The DMNA 2023 Annual Meeting is Monday, November 6, at the Mill City Museum

The DMNA 2023 Annual Meeting is Monday, November 6, at the Mill City Museum, from 6pm to 8pm. The evening will include entertainment, a cash bar, and free appetizers catered by D’Amico. The meeting is open to all Downtown East and Downtown West residents and is free to attend, but please RSVP via Eventbrite so they can plan accordingly for food and refreshments.

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Elections to the Board of Directors will take place at this meeting. There are four seats up for election this year; three with three-year terms; and one with a two-year term. You must live, work, or own property in the Downtown East or Downtown West neighborhoods to be eligible for a seat on the board. If you have an interest in running for a seat on the DMNA Board, please submit your application: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/dmna2023boardapplication.

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The DMNA Board will also be giving out the 2023 Volunteer of the Year Award during this Annual Meeting. The Volunteer of the Year Award is the highest honor offered by DMNA. It began to honor an individual who has advanced the mission of the DMNA to promote the common good and general welfare of the residents, businesses, and employees of Downtown Minneapolis. Any individual who lives, works, or owns property in Downtown East or Downtown West and advances the mission of the DMNA through their volunteerism or advocacy is eligible. Generally, current board members and current employees are not eligible. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the staff and board of directors. Recipients are chosen by a small group comprised of the DMNA board and committee leadership.

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If you have any questions, please email DMNA Executive Director Christie Hantge at christie@thedmna.org 

Preserve Minneapolis' 2023-2024 Lecture Series Kicks Off November 17 at the Mill City Museum

Preserve Minneapolis has announced four new historic preservation lectures for 2023-2024, with options for virtual and in-person lectures. Join scholars for an in-depth look at topics in Minneapolis history. These in-person and virtually hosted lectures last approximately one hour and require registration. Lectures are free, with suggested donation to Preserve Minneapolis.

Dr. John AnfinsonThe first lecture takes place November 17, 7pm, at the Mill City Museum, featuring John Anfinson, Ph.D., on the topic of saving St. Anthony Falls.

Dr. Anfinson has been researching, writing, and speaking about the upper Mississippi River for over 35 years, first as district historian and cultural resources program manager of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and later in roles including superintendent for the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, a unit of the National Park Service. Since 2022, he has been a guest speaker on American Cruise Lines boats on the Mississippi River. His lecture will focus on the history of and problems with the massive “Cutoff Wall” that literally holds up St. Anthony Falls and which has not been seen or inspected since 1876.

Cost: Pay as you can at the door. Registration

Information on all four lectures.

Fall Adult Education Classes at the Guthrie Begin in November

The Guthrie Theater has announced their schedule of Fall Adult Classes, all starting in November. One of note is Play Reading: Through the Lens of an Actor with Jack Reuler (former Artistic Director of Mixed Blood), taking place Tuesday evenings from 6:30-8:30pm, with the first session on November 7th.

During this 6-week class, readings will tackle plays ranging from comedies to dramas by playwrights spanning the continuum of age, race and gender. There will also be discussions on the content and literary artistry of the plays, as well as the complexities of choosing and producing these masterpieces.

All experience levels welcome!

World Premiere of The Secret of Chimney Manor opens at Theatre in the Round, November 17

The Secret of Chimney Manor runs November 17 to December 17 - Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) continues their 15th annual Agatha Christie mystery tradition with the world premiere of The Secret of Chimney Manor by Todd Olson, a new adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel The Secret of Chimneys, running weekends November 17 to December 17, with a Monday Pay-What-You-Can performance on December 4.

Anthony Cade is hired to deliver a manuscript to a London publisher, but after being mistaken for a British agent, he becomes embroiled in a web of international intrigue involving blackmail, stolen letters, and a missing prince. Full of twists and turns and eccentric characters, The Secret of Chimney Manor is a fresh, funny, and rollicking version for the stage.

L. Robert Westeen directs the twelve-member cast with sets designed by Madeline Achen, costumes by Deb Murphy, lighting by Andrew Vance, props by Bobbie Smith, and sound design by Abe Gabor.

