Wildflyer Coffee Enters Powderhorn 24 to Raise Funds for Their Work Creating Employment Ops for Youth Experiencing Homelessness/Housing Instability

Wildflyer Coffee is a nonprofit coffee company that exists to create employment opportunities for youth experiencing homelessness and housing instability.

They're participating in the August 2 - 3 Powderhorn 24 race, with a group of 12 cycling enthusiasts and Wildflyer supporters riding on behalf of their mission.  They'll be pedaling furiously for 24 hours to get in as many laps as possible to raise funds for Wildflyer Coffee, and are requesting individuals to pledge either a certain amount per lap, or a flat fee if preferred.

How does this work?  Pledge a specified dollar amount per lap completed (or a flat amount) on the team page.  Sit back while the team cycles for 24 hours. After the race is done your pledge will be collected.

All funds raised go towards Wildflyer's employment and life skills training program providing support for youth aged 16-24 experiencing homelessness and housing instability in our community.

There's a chance Wildflyer's coffee cart will be parked by Gold Medal Park during National Night Out on August 6, which would be a good opportunity to learn more about their work.

July 31 Deadline for Entries in the Friends of the Mississippi River's Summer 2019 Write to the River Project

Summer on the Mississippi River. Hues from dense green leaves reflect upon the river, while a mother deer and her fawn go for a swim. Photo by Tom Reiter.

What brings you to the Mississippi during the summer? 

Friends of the Mississippi River invites you to be inspired and participate in their Write to the River creative writing project. Share an original poem or short prose response to seasonal images along the Upper Mississippi River.

Submit your piece via the Submission and Release Form by Wednesday, July 31, 2019. Open to all ages. All submissions will be published in FOMR's next online edition, and they may also showcase some submissions in future issues of Mississippi Messages, their biweekly e-newsletter. Sign up to get each season's prompt and news of edition releases.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact the Write to the River Coordinator, Leslie Thomas, at writetotheriver@fmr.org.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

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

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

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

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

North Loop Reconstruction Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

5th Ave N

• Continuing water work at 5th and 3rd St N
• Began removing poor subgrade material and replacing with sand between 4th St N and 3rd St N
• Began storm sewer work

7th Ave N

8th Ave N

9th Ave N

3rd St N

• Continued water work between 8th Ave N and 5th Ave N
• Began salvaging brick pavers on the north side of 3rd St N between 10th Ave N and 7th Ave N
• Removal of east sidewalk & curb between 10th & 5th Avenue starting

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

5th Ave N

• Continuing water work at 5th and 3rd St N (8th Ave N to 5th Ave N)- there will be a temporary water shut off on the night of Monday July 22, 2019. If your property is effected, a notice will be placed on the door of your property in 48 hours’ in advance for impacted businesses, 24 hours’ in advance to impacted residences
• Continue the removal of poor soils -work will begin at 4th St N and move towards Washington, this work may impact traffic flow on 5th Ave N
• Continue with storm sewer work
• Start sanitary sewer work

7th Ave N

• Tentatively planning on placing the first lift of asphalt next Thursday and Friday (7-25 and 7-26)
• Begin concrete installation (curb and gutter placement and possibly driveway placement) will start the following Monday, 7-29

8th Ave N

• Tentatively planning on next Thursday and Friday (7-25 and 7-26) at Washington and 8th Ave N (possibly one pass along the entire stretch)
• If the first lift of asphalt is placed on 7/25 and 7/26, curb and gutter installation will follow at the intersection of Washington and 8th Ave N
• Access to properties between Washington and 3rd St N will partially reopen at Washington.

9th Ave N

• Finish placing aggregate base in preparation to place the first lift of asphalt at Washington and 9th Ave N
• Tentatively planning on paving 7-17 and 7-18 at Washington and 9th Ave N (possibly one pass along 9th Ave N)
• If the first lift of asphalt is placed on 7/25 and 7/26, curb and gutter installation will follow at the intersection of Washington and 9th Ave N
• Access to properties between Washington and 3rd St N will partially reopen at Washington.

3rd St N

• Install hydrants along 3rd St N
• Continue salvaging brick pavers between 10th Ave N and 7th Ave N, crews will start on the south ½ of 3rd St next week. The north side will be open to maintain 2 way traffic along 3rd
• Sidewalk and curb removals will begin on the north side of the street between 10th Avenue & 5th Avenue
• Pedestrian access will be maintained on the south side of 3rd St N

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

North Loop Pedestrian Improvements Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

1st St N

• 3rd Ave N-water work started
• 4th Ave N- placed concrete on SW corner
• 2nd Ave N -SW corner removed

2nd St N NW Corner

• 4th Ave N – Removed Southside
• 5th Ave N – Completed north side, started removals on southside
• 8th Ave N -  Started electrical work for Pedestrian Crosswalk system

4th Ave and W River Parkway

• Placed concrete on the SE corner

10th Ave N

• 4th St N – remove north side

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

1st St N

• 1st St N and 3rd Ave- Finishing water work, 9 have been hooded between 2nd Ave N and 3rd Ave N to maintain two-way traffic during the work. This work should be complete in a week or two.
• 3rd Ave N – Install hydrant
• 2nd Ave N -Install hydrant
• 8th Ave N – Pour remaining concrete

