June 2021 by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

Upcoming West River Parkway Closures Related to Bridge Work

Via a June 29 e-announcement from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

Sections of West River Parkway have been impacted throughout the last two years due to numerous construction projects. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board appreciates the public's understanding and patience while these critical projects to repair and improve public infrastructure are performed. Please stay away from areas where work is taking place and follow all posted detours and signage.

10th Avenue SE Bridge and Bridge #9 Repairs

July 12-Sept. 1, 2021

The parkway will be closed to motor vehicle traffic between 13th Avenue S and 22nd Avenue S from July 12-September 1, 2021 for the rehabilitation of 10th Avenue SE Bridge by the City of Minneapolis and repairs to Bridge #9 (the bike/pedestrian bridge serving the Dinkytown Greenway) by the University of Minnesota. Trail traffic will be rerouted onto the parkway while bridge work continues above the trails. Paradise Charter Cruises will be accessible via 22nd Avenue S.

3rd Avenue Bridge Reconstruction

4th Avenue N-Portland Avenue; mid-late August

The parkway and adjacent trails are scheduled to close between 4th Avenue N and Portland Avenue in mid-late August. The closure is necessary for the reconstruction of the 3rd Avenue Bridge by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. More details about this closure will be shared later this summer as the bridge reconstruction project progresses. Please visit the Hwy 65/3rd Avenue Bridge Reconstruction website for more details.

DMNA Seeks Additional Vendors For August 3rd National Night Out in The Commons Park

The Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA) has a large National Night Out event planned for Tuesday, August 3rd, 5pm-9pm, at The Commons Park, located at 425 Portland Avenue (between 4th and 5th Avenues and Park and Portland Avenues). 

They've got a great start on securing vendors, music and food trucks, and are looking for additional vendors to provide giveaways, games, etc. Please pass along this information to any businesses or organization you think would be a good fit as a participating vendor for this much anticipated event.

EDITORS NOTE - updated info provided June 30th:

Free Fitness Classes Coming to the Minneapolis Convention Center Plaza

Via a June 24 e-announcement:

Every Saturday from July 17 through August 28, the newly redesigned MCC Plaza will host Summer Fitness on the Plaza

The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is introducing the public to its newly redesigned Plaza this summer by offering free outdoors fitness classes every Saturday from July 17 through August 28. A variety of local fitness businesses have been invited to take their classes outside and onto the Plaza – bringing seven weekends and 15 classes from which to choose.

Each Summer Fitness on the Plaza event is free to the public. There is no limit on the number of events that fitness enthusiasts may attend.  

• When: Every Saturday from July 17 through August 28
• Where: Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403 (The Plaza is located across the street from the main entrance on 2nd Avenue.)
• Price: Free
• Registration: Click here
• More Information: Click here for the complete schedule and class details

“We’re excited to welcome the community to our beautiful new Plaza through these free fitness classes,” said Minneapolis Convention Center Executive Director Jeff Johnson. “We talk a lot about the Minneapolis Convention Center being a ‘relationship building,’ and Summer Fitness on the Plaza is one of the events that helps strengthen the bonds between the MCC and the surrounding community”

ABOUT THE MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER

The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is owned by the City of Minneapolis and marketed through Meet Minneapolis. The 1.6 million square foot facility features 475,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 3,400 fixed-seat auditorium, 87 meeting rooms and two ballrooms. The MCC is GBAC STAR, LEED and GMIC certified and works to serve its constituencies and stakeholders as the face of Minneapolis to visitors. Through its efforts, the MCC helps sustain more than 8,600 jobs in the community.

ABOUT THE MCC PLAZA

Located on the south side of downtown with beautiful skyline views, the 2.5-acre Minneapolis Convention Center Plaza is built on top of an underground parking deck and includes a sweeping manicured lawn perfect for picnics and lawn games, surrounded by a lush urban meadow planted with prairie grasses and wildflowers that is downtown’s largest pollinator refuge. Designed by Damon Farber Landscape Architects for environmental sustainability, the Plaza includes native tree and plant species, and irrigation utilizing the Convention Center’s stormwater capture system. The project is pursuing SITES certification as one of the first projects in the region. SITES is a sustainability-focused framework that ushers landscape architects, engineers and others toward practices that protect ecosystems and enhance the mosaic of benefits they continuously provide our communities, such as climate regulation, carbon storage and flood mitigation.

Recording of the June 23rd Third Avenue Bridge Project Update Webinar

MnDOT hosted a virtual construction update for the Third Avenue Bridge restoration project on June 23rd. The 35-minute recording of that webinar is below. Visit the project page for more information.

Public Art Installation at Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District up for a Prestigious CODAaward - Your Vote Can Help Them Win!

A public art installation in the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District is among the top 100 finalists for a prestigious CODAaward; given to those who successfully integrate commissioned art into interior, architectural or public spaces. From June 18 - 30, public voting is open! The two artworks that receive the most votes will receive a People’s Choice CODAaward.