Tickets are $25. For information, call the theatre’s box office at 612-333-3010 or visit www.TheatreintheRound.org.

October 21 Trip to the Mill City Farmers Market

The Mill City Farmers Market 2023 season is winding down (October 28 is the final outdoor market, and then they switch to November-April winter dates inside the Mill City Museum). The above photo is our haul from the October 21 market. I would have picked up more produce, but the freezer is already full! :D

POSTERS for PARKS Virtual Shop Open Until October 21

Minneapolis Parks Foundation would like to remind you that your purchase supports local artists and community parks - but this online opportunity is only available through Saturday, October 21st!

Now's the time to collect or give stunning works of original art featuring Minneapolis parks - and the people, plants, and animals that share them. Nearly all 44 designs are still in stock at PostersForParks.org - but some are very close to selling out. Gallery goers snapped up nearly 600 posters the October 14 in-person show. 

Virtual sale details:

• Dates: Now through Saturday, October 21, while supplies last
• Cost: $50/poster, plus flat $12 packaging/postage rate for your entire order
• Good-to-Know: No shipping fees if you pick up your online order the Longfellow House, in Minneapolis, on Wednesday, October 25, from 2pm-6pm. See details at checkout.

RAWR! It's Art Attack 2023!

Image by Barret Lee

During Art Attack, the Northrup King Building showcases four floors of amazing art and gifts that will attack all your senses – in a good way!

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Come and meet the talented artists, witness captivating demonstrations, uncover one-of-a-kind treasures, kick start your holiday shopping, and let your creativity loose with interactive art activities - all featured in this beautiful and historic art building.

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With over 400 artists under one roof, and nourishment provided by KCM Eggrolls, Potter’s Pasties and P.F. Café, the Northrup King Building is a fantastic place to spend a delightful autumn day, or to be honest, maybe even a few days given the sheer size of the iconic structure and the abundance of art it holds.

And this is just the beginning! This event is part of NEMAA’s Fall Open Studios, with three glorious days to immerse yourself in a world of fun, vibrant colors, and boundless inspiration – take time to explore all the sister buildings and see the exciting creativity that the Northeast Arts District has to offer.

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Art Attack Dates and Times:

Friday, November 10, 5-9pm
Saturday, November 11, 12-8pm
Sunday, November 12, 12-5pm

Free Parking, Passenger Elevator, ADA Parking and 4 Floors of Wow!

MCFM Vendor, Pure Ginger For You, Opens Juice Bar in Prospect Park

Pure Ginger For You Grand Opening

Sunday, October 15, 1–4:30pm

3408 University Ave SE, Minneapolis

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Mill City Farmers Market vendor Pure Ginger For You (PGFY) will be opening a brick-and-mortar location in the Prospect Park neighborhood of Minneapolis with a grand opening celebration this Sunday, October 15, from 1pm until 4:30pm.

Pure Ginger for You is an immigrant-owned, social enterprise producer of delicious, energizing beverages for the greater Minneapolis area. Beauclarc (Beau) Thomas founded PGFY with a mission to ensure Minnesotans have access to affordable, fresh food, which was a journey for him when he immigrated to the Twin Cities from Liberia:

“When I arrived in the U.S. and reunited with my family, we had just escaped a decade of brutal civil war in Liberia. Due to scarcity, the nutritional value of food was not considered, therefore when we immigrated, we ate everything as we had nothing to eat during the unrest.”

Beau decided to make a change for his health and started making nutrient-dense fruit and vegetable juices, which led to his new company being founded in 2020. With PGFY, he hopes to support not only his own health, but also his family and the greater community.

The fresh-pressed organic ginger juices and shots are made with whole ingredients, the majority of which are sourced directly from local and sustainable farmers. For example, the apples and honey are from Ames Farm, carrots are from Burning River Farm, and melons are from Nistler Farms; these are all connections that he has made and cultivated with his fellow vendors at local farmers markets in the past few years.

