The Northrup King Building May 17 Newsletter - Special Art-A-Whirl Edition
Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at 9:15AM
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Minneapolis Riverfront News
Covering life, work, and play in the Historic Mill District and Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront neighborhoods. Have an opinion, local news or events to share? Contact us.
Entries by Kim Eslinger (4330)
Super Flower Moon by Ric Rosow
Submitted By Ric Rosow
This image was taken about 8:15 p.m on Sunday, May 15. I photographed the entire sequence of the eclipse that night going past midnight into the early morning of Monday. The color in the windows of the Riverview Tower building on the left immediately caught my eye. I composed the scene to keep that element in the image. As the moon moved more to the south I could not maintain that composition. I actually started photographing Sunday morning at 3:30 a.m. as the moon set in downtown, before the moon was officially a full moon. Then on Sunday evening I started again around 8:00 p.m. after scouting out several different locations from which to photograph the eclipse. I shot until around 1:15 a.m. Monday.
Art-A-Whirl is this weekend in Minneapolis, but there's not enough time to get this image printed to display Tres Leches Art Gallery for Art-A-Whirl.
See more of my work @ricrosowphotography and @treslechesartgallery.
Super Flower Moon
New Vendor Highlights from the May 14 Mill City Farmers Market
May 14 shopping basket
We met three new vendors at the May 14 Mill City Farmers Market: TonzKitchen (Hot Chili Oil), Kobi Co., and Banh Sizzle. We also checked in with Blugirl Soapworks, The Happy Healthy Buddha and Rudy’s Breakfast Bagels.
Tony Scherber of TonzKitchen - he is a contestant on the inaugural season of PBS Food's The Great American Recipe.
Kobi (far left) assists customers with a variety of products, including candles, bath soaks, mists and other items.
Kobi's mother, Tasha (2nd from the right) assisted with Kobi's busy booth.
Banh Sizzle owners Jonathan and Hang Jauquet serve up Vietnamese street food, including crepes and spring rolls.
Roxanne Benson of Blugirl Soapworks offers soaps, beard balm, laundry detergent, moisturizers and more. Look for her at the Market monthly - her next date is June 11th.
Karinna Samy of The Happy Healthy Buddha explains the spice mixes she and her husband Jacques offer to customers. I picked up two of the blends during their first Market appearance - they are fantastic!
Wow - super tasty breakfast bagel sandwich from Rudy's Breakfast Bagels. They'll make your sandwich using the bagel and fillings of your choice. Look for them in the train shed.
I love that Sally Fritz is using a life size cutout of The Notorious RBG to display her creations. Seeing the former Supreme Court justice will elicit an immediate smile with each visit to the Market.
Mill City Times recognizes, respects and appreciates MCFM's work in supporting small local farmers, makers and artisans. That is why we continue to be a sponsor. :)
Gamut Gallery to Celebrate a Decade of Art and Community in the Twin Cities with Art Is For Everyone, June 11 – July 9
Gamut Gallery has enjoyed a decade of art, music, performance, and collaborations and invites you to join them in celebrating during their first summer exhibition of the year: Art is for Everyone
In honor of their 10th anniversary, ten of Gamut's supporters have agreed to lend the the Gallery one of the pieces that first caught their eyes and captured their hearts. The loaned work will be displayed in tandem with new, original pieces by the corresponding artists. For this group exhibit, Gamut is welcoming back artists Ash Hane (2012), Urban Camper (2015), John Foster (2016 & 2019), Rodrigo Oñate (2016 & 2021), Bunny Portia (2017), Barret Lee (2017 & 2021), Kristi Abbott (2018), James Zucco (2019), Lora Hlvasa (2020 & 2021), and Aldair Dosmil (2021). As a special compliment to the month-long retrospective display, portraits captured within the homes of the featured collectors will be on view along with a few words of their own stories that embody Gamut’s mission of bridging artists and their communities to life.
“Come for the art and stay for the party!”
10-Year Anniversary Party is scheduled for Saturday, June 11, 4 PM - 10PM, with food, live music and more: • Music by Daniel Volovets, Digital Nap, Atim Opoka, James Patrick & Sassy G • Icy Icy Baby Snowcone Truck • Live art by Hibaqq Ibrahim, Evan Weselmann & Jamie Owens • Photobooth with Caleb Timmerman ($15 pre-sales now available, $20 at the door, FREE for members.)