 2nd St N

• 4th Ave N pour remaining concrete
• 5th Ave N pour remaining concrete
• 8th Ave N begin installing conduit for new pedestrian flasher system. Pour remaining concrete

4th Ave and W River Parkway

• Northside of Parkway pour remaining concrete

10th Ave

• 4th Street Pour Concrete on north Side

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

Miscellanious

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

Date/Time: July 24, 7:30 am to 8:30 am

Location:  Corner Coffee 514 N 3rd St #102

Contact Information

Project Manager:

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

Chief Field Inspector:

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

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

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

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Latest Project News

 

Utility construction work continues throughout the corridor. 

Xcel Energy is continuing their conduit duct bank installation at 3rd St. 

The sanitary sewer contractor progressed across the 8th St. intersection and began work in the 9th St intersection this week.  The 8th St intersection across Hennepin will reopen this weekend.  The Gateway Development contractor began work on the sewer services into Hennepin this week as well.

The water contractor completed the services and mainline tie-in connections this week between 10th and 12th streets.

What's Coming Up 

Xcel Energy will being their work in Hennepin from 3rd to Washington next week and will continue for several months.

The sewer contractor will be completing their work between 7th and 8th streets in the coming weeks.  Once the sewer contractor is complete, Xcel Energy will move into that block and begin work at the 7th St intersection, progressing south.

The water contractor will be doing the testing and final connections along with some hydrant work next week followed by final restoration by the end of the month.  Once they are complete the sewer contractor will begin moving south into the block from 10th to 11th.

See weekly update attached for more information.

Hennepin_Update_Vol8.pdf

For more information on this project contact: 

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

www.hennepindowntown.com

Construction Begins on Water Works, New Downtown Riverfront Park Project

Via a July 18 e-newsletter from Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

An illustration depicting Water Works from above

Section of West River Parkway scheduled to close beginning July 29 to accommodate construction

Construction has begun on Water Works, a new downtown riverfront park project within Mill Ruins Park!

This week work began with excavation around the buried Columbia Mill walls and rehabilitation of historic stonework masonry. Much of the initial work consists of site excavation, grading and utilities, with building demolition and new construction happening later.

About Water Works

Water Works is a two-phase, transformative riverfront park project along the downtown Minneapolis Riverfront. 

The first phase, called the Mezzanine Phase, encompasses about 2.5 acres, from West River Parkway to 1st Street S, and 3rd Avenue S to Fifth Avenue S. It includes a new indoor riverfront pavilion featuring a restaurant and food service venue run by The Sioux Chef, upper terrace and plantings, city steps overlooking the Mississippi River, outdoor play areas and gathering spaces, a connection to the Mill City Quarter woonerf and improved biking and walking connections.

The Minneapolis Parks Foundation is a partner in this this project and has raised millions of dollars through private and corporate philanthropy to support Water Works and other RiverFirst projects.

Phase 1 is expected to be complete in late summer 2020. Phase 2, the Riverside Phase, will follow the Mezzanine Phase.

An illustration showing people enjoying the area outside the new riverfront pavilion at night

West River Parkway Closure

West River Parkway is scheduled to close July 29 (possibly later) to accommodate construction activities while maintaining a safe environment for workers and park users. It will reopen in the fall.

The parkway will close between Fourth Avenue North and the Stone Arch Bridge parking lot.  Access to the Whitney Lofts will remain open. The MPRB will try to keep the Stone Arch Bridge parking lot open, but it may close if safety becomes an issue.

The bicycle and pedestrian trail on this stretch of West River Parkway will also close later this fall. The MPRB will work to keep the trails open as much as possible and minimize temporary travel surfaces.

Slope Failure Along the East Bank of the Mississippi River; Trail and Parkway Temporarily Closed

Via a July 17 e-announcement from Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

View of slope failure from across the Mississippi River

At approximately 9:30 am this morning, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) staff were notified by the University of Minnesota of a slope failure along the Mississippi riverbank next to East River Parkway, which runs along the upper bluff above the slope.The slope failure occurred between Washington Avenue and Arlington Street. Soil and debris sloughed off the upper bank and slid down the slope towards the river. At this time there has been no report of personal injuries or damage to the parkway, vehicles or nearby buildings.

Safety is the MPRB’s primary concern.The trail, which also runs along the upper bluff and is directly adjacent to the slope failure area, sustained damage and was closed off this morning. MPRB staff and an MPRB geotechnical consultant are on site to conduct an initial safety assessment and have temporarily closed the parkway while investigation takes place.

Although recent heavy rainfall is presumed to have had a role in the slope failure, a full and thorough assessment needs to be conducted.