Beau with Brian Fredericksen of Ames Farm

Beau with Mike Noreen of Burning River Farm

Beau at Nistler Farms

PGFY juices will allow you to feel revitalized, invigorated, and ready to take on the day while supporting local growers and makers. Stop by the storefront on University Avenue to stock up on your favorite fresh pressed juices – the store will be open with limited hours in the coming weeks (Monday-Thursday from 12:30-6pm, Friday-Sunday 3-6pm). Follow on Instagram for updates on hours, products, upcoming events and more. 

Chloe by Vincent Announces Next Guest Chef in MN Dinner Series

Scott Graden

Chloe by Vincent welcomes New Scenic Café’s Scott Graden for a 5-course tasting menu with a French wine-pairing Sunday, November 5, starting at 5pm. Chef Graden will be alternating courses with CbV’s chefs, Vincent Francoual and Kai Loa, for a truly magical evening. The New Scenic Café has been a treasure to Duluth and a must-stop destination for Twin Cities’ travelers heading up North, since opening in 1999.

Reservations can be made via www.chlobyvincent or on RESY. The cost is $130, including, 5-courses, wine pairing by New France Wine Co. or special NA cocktails, and gratuity. Sales tax will be added at check out. Chef Graden will also be signing his latest cookbook, New Scenic Café -The Second Cookbook, which will be for sale at the event.

This is the second in Chloe by Vincent’s Minnesota Chefs Dinner Series, which promotes collaboration with the outstanding chefs outside the Twin Cities who are cooking amazing cuisine in small towns and resort areas. When two talented chefs get together to create a meal, it creates a special dining experience for the guests fortunate to score tickets, but also for the chefs who can learn from each other in a convivial (and fun) kitchen setting. Both chefs then present their courses to the diners, which allows them instant feedback on their art. Wine pairings will also be highlighted.

The first chef in the series was Matthew Jensen of La Femme in Alexander, MN. Additional guest dinners in this series will be announced in January.

NIEBNA Announces October 19 Community Meeting and Board Elections

NIEBNA Annual Community Meeting

Thursday, October 19, 5:00p to 7:00p at Riverplace and via Zoom

Nicollet Island – East Bank Neighborhood Association (NIEBNA) board meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month and are open to the public. 

October 19 Agenda

ZOOM Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83753338156

In October NIEBNA will be voting for new board members. If you are interested in getting involved in this way, or know someone who would be a good fit, use the links below to learn more. Current board members whose terms are done need not re-apply to be considered for another term.

NIEBNA Board Elections Candidate Form.

If you have any questions about the process or about board membership, please contact Brenda Delaney, NIEBNA Coordinator, at info@niebna.org.

NIEBNA coverage map

Third Avenue Bridge Lights!

Thank you to Nancy Verdier for this photo of the new overhead lights on the Third Avenue Bridge - taken last night, October 7th. We can't wait for the bridge to re-open at the end of this month! 

Minneapolis Downtown Parks Fall Fest - October 13 at The Commons

Enjoy your favorite things about Fall at this FREE event hosted by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board!

Fall Fest highlights include:

• Drag Bingo with great prizes from restaurant gift cards to Joji concert tickets!
• Glow in the Dark Mini Golf
• Cornhole
• Live Music featuring:
  • DJ Jacques
  • Tre Aaron and the Undergroove
• Bonfires
• Enjoy local food trucks: Phal's Best Steak & Gyro and KCM Eggrolls
• Fall Beverages including Beer, Wine and food for purchase!

Help Light the Merriam Street Bridge!

There is a fundraising initiative currently underway to fund a $75K lighting project for the Merriam Street Bridge.

Here is the community campaign donation page: https://givebutter.com/lightthebridge. We were happy to contribute, and hope our neighbors will join us in helping take this project come to fruition!  :)

New MPRB Online Tool Lets You Explore Minneapolis Parks Projects

A new interactive tool offers information about improvements and other projects in parks throughout Minneapolis. 

