Central City Tunnel Construction Project Partially Visible From the Stone Arch Bridge

By Doug Verdier

People walking across the Stone Arch Bridge likely have wondered about all the construction going on in the bluff beneath West River Parkway near the Guthrie Theater. Well, wonder no more! What they are seeing is a part of the Central City Tunnel Construction project that has been ongoing since 2021 and is scheduled for completion in 2023. 

A new tunnel is being constructed under Washington Avenue S between Nicollet Mall and Chicago Avenue. It will run parallel to the existing tunnel. The existing tunnel will also be enlarged under Chicago Avenue between Washington Avenue and the river. The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is in charge of the project.

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The goals of this project are to increase the amount of stormwater the Central City tunnels can handle and to reduce the possibility of the existing tunnel failing. Additionally, the new tunnel will reduce pressure in the existing tunnel, provide more room for future growth, and reduce the need for future repairs.

The Central City Tunnel System is a system of stormwater tunnels that are built deep into the sandstone ground in Minneapolis. The tunnels are approximately 70 feet below the street surface and collect stormwater runoff for nearly all of Downtown. 

The new tunnel outlet excavation area as seen from the Stone Arch Bridge.

A closer view of the tunnel outlet excavation area gives a sense of the scale of the project at the access location near the Mississippi River.

Father Hennepin Bluff Park Renovation is Underway

By Doug Verdier

Construction got underway April 18 on a major renovation project to improve Father Hennepin Bluff Park. Visitors to the park will notice orange plastic tree protection fencing and erosion control throughout the park, creating somewhat of a maze of pathways between the cordoned-off areas and accessible areas of the park. Some selected trees that have deteriorated pathways will be removed as well. Underground utility installation is scheduled for late April. Currently there are no plans to fully close the entire park during construction, although some detour signs will be placed to direct people (and their pets) around closed areas.

When completed, the renovations will include a new performance stage and attached restroom facility; new park entry plaza spaces; upgraded lights, path connections, way finding signage and trail markings, and landscape and stormwater management improvements.

Signage at various locations provide details about the project and a scannable code where more information can be accessed.

Orange protective fencing surrounds trees while providing access to grassy areas for play and exercise.

Still plenty of green space open to visitors.

Graco Park Concept Approved

llustration showing the approved final concept plan for Graco Park.

New park next to Hall's Island and Plymouth Avenue Bridge scheduled to open in 2024

Last week Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Commissioners approved the concept plan for Graco Park, a new Northeast Minneapolis riverfront park that will be built across from Hall's Island, just north of the Plymouth Avenue Bridge.

Next, project staff will develop detailed design drawings and documents for the project and solicit bids from construction contractors. With a successful bid, project construction could begin in 2022, with the park expected to open in 2024.

The Graco Park concept features:

• A multiuse building with public restrooms and community space
• Native habitat restoration and stormwater management features
• A trail under the Plymouth Avenue Bridge that connects to Boom Island Park
• The Mississippi East Bank Trail will continue to travel through the park, with safety upgrades at the intersection of Plymouth/8th Avenue NE and Sibley Street NE
• Gathering spaces, walkways and river access

Graco Park Final Concept

Graco Park Building Concept

Future phases could include additional park elements as funding becomes available:

• Picnic shelter
• Watercraft rental
• Additional park or future vendor building
• Hall’s Island river overlook

Site History and Design Process:

2010: The MPRB purchased the 11-acre riverfront site from Scherer Bros Lumber Co. The former lumberyard was cleaned up and industrial buildings and asphalt were replaced with grass over the next few years.

2016: The Mississippi East Bank Trail was paved through the site. This riverfront trail extension connects Boom Island Park, Graco Park and Sheridan Memorial Park before terminating at the BNSF railroad bridge, in the 1600 block of Marshall Street NE.

2017-18: A project restored Hall's Island, which was destroyed by lumber yard expansion in the 1960s, and created a new gravel river beach.

2018: The MPRB and Graco Inc. reached several agreements that will result in this new park. Graco's Riverside production facility neighbors the new park, which was named "Graco Park" as part of the agreements that included more than $10 million in total financial commitments from Graco.

2021: MPRB staff collected feedback from the community, researched opportunities and constraints at the site and released three initial design concepts for Graco Park for public comments. In December, a single, preferred concept was published for more feedback.

2022: The final park concept was approved by MPRB Commissioners after a public hearing.