Google Maps image of E. River Pkwy, north of Washington Ave. University of Minnesota is on right

Dancing, Music, Ice Cream and Fun Highlight Minneapolis’ Sister Cities Day Celebration

Via a July 17 News Release from Meet Minneapolis:

Free, family-friendly event on Nicollet Island showcases the culture of Minneapolis’ 12 Sister Cities

Meet Minneapolis is pleased to announce a day of family fun and free, culturally inclusive entertainment and crafts at the 12th annual Sister Cities Day celebration at the Nicollet Island Pavilion on July 21, from 1-5 p.m. The day features musicians and performers representing a half dozen of Minneapolis’ 12 sister cities, as well as informational displays and crafts for people of all ages. In addition, complimentary make-your-own sundaes and other refreshments will be available while supplies last.

Set alongside the Mississippi River in one of the most beautiful parks in Minneapolis, the Sister Cities Day celebration will occur rain or shine. At 2 p.m., enjoy a special cake-cutting as Minneapolis marks 10 years of sister cityhood with Najaf, Iraq. This event is sponsored by Meet Minneapolis in partnership with its 12 sister city organizations.

“This annual, family-friendly celebration is one way for our city to continue fostering cultural awareness within our community,” said Meet Minneapolis President and CEO Melvin Tennant. “Through the Minneapolis Sister City’s program, we are also able to showcase our region and culture to other parts of the world and learn how different cities are leveraging their attributes for the economic benefit of their communities.”

Among this year’s performing groups:

• Gilgamesh, representing Najaf, Iraq. Dancers will perform Chobi dancing, a modern circle dance. This dance is usually reserved for weddings. However, this year, it will help us celebrate the 10th anniversary with our sister city in Iraq.
• Songs of Hope, a youth performing arts summer camp representing a dozen countries from around the world. Children from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and the U.S. come together for six weeks of singing and performances. Their focus is spreading cultural unity wherever they go.
• Harisen Daiko, Minnesota taiko drumming group representing Ibaraki City, Japan. Taiko drumming is an ancient Japanese form of percussion utilizing large drums and has been used for many purposes, including communication, military action, theatrical accompaniment and religious ceremonies.
• Annelise Carlson and Liang Sorman, representing Harbin, China. These musicians will showcase traditional Chinese music playing instruments such as the guzheng, yangqin and the hulusi. The hulusi's origins can be traced back more than 2,000 years to the pre-Qin period.
• Mexico Lindo, representing Cuernavaca, Mexico. Performers will showcase Ballet Folklorico, which is a mix of a traditional Mexican folk dance with ballet characteristics. Engaging and energetic, adults to the very young perform with precise choreography representing the unique cultures of Mexico.

The Minneapolis Sister Cities program was established in 1961 with the signing of the first Sister City agreement between Minneapolis and Santiago, Chile. Today, it includes: Winnipeg, Canada; Santiago, Chile; Harbin, China; Kuopio, Finland; Tours, France; Najaf, Iraq; Ibaraki City, Japan; Eldoret, Kenya; Cuernavaca, Mexico; Novosibirsk, Russia; Bosaso, Somalia; and Uppsala, Sweden.

Learn more about the Minneapolis Sister Cities program here.

HandsFreeMN Cell Phone Law Begins August 1

HandsFreeMN is effective August 1st!

Starting August 1st, you can recieve a ticket for driving your vehicle with your cellphone in your hand. There will be NO warning ticket. For more information, go to: HandsFreeMN.org

For questions, contact:

Rowena Holmes, Crime Prevention Specialist 
Minneapolis Police Department, 4th Precinct  
(612) 673-2833 
rowena.holmes@minneapolismn.gov

New Exhibit at Mill City Museum Explores African-American Architects Who Shaped Minnesota

A new exhibit created by the African American Interpretive Center of Minnesota (AAICM) exploring the stories of several African-American architects whose work helped form the Twin Cities we know today will open Thursday, August 8 at the Mill City Museum. “The Builders: Shaping Minnesota’s Architectural Landscape on the Color Line” will feature maps and blueprints of the architects’ creations and offer insight into the lives of black Minnesotans in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The exhibit will feature the following architects:

• Clarence “Cap” Wigington: Lead architect on 90+ St. Paul city projects, including the Highland water tower and Roy Wilkins Auditorium, Wigington was the first African-American municipal architect in the nation.
• Casiville Bullard: A renowned stoneworker, Bullard first arrived in Minnesota to work on the third Minnesota State Capitol and contributed to some of the most iconic buildings in the Twin Cities, like the Foshay Tower, the Cathedral of St. Paul and the governor’s residence.
• William Hazel: Already a noted architect and stained glass artist when he moved to St. Paul in 1887, Hazel worked as one of the few African-American designer-salesmen for Tiffany & Company. He worked on St. Peter’s African Methodist Episcopal Church in Minneapolis and went on to teach at the Tuskegee Institute and Howard University. 

The exhibit kicks off with an opening program Thursday, August 8 from 6-9pm, including remarks from JoJo Bell, executive director and curator of AAICM, and Acoma Gaither, co-curator and research assistant at AAICM, at 7 p.m. The exhibit will be on display in Mill City Museum’s Mill Commons through October 27 and is free and open to the public during regular museum hours. 