View of the dashboard map showing 71 park locations where projects are in progress.The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board's (MPRB) new Park Projects Dashboard features information on capital improvements as well as rehabilitation and other projects.

Through the dashboard's charts, maps, tables and various filters, users can get information about specific projects as they cycle through phases from pre-planning to completion. Projects that are on hold or pending assignment are also included.

As a convenient resource for the public and Park Board Commissioners, the MPRB Park Projects Dashboard also complements another interactive tool, the MPRB Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Dashboard, which focuses on funding allocations for planned physical improvements in the park system.

Links to both dashboards are featured on MPRB's page for Current Projects. 

October 2023 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via an October 3 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is constructing a new parallel storm tunnel, enlarging a portion of the existing storm tunnel, and constructing a new tunnel access in Downtown Minneapolis.

The new tunnel is being constructed parallel to the existing tunnel located under Washington Ave S between Nicollet Mall and Chicago Ave. The existing tunnel under Chicago Ave between Washington Ave S and the Mississippi River is being expanded to handle the increased stormwater capacity. The purpose of this project is to reduce pressure in the existing tunnel, provide more room for future growth, and to reduce the need for future repairs and tunnel failures.

Project Map

Latest Project News

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue to work on lining the existing storm tunnel at the Mississippi River with concrete. Excavation will resume later this fall when they can access the storm flow again.

2nd Ave

• Crews continue to work on lining the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection.

Portland Ave

• Crews continue to work on lining the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.

Lining progress

In September, crews continued to work on the concrete tunnel lining pouring about 1,500 cubic yards of concrete. To date 9,700 cubic yards of concrete have been poured. As noted in the infographic above, this is just under three times the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 64% complete.

Long-term closures/restrictions

• The north westbound lane, bike lane, and parking lane remains closed on Washington Ave between Portland Ave and Park Ave. These closures will remain in place until the project is completed.
  • During this closure, pedestrians can still use the sidewalks along Washington Ave.
  • Crosswalks across Washington Ave and Portland Ave will remain open.
  • Bicyclists will share the traffic lane.
  • The existing left turn lane on Washington Ave at the Portland Ave intersection will temporarily become a left turn and through lane.

• Northbound lane of Portland Ave will be periodically closed between Washington Ave and 2nd Closures will happen during the workday only.
  • Closure is for the placement of concrete into the tunnel.
  • East crosswalk across Washington and north crosswalk across Portland will be closed.
  • Sidewalks will remain open to businesses and residences.

• The north sidewalk along Washington Ave remains restricted between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall.
  • During these restrictions, pedestrians share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  • The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave remains open.

• The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains restricted through the end of the project. The dewatering well and pumps are installed in this area.
  • Pedestrians can use the sidewalk on the west side of 4th Ave S.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 4th Ave intersection remains open.
  • Access to driveways off 4th Ave S remains open.

• The west sidewalk of Portland Ave south of Washington Ave will remain restricted to pedestrians around the dewatering well and pumps until the project is completed.

• The parking lot and trail near Mill Runs Park remains open until November 1.
  • The trail will continue to have flaggers to allow concrete trucks to pull into and out of the work site until the parking lot closes for the winter on November 1.

• 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S. Access will be restricted until the project is completed.
  • Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Stay Connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates.

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

New Bde Maka Ska Pavilion Opens October 20

Rebuilt pavilion area features Pimento on the Lake restaurant and Pimento Market space for local entrepreneurs, outdoor gathering spaces, public art, and improved trails, landscaping and restrooms

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board will open the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion area on Friday, October 20. This high-profile lakeside attraction at 3000 E Bde Maka Ska Parkway has been completely rebuilt and expanded over the last 15 months.

The $6.5 million project features two new buildings totaling 4,400 square feet that will host a restaurant and market from the team behind Pimento Jamaican Kitchen, Indigenous art, and the return of naval artifacts that were previously displayed at the lake. The project also includes improved outdoor seating with 3,000 square feet of open covered space, a small performance stage, upgraded landscaping and trail safety, and a six-stall, year-round restroom area that opened today.