There will also be a Colab Art Night, June 22, 7-10pm ($5 pre-sales available soon, $10 at the door) and an Art is For Everyone Makers Market Finale event on July 9, 1-4pm (Free).
Share the River Nordeast 2022 is set for June 22
Wednesday, June 22, 5pm–8pm at MWMO
Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (MWMO) invites you to join them for an evening of community, canoeing and cookies when Share the River Nordeast returns June 22nd.
Stop by anytime between 5pm and 8pm for a free introductory canoe ride on the Mississippi River, then grab a free cookie and enjoy a variety of fun and educational activities at the Stormwater Park and Learning Center.
This family-friendly event is great for kids and adults of all ages. Please note, participants must weigh at least 30 lbs. in order to fit the provided life jackets.
In addition to learning to paddle on the river, participants will also have opportunities to learn about the Mississippi River’s history, water quality, plants, animals and more. You’ll also be able to connect with other local organizations about their work in the community for the environment.
Canoe rides will be led by guides from Wilderness Inquiry, with support from National Park Service rangers from the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area and Mississippi Park Connection staff.
Minneapolis, St. Paul, Xcel Energy and HOURCAR Launch EV Spot Network
Soon it will be easier than ever to use an electric vehicle in the Twin Cities.
The City of Saint Paul in partnership with the City of Minneapolis, Xcel Energy and HOURCAR launched the EV Spot Network today, May 13.
Evie Carshare will be the first 100% renewably powered municipally-owned carshare in the country and provide residents with cleaner and more affordable transportation options.
Evie Carshare will have over 150 all-electric vehicles for one-way trips by the minute, hour, or day around Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Sharing the same system with HOURCAR, members will have access to both one-way Evie Carshare and hub-based HOURCAR services.
Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project - May 13 Update
Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project
Hennepin Ave. will be reconstructed between 12th Street and Washington Avenue. The City will reconstruct the pavement from building face to building face, including improvements to public and private utility infrastructure, and improved space for pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and vehicles.
Latest Project News
Concrete work continues on Phase 3 of the project between 5th and 7th Streets. This week brought more sidewalk installation and some bike lane concrete segments as well as curb and gutter. Intersection work at 7th has begun and will continue over the coming weeks.
What's Coming Up
The 7th Street intersection will remain down to one lane of traffic as concrete paving occurs next week. Concrete curb, sidewalks, and bike lanes will continue to take shape over the next couple weeks. And work will begin at 5th Street in preparation for the LRT shutdown in early June.
Spring plantings will begin next week from 5th to Washington.
Contact Us
For more information on this project contact:
4th Street Reconstruction Project Update - May 13
4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview
The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees, and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.
What's Happening Next Week?
Roadway reconstruction continues on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Fourth St. is currently closed to vehicle traffic between 1st Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained between 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N.
- Crews have completed roadway reconstruction on the north half of the roadway between 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N. Local access will now be maintained on the north side of the roadway as crews begin pavement removal and curb and gutter work on the south half of the road.
- Crews will be paving the roadway, sidewalk, and bike path on the north half of the road between 1st Ave. N and Hennepin Ave.
- Hydrant work and utility upgrades will occur on the northwest and southwest corners of the 1st Ave. N intersection.
*Please note that the construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
What to expect during construction?
- During roadway construction, 4th St. will be closed to through traffic between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained from 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N.
- Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction. Be aware of your surroundings when walking on the sidewalk and biking in the roadway.
- Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
Upcoming Events
4th street weekly stakeholder meeting
Weekly project newsletters and virtual stakeholder meetings are sent out weekly. Join us at the next stakeholder meeting to get project updates, talk with project staff and get your questions/concerns answered.
Stakeholder Meeting
Occurs every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m.
Via Teams Meeting: Click here to join the meeting
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: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/
Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction
Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com
Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774
WORKSHOP becomes The Print Shop for Art-A-Whirl Weekend
Be sure to visit The Print Shop at WORKSHOP®, 1300 Quincy Street NE, to catch incredible artists and local musicians during Art-A-Whirl, May 20-22!
For Art-A-Whirl weekend, WORKSHOP, 1300 Quincy Street NE, is transforming to The Print Shop. They will be celebrating the type of art that shows up on your walls, in your closet, or as a gift to someone special. Bold colors, pattern, typography are all welcome here. Posters, buttons, zines, patches, stickers, mugs, shirts, books, prints, cards…these items – and more – can all be found at The Print Shop.