The centerpiece of this historic Minneapolis building’s lobby is the atrium art installation. It is a sculpture designed to evoke the image of flour falling from a sifter in homage to one of the local historic industries. This delicate installation consists of nearly 200 strands that are 100 feet in length with a series of bronzed and stainless metallic square elements within the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis, a conversion of the historic Advance Thresher/Emerson-Newton building from office to hotel by DLR Group.

CODAworx is a creative online platform that connects artists, de­sign­ers, and fabricators with municipalities and developers who commission artwork. The organization continues an active presence in shaping public arts in the U.S. and around the world. Their annual CODAawards is an international competition given to those to excel in integrating commissioned artwork into interior, architecture, and/or public spaces. Design categories include Landscape, Residential, Healthcare, Commercial, Institutional, Liturgical, Public Spaces, Transportation, Hospitality, and Education. Cindy Allen (EIC, Interior Design), Malene Barnett (Founder, Black Artists + Designers Guild), and Frances Bronet (President, Pratt Institute in New York City), are among the eighteen jurors, who have spent weeks reviewing and scoring all 374 entries to narrow down the Top 100. They will agree on one winner in each category to create the 2021 CODAawards winners circle, in addition to the two People’s Choice CODAawardees that the general public will select.

Mill District Artist Kathleen Franzen Featured in Book Illustrating Minnesota's Threatened Boreal Forest

Mill District resident Kathleen Franzen is one of 10 Minnesota botanical artists featured in Art on the Edge of the Boreal Forest: Alternative Futures for the trees, birds and insects, a science and art book including articles by Lee Frelich, Ph.D., director of The Center of Forest Ecology at the University and Gerald J. Niemi, Ph.D. and Professor Emeritus in the Department of Biology, University of Minnesota-Duluth.

The book includes 83 renditions of original art. In addition to Kathleen, the Minnesota botanical artists include Vicki Barth, Wendy Brockman, Marj Davis, Nancy Gehrig, Debra Greenblatt, Julie Martinez, Mary Anne O'Malley, Kathy Reeves, and Bruce Wilson. Their work highlights specific aspects of 10 trees of the boreal forest identified by Lee Frelich that are undergoing slow and silent but significant change due to disturbances caused by fire, invasive insects and stressful climate conditions.

Threatened birds of the boreal forest were identified by Gerald J. Niemi. Insects associated with the trees of the boreal forest were identified by Jana Albers, DNR Forest Health Specialist. 

Art on the Edge of the Boreal Forest is available online from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target and BookBaby. Sales proceeds go to The Center of Forest Ecology and Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth.

SINGULA Exhibit at Gamut Gallery Opens July 16 Featuring Muralists from Mexico, Chicago and Mpls

Via a recent e-announcement from Gamut Gallery

Singula (adj.) derives from the Latin word, singulus, meaning single or separate; each one being individually unique and particular, possessing its own essence. As individuals experiencing and interpreting distinct realities– from our physical surroundings to our imaginations deep within the subconscious realm; Singula honors the distinguishable and rare elements that continuously shape our identity and understanding of the world.  

Singula is curated by Rodrigo Oñate and features muralists he has invited from Mexico, Chicago and Minneapolis, all whom incorporate whimsical characters and dream-like imagery to explore their cultural origins and storytelling practices that embolden critical connections across identities. Through a combination of colors, textures and intricate shapes and figures, this collection of muralists reveres the accessibility of public spaces to create vibrant and eclectic works that connect directly with the community. By highlighting everyday human experiences and marginalized narratives, this exhibition affirms street art is a powerful form of expression and solidarity among communities, stimulating the imagination and activism necessary for transformative change. 

We hope this work engages the viewer to reflect upon their own innermost identities and the dreams that we carry with us throughout our lifetime. This Summer, we invite you to enter the gallery filled with environments most commonly found in our flights of fantasy.

MEMBERS ONLY PREVIEW NIGHT:

Thursday, July 15 / 6-8pm
Meet & greet with Twin Cities with curator & artist Rodrigo Oñate 

Reserve your spot or become a member today!!
• Memberships required, book your FREE pre-sale today
• Members may purchase a guest pass to bring a friend for $7

PUBLIC OPENING NIGHT:

Friday, July 16 / 6-9pm • $7, FREE for members
Singula will feature muralists Los Calladitos, 2MIL, Lelo Zaa and Roco Drilo from Mexico, (sub)urban warrior, Liz Flores and Elloo from Chicago, Chuck U and Joy Spika from Minneapolis, all whom incorporate whimsical characters and dream-like imagery. Curated by Rodrigo Oñate aka Roco Drilo.
• Pre-sales available and recommended • Entry will be available at the door

Elliot Park Art Walk & Makers Market

Saturday, July 24 / 11am - 3pm • $6.50
Tour times at 11:30pm, 12:30 pm, 1:30pm & 2:30pm with Live painting in Gamut's Courtyard.
FREE pop-up makers market at Gamut featuring Twin Cities Makers and Icy Icy Baby shaved ice treat truck!