“We could not be more excited to open the new Bde Maka Ska Pavilion and provide another welcoming, open space in our park system,” said Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Superintendent Al Bangoura. “As beloved as the original pavilion was, I believe this new building will quickly become a favorite gathering space and a Minneapolis icon.”

The former Bde Maka Ska concessions pavilion, also called a “refectory,” was built in 1930 and was operated seasonally until it burned down in 2019.

“We’d like to thank the partners who contributed to make this project possible, including Louis King, Tomme Beevas and the Pimento Jamaican Kitchen team, Cunningham, Concrete Pig with Juxtaposition Arts, Hennepin Theater Trust, Native American Community Development Institute and the upcoming muralists, artist Adrienne Zimiga-January, who created the ‘We are on Dakota / Native Land’ decals, Morcon Construction, and, of course, the dedicated MPRB staff members who spent countless hours making this a reality,” said MPRB President Meg Forney. “It was truly a team effort.”

“I am thrilled the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion and restaurant are back!” added MPRB District 4 Commissioner Elizabeth Shaffer. “It’s an important site for the local community and a major regional attraction for our city as the Chain of Lakes is the second-most visited destination in Minnesota.”

Pimento on the Lake and Pimento Market

Pimento on the Lake team

Two new buildings will each host distinct experiences from Pimento Jamaican Kitchen.

Pimento on the Lake is a new lakeside restaurant offering beach-inspired twists on Pimento Jamaican Kitchen’s authentic, award-winning Jamaican cuisine and libations. It will be open seasonally out of the north building at the pavilion site.

“We’re bringing the magic of Jamaica to the shores of Bde Maka Ska! This is an amazing opportunity to showcase our authentic, award-winning cuisine and host lively lakeside events at one of the most iconic and picturesque places in Minneapolis,” said Tomme Beevas, Chief Strategic Officer of Pimento Jamaican Kitchen.

Pimento joined forces with the team behind Lola on the Lake, which operated the Bde Maka Ska concessions building before it burned down, to create Pimento on the Lake.

“I’m really excited about being a part this next chapter of concessions at Bde Maka Ska,” said Louis King with Lola’s on the Lake. “The Park Board and Pimento have partnered with Lola’s to bring a world-class concept to the lake and region. I applaud the efforts.”

Pimento Market will offer a curated selection of goods, gifts and treats from local BIPOC businesses and entrepreneurs. It will be open year-round in the south building at the pavilion site.

“We’re proud to support BIPOC entrepreneurs, celebrate their talents, and offer a platform for their products to shine,” said Beevas. “Our market will be more than just a place to shop; it's a cultural experience to foster unity and showcase the rich tapestry of talent in Minnesota.”

Follow Pimento on the Lake (Facebook/Instagram) and Pimento Market (Facebook/Instagram) for updates and more information, and visit pimento.com to sign up for email updates and offers!

Pavilion Area Highlights

The entire pavilion area was renovated in addition to the construction of the two new buildings. Highlights:

• Ample outdoor seating areas, including a new community table designed by a Youth Apprentice with Juxtaposition Arts
• Small performance stage
• Improved trail safety and 51 bike parking stalls
• All-gender indoor restroom area with six stalls, including one fully accessible stall with an adult changing table
• Redesigned landscaping with native plants, trees and flowers
• Rebuilt boat launch

Public Art and Memorials

A new mural is planned on the pavilion thanks to a partnership with the Native American Community Development Institute (NACDI), and Hennepin Theatre Trust (HTT).

NACDI and HTT have an ongoing collaborative program called We Are Still Here, a multiyear partnership creating large-scale, high-profile public artworks in the Twin Cities. The mural on the Bde Maka Ska Refectory building will serve as the capstone project for the emerging and mentor artists in the current round of the We Are Still Here program, which is funded in partnership with the McKnight Foundation and the Minnesota State Arts Board – Clean Water, Land & Legacy Amendment.

In addition, Dakota language signs are found on steel columns throughout the buildings, including decals designed by artist Adrienne Zimiga-January.