The studio is located at the center of Art-A-Whirl planned activities - directly across from Art-A-Whirl headquarters and neighboring Able Seedhouse & Brewery, Indeed Brewing Company and Centro. They are partnering with neighboring Q.Arma Building to host musicians on an outdoor stage throughout the weekend. You can find the artist line up here.
Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update and Tunneling Progress – May 9
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. This project is anticipated to be completed summer 2023.
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
Hennepin Ave
- Tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave will resume fall 2022 at this site.
2nd Ave
- Crews continue tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Avenue from the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection.
- The sidewalks remain open on both sides of the road.
- The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 2nd Ave S intersection remains open.
- 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S.
- Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.
Portland Ave
- Tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave continues from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.
- There may be short, periodic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.
Mississippi River Portal
- Minor activities will periodically occur at the Mississippi River portal site through Summer 2022. Work will resume fall 2022.
- The parking lot off Portland Ave east of the Stone Arch Bridge, near Mill Ruins Park, is now open through summer 2022.
Tunneling Progress
Crews have built the new shaft at Washington Ave and 2nd Ave and have been tunneling the connection to the new parallel storm tunnel approximately 90 feet. Crews have tunneled approximate 70 feet from the Portland Ave access shaft towards Chicago Ave. This work will continue through the summer. Crews have also tunneled approximately 40 feet from the Hennepin Ave access shaft towards 2nd Ave S. This work will be put on hold and will resume in fall 2022.
Long Term Closures
- 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. This is necessary for the contractor to utilize the existing shaft to connect the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
- 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.
- The north sidewalk along Washington Ave remains restricted between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall. The contractor will resume tunneling from the existing tunnel to the new tunnel in fall 2022.
- 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 eastern sidewalk along Nicollet Mall between Washington Ave and 3rd St N remains restricted. Access is open to the Marquette Plaza building. The dewatering well and pumps are installed in this area.
- Pedestrians are still able to use the sidewalk on the west side of Nicollet Mall.
- The crosswalk at the Washington Ave intersection remains open.
- Possible short-term sidewalk closures to remove equipment in the area through the end of the month.
- 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.
What to Expect
- Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
- Schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
Stay Connected
Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/central-city-tunnel/
Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com
Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418
Public Has Until May 13 to Provide Feedback on 2nd Street S Corridor Improvement Project
Minneapolis Public Works is evaluating improvements on 2nd Street S from 2nd Avenue S to 13th Avenue S. They will accept public feedback regarding the 2nd Street S Corridor Improvement Project until May 13th.
The City will remove and add a new layer of asphalt and install a new bikeway along 2nd Street S. Additionally, the proposed project will identify opportunities to improve safety for all modes of travel, with a specific focus on encouraging safer travel speeds, shortening crossings for pedestrians, upgrading the existing street corners to ADA standards, and upgrading the bike lanes along 2nd Street S. The project will also evaluate upgrading the bikeway connections to West River Parkway, including one block of 13th Avenue S. In addition, the project will evalutet the feasibility of intersection safety improvements on Park Avenue, 10th Avenue S, and 11th Avenue S.
The anticipated timeline is as follows:
- January-June 2022: Concept design and community engagement
- June 2022 - March 2023: Detailed engineering and public hearing for assessments
- Summer/fall 2023: Construction
- Spring 2024: Completion
Participate! Public Works will be accepting comments on this project through May 13. Contact Dan Edgerton, Senior Project Planner at 612-207-5722 or dan.edgerton@minneapolismn.gov.
New Vendor Highlights from the May 7 Mill City Farmers Market
The Mill City Farmers Market's 2022 outdoor season kicked off May 7th with a wonderful mix of vendors and plenty of warm sun.
In addition to produce, meat, eggs, quark, Pure Ginger for You and crackers, we were delighted to include an air plant from Ink ‘N Flower to our market basket.
Thank you to MCFM sponsor Cynthia Froid Group for hosting their annual herb plant give away.
Redwolf Chai serves hot and iced chai, along wtih Mulawah (chapati), an East African crepe made to eat with honey and tea. We brought a chapati home from the Market - it was delicious and we will for sure be enjoying more!
Rudy’s Breakfast Bagels is a Latino family-owned company. The menus look tasty and we plan order a few breakfast bagels next Saturday and share photos.
Ink ‘N Flower offers wildflower-inspired floral arrangements, home decor and greeting cards. Owner In Kyung Yang is a florist with more than two decades of experience in South Korea and Minnesota. Look for hanging baskets, macrame, terrariums, preserved flowers, candles and more.