On Monday, October 14 from 7-8 p.m., visitors can enjoy a program exploring the lives of black architects in Minnesota’s past and present with AAICM and LSE Architects. 

About Mill City Museum

Built within the ruins of the Washburn A Mill, a National Historic Landmark, the award-winning Mill City Museum chronicles the flour milling industry that fueled the growth of Minneapolis. The story comes to life through the eight-story Flour Tower, Water Lab, Baking Lab and other hands-on exhibits. The museum is located at 704 S Second Street. For more information, call 612-341-7555 or visit www.mnhs.org/millcity.

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

MacPhail to Host August 6th National Night Out in Gold Medal Park

Article by Claudia Kittock 

National Night Out is returning to Gold Medal Park on August 6th. Grab a blanket and picnic lunch and join your friends in celebrating the spirit of the neighborhood.

MacPhail Center for Music is the host and will be bringing musicians. They will be joined by a photo booth, sponsored by Emanuel Housing. Open Eye Theater will be performing a puppet show at 7:00, sponsored by Friends of the Mill District. The staff of The Legacy will be passing out free root beer floats. We are hoping for stops from the Bike Cops for Kids and the Fire Department.

There is much more news to come, so stay tuned. Make your plans now to join your neighbors on August 6th in Gold Medal Park. See you there!

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About Claudia Kittock

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

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Contact: claudia@millcitymedia.org

Oratorio Society of Minnesota Summer Chorus presents A Night at the Opera Concert August 3 at Ted Mann Concert Hall

The Oratorio Society of Minnesota presents A Night at the Opera featuring popular movements from 12 beloved operas on Saturday, August 3 at 7:30 p.m. at Ted Mann Concert Hall in Minneapolis.

Following the popularity of 2015’s Great Opera Choruses concert, A Night at the Opera includes songs from Carmen, Pirates of Penzance, Tosca, Rigoletto, and more. The program will beperformed by the Society’s Summer Chorus—a festival chorus of 150 singers—with soloist and a full orchestra and conducted by Artistic Director Matthew Mehaffey.

Tickets: $30 (preferred seating) and $20 for adults (general seating); $15 for students; children under 12 are free with adult admission (use promo code CHILD) available at oratorio.org

June by the Numbers

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

Get Ready for the 2019 Aquatennial - July 24 thru 27!

Click here for all 2019 Aquatennial events listing

NOTE: Residents should print this Resident parking pass for July 26 and 27 and put it in their windows so they will be able to easily get through to their building. The residents impacted will be those with parking access off of West River Parkway on either side of Portland and also any apartment building on 1st Street S (across from old Fujiya building).

.  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .

Here is a partial list of events - it's going to be a busy 4 days!

Life Time Torchlight 5K - Wednesday, July 24, 7:30 pm

Location: From Minneapolis Convention to Boom Island

Whether you are a dedicated runner or just someone who jogs from the couch to the fridge, the Life Time Torchlight 5K in Minneapolis is the fun run for everyone! Grab your family, friends and running shoes because the Torchlight 5K starts with a bang and ends with a brew. That’s right, Life Time Fitness’ legendary post-race party features musical entertainment and complimentary refreshments. Then take the NEW shuttle bus system back to the start area. It’s the party of the year that just happens to start with a run! The Torchlight 5K starts near the Minneapolis Convention Center and follows the Aquatennial’s CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade route down Second Avenue. From there, the course weaves to West River Parkway and offers up-close views of the mighty Mississippi, Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls, Mill Ruins Park, and more, before finishing at Boom Island.

LifeTime Torchlight 5K After Party - Wednesday, July 24, 7:30 – 10 pm

Location: Boom Island, 724 Sibley St. NE

Celebrate Aquatennial at the Life Time Torchlight 5K After Party! Stop by Boom Island for beverages, music, activities and more as the sun sets on the Minneapolis Skyline and the torchlight hits full force. No need to be a runner to attend this event–it is open to the public, so you can participate whether you are one of the 5,000 Life Time Torchlight 5K racers or not.

Twin Cities River Rats Ski Show - Thursday, July 25, 7 pm

Location: West River Road between Plymouth and Broadway

Join the Twin Cities River Rats for a humorous, family-friendly water ski show on the Mississippi River. Watch high-flying stunts, fast-paced barefooting, graceful swivel skiing and even human pyramids courtesy of the talented Twin Cities River Rats crew. Bring beach towels or lawn chairs, and enjoy this free water ski show for the whole family along the banks of the Mississippi River – located just south of the Broadway Bridge. Click Here for more information on the Twin Cities River Rats.

Frey’s Fry Throwdown at Aquatennial - Friday, July 26, 12:00PM - 1:00PM

Location: Nicollet between 9th and 10th Streets

Minneapolis has a celebrated culinary scene, and it also has a mayor with a dynamically delicious name. Why not combine the two? The inaugural Frey’s Frey Throwdown at Aquatennial will combine our city’s food scene with our Official Civic Celebration. Mayor Jacob Frey will help Minneapolis celebrate our famed food scene with a fun event that highlights our city’s creativity. The event will offer a chance for eight Minneapolis restaurants to build a brand new French Fry-centric dish. Celebrity judges will help taste-test these dishes and collectively choose a winner. Join us Friday, July 26 from 12-1 pm on Nicollet between 9th and 10th Streets as we enjoy a fun lunch hour taste-testing Frey-tastic creations in downtown Minneapolis!