Experience historic Elliot Park neighborhood through a comedian-led tour from the Theater of Public Policy. Learn fun facts about the neighborhood, check out historic landmarks, and explore experiences in the Elliot Park Arts Quarter featuring Gamut Gallery, Fades Of Gray Inc. Bee Ink Tattoo, Rose Salon & Segue Coffee Shop.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

The creation of characters and fantastic worlds are the universe that defines the work of Rodrigo Oñate (Roco Drilo). Originally from the city of Queretaro, Mexico, Roco embarked on his career as a self-taught plastic and graphic artist, influenced by the pop culture of the 80s, comics, graffiti and various artists representing Mexican art. By extracting himself from his context and looking at it from the outside, he found a better appreciation and understanding of Latin American culture, thus conceiving a style with a contemporary and modern vision of Latino folklore, mixing techniques that since his career have gained great relevance as in graffiti or pop art. 

Los Calladitos (The Silent Ones) was founded in 2015 by Ariadna Galaz and Jorge Peralta. When Ari and Jorge began working together they gave themselves Los Calladitos as a nickname because they believed that the work is more valuable than words. Passionate about their work and improving the environment through art, Los Calladitos creates unique characters based on legends, myths or real people representing the communities they visit, encouraging the viewer to be a part of their own community. Currently, they are painting murals around Latin America and helping communities through art education, and hosting workshops. Their studio is located in the quiet colonial town of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

Creator and promoter of street art in Mexico, LELO is known for his colorful artwork, in small and large format, using spray, acrylic, latex paint and natural pigments. In his art, Juárez explores and recreates the worldview of native towns, with elements of his personal identity. He uses street art and graffiti as techniques of orality and image, aimed to build a universal language. His work continues to revolve around the worldview and cultural context of the native towns; articulated with the medical background he acquired at the veterinary school. In this way, he combines empirical and scientific knowledge.  

2MIL is a Mexican street artist, born in Morelia, Michoacán. He has dedicated his work to the appropriation of urban spaces with muralsl since 2015. With a varied and eclectic style, he represents through Mexican folklore an iconic character of his work, a personal reinterpretation of the torito de petate dance, one of the most traditional emblems of Morelia.

Elloo is a Chicago based artist who is known for her bright colored compositions. Her work is inspired by her love for sweets, subconscious memories and fairytales. Her bright colored characters are a blend of her imagination and dark dream-like scenes. Behind every piece she creates: Life is Sweet. Currently, she resides in Pilsen and continues to paint from her imagination bringing her characters to real life. Her main focus is to create a body of work that is unique and that allows the viewer to dig into their subconscious and develop their own interpretations of what they see.

Liz Flores is a painter and muralist based in Chicago. Her work experiments with how the human condition—with its interplay between emotion and memory—can be represented abstractly. She engages everyday human experience and the female body by using shape, color and the human form as a mode of visual storytelling.  Her mural work can be found throughout the Chicagoland Area and New York City. In addition to working with private and commercial clients, her work has been exhibited in galleries throughout Chicago and is driven by her interests in womanhood, belonging and inner life.

(sub)urban warrior is an artist from the suburbs of Chicago, who views each piece as an opportunity to share her passion with the surrounding communities, and to leave something behind that will be thought provoking, emotionally significant, and mentally stimulating to the viewer. Influenced greatly by nature, something that is very relatable to all walks of life, (sub)urban warrior combines multiple creatures and sometimes humans in a whimsical playful way that oftentimes exudes an ethereal feeling. Her original creations are called beasties, all knowing omnipotent beings that are eternal and roam the earth, bringing a message of love and strength and stability to those around them. While her characters are known for their sweet nature and strong presence, incorporating bright colors and vibrant tones communicate a joyful message that is uplifting and smile inducing.

Joy Spika is a black identifying artist with a mixed cultural background. She incorporates her personal stories into all of her work. She is a mixed media artist with a deep love for aerosol murals, painting, and textile art, who believes in the power of art to heal and connect people. From a young age she has used art as a fundamental form of expression and communication. Joy finds Inspiration through her intuitive understanding of the world around her and those things that aren’t always visible. Joy uses her art as a channel to retrieve messages from her ancestors and guides. Art has always been her primary spirituality. The characters she creates are often exaggerated or dream-like versions of her current emotions and still images of what her internal life looks like. In this show she is featuring paintings that have her deep truths hidden in them through symbols and the characters she creates. She wants to hold space for the complicated and non-monolithic nature of the lives of BIPOC, fat, femme and alternative humans. 

Chuck U is a painter, illustrator and muralist from Minneapolis, Minnesota, who specializes in whimsical yet intricate works that celebrate the unusual and unexpected. His pieces are populated with fanciful flora, fauna and unusual landscapes that are playful yet masterful and aim to spark imagination and joy in the viewer. Chuck’s prints utilize a combination of traditional pen and ink technique with digital coloring applications that are printed digitally or as limited edition screen prints. His paintings and murals are approached with a similar sensibility but take on a life of their own transporting the viewer with scale, color, and the skillful line work that has become his signature.

GALLERY & GIFT SHOP OPEN HOURS 

FREE open hours: Wednesday - Friday, 11am - 6pm; Saturday 11am - 4pm

Gamut Gallery is open without capacity restrictions for in-person viewing of the exhibition. We are available by appointment, please request an appointment 48 hours in advance. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for further details and information regarding the event.