3LECHE is a group of service industry professionals who banded together to start a fermentation company. In late 2021, they moved into the Food Building and have a product line including fermented botanical beverages, various beverages and culinary products made with waste from Food Building makers, and a full suite of nonalcoholic beverages. Find them next to the Baker’s Field Floor & Bread team every Saturday outside the train shed.
A neighor raved about the 3LECHE beverage they ordered.
Sweet Lou’s Craft Sausage and Butchery partners with local farmers to source the highest quality brats and sausages. For our first visit, we chose a package of breakfast sausage for an indulgent biscuits with sausage gravy breakfast.
The Bakery on 22nd St. offers a selection of sourdough breads made with high quality ingredients from our region, including heritage wheat from Sunrise Flour Mill and other organic whole grains, for table loaves, frozen pizza crusts, crackers, pitas and more. We picked up a bag of crispy herbed crackers, and look forward to trying the pita bread on our next visit.
The Muddy Tiger food truck features modern Indian street food, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.
Congratulations to Marty and Darrold Glanville of Sunrise Flour Mill on their recent SBA Minnesota Encore Entrepreneurs of the Year Award!
Shout out to Pure Ginger for You. While they're made to drink straight up, I love using these juices as the base for veggie and fruit breakfast blender drinks.
April 2022 State of the Downtown Market from Cynthia Froid Group
Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group. Additional details available here.
Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project - May 6 Update
Hennepin Ave. Downtown Reconstruction Project
Hennepin Ave. will be reconstructed between 12th Street and Washington Avenue. The City will reconstruct the pavement from building face to building face, including improvements to public and private utility infrastructure, and improved space for pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and vehicles.
Latest Project News
Concrete sidewalks and curbs are installed along the West side of the two block stretch from 5th to 7th St.
The storm sewer and hydrant work was completed this week as well.
What's Coming Up
Next week will bring more concrete sidewalk and curb along the West side as well as some bike lane concrete along the east side.
Major construction in the 7th Street intersection will begin mid next week. This will reduce traffic down to a single lane thru the intersection. Expect delays. This will remain in this configuration for approximately 2-weeks.
Additional closures along 5th St from Hennepin to 1st Ave will also be implemented next week.
For more information see attached update Hennepin_Update_Vol90.pdf
Contact Us
For more information on this project contact:
4th Street Reconstruction Project Update - May 6
4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview
The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees, and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.
Newly paved northbound lanes at the 1st Avenue Intersection.
Continued road reconstruction
Mainline storm sewer work and building rain leader connections
What's Happening Next Week?
Roadway reconstruction continues on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Fourth St. is currently closed to vehicle traffic between 1st Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained between 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N.
- Beginning Friday, May 13, crews will begin roadway reconstruction on the south half of the roadway between 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N. Local access will be maintained on the north side of the roadway.
- Xcel Energy concluded utility work on 4th St. in front of Minneapolis City Hall.
*Please note that the construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
What to expect during construction?
- During roadway construction, 4th St. will be closed to through traffic between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained from 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N.
- Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction. Be aware of your surroundings when walking on the sidewalk and biking in the roadway.
- Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
Upcoming Events
4th street weekly stakeholder meeting
Weekly project newsletters and virtual stakeholder meetings are sent out weekly. Join us at the next stakeholder meeting to get project updates, talk with project staff and get your questions/concerns answered.
Stakeholder Meeting
Occurs every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m.
Via Teams Meeting: Click here to join the meeting
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: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/
Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction
Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com
Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774
Friends of the Mississippi River 2021 Digital Annual Report
Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) is innovating for clean water, advocating for inclusive public decision-making and equitable river access, training and inspiring the next generation of diverse environmental leaders, and protecting and restoring vital places along our stretch of the river. They are commited to a restored river that fully supports the communities through which it flows has never been stronger.
FMR's 2021 annual report shows their impactful work. Last year saw the introduction of the Mississippi River Restoration and Resilience Initiative Act in the U.S. House of Representatives, FMR's first BIPOC River Stewards gathering, five new habitat restoration projects and more.