Alchemy 365 at Aquatennial - Friday, July 26, 6:00 PM – 6:40 PM

Location: Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Join us at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (726 Vineland Place) on an early July evening to take in the weather and the atmosphere that comes with the Minneapolis Aquatennial. Celebrate summer in the City!

This class is free and open to all abilities. Check-in begins at 5 pm. Mats are not provided for this class. No pre-registration required, come early to reserve your spot.  Alchemy 365 combines yoga, strength, and conditioning into one class to change the body and renew the mind. Bring a yoga mat and water.

 

Aquatennial Yoga with Corepower Yoga - Saturday, July 27, 9 am and 10:15 am

Location: Boom Island, 724 Sibley St. NE

Join the Minneapolis community in celebration of the historic Mississippi riverfront with an all-levels CorePower Yoga class. From 9 to 10 am, explore one of CorePower’s most popular formats C2 + Yoga Sculpt in one class, followed by a 30-minute guided meditation from 10 to 10:15 am. Come for one or both to experience the incredible life-changing things that happen when you root an intensely-physical workout in the mindfulness of yoga. Bring your own mat and stay for giveaways after class! 

Aquatennial Pre-Fireworks Events - Saturday, July 27, 4 – 10 pm

Location: West River Parkway near Portland Avenue

Join the fun for the Aquatennial Pre-Fireworks events leading up to the Target Fireworks at 10 pm. Stop by for music, food and more as you await one of the nation’s top five annual fireworks shows. The fun includes live music, a kid’s zone, food trucks and more!

AquaJam - Saturday, July 27, 4 – 8 pm

Location: West River Parkway near Stone Arch Bridge 

An Aquatennial classic event is back! Join us for AquaJam, a legacy event that was a popular Aquatennial destination during the 1980s. This year’s event is taking place right along West River Parkway. Stop by and either take part or watch incredible skateboard just steps away from foods, beverages, shopping, live music and more. AquaJam is presented by Fulton Beer and Familia Skateshop.

Minneapolis Craft Market – Pre-Fireworks Festivities - Saturday, July 27, 4 – 10 pm

Location: West River Parkway near Stone Arch Bridge 

Minneapolis Craft Market is joining the fun of the 2019 Minneapolis Aquatennial festivities on the Mississippi Riverfront with the first annual Aquatennial Night Market. The marketplace will feature 50 local artists selling handmade goods including woodwork, jewelry, apparel, home goods and more. They’ll be joined by local record store Solsta Records with their Rockin’ Roller mobile record store and DJ bus. Find the market on Chicago Mall (Mill City Farmers Market site), a prime location for gathering with friends and enjoying the activities while waiting for the fireworks to start. Minneapolis Craft Market is a mobile marketplace highlighting independent artists and designers of the North. Founded in 2015, the market is hosted at venues throughout the Twin Cities more than 60 times per year and has an approved vendor roster of more than 1,000 local artists.

Target Fireworks Show - Saturday, July 27, 10 pm

Location: Along the Mississippi River in Downtown Minneapolis

Join the Minneapolis Aquatennial in celebrating another year with the Target Fireworks, considered one of the top five annual fireworks displays in the nation. Get there early! Space fills up pretty quickly at this beloved event along West River Parkway and on the Stone Arch Bridge. Bring sunscreen for the afternoon and bug spray for the evening. The best spots are between Gold Medal Park and the Third Avenue Bridge on West River Parkway. While you’re there: enjoy a show, tour or walk on the Endless Bridge at the Guthrie Theater, learn about Minneapolis’ history at the Mill City Museum, enjoy a morning at the Mill City Farmers Market or a leisurely afternoon at Gold Medal Park. Stop by Stone Arch Bridge and check out the skyline view from the Mississippi River. And tune into Go 96.3 to enjoy the simulcast of music set to the Target Fireworks display.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

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

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

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

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

North Loop Reconstruction Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

5th Ave N

• Continuing water work at 5th and 3th St N

7th Ave N

• Grading complete
• Gas work complete

8th Ave N

• Finished removing poor soils and backfilling
• Finished placing aggregate base, in preparation for paving the first lift of asphalt

9th Ave N

• Finished utility work
• Finished removing poor soils and backfilling
• Began placing aggregate base in preparation for paving the first lift of asphalt

3rd St N

• Continued water work between 8th Ave N and 5th Ave N

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

5th Ave N

• Continuing water work at 5th and 3rd St N (8th Ave N to 5th Ave N), there will be a temporary water shut off on the night on Sunday July 14, 2019. If your property is effected, a notice will be placed on the door of your property  48 hours’ in advance for impacted businesses, 24 hours’ in advance to impacted residences
• Starting the removal of poor soils -work will begin at 4th St N and move towards Washington, this work may impact traffic flow on 5th Ave N
• Starting storm sewer work