Two naval artifacts – the Wheel from USS Minneapolis and Bell from USS Minnesota – have returned to the shores of Bde Maka Ska. The American Legion gifted the Bell of the USS Minneapolis to the MPRB in 1928 and the Wheel from the USS Minnesota in 1932. The Navy Memorial at the northeast corner of Bde Maka Ska displayed these naval artifacts for decades, where annual Memorial Day services were also held.

Fall Street Sweeping Begins October 17

Crews are preparing to sweep streets across Minneapolis this month and November to clean the streets before winter. Street sweeping helps keep leaves and debris out of the storm drains and from ending up in our lakes and creeks and the Mississippi River.

Minneapolis Public Works will begin the big task of curb-to-curb street sweeping throughout the city Tuesday, October 17. During the four weeks of the comprehensive fall street sweep, crews will clean about 1,000 miles of city streets. To make sure crews can do the best job possible, temporary hot pink “No Parking” signs will be posted at least 24 hours in advance so streets will be clear of cars when they’re swept. The first signs will be posted Monday, October 16, and sweeping will begin the next day. Anyone who parks on the street will need to follow posted parking rules or their cars may be ticketed and towed.

Ways to stay informed of the parking rules:

• Interactive web feature – The Street Sweeping Schedule Map is available on the City’s website. Visitors to the website will be able to find out which week their street is scheduled to be swept. Then, on the weekend before each of the four weeks, the schedule for the upcoming week will be broken down to show which day of the week streets are scheduled to be swept.
• “No Parking” signs – City crews will post “No Parking” signs at least 24 hours before sweeping any streets. Parking will be banned from 7am to 4:30pm on the day a street is swept. However, the “No Parking” signs will be removed as soon as possible after a street has been completely swept to allow people to resume parking after the signs are removed. Vehicles not in compliance with “No Parking” signs may be ticketed and towed to the Minneapolis Impound Lot. The sweeping takes several steps, so people should not resume parking until the signs are removed.
• Email and text alerts – You can sign up to get an alert automatically emailed or texted to you at the start of street sweeping.
• Social media – The City will use Facebook and Twitter to post periodic street sweeping updates and information.
• Videos – Street sweeping is explained in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong on the City’s YouTube channel and on Minneapolis City TV.

* * Clean streets mean healthier water * *

Minneapolis streets are swept completely curb to curb with enforcement of parking rules once in the spring and again in the fall. You can do your part by not pushing leaves, grass clippings or other debris into City streets. It’s bad for our lakes and waterways, it can cause safety hazards and it’s against the law.

Leaves that wash into storm drains end up in our lakes and creeks and the Mississippi River. They may quickly begin to break down, creating pollutants that overfertilize lake water and help harmful aquatic plants and algae grow. The murky lake water that results is not good for swimming or fishing. It can also harm wildlife and pets.

Learn more about street sweeping.

Mpls Downtown Improvement District Announces 2023 Greening & Public Realm Award Winners

The Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) has announced its 2023 Greening & Public Realm Award winners, a group decided by an interactive public vote that includes three first-time winners among the eight categories.

The Greening & Public Realms Awards aim to amplify the greening efforts by local organizations and companies that help beautify downtown and its surrounding areas through enhancing our urban landscape.

The is year’s four first-time award winners include Mpls College Landing (Best Small Green Space), Hennepin Avenue (Best Streetscape), Rising by Richard Hunt (Best Public Art) and The Alley Project (Best Public Realm Improvement)

Loring Greenway won a Greening & Public Realm Awards for a record 12th straight year – including winning Best Large Green Space for the seventh year in a row. The Loring Park Neighborhood also took home the prize for Best Neighborhood Greening for the seventh year in a row as well. Peavey Plaza won its third straight Greening & Public Realm Award for Best Activated Space.

“We had a tremendous summer downtown, and our community added to the vibrancy felt by residents, employees and visitors through incredible greening in their respective spaces,” said Steve Cramer, President & CEO of the Mpls Downtown Improvement District. “We congratulate our winners of this year’s DID Greening Awards and commend all finalists and nominees on positively contributing to our city’s core.”