Mill City Museum Welcomes Back Visitors with New Programs

Via a June 18 e-announcement from the Minnesota Historical Society:

Programs offered outdoors and in Mill Commons as museum gallery remains temporarily closed

“What Makes Minneapolis, Minneapolis?” is a series of programs designed to engage visitors in the historical and contemporary identity of the city. The programs will be offered during the summer and fall of 2021 while the museum gallery remains temporarily closed.

Held in outdoor spaces including the Ruin Courtyard and indoors in the Mill Commons lobby, the programs include a participatory exhibit, performances, walking tours, drop-in family programs and more:

• Open Courtyard Family Days, June 19-20, July 10-11, Aug. 14-15 and Sept. 11-12
  A drop-in family program with hands-on activities, take home craft projects, a participatory exhibit, puppet show and more. Free.

• “Minneapolis is…” Participatory Exhibit, July through September
  Share what Minneapolis means to you and be inspired by others with this participatory exhibit offered during the Open Courtyard Family Days and other select events. Free. 

• The Theater of Public Policy Performances, July 30 and Aug. 28
  Two performances, each with a different theme and featuring an expert who will share a Minneapolis history topic followed by improvisational comedy. $15.

• Guided Tours, weekends, July through September
  Each weekend a different tour (walking and bicycle) will be offered: Minneapolis Riverfront, Historic Main Street, Worker History, and Codswallop: Fact vs. Fiction. $14-20.

• Soul of the Cities Performance, Aug. 12
  The Avant Garde presents a concert featuring premiere talent from the Twin Cities rhythm and blues, and soul scenes. $15.

Tickets for events with a fee will be available beginning July 1. Visit www.millcitymuseum.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

In addition, Mill City Museum will play host for local theater companies in June, July and August including Collide Theatrical Dance Company, Rough Magic Performance Company and Off-Leash Area this summer. Visit their websites for show information and ticketing. 

The Mill City Museum gallery remains temporarily closed while MNHS works on reopening plans. 

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

Feedback Requested for NIEBNA Placemaking Project - Deadline is July 1

UPDATE: Deadline extended! You can request a survey thru August 3, 2021. All feedback must be sent back to NIEBNA by midnight on August 8, 2021.

Via a June 17 e-announcement from Nicollet Island-East Bank Neighborhood Association

Your input matters!

The Nicollet Island-East Bank Neighborhood Association's (NIEBNA) Board of Directors invites all residents, business owners and property owners in the neighborhood to review 4 concepts to name the "East Bank" portion of our neighborhood. To learn more about this project, and to review the 4 design concepts, please visit: www.niebna.org/placemaking

All residents, business owners and property owners who live or operate in the NIEBNA neighborhood are automatic members of the association. After members review the concepts, they can confirm their membership and request an official survey by filling out this form.

Once completed and verified, you will receive an email (form) from NIEBNA within 2 business days that will allow you to submit comments.

You can request a survey from June 17 - June 24, 2021. All feedback must be sent back to NIEBNA by July 1, 2021.

If you have any questions or comments about this project, please contact NIEBNA Executive Director, Chris Lautenschlager, at chris@niebna.org.

Minneapolis Police Precinct 1 Update

E-announcment sent as a courtesy for Neighborhood and Community Relations (NCR) Department of the City of Minneapolis:

Crime prevention team transitioning to Neighborhood & Community Relations June 28

The Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) and Neighborhood and Community Relations (NCR) Department would like to announce that MPD’s Crime Prevention Specialists, who have been an integral part of the MPD for over thirty years, will officially transition to the City’s NCR Department on Monday, June 28, 2021. Crime Prevention Specialists are being transferred to NCR at the direction of the City Council.  

Since January 2021, NCR staff have worked closely with Chief Arradondo, Deputy Chief Waite and Deputy Chief Fors to ensure that the Crime Prevention Specialists will have access to the technology they need to perform their numerous responsibilities. This includes conducting premise surveys, offering block leader trainings, providing crime statistics, participating in weekly MSTAT meetings with law enforcement and participating in crime prevention strategies. In addition, stakeholders will continue to see Crime Prevention Specialists educating the community about public safety and at community and neighborhood association meetings and related events. 

The direct supervision of the Crime Prevention Specialists will transition to NCR Crime Prevention Team Manager Jose Velez. He can be reached at jose.velez@minneapolismn.gov.

West River Parkway Closures, June 18 - 20

Please note the following West River Parkway closures for this weekend:

US Paralympic Cycling Team Trials

Friday, June 18, 9am - 2pm

Saturday, June 19, 6am – 3pm

West River Parkway, Portland to 46th Avenue S

Stone Arch Bridge Festival

Friday, June 18, 9am to Sunday, June 20, 9pm

West River Parkway from 4th Avenue N to Portland Avenue

Tipton-Hammond Arts Celebrates Grand Opening in the Northrup King Building on June 19

Northup King Building welcomes it's newest gallery, Tipton-Hammond Arts

Opening celebration is Saturday, June 19, from 12-4pm, featuring live music by Brian Forehand

.