7th Ave N

• Tentatively planning on placing the first lift of asphalt 7-17 and 7-18
• If the first lift of asphalt is placed on 7-17/7-18, curb and gutter installation will follow

8th Ave N

• Tentatively planning on paving 7-17 and 7-18 at Washington and 8th Ave N (not the entire stretch, just the Washington end)
• If the first lift of asphalt is placed on 7-17/7-18, curb and gutter installation will follow at the intersection of Washington and 8th Ave N
• If the first lift of asphalt is placed on 7-17/7-18, curb and gutter installation will follow at the intersection of Washington and 8th Ave N
• Access to properties between Washington and 3^rd St N will partially reopen at Washington.

9th Ave N

• Finish placing aggregate base in preparation to place the first lift of asphalt at Washington and 9th Ave N
• Tentatively planning on paving 7-17 and 7-18 at Washington and 9th Ave N (not the entire stretch, just the Washington end)
• If the first lift of asphalt is placed on 7-17/7-18, curb and gutter installation will follow at the intersection of Washington and 9th Ave N
• Access to properties between Washington and 3rd St N will partially reopen at Washington.

3rd St N

• Isolated removals for water work only between 8th Ave N and 5th Ave N, there will be a temporary water shut off on the night on Sunday July 14, 2019. If your property is effected, a notice will be placed on the door of your property in 48 hours’ in advance for impacted businesses, 24 hours’ in advance to impacted residences
• Begin salvaging brick pavers, crews will start on the north ½ of 3rd St, all meters along 3rd St N are hooded between 5th Ave N and 10th Ave N in order to maintain two way traffic on 3rd St N

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

North Loop Pedestrian Improvements Updates

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

2nd St N NW Corner

• Crews were off the job from June 27 through July 8
• Started saw cutting on 1st St N at 2nd, 4th and 5th Aves N

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

2nd St N NW Corner

• 4th Ave N pour remaining concrete
• 5th Ave N pour remaining concrete
• 8th Ave N begin installing conduit for new pedestrian flasher system

1st St N

• 1st St N and 3rd Ave- Water work, 9 meters will be hooded between 2nd Ave N and 3rd Ave N to maintain two way traffic during the work.  The water work is expected to take less than two weeks. there will be a temporary water shut off on the night on Wednesday, July 17, 2019. If your property is effected, a notice will be placed on the door of your property in 48 hours’ in advance for impacted businesses, 24 hours’ in advance to impacted residences
• 3rd Ave N – NE corner will be removed
• 2nd Ave N -SW corner will be removed
• 1st Ave N – SW corner will be removed

4th Ave and W River Parkway

• SE corner will be removed
• Replacement work may begin

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

Miscellanious

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

Date/Time: July 24, 7:30 am to 8:30 am

Location:  Corner Coffee 514 N 3rd St #102, Minneapolis MN 55401

As always, feel free to contact myself (612-673-3365) or John Benjamin (651-443-1096) with any construction related questions or concerns.

Contact Information

Project Manager:

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

Chief Field Inspector:

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

Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy Program Newsletter

Excerpts from the July 11 City of Minneapolis office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy newsletter:

Welcome to the City of Minneapolis office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy newsletter. Here you will find information on program and partner related news and updates, opportunities, events and special announcements.

Sign up for the Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy newsletter at www.minneapolismn.gov/coordinator/arts.

Upcoming "Radical Playground" community events at The Commons

2019 Creative City Challenge winner "Radical Playground" will be hosting community events at The Commons this summer. Upcoming events include:

• Saturday, July 27, 3-6 p.m., Superhero Battle at The Commons
• Saturday, August 10, 3-5 p.m., International Indigenous People’s Day

Everyone is invited to immerse themselves in the interactive public art installation “Radical Playground,” now through August. The participatory art installation “Radical Playground” artists Candida Gonzalez and MaryAnne Quiroz invite participants to heal through play with whimsical interactive “alebrije”: animal sculptures inspired by dream creatures from the Caribbean, Mexico, the Pacific Islands and the indigenous cultures of Minnesota.

The artists intend “Radical Playground” to invite indigenous communities and communities of color to a space where they feel free to gather, to play, to heal. They want their project to bring a feeling of play, of free joy, of giving people’s bodies a break from stress and worry.

The Creative City Challenge is a program of the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy of the City of Minneapolis created in in collaboration with The Commons and Northern Lights.mn.

For information about these and other events happening at The Commons this summer visit The Commons website.

Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy office welcomes new arts program assistant

We are pleased to welcome Violeta Rotstein to the role of Arts Program Assistant for the Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy office, focusing on communications. When she isn’t in the office she is also a freelance illustrator/designer, with a BFA from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Her design subjects consist mainly of community building, nature appreciation, and empathy. She calls Minnesota home as well as Argentina, where she immigrated from as a child. For the past five (5) years she has worked with non-profits and local design companies and is looking forward to getting more involved in city arts programming and using the arts to aide underserved communities.