Greening & Public Realm Award winners will receive a commemorative plaque created by Wood from the Hood, a Minneapolis-based company that reclaims discarded trees from urban neighborhoods and creates high-quality wood products. Each award will display the year the award was issued and the category that was won. Winning locations will also receive a Greening & Public Realm Awards winner sign to designate their award-winning greenery.

The finalists, nominated by the public, were selected and categorized by members of the Mpls DID staff based on criteria including overall year-over-year enhancements as well as continued excellence in adding vibrancy to the public realm.

Lung Association’s 2024 Fight For Air Climb Will Take Climbers to New Heights in Capella Tower

Climbers of all fitness levels, families, firefighters, and corporate teams from across Minnesota are invited to participate in the February 24, 2024, event

The American Lung Association of Minnesota wants you to start thinking ahead to February for their 2024 Fight For Air Climb. The premiere stair-climbing event will take climbers to new heights for the first time at Capella Tower, 225 South 6th Street. Climbers of all fitness levels can challenge themselves as they make their way up 53 flights towards the top. The family-friendly event supports more than 601,000 people in Minnesota living with lung disease.

The goal is to raise awareness and funds to support the Lung Association’s efforts to improve lung health and prevent lung disease through lifesaving research, education, and advocacy.

Space on the stairs is limited, and participants are encouraged to save their spot and register today. You can also use code “EARLYBIRD” by November 16 to receive $10 off the registration $35 fee.

For more information, visit FightForAirClimb.org/TwinCities.

Downtown Community Storage Program Surpasses 1,000 Clients Served

The Downtown Community Storage Program officially passed 1,000 clients served this summer and continues to provide space for members of the downtown community to store their valuables in short- or long-term capacities.

Launched in late 2021 and located in the basement of Ramp B, the storage facility ensures people’s belongings are safe and secure. As of today, the program has served 1,200 clients.

The Downtown Community Storage Program launched as a resource for those experiencing homelessness in an effort to ease the constant stress and anxiety of making sure belongings aren’t lost, left behind or stolen. It is also a resource for people attending local events who need to store belongings while they are at a venue.

Through funding from the City of Minneapolis, Ameriprise and DID, the Downtown Community Storage Program offers free storage for personal belongings for an unlimited amount of time.

Clients often take advantage of this unlimited amount of storage time as they work towards obtaining housing. Client success is often measured by testimonials detailing their appreciation for storage as a place to keep belongings secure while in housing transition.

“We are thrilled with the continued success the Downtown Community Storage Program is having in our community – and other communities as well,” said Joe Kreisman, Social Impact Manager at the Mpls Downtown Improvement District. “We’ve had outreach from other communities, including Duluth, on how to start up similar programs due to the success and impact our program is making in the community. This is an important resource for many who need help with taking care of their belongings. At any given time, we have hundreds of clients using this space, and we are proud to provide this service.”

The storage program is open on Mondays through Fridays from 9am–5pm. To learn more or contact the Downtown Community Storage program, visit www.mplsdid.com/storage.

Success stories include: 

• Client D came to us from our DID Hennepin County Social Worker James, he had called and said that the client has quite a bit of belongings, but they are in the process of getting housed and she didn’t want her belongings stolen while staying at the shelter. We were able to provide her with two bins and she would call to check in every two weeks for the next four months until her place was ready.

• Client K expressed that she has never been in a situation like this before, but she was pushing through it and determined to get out of it. She would come by at least 10 times a week and grab what she needed for the night and return in the morning to drop it off. After 6 months of keeping that same routine while going to the library and spending time there to read/study, she got into transitional housing. On June 14, 2023, she came down and was very excited, because her hard work and patience paid off.

• Client E signed up on March 9, 2023 and while he was waiting for his housing to go through, he was also working. Every couple of days he would come by and change his outfits and store new clothes. He finally got his keys to move in on May 18, 2023.