Take a moment to explore these stories, maps, videos and more:
Minnesota Center for Book Arts Announces TIME LINES Exhibition, Featuring Local Book Artists
The Five Salmon, Jessie Merriam
TIME LINES Exhibition to Feature Local Book Artists
Robin GarwoodMinnesota Center for Book Arts is pleased to present TIME LINES: New Work by MCBA’s Artist Collective, an exhibition in our Main Gallery featuring work by 15 members of our Artist Collective. The exhibition will be open to the public during our newly-expanded operating hours (Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–5pm and Thursday open late until 7pm). An opening reception will take place on Thursday, May 26 from 6–8pm.
Though these works take different physical forms, ranging from handbound books and woodblock prints to paper sculptures and paper quilts, they all plumb the mysteries of time. Book art is an ideal vehicle for expressing the movement of time. A book artist can control time by deciding when the viewer turns a page, where their eye travels, and how the work unfolds. These 15 artists explore how our own personal timelines weave into larger generational and societal ones—like that of the recent pandemic and the ongoing story of environmental degradation. Time is also apparent in the dedication of book artists to traditional crafts such as hand papermaking and printmaking, and in the nuanced layers visible as a result of these processes. The exhibition itself is an expression of time, too—a particular timestamp in these artists’ creative lives.
Julie Baugnet
Exhibiting artists include: Robyn Awend, Julie Baugnet, Celeste Brosenne, Megan Burchett, Marjorie Fedyszyn, Wendy Fernstrum, Robin Garwood, Genevieve Lapp, Jessie Merriam, Raven Miller, Bridget O’Malley, August Schultz, Christopher Selleck, Richard Stephens, and Ben Weaver.
Bridget O'Malley
Many of the exhibiting artists have been involved in MCBA’s Artist Collective program for years, some for decades. Through MCBA’s Artist Collective program, papermakers, paper marblers, letterpress printers, screen printers, bookbinders, and related artists receive 24/7 access to studios and rare equipment, and enjoy fellowship with an eclectic community of artists. Members also get the opportunity to show work in an annual exhibition like this one. Our Artist Collective Fellowship program, meanwhile, offers no-cost membership in exchange for assistance in our studios.
Please join us for the in-person opening reception! Free registration is available through Eventbrite, and masks are required.
Minneapolis Ranks 5th on Trust for Public Land’s Annual ParkScore® Index
ParkScore® Index Reports Most Major Cities Using Parks to Meet Climate Crisis; Trust for Public Land Says Outdoor Space Is Key to Climate Resilience and Equity
Trust for Public Land announced today that Saint Paul ranked 2nd on the 2022 ParkScore index, finishing behind Washington, DC, which successfully defended its ParkScore title. Minneapolis finished 5th, dipping slightly from last year’s 3rd place result.
The Twin Cities have consistently ranked among the top U.S. park systems. In all the years they have been included in the ParkScore index, neither Saint Paul nor Minneapolis has ranked outside the top five.
This year, the Twin Cities scored especially well on ParkScore’s park access and park investment rating factors. Ninety-nine percent of Saint Paul residents, and more than 98 percent of Minneapolis residents, live within a 10-minute walk of park, far exceeding the national ParkScore average of 75 percent. Both city park systems received strong marks for park amenities and ranked among the Top 10 for park investment. According to ParkScore data, Saint Paul invests $247 per person in its local park system and Minneapolis invests $317, both far above the national ParkScore average of $98.
Minneapolis’ dip in the rankings was caused by positive steps taken by 4th place Cincinnati and 3rd place Arlington, VA. ParkScore’s Top 5 cities scored extremely closely, so small changes in any park system may shift the rank order.
Trust for Public Land also reported that 85 percent of large U.S. park systems have taken at least one major action to leverage parks to meet the climate crisis, and more than half have taken three or more. Climate solutions most frequently embraced by cities include planting trees to increase shade and cool air temperatures; replacing asphalt, concrete and other paved surfaces to help control flooding; and installing solar panels on park buildings and taking other steps to increase energy efficiency.
Saint Paul and Minneapolis were among the nation’s climate leaders, completing multiple projects to replace paved parking lots with natural surfaces and adapt existing facilities to better manage runoff and improve conditions for local wildlife. More information about how cities are using parks to increase climate resilience is available in a special report released today, The Power of Parks to Address Climate Change.
“Investing in natural solutions like trails, shade, and green spaces can cool temperatures by up to six degrees and help prevent flooding. That’s why Trust for Public Land is working with park advocates and municipal leaders across the United States to close the outdoor equity gap and ensure that quality parks are available to everyone,” says Diane Regas, President and CEO of Trust for Public Land. “Parks inspire joy and happiness and help cities meet the climate crisis,” Regas added.