Local artists Beverly Tipton-Hammond and A. Drew Hammond are hosting a gallery opening of their artwork at Northrup King Building, #261, on Saturday, June 19th from 12-4pm.

Beverly and Drew were commissioned by the Minnesota African American Museum and Gallery in Minneapolis to participate in the creation of the Black Lives Matter mural. Additionally, this dynamic duo has artwork exhibited in The Absence of Justice exhibit at the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery.  Drew’s art was selected for Hennepin Theatre Trust’s Art Connects Us billboard initiative last year.

City Center Welcomes New Tenants

Via a June 15 Press Release fom Ryan Companies

As COVID-19 mandates ease up and workers start returning to their downtown offices, new storefronts are emerging. Ryan Companies US, Inc. is excited to announce several new tenants at City Center. 

“Just over a year ago, the vibrancy of downtown crowds and traffic came to a halt. We had no idea what to expect in the months that followed,” said Jim Durda, general manager at City Center. “Now, we’re ready to welcome people back, along with some exciting new businesses. This is just the beginning of more good news to come.” 

*  *  *  NOW OPEN  *  *  *

Bell Bank, Suite 265

Bell Bank opened its first full-service downtown Minneapolis location in City Center, and leaders of the company – one of the nation’s largest family-and-employee-owned banks – are eager to be part of the revitalization and continued development in the heart of Minneapolis. Offering a full range of banking and financial services and guidance, Bell is built on a unique “bottom line” focused not on dollars and cents, but on “happy employees. happy customers.” Bell’s team of experienced bankers anticipates welcoming downtown customers who want to connect with a bank they will love. And the team is gearing up to host appreciation and meet-and-greet events on its Nicollet-view terrace and in its unique Champions Club – which spotlights Bell Champions including Ben Leber, Lindsay Whalen, Chris Hawkey, Gavin Kaysen and Marney Gellner.

Chase Bank, Suite 242

One of Chase’s newest branch locations in the Twin Cities is now open at the corner of Nicollet Mall and Seventh Street South with convenient second floor skyway access. “Despite the challenges of the past year, we never wavered on our commitment to downtown Minneapolis,” said Branch Manager Emily Johnson. “We opened last November and have been open every day since, welcoming all customers, no appointment necessary.” Chase proudly serves nearly half of America’s households with a broad range of financial services including personal banking, credit cards, mortgages, auto financing, investment advice, small business loans and payment processing. Customers can choose how and where they want to bank: More than 4,700 branches in 39 states and the District of Columbia, 16,000 ATMs, mobile, online and by phone. For more information and to find other Twin Cities Chase branch and ATM locations, go to chase.com.

*  *  *  COMING SOON  *  *  *

Bad Axe Throwing, Suite 103

The world's largest axe throwing company Bad Axe Throwing is opening its second Minneapolis location at City Center. This will be the company’s third largest location in the country and will feature 24 targets and a full bar. Bad Axe Throwing will host competitive leagues, birthday parties, bachelor/ bachelorette parties, and corporate and team building events. Its mission is to bring the thrill of a traditional Canadian backyard pastime to urban communities. Expanding to over 35 locations in six years, the company has brought axe throwing to over a million people across Canada, U.S. and U.K. Opening fall 2021.

Tom’s Watch Bar, Suite 101

Tom’s Watch Bar is opening its first Minneapolis location at City Center. Founded in 2014, Toms Watch Bar defines the ultimate sports watching entertainment experience. Promising “All the Sports, All the Time”, Toms Watch Bar’s highly curated sports programming covers all sports, from collegiate to professional to international, big events and prize fights, even emerging obscure and outrageous sports. Toms Watch Bar’s central oversized “stadium” screen, surrounded by hundreds of screens provides 360-degree viewing, making every seat at Toms the best seat in the house. Sports fans have to option to enjoy premium sound or personalize their sound and listen to the play-by-play for their favorite game. Toms Watch Bar’s menu features high quality versions of traditional sports bar fare coupled with contemporary options to satisfy any and every hungry sports fan. Opening 2022.

City Center is a 51-story, 1.6 million square foot office and retail complex located in the heart of the Minneapolis 64-square-block skyway system. Last June 2020, the retail building revealed a $3 million façade renovation and in January 2021, was the largest property in Minnesota to earn the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum designation by the United States Green Building Council. Ryan’s Real Estate Management provides management and building services to City Center. The company now manages more than 16 million square feet of property across the country including 9 million square feet in Minnesota.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -

About Ryan Companies US, Inc.

Founded in 1938, Ryan Companies offers comprehensive commercial real estate services as a national developer, architect, capital investment consultant, builder and real estate manager with a focus on bringing lasting value to its customers and the communities in which it works. Ryan market depth includes retail, industrial, healthcare and senior living. Ryan development and corporate build-to-suit work spans a wide range of product types including office, mixed-use, hospitality, multifamily housing and mission critical facilities. Ryan has nearly 1,600 employees in 15 offices and has completed projects in 39 states. For more information, visit ryancompanies.com.