Violeta can be reached at violeta.rotstein@minneapolismn.gov.

Making of the 'first' Somali-English comic book

Somali Artist, M. Hajji Ahmed, combined his love for visual art and storytelling to create a tangible manifestation of identity, struggle, and home for Somali children, teenagers, and even adults to enjoy, connect, and relate.

Ahmed believes that the most impactful way to touch a young person is through the creation and interpretation of visual art.

Read the full news item: Making of the 'first' Somali-English comic book.

Loring Park Art Festival July 27 and 28

Since 2000, Loring Park Art Festival has combined creative expression and community connectedness to surprise and delight all who attend. With beautiful ponds and formal gardens, Loring Park makes an idyllic spot to celebrate art, music, food and entertainment for two days each summer in downtown Minneapolis. 

The event features 140 visual artists selling original work, with something for everyone. Visitors will encounter strolling musicians, scheduled stage performances, engaging children's activities and adventurous culinary options.

Sign up for the Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy newsletter at www.minneapolismn.gov/coordinator/arts.

Peavey Plaza Grand Opening Celebration set for July 18

Peavey Plaza reopens with restored fountains and water features, new trees, enhanced lighting and improved accessibility

The revitalized Peavey Plaza will be unveiled by the City of Minneapolis on July 18 at 11:30am.

Highlights of the revitalization project include restoring the plaza’s fountains and water features, adding more durable and environmentally friendly paving materials, updating lighting and making design updates to ensure the plaza is compliant with the Americans with Disability Act. The City has a contract with the landscape architecture firm Coen+Partners and Global Specialty Contractors for the rehabilitation work. 

Historic Big Boy Steam Locomotive Coming to Union Depot July 18

Via a July 9 News Release

On Thursday, July 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Union Pacific’s historic Big Boy steam locomotive No. 4014 will stop at Union Depot to commemorate the transcontinental railroad’s 150th anniversary. Appearing with No. 4014 will be “Experience the Union Pacific Rail Car,” a multi-media walk-through exhibition that provides a glimpse into the past while telling the story of modern-day railroading. At this free event, visitors can enjoy food trucks, model train sets, local rail vendors and family activities. 

Twenty-five Big Boys were built for Union Pacific in the 1940s. Of the eight still in existence, No. 4014 is the only operating Big Boy and is the world’s largest steam locomotive. Following the railroad’s anniversary celebration in May at Promontory Summit, the newly restored No. 4014 returns to the rails for its “Great Race Across the Midwest” after leaving Cheyenne, Wyoming on July 8.

Union Depot is one of the few stops along Big Boy’s “Great Race” at which visitors can take photos in close proximity to the front of the engine, as it will be located on a non-active track. Visitors can also step up to see into the locomotive in a Dynamic Display and view the Promontory Experience Car. Union Pacific’s Steam Team will be on hand to answer questions. Metro Transit is offering free passes for rides to Union Depot for the event.

About Union Depot:

Union Depot is a regional multi-modal transportation hub and event venue in the heart of the Twin Cities. One of America’s great rail stations since its completion in 1926, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, beautifully restored in 2012, and certified LEED^® Gold in 2014. Union Depot offers a full complement of transportation services—including Amtrak^®, Jefferson Lines, Metro Transit, Greyhound, Megabus and Hertz—as well as parking and bike storage. Owned by Ramsey County Regional Railroad Authority and operated by JLL, it’s an ideal setting for weddings, large events, meetings and more. Visit uniondepot.org for more information.

July 8 Statement from mpls downtown council President and CEO Steve Cramer

July 8 statement from mpls downtown council President and CEO Steve Cramer:

“Concern about public safety downtown is understandable given events so far this year. The people who live, work and visit there deserve better than what they too often experience at present.

“The business community remains committed to—and financially invested in—partnerships with law enforcement, the criminal justice system, and community outreach agencies to make downtown as safe as possible. We celebrate and support the many attractions, events and activities downtown has to offer.

“What is also needed at this critical juncture is greater police presence, and clear support for their efforts to root out drug activity, gun violence and intimidating behaviors.

“It is an article of faith for the mpls downtown council that downtown is a place for everyone who comes exhibiting and expecting in return respectful conduct. Upholding that standard must be an immediate priority to insure confidence in the days and weeks ahead.”

News from Minnesota Fringe

Image: 'Therukkothu' by Minnesota Tamil Sangam, 2016 Festival. Photographer: Ann B Erickson.

Tix, shows & passes now available

Visit minnesotafringe.org to preview all 135+ productions, 15+ venues, and 600+ performances. Create a log-in to select your faves and start building your schedule!

New multi-show passes

Daypasses are gone. New, improved discount passes are usable any day, any showtime, and even multiple patrons seeing the same show.

Want to Fringe-binge 7 shows in a row? Great. Want to treat your friend to 3 shows along the way? That's cool, too. Just buy a 10-show pass, and swipe your way to your artistic adventure. New multi-show passes are limited, so get yours while supplies last. Want to Fringe-binge 7 shows in a row? Great. Want to treat your friend to 3 shows along the way? That's cool, too. Just buy a 10-show pass, and swipe your way to your artistic adventure.New multi-show passes are limited, so get yours while supplies last.