“Minneapolis is honored once again to rank among the very best city park systems in the United States. We are especially proud of our equity-based investments in park improvements and programming, and that more than 98 percent of Minneapolis residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park,” said Al Bangoura, Superintendent of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. “We are fully committed to making additional progress toward access and equity in our park system and demonstrating to the nation how parks can be part of the climate solution,” Bangoura added.
PARKSCORE RANKINGS FOR 2022
Washington, DC, was rated the best big city park system in the country for the second consecutive year. The city scored well on all ParkScore rating factors. Twenty-four percent of land in the District of Columbia is reserved for parks, among the highest in the United States. The District also outperformed on ParkScore’s park access and park equity metrics. Washington, DC, neighborhoods where a majority of residents identify as Black, Latino, Indigenous and Native American, or Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are equally likely to live within a 10-minute walk of a park as neighborhoods where a majority of residents are white. Park space per capita is also distributed nearly equally in Washington, DC.
By contrast, among all ParkScore cities, neighborhoods where most residents identify as people of color have access to an average of 43 percent less park space than predominately white neighborhoods. Residents in low-income neighborhoods have access to 42 percent less park space than residents in high-income neighborhoods.
Cincinnati climbed significantly in the ParkScore rankings, rising from 8th position last year to 4th in 2022. Cincinnati’s rise was caused mostly by moves to allow residents to use school playgrounds after hours and on weekends. The Queen City’s embrace of community schoolyards is part of a large-scale trend, leading to record ParkScore marks for playground access nationwide. On average, ParkScore cities now offer 2.8 playgrounds per 10,000 residents, a 37 percent increase over 2012.
Trust for Public Land has been working hard to accelerate adoption of Community SchoolyardsTM as a game-changing solution to America’s park equity problem. In a 2021 research analysis, the organization estimated that opening all public schoolyards to local residents during non-school hours would reduce inequity and give 19.6 million Americans, including 5.2 million children, access to park space within a 10-minute walk of their homes.
San Francisco and Boston remain the only ParkScore cities where 100 percent of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park or other public open space. Boise, Idaho, defended its title as the best park system for dogs, with a nation-leading 6.7 dog parks per 100,000 residents, narrowly beating Portland, Ore., and Henderson, Nev. Irvine, Calif., received top marks for basketball hoops, Las Vegas scored best for playgrounds, and Boston earned top marks for splashpads.
PARK ADVOCATES CALL FOR ACTION TO BOLSTER PARK BUDGETS
Park spending was virtually unchanged among ParkScore cities this year. Investment remains insufficient to maintain existing parks or meaningfully increase park access. In response to city funding crises during the COVID pandemic, many park systems stretched their budgets by deferring regular maintenance and leaving damaged park infrastructure in place, rather than providing needed replacements. The 46 ParkScore cities that shared detailed budget information with Trust for Public Land accumulated an estimated $8.5 billion in deferred maintenance costs—about double their total annual spending.
“Talk to your city council members, state legislators, and representatives in Washington. Tell them you want more investment in parks, trees, trails, and other nature-based solutions, especially in neighborhoods that need them most. More well-planned, high-quality parks will bring joy to our communities, help people stay healthy, reduce documented equity gaps, and help prevent climate change-associated weather disasters,” said Bill Lee, Senior Vice President for Policy, Advocacy and Government Relations at Trust for Public Land.
Community support for parks funding remains strong. A record 35 cities currently have voter-approved park bonds or other dedicated park funding sources in place, up from 24 in 2020.
PARKSCORE METHODOLOGY AND RANKINGS
The annual ParkScore index ranks park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities and is widely considered the “gold standard” for park evaluation. ParkScore rankings are based equally on five factors:
- Park equity compares per capita park space and 10-minute walk park access in communities of color vs. white communities and in low-income neighborhoods vs. high income neighborhoods. Park systems score higher if disparities are low or non-existent.
- Park access measures the percentage of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park.
- Park acreage is based on a city’s median park size and the percentage of city area dedicated to parks.
- Park investment measures park spending per resident.
- Park amenities assesses the availability of six popular park features: basketball hoops, off-leash dog parks, playgrounds, “splash pads,” recreation and senior centers, and restrooms.