Mill City Farmers Market Vendor, Lost Capital Foods, Wins Big at International Hot Sauce Competition ZestFest 2021

Via a June 12 Press Release

Minnesota shines at the nation’s longest running hot sauce competition ZestFest 2021 as Lost Capital Foods brings home 5 awards

The Fiery Food Challenge is the longest‑running, most prestigious competition of zesty products in the industry. Held at ZestFest in Irving, TX every year the challenge invites hot, spicy, and zesty foods to be submitted by businesses vying for the coveted Golden Chile Award – one of only two major “fiery” food awards in the United States.

Lost Capital Foods took home 5 awards at this year’s competition. Three of their hot sauces, (Another Bad Investment, Pyramid Scheme and Consider the Sauce) took ribbons in their respective categories as well as their spicy pub mustard (Economics Coarse) and recently released hot honey (Bear Market). Lost Capital was not the only company representing Minnesota at this year’s competition. Other local makers receiving awards in their separate categories this year were Singh’s Caribbean Heat, Facepunch Foods and Folly Coffee for the sauce featuring one of their signature roasts. Minnesota is certainly a formidable opponent on the national fiery food scene and has shown the field that “Minnesota Hot” has taken on new meaning as these four local companies took home a total of 14 awards from the competition this year.

When asked about his experience at ZestFest, DJ Bocchetti, cofounder of Lost Capital Foods, had this to say, “Honestly, it was just exciting to hear our name called out next to some of the leaders of the industry. There are a lot of great makers up in Minnesota and we couldn’t be happier to come down to Texas and represent them the way we did.”

Lost Capital Foods has made a name for themselves with their clean label fermented hot sauces and their luxurious flavor profiles. Formed in 2017 by a husband-and-wife team along with their longtime friend and business partner, their clean label fermented sauces can be found around the state at Lunds & Byerlys, select Hy-vees, local co-ops and soon at Jerry’s Foods stores. They are highly active at the area’s outdoor markets, most notably Mill City and East Isles Farmer’s Markets and can also be found showcasing their award-winning products at the Stone Arch Bridge Festival June 19-20 on the west bank of the Mississippi River. For a full calendar of Lost Capital’s upcoming events check out their website https://www.lostcapitalfoods.com.

"Downtown Thursdays" Features Activities and Events all Summer in Downtown

Via a June 10 Press Release from the mpls downtown council

Enjoy mpls downtown this summer with activities and programming taking place throughout our city’s core. With more workers returning to office and patrons to events, activities and patios alike, downtown’s reanimation continues each week.

Throughout the summer, there will be free events and programs happening that will add to your collective experiences. Headlined by Downtown Thursdays—which features the Nicollet Farmer’s + Maker’s markets, music, patio fun and more—downtown has many can’t-miss activities to check out on breaks, after work, or before a planned outing.

Visit www.mplsdowntown.com for information on Downtown Thursdays, walking tours, green spaces, what’s new, a full calendar of events and more.

“Downtown is ready for us to fully embrace the experiences and moments we enjoyed pre-pandemic,” said Steve Cramer, president & ceo of the mpls downtown council and Mpls Downtown Improvement District. “Each week Downtown Thursdays will be a full day of activities throughout downtown—from your morning commute to your after-work happy hour. And there are more activities throughout the week. We have a vibrant, resilient community, and we are ready to dive back into those moments we missed over the past 15 months.”

This summer’s weekly downtown events and programming will include: 

• Downtown Thursdays  |  Nicollet Farmers Market & Makers Market, Nicollet closed to bus route 6 am – 3 pm, MNSpin concerts, lawn games, Upper Lock & Dam Tours, Paddle Share promotions, Target Free Thursday Nights at Walker Art Museum, movies at Target Field Station, programming at The Commons, Twins games, various happy hour specials and programming at downtown restaurants and bars, and more
• Pianos on Parade presented by PNC Bank
• Peavey Plaza programming

“Summer is here, and there is nothing better than enjoying a patio before or after your favorite events,” said Ryan Petz, CEO of Fulton Beer. “We love being part of the downtown community nearby all the fantastic events and venues you can’t find anywhere else. Our taproom is thrilled to see downtown’s reanimation and love welcoming our patrons to enjoy summer together.”

Pre-pandemic, downtown welcomed 218,000 workers daily and millions of visitors annually. Today, with 53,000 downtown residents, over 26 percent of downtown’s workforce already returned with more coming this summer through fall, and stadiums, restaurants and entertainment venues preparing for full capacity, downtown is ready and able to accommodate its continued reanimation.

“We very much look forward returning to our downtown office,” said Meike Hengelfelt, CenterPoint Energy Strategic Marketing Manager. “We are so excited to be back in person with our colleagues to work collaboratively but also to enjoy downtown and all it has to offer – the Farmers Market on Nicollet Mall, spending the lunch hour by Peavey Plaza fountains, a summer evening on one of the beautiful downtown patios and so much more. Collectively, we are the ones who make downtown and we look forward to creating new experiences and making it an even better place for all this summer.”

