nicollet Mall Farmers Market Finds New Home This Season At Hennepin County Government Center South Plaza

MINNEAPOLIS (March 16, 2016) — The Minneapolis Farmers Market, in partnership with Go Outsidewith Hennepin County, the Minneapolis Downtown Council and Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District, today announced that it will be open each Thursday this summer at a new location: Hennepin County Government Center South Plaza (300 S. 6^th Street) in Downtown Minneapolis.

The Farmers Market will kick off Thursday, May 5 and will be open each Thursday from 6 am to 6 pm through the outdoor Farmers Market season ending November 10. The relocation is due to the Nicollet Mall Project construction, and the Farmers Market will be relocated to Nicollet once the project is complete. In 2015, the Thursday Farmers Market was located on Hennepin Avenue.

“We’re excited to bring the Farmers Market to a new area of downtown that continues to grow and thrive,” said Farmers Market Manager Pat Nelson. “Hennepin County Government Center’s South Plaza offers a fantastic green space that will allow patrons to gather, browse and shop in a convenient location.”

This year’s Farmers Market will feature the same products that customers have come to expect from the Nicollet Mall Farmers Market, including produce, flowers and an assortment of canned products. The location is just three blocks from Nicollet Mall, adjacent to the Government Center Light Rail stop at 3^rd Avenue South & 5^thStreet South, and nearby multiple bus stops, making it walkable and easily accessed by mass transit.

In addition to Thursday’s Farmers Market, Go Outside with Hennepin County will continue its summer programming at Hennepin County Government Center South Plaza each Wednesday from June 1 through August 31. Each Wednesday this summer from 11:30 am-1:30 pm, stop by the South Plaza for an assortment of activities and food options, including a rotating collection of food trucks, lawn games, a variety of seating options, and more.

“We want our downtown community to have opportunities to enjoy the summer weather,” said Hennepin County Administrator David Hough. “Our programming at Hennepin County Government Center South Plaza will provide an opportunity where you can grab your own lunch, play games, or bring fresh produce home for your family—all in one nearby spot.”

The Wednesday lineup followed by Thursday’s Farmers Market offers back-to-back days each week for workers, residents and visitors alike to get outside and enjoy summer in the heart of the city.

“As part of our 2025 Plan goals, we’re committed to creating a consistently compelling downtown experience filled with activities and events that are important to our community’s vitality,” said Minneapolis Downtown Council and Downtown Improvement District President & CEO Steve Cramer. “We’re excited about the Farmers Market and Go Outside with Hennepin County programming both being located at Government Center’s South Plaza, because it’s a great gathering space near the heart of our city that is located at an intersection point of our downtown core and the bustling Downtown East area.”

For more information and additional details on the Minneapolis Farmers Market, visit http://www.mplsfarmersmarket.com/ or follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About the Minneapolis Farmers Markets

The Minneapolis Farmers Markets—run by the Central Minnesota Vegetable Growers non-profit—are dedicated to bringing the highest quality, most delicious, fresh, sustainably farmed fruits, vegetables and farmstead products to its patrons, since 1876.  The Minneapolis Markets are a source for fresh produce and products for people all over the Twin Cities, and served by more than 230 vendors, with a main daily Lyndale Market and downtown site. Visit mplsfarmersmarket.com for events and information.

About Go Outside with Hennepin County

Go Outside with Hennepin County is an initiative that offers events and activities for the community. The Go Outside campaign focuses on programming Target Field Station, the downtown area’s premier transit hub, as well as the Hennepin County Government Center South Plaza. Visit Government Center South Plaza each Wednesday through August for yard games, board games, picnic tables, food trucks and treats on hand. Events at Target Field Station throughout the summer will feature fitness opportunities, a movie series and fun for all ages. For more information, visit downtownmpls.com/gooutside.

About the Minneapolis Downtown Council:

Founded in 1955, and one of the oldest central business associations in the nation, the Minneapolis Downtown Council (MDC) is a membership-based entity that works to create an extraordinary downtown. The MDC’s collaborative developments of Intersections: Downtown 2025 Plan was designed to help downtown businesses, community leaders and citizens build on downtown assets and implement future goals. For more information, please visit http://www.downtownmpls.com/.

About the Downtown Improvement District:

Founded in early 2009, after more than five years of formative planning and advocacy by the downtown business community, the Minneapolis DID delivers higher levels of service to make downtown cleaner, greener, safer and more vibrant throughout a 120-block area, as is the case with most Business Improvement Districts. For more information, visit http://www.minneapolisdid.com/.

Neighborhood Special Offer from Magna

Our friends at Magna asked us to pass along this special offer:

Through April 30, 2016, Magna is offering a FREE TRIAL WEEK of Strength and Conditioning. Then take $50 off your first month if you decide to join.

This program is about meeting you where you’re at, getting results, and making lifelong changes. Meet with a coach to establish your goals then get started on an individualized training program. Train with a coach up to 6 days a week at a time that works best for you. Membership includes unlimited access to the gym and group fitness classes that might be outside of your predetermined workout.

For more information email ask@magnausa.com or call 612-424-6840.

MPRB to Consider New Plan with City to Close Funding Gap for Neighborhood Parks

From a March 16 Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board e-newsletter:

Minneapolis Park Board to consider new plan with City to close funding gap for neighborhood parks

Today the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) and City of Minneapolis will consider a new strategy, in addition to the referendum and Charter Amendment discussions underway, to address the funding gap for neighborhood parks maintenance, repair and capital investments. Working in partnership, MPRB and City leaders developed a financial plan called the 20 Year Neighborhood Park Plan. 