According to Trust for Public Land, the 10 highest ranking park systems in the United States are:
Rank City ParkScore (Max: 100)
1. Washington, DC 84.9
2. Saint Paul, MN 79.7
3. Arlington, VA 79.1
4. Cincinnati, OH 78.9
5. Minneapolis, MN 78.6
6. Chicago, IL 76.8
7. San Francisco, CA 76.7
8. Irvine, CA 76.6
9. Seattle, WA 76.2
10. New York, NY 75.5
The ParkScore index uses advanced GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and spatial analysis to evaluate park accessibility. Instead of measuring distance to a local park, the rating system’s GIS technology considers the location of park entrances and physical obstacles to access. For example, if residents are separated from a nearby park by a major highway, the ParkScore index does not count the park as accessible to those residents, unless there is a bridge, underpass, or easy access point across the highway.
Municipal leaders use ParkScore information to guide park improvement efforts, studying park access on a block-by-block basis and pinpointing the areas where new parks are needed most. The ParkScore website, www.tpl.org/parkscore, is free and available to the public, empowering residents to hold their elected leaders accountable for achieving equitable access to quality parks for all.
zAmya Theater announces May 18 Performance of Locked In: A Theatrical Dialogue on Healthcare and Homelessness
zAmya Theater Project announces Locked In: A Theatrical Dialogue on Healthcare and Homelessness
One performance only! May 18
zAmya Theater Project announces a performance of its new theatrical event, Locked In: A Theatrical Dialogue on Healthcare and Homelessness. This show was created in partnership with EqualHealth’s local chapter of Campaign Against Racism (CAR), a global movement of health workers organizing to dismantle structural racism in healthcare. In this highly participatory event, audience members can step on stage and “practice revolution” by intervening in situations where systemic oppression is playing out. Everyone is welcome, however, people with lived experience with homelessness and healthcare professionals are particularly encouraged to attend and participate.
The performance will take place at the Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall, in Pohlad Hall on the 2nd floor from 6:00-7:30pm on Wednesday, May 18th. This is a free event, with no reservation required. Attendees are asked to wear a mask.
zAmya Theater Project builds understanding and connection between people who’ve experienced homelessness and those who have not. The company has been developing Locked In with CAR over the last year, with the goal of touring the event within the healthcare sector this year. zAmya has simultaneously been creating another show that involves healthcare, Life Heist: Stealing Hope While Surviving Homeless and Diabetes. In May, zAmya and CAR will be bringing Locked In to the annual Pedagogy & Theatre of the Oppressed Conference in Chicago.
zAmya is a Sanskrit word that means “aiming at peace.” For zAmya, aiming at peace means working for housing justice with safe, stable, affordable housing options for all.
Locked In was created as a Forum Theater style event, a technique created by Brazilian artist, Agusto Boal, under the umbrella of Theatre of the Oppressed. In Forum Theater, spectators become active participants, or, “spect-actors”. Learn more at zamyatheater.org/locked-in.
Since 2004 the zAmya Theater Project has been changing hearts and minds through performances and workshops in hundreds of Minnesota locations and with many partners including: Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District, Hennepin Theater Trust, Southwest Minnesota Housing Project, The Guthrie Theater, Edina Realty, Salvation Army, Thrivent Financial, Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Annual Conference, Basilica of St. Mary, Augsburg College, and more.
Look for 22 New Vendors at the 2022 Mill City Farmers Market
YAY - the Mill City Farmers Market kicks off their 2022 outdoor season on Saturday, May 7th! Look for 22 new vendors throughout this season, listed below in no particular order:
1 - American Hazelnut Company is a collaborative of growers founded in 2014 by hazelnut growers in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois. Hazelnuts have a healthy Omega 3 fat profile and plenty of protein. They will offer hazelnut oil, flour, kernels and whole nuts at the MCFM.
2 - 3LECHE is a group of service industry professionals who banded together to start a fermentation company. In late 2021, they moved into the Food Building and have a product line including fermented botanical beverages, various beverages and culinary products made with waste from Food Building makers, and a full suite of nonalcoholic beverages. Find them with with the Baker’s Field Floor & Bread team every Saturday.
3 - Mary Dirty Face Farm is a certified organic, diversified fruit orchard, located near Menomonie, Wisconsin, 70 miles from the Twin Cities. Their orchard includes apples, pears, plums, raspberries, currants, gooseberries, and blueberries.
4 - Atacama Catering is a family company specializing in South American food. Owner Ivette Jelves prepares a variety of empanadas, soups, salsas and bakery items, incorporating local seasonal produce from markets.