Enjoy Downtown Thursdays all summer

Downtown is the place to be each Thursday this summer! Take in the Nicollet Farmers Market and Nicollet Makers Market from 6 am-2 pm. At Peavey Plaza, enjoy MNSpin live music (12-1 pm), free lawn games (11:30 am-1:30 pm), and piano performances (5-6 pm). The Mississippi Park Connection is offering Lock and Dam tours plus 10 percent off paddle share tickets. The Walker Art Center has its Target Free Thursday Nights from 5-9 pm. Plus, enjoy summer evenings with Happy Hours at our fantastic downtown restaurant scene. There will be special events and activities throughout the summer.

Pianos on Parade presented by PNC Bank returns

Pianos on Parade presented by PNC Bank return this summer with an extended run and includes pianos placed throughout downtown June through August. This year’s pianos are being painted through artist collaborations with Kulture Klub Collaborative, FAIR School, Art Buddies and other local artists to reflect a theme of A Vibrant Downtown. Pianos will be available for the public to share their gift of music, and they will also have more than 90 scheduled performances.

Splash and play at Peavey Plaza

Get ready for fun activities at Peavey Plaza throughout the summer. Enjoy free lawn games each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11:30 am-1:30 pm, free vinyasa yoga with the YWCA of Minneapolis on Tuesdays at 5:30 pm, Pianos on Parade performances on Wednesdays at 12 pm and Thursdays at 5 pm, MNSpin live music on Thursdays at 12 pm. Plus, enjoy the fountains and splashpad at Peavey Plaza throughout the summer.

Your favorite dish. Your perfect patio. The best part is you.

Downtown Thursdays complements a wide variety of happy hour specials at downtown restaurants including 8th Street Grill, Borough, Boulevard Bar & Grill, Constantine, Cowboy Jacks, CRAVE, Gluek’s, Lyons Pub, Monello, Nolo’s Kitchen Bar, The Loop and more.

For more information on downtown’s reanimation, a calendar of events, walking tours, and more, visit www.mplsdowntown.com. 

About the mpls downtown council

Founded in 1955, and one of the most historic central business associations in the nation, the mpls 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 mplsdowntown.com.

About the Mpls Downtown Improvement District

The Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) is a business funded non-profit focused on creating a more vibrant downtown. DID leads and collaborates on programs that make downtown safer, cleaner and greener. DID convenes people across sectors and jurisdictions to work on issues of mutual interest; develop innovative solutions to complex public space challenges/opportunities including strategic activation and seek continuous improvement of ongoing programs including the ambassadors. For more information, visit www.mplsdid.com.

MPRB Invites You to Help Plan and Design Graco Park, a New Riverfront Park Project in NE Minneapolis

Via a June 9 announcement from Minneapolis Park and Rec Board

A view of Hall's Island, Plymouth Avenue Bridge and East Bank Trail running through the future Graco Park

Project includes new and improved park, new park building and connections to Hall's Island and Boom Island Park

A new stage of Northeast Minneapolis riverfront park development begins this summer! The new project includes:

• A new and improved park, called Graco Park on a parcel of riverfront land north of Plymouth Avenue Bridge that currently hosts a section of Mississippi East Bank Trail and a gravel beach facing Hall's Island.
• Design and construction of a building supporting Graco Park on the former Parcel D site (now referred to as Lot 2) along Sibley Street NE.
  • See below for information on submitting a Letter of Interest for being a tenant, hosting programs, or both in the new building.
• Improved trail connections to Boom Island Park and a pedestrian bridge connecting to Hall’s Island.

The project will be based on a site concept plan approved by Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Commissioners and a series of agreements reached with Graco Inc. in 2018. 

An overhead view of the plan for Graco Park. Tap or click the image to open a larger file in an internet browser.

Get Involved!

The MPRB invites anyone interested in the Graco Park project to give feedback that will be used to develop park and building concepts. The first of three planned phases of engagement in 2021 just launched. There are multiple ways to get involved:

Online Survey and Resources: Visit the project engagement page to find maps and images with information about the project and prompts to provide input. All submitted ideas and comments will be documented and considered as designs for the project are developed. This survey will be open through July 7, 2021.

In-Person Event: Share your thoughts in person at Graco Park on Saturday, June 12, 1-3 pm. Look for the MPRB tent and table!

Virtual Conversation: Join MPRB staff and community members for an online conversation about the project on Wednesday, June 23, 4:30-6 pm. Use the Zoom link below to join:

Graco Park Zoom Link - Meeting ID: 928 8232 1476, Passcode: 303288

Down the Road: The first phase of engagement wraps up in July. Project staff will use feedback collected to create multiple park and building design concepts and share them in August for another round of feedback with another survey and additional in-person events. Then, in the fall, a single, preferred concept will be shared for a third round of engagement.  

Visit the Graco Park and Lot 2 project page and enter your email address into the box under "Subscribe to Email Updates" to stay informed about this project.

Call for Letters of Interest in Graco Park Building

The MPRB is soliciting letters of interest (LOI) from interested parties, organizations, businesses, or proprietors that are interested in being a tenant, hosting programs, or both in a new proposed MPRB building in Graco Park. As part of the new Graco Park design process, there is also an opportunity for a future separate commercial space to be developed on the site adjacent to the Park Board building with the intention of the building to support operations of a park-supportive vendor. This call for letters of interest is for both opportunities. Interested parties should review the submission guidelines and submit a letter of interested by July 23, 2021.