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Your July scheduling guide

Here's a cheat-sheet for your July artistic adventuring. We've got a ton of ways to get involved including upcoming free events Beyond the Box and Family Fringe Previews. Want to learn more? Visit minnesotafringe.org/events for up-to-date deets.

July 8 & 15 Family Fringe Previews

See snippets for free

In partnership with Ramsey County Libraries, we're featuring FREE excerpts from the jury-curated Family Fringe lineup, July 8 & 15 from 6:30p-7:30p.

Learn more about these exciting samplings of this year's adventurous, family-friendly shows.

The Barbara Barker Center for Dance, home of the 2019 Family Fringe, has limited seating, so we recommend purchasing tickets in advanced.

July 11: Beyond the Box

Join us for a lunch-time adventure July 11 at 12n on Nicollet Mall.

Taiko Arts Midwest's Enso Daiko with live brush painting by Laughing Waters Studios will perform back-to-back with dancer-choregrapher Micah Chermak + Company.

Beyond the Box is a site-specific incubator in partnership with the Downtown Improvement District, Vibrant & Safe Downtown, and the Minneapolis Central Library.

Social Spotlight

Coming Up: World Fringe Day

On July 11th, we're joining a worldwide celebration of artistic expression and creative liberty. Share how you've been impacted as an artist, audience member, volunteer and/or staffer on social media tagging us (@MNFringe) and using the hashtag #WorldFringeDay. You'll be entered to win a free 5-show pass to the 2019 Festival Season!

News From Metro Transit

Excerpts from Metro Transit's July 2019 e-newsletter

State Fair Express – Let us get you there!

You go to the State Fair for the food, the animals, the rides and more! Getting to the "Great Minnesota Get-Together" on the bus is a fun, blue ribbon tradition, too.

Instead of driving, park your car for free and take a stress-free, non-stop, air-conditioned ride straight to the fairgrounds from one of 17 locations around the Twin Cities. Take a State Fair Express bus and you'll save on gas and parking costs. Plus, we'll drop you off and pick you up right outside the gates!

You can buy your Bus Bargain tickets online and on the app to save money over paying cash! Visit metrotransit.org in August to learn more. 

Service starts at 9 a.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. on weekends and Labor Day unless otherwise noted at all Metro Transit locations.

NOTE: We anticipate high usage at State Fair Express sites, so please plan accordingly. Ticket purchase does not guarantee a parking spot.

Overnight adjustments coming in August for METRO Green Line

Beginning Monday, Aug. 19, four METRO Green Line weekday trips between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. will be replaced with Green Line buses. This affects only Sunday through Thursday nights – Green Line trains will continue to operate 24-hour service on Friday and Saturday nights, similar to the METRO Blue Line.

The Green Line buses will operate as frequently as Green Line trains do today and stop near each Green Line station.

This change allows for safer and more timely maintenance along the Green Line. It will also provide more time to clean and maintain our light-rail vehicle and stations.

Schedules for these trips will be available at metrotransit.org beginning July 26.

Take a tour of public art on light rail this summer

Metro Transit is hosting free guided public art tours on the third Saturday of July, August, and September 2019. For each date, a tour will be offered on either the METRO Blue Line or  METRO Green Line (see list of dates below). The tours are roundtrip and last approximately two hours.

Learn more about Metro Transit's collection of public art! 

Tour dates:

July 20 (Green Line)
Aug. 17 (Blue Line)
Sept. 21 (Green Line)

Start time & location:

Blue Line tours: Meet at 10 a.m. at the 28th Avenue Station platform

Green Line tours: Meet at 10 a.m. at the Union Depot Station platform

RSVP Required! 

Visit here to RSVP for a tour and learn more!

Now is a great time to kickstart your career with Metro Transit. Right now, new bus drivers who start between now and July 29 will receive a $1,000 hiring bonus!

If you like working with people and want to make a difference in your community, come help us run our growing transit system!

APPLY NOW!   Get more info here.

Take Metro Transit to Upcoming Events!

July 5

• CONvergence Conference

July 6

• CONvergence Conference

July 12

• Basilica Block Party

July 13

• MN Orchestra – International Day of Music
• Basilica Block Party
• Minnesota Children’s Museum – Second Saturdays
• Red Hot Arts Festival – Stevens Square

July 14

• Vegan Invasion at Lake Monster Brewing
• Twin Cities World Refugee Day
• MN Lynx vs. Phoenix Mercury
• Red Hot Arts Festival – Stevens Square

July 17

• St. Paul Saints vs. Kansas City T-Bones

July 19

• Lowertown Blues & Funk Festival

July 20

• Rondo Days
• Lowertown Blues & Funk Festival

July 21

• Open Streets Lake & Minnehaha

July 24

• Mpls. Aquatennial – Torchlight Parade

July 27

• Loring Park Art Festival
• Mpls. Aquatennial – Fireworks

July 28

• Loring Park Art Festival