5 - Schmickle Co. is a producer of “Schmickles” fine craft pickles, made in small batches with local farmers market produce.
6 - Banh Sizzle is a wife and husband fusion of select culinary favorites from Vietnam. Eastablished in 2020, owners Jonathan and Hang Jauquet bring delicious Vietnamese street food to the Mill City Farmers Market with bold flavors and copious fresh herbs made right before your eyes!
7 - Redwolf Chai will serve hot and iced chai as well as ‘Mulawah’ or chapati, an an East African crepe made to eat with honey and tea.
8 - Blugirl Soapworks is a small queer-owned handmade soap business. Owner Roxanne Benson and her partner Benny Benson handmake small-batch products primarily sold at farmers markets around Minneapolis. Blugirl’s beautiful soaps are made with high quality oils, natural colorants, essentail oils and recyclable labels.
9 - Superior Stock bone broth to use at home with your own recipes or to enjoy warmed up in a cup for sipping and staying healthy.
10 - Sol Soils offers a variety of high-quality soils, soil components, and soil toppers designed for potted cacti, succulents, and houseplants. They will also offer a unique assortment of potted cacti and succulents at the market.
11 - Dragonfly Bay Garlic Company is a farm growing superior quality, gourmet and heirloom hardneck garlic varieties in Isanti and Hackensack for seed and culinary uses. Founded in 2019 with a goal to share knowledge and unique regional varieties of garlic for anyone who wants to eat it or grow it, the farm uses regenerative farming practices for exceptional flavor.
12 - Rudy’s Breakfast Bagels is a Latino family-owned company that has the love of making bagel sandwiches. Owner Rudy Sanchez and his family have all worked and have been basically raised at local farmer’s markets working with other food vendors. We have now made the decision as a family to try and tackle our own take on own own business while also providing the best customer service and the best bagel sandwiches ever.
13 - Ink ‘N Flower is a Columbia Heights based artist, with wildflower-inspired floral arrangements, home decor and greeting cards for your life moments. Owner In Kyung Yang is a florist with more than two decades of experience in South Korea and Minnesota. At the market find hanging baskets, macrame, terrariums, preserved flowers, candles and more made with plant material from In Kyung’s own permaculture grounds and other local flowers and materials whenever possible.
14 - Sweet Lou’s Craft Sausage and Butchery partners with local farmers to source the highest quality brats and sausages.
15 - The Bakery on 22nd St. offers a selection of sourdough breads made with the best possible ingredients from our region, including heritage wheat and other organic whole grains, for table loaves, frozen pizza crusts, crackers, pitas and more.
16 - Jabà Noodles is a Taiwanese street food company. They launched with “Liang Men” which means cold noodles, a very popular street food in Taiwan. It’s composed of authentic Taiwanese noodles (available in wheat or gluten free) with fresh local julienned veggies; your choice of tofu, chicken or pork; fried shallots; cilantro; garlic water; and signature sesame sauce.
17 - Kobi Co. is a candle and wellness brand created by and for people who love self-care. With playlists custom designed for each signature scent, they are the ultimate intersection of scents, sounds and self-care.
18 - Muddy Tiger is a great option for people to explore more than the standard Indian menus. They feature Modern Indian Street Food that is rarely available in Minnesota. What it also provides is a completely new experience for vegetarians and vegans offering “Marathi Cuisine” mainly influenced by the western region of India.
19 - Founded in 2018, PaChia Blooms is an artisan home and body company offering a variety of beautiful, ethical and minimalistic handmade products such as bath bombs, bath salts and candles. They are environmentally conscious and strive for eco friendly solutions.
20 - The Happy Healthy Buddha is a St. Paul based spice company hand making seasoning blends and baked gluten free snacks. Their signature spice mix Vandouvan d’or is a spice originating in Pondicherry, the Indian seaside town with French Colonial influence. Owners Karinna and Jacques Samy created the spice mix from Jacques’ family recipe using shallots, turmeric, curry leaves and other spices. It brings beautiful flavor to vegetables, meat, seafood or any coconut or cream based dishes.
21 - TonzKitchen is an artisanal hot chili oil infusing aromatics like garlic, ginger, shallots into oil to go along with warm spices like szechuan peppercorns, habaneros, and cinnamon.
22 - YaaDaa Beauty is a 100% natural and organic body care company. Our handmade products are designed to help you discover the beauty in health and help with skin conditions, as well as soothing the body and mind to create an unforgettable self-pampering experience.