At tonight’s March 16 Board meeting, MPRB Commissioners will consider a resolution approving a 20 Year Neighborhood Park Plan between the MPRB and the City and directing the Superintendent and MPRB Legal Counsel to prepare an ordinance to implement the 20 Year Neighborhood Park Plan for consideration on April 6, 2016 and final adoption on April 20, 2016.

In January the MPRB approved proposed ballot language for a November 2016 referendum for neighborhood park funding; however there are several benefits of the 20 Year Neighborhood Park Plan to the MPRB, the City and residents, including:
•Reduces property tax impact on Minneapolis residents
•Guarantees protection of current level of Local Government Aid and other funding  to MPRB
•Provides neighborhood park funds sooner to MPRB

Tonight’s March 16 Board meeting begins at 5 pm at MPRB Headquarters Board Room, 2117 West River Road. In addition to the resolution, the full meeting agenda can be viewed at https://minneapolisparksmn.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_Meeting.aspx?ID=1587. The Minneapolis City Council will also discuss the proposed plan at their 10 am meeting today at City Hall.

Efforts already underway will continue towards a November 2016 referendum or Charter Amendment to address neighborhood park funding. If both the MPRB and City approve concurrent 20 Year Neighborhood Park Plan ordinances this spring, efforts towards a November 2016 referendum will cease. If concurrent Ordinances are not approved this spring, efforts for a referendum or Charter Amendment will continue. 

For details about the state of Minneapolis’ neighborhood parks or the proposed ballot language, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/closingthegap.

New Local Exhibit Highlights History of High Wheel Bicycles

Via a March 14 Press Release from Hennepin History Museum:

NEW LOCAL EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS HISTORY OF HIGH WHEEL BICYCLES
Hennepin History Museum to host show by the Cycling Museum of Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN: High Wheels!, an exhibition curated by the Cycling Museum of Minnesota, will be on view at Hennepin History Museum March 29 through June 26, 2016.

Minneapolis' love affair with cycling began in the 1880s when the high wheel bicycle became widely available. In this decade, thousands of high wheels hit the streets, the first cycling clubs began to meet, and Minneapolis gained national prominence as a hot bed for six-day racing. While we may view the awkward looking high wheel as impossible to ride, this bicycle laid the groundwork for the even larger cycling boom of the 1890s and was a crucial stage in the development of today's bicycle.

High Wheels! is the latest exhibition to be presented Hennepin History Museum's Our Hennepin County gallery. According to Hennepin History Museum executive director Cedar Imboden Phillips, the gallery provides an opportunity to create and strengthen relationships between local arts and cultural organizations with a historical bent. "Cycling Museum of Minnesota brings a new curatorial voice into our space," Phillips notes, "and in turn we can help share their work and mission with a broader audience. The story of high wheel bicycles is a topic that is going to resonate strongly with our visitors, and we are thrilled to work with them on this exhibition."

High Wheels! is accompanied by a robust calendar of public programs and activities. An opening party, free and open to the public, is scheduled for Thursday, March 31, from 5 to 8 pm.

About Hennepin History Museum: Founded in 1938 as the Hennepin County Historical Society, Minneapolis-based Hennepin History Museum is dedicated to bringing the diverse history of Hennepin County and its residents to life through exhibitions, library, collections, publications, and educational programs. For more information, visit hennepinhistory.org or call 612.870.1329.

Visiting Information: Hennepin History Museum, located at 2303 Third Avenue in Minneapolis, is open Tuesday 10-2, Wednesday 1-5, Thursday 1-8, and Friday through Sunday 1-5. Admission is $5; $3 for seniors and students. The first Thursday of the month is always free. Visiting the museum at this time does require the use of stairs.

Portland Avenue Closing for Downtown Commons Construction Beginning March 14

Via a March 11 e-newsletter from the City of Minneapolis:

Portland Avenue in Downtown Minneapolis Closing for Construction

Beginning at 9 a.m., Monday, March 14, Portland Avenue from Third Street to Fifth Street in downtown Minneapolis will close to traffic through early summer. The closing will allow construction of the Downtown Commons, a two-block, public green space being created in the Downtown East neighborhood. Drivers should follow posted detours and find alternate routes into and out of the downtown area.

As Ryan Companies constructs this area, the City is making pedestrian and bike improvements to the adjacent parts of Portland Avenue, Fourth Street South, Fifth Street South, and Park Avenue. These include off-street bike lanes, pedestrian bump outs at intersections and new sidewalks and pedestrian-level street lighting.

This is one of many construction projects that will affect traffic in Downtown this year. To help drivers know about all of the current and upcoming work, the City has mapped these projects. Links to the maps are available at www.minneapolismn.gov/publicworks/traffic.

Plan Ahead for March 12 Get Lucky 7K Road Closures

The following parkways will be temporarily closed on Saturday, March 12, for the Get Lucky 7K event 8:00am-Noon (street closures vary between this 4-hour window):  Stone Arch Bridge, NE Main Street and West River Parkway. 

Click here to view a course map and read additional information on the event.

NOTE: The Mill City Farmers Market will be inside the Mill City Museum from 10:00am - 1:00pm. During the Get Lucky event, most streets surrounding the Mill City Museum will be clear by 9:45am. However, there will be no parking on 2nd Street from 3rd Ave. to Park Ave. until 9:45am. Plan to enter the market on Park Ave. or Chicago Ave., and use the parking lots in the area or meters to the east of Park & 2nd. Street. The Market is also easily accessible by bike and public transit!

March 24 at Sanctuary: J. Carver Distillery Inspired Menu

Sanctuary Executive Chef Patrick Atanalian has created this special one night menu (March 24) incorporating J. Carver Distillery gin, vodka and whiskey.  For reservations, call 612-339-5058 or go online.

Founded in 2013, J. Carver Distillery is located in Waconia.