The new park owned and operated building will be approximately 4,000 square feet comprised of a combination of shared or independent office space, community meeting rooms, public restrooms, and an open programmable gallery-like hall. The design and configuration of the future commercial building may change as a result of the design process.

Letter of Interest Submission Guidelines

Schedule and Deadlines

Release of solicitation for proposals: June 7, 2021
Questions or requests for clarifications due July 7, 2021
Responses to questions or requests for clarifications posted July 10, 2021
Proposals due 5 pm CST, July 23
Interviews, if required early August 2021

Questions regarding this request shall be directed VIA EMAIL ONLY to:
Carrie Christensen, Senior Planner, cchristensen@minneapolisparks.org

Sunset from the Franklin Avenue Bridge

Submitted by Mill District resident Ric Rosow

I took a four mile walk the other day that included crossing the Franklin Avenue Bridge. Normally I am on my bike or in a car going over the bridge. Walking allowed me to visualize what a sunset photo on a clear night might look like.

I went back that evening. Although it was past 7:30pm I had arrived too early. Of course I did not want to be late as the sunset waits for no one. But at that time the sun was far too bright. It had not descended far enough for any photograph to be worthwhile. I walked back to my car and drove back down East River Road to the East River Flats Park to see if I could get a better angle on the setting sun that would not blow out all the detail from the sky. That was a waste of my time and the small parking fee in the parking lot, as the park is lower than the bridge and the view of downtown is nothing to write home about. I went back to the Franklin Avenue Bridge and decided to photograph the river looking to the east. The vegetation was lush and the river was calm. I could see the reflections of the railroad bridge and the Lake Street Bridge in the water. By the time I finished photographing to the east, the sun was setting quickly behind downtown. I hurried back to the intersection and crossed over to the other side of the bridge. This was the perfect time to take the photograph I had visualized. The sky was beautiful and the reflections in the river of the bridge was grand.

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More of my work can be found at https://www.ricrosowphotography.com and in the Tres Leches Art Gallery at the Northrup King Building. 

May 2021 by the Numbers

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

A Message From the mpls downtown council on Downtown this Summer

Via a June 1 News Release from the mpls downtown council:

Mpls Downtown this summer: The best part is you.

Whether it is a return to play or return to office—or both—we’ll see you downtown.

Sunshine and summer are here, and mpls downtown is signaling a return to collective urban experiences. Whether you are returning to play, to work—or both—the downtown community is ready for you to take part in a dynamic lineup of events and programming.

The time is now to enjoy festivities in our city’s core. Approximately 24 percent of downtown’s workforce has returned to the office this spring, and three distinct return-to-office waves are being planned: After Memorial Day, after the 4^th of July, and after Labor Day.

Couple that with downtown’s 53,000 residents and many entertainment venues adding capacity and events, and we have the recipe for a vibrant summer downtown. The best part is you. See you Downtown.

“Across all industry sectors, our downtown community is collectively working together to create converging events that will add to your overall experience while you’re here this summer,” said Steve Cramer, president & ceo of the mpls downtown council. “We are ready to be together again, and there will be ample opportunities to enjoy multiple activities while you’re downtown this summer.”

A variety of events and activities await you, including: 

• Twins games at Target Field
• Lynx games at Target Center
• Live concerts at First Avenue, The Armory, Target Field and more
• Minnesota Orchestra concerts at Orchestra Hall
• Patio happy hour specials
• Downtown Thursdays including Nicollet Farmers Market + Makers Market
• Live MNSpin concerts, yoga and games at Peavey Plaza
• Pianos on Parade

“This is such an exciting time as we look ahead to audiences returning to Orchestra Hall,” said Michelle Miller Burns, President & CEO of the Minnesota Orchestra. “We are so excited to welcome our patrons back not only to experience live music with the Orchestra but to enjoy the full downtown experiences—a walk along Nicollet, a few moments enjoying the Peavey Plaza fountains, and perhaps a patio seat. These are the collective experiences we’ve missed and look forward to again this summer.”

While downtown, enjoy your favorite restaurants or try one of several new spots that opened this spring. More than 300 restaurant and retail locations are open for full or partial hours, and more are scheduled to open this summer. Some of the recently opened or re-opened stores include 112 Eatery, The Butcher’s Tale, Afro Deli, Bar La Grassa, Coconut Whisk, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Sistah Co-Op, Snack Bar, and Whiskey & Soda.

“Downtown’s vitality is critical to our fans’ experience coming to Lynx games this summer, so we know how important it is for us to work collaboratively with the business community to ensure a series of great experiences during their trip to Target Center,” said Ethan Casson, Chief Executive Officer for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. “We are all in with our partners on helping create fun and vibrant experiences each time our fans return.”

The mpls downtown calendar includes upcoming events and can help you plan your next visit. Check out the calendar, plus learn more about walking tours, green space, your long overdue staycation and more at www.mplsdowntown.com.

About the mpls downtown council

Founded in 1955, and one of the most historic central business associations in the nation, the mpls 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 mplsdowntown.com.