Local Tastemaker: Dr. Yang Liu, Chair of Asian Art and Curator of Chinese Art

Article by Becky Fillinger

Dr. Yang LiuDid you know that Mia has one of the finest collections of Asian art in the world? Our local treasure has thousands of jades, bronzes, paintings and calligraphy among just the Chinese collection. We talked to Dr. Yang Liu, who honestly should be a called a global tastemaker, about Mia’s recent exhibitions and how we might all learn more about the collections.

Q:  Your 2018 collaboration with playwright Robert Wilson, Power and Beauty in China's Last Dynasty, was praised for the experience it provided the viewer to understand the combined objects - jades, lacquers, paintings, court costumes - from the world of the Qing dynasty. What new collaborations do you have planned?  

A:  The collaborative experience of working with Robert Wilson was totally new to us as a museum. It changed my view of how an exhibition can be presented, integrating light, sounds, and smells, and activating multiple senses. Everyone at the museum was very interested in the process of putting together that exhibition, and it worked well with the museum's strategic plan of enriching the community by collecting, preserving, and making accessible art in a very innovative and fresh way. Mia's vision is to inspire wonder through the power of art, and this exhibition certainly accomplished that. We would love to do more collaborations like this in the future.

Above two photos - The Three Perfections: Image, Poem, and Calligraphy in Chinese Painting. On view in Gallery 203.

Q:  The current exhibition, The Three Perfections: Image, Poem, and Calligraphy in Chinese Painting –– Minneapolis Institute of Art (artsmia.org), is also experiential as it explains the writings on Chinese paintings and can evoke our senses of "sight, sound, smell, touch, and emotions." Is it a goal of yours to make the art objects more than one dimensional?  

A:  The Three Perfections is, of course, quite different from the Robert Wilson show; while Power and Beauty was physically experiential, this exhibition is meant to spark the imagination and to evoke the senses within the visitor's mind. The belief behind the Chinese ink painting aesthetic is that even the monochrome ink itself can evoke certain senses in the imagination and the mind. This is a different way of experiencing art, but still highly evocative and is tied to the traditional Chinese aesthetic. The exhibit runs through December of this year.

Q:  You're the Vetting Committee Chair (Asian art) for Frieze Masters. How does the Frieze experience impact your work at Mia? 

A:  I have been participating in Frieze Masters for several years. Every year I learn an enormous amount from the works that are on view; it's a very studious experience for me. Although I am a specialist in Chinese art, it is always helpful and exciting to see all kinds of new works. It is very interesting to meet with new dealers and collectors who work with Chinese art; communicating with them is also a wonderful learning experience to expand further on my existing knowledge. It is also an opportunity to potentially acquire works for Mia's collection. London is one of the major cultural centers of the world, and going there for Frieze Masters also provides an opportunity for me to visit museums and see new exhibitions of Chinese and non-Chinese art to broaden my expertise.

Mia Collection HandbookQ:  There are so many different objects in the Asian collections at Mia - bronzes, paintings, poetry, costumes, woodblock prints, tapestries, etc. - from many countries. Have you considered a Beginner's Guide (or exhibition) to Appreciating Mia Asian art treasures?  

A:  The museum recently published a new handbook - the Mia Collection Handbook - which is exactly what you described, an introduction to the collection for beginners. Although it focuses on the collection as a whole, it prominently features work from all parts of Asia. It is a very popular, beautifully designed book that was written by myself and my curator colleagues. Of course, in the future, we would love to publish new books on the collection; but right now, this is the most updated introduction.

Intimate Space: A Noblewoman’s Bedroom in Late Imperial China. On view in Gallery 218.

Horses in Gallery 215

Jade sculpture in Gallery 210

Q:  You've lived in Minneapolis for over a decade.  What are your favorite things to do when you're not busy curating art for Mia?  

A:  I love to travel, to visit other cities and museums, and to meet with collectors and friends to chat about art. I also love to explore the scenery of the beautiful Twin Cities; I enjoy driving to new places around Minnesota with my family over the weekend or on holidays. I always love to explore more and to see all that this country has to offer.

Q:  You're definitely an art influencer.  How may we follow your news? 

A:  I would love to be more of what you call an informational art influencer, so I will try to do more to reach that goal! I will strive to create more ways for our visitors to appreciate our mission and collections. For Mia, you may follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Newest Public Art Installation at Target Field Recently Revealed

On April 22nd, the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Ballpark Authority (MBA) unveiled the newest public art installation at Target Field - a 66-foot-long glass mosaic on the 7th Street side of Target Plaza (near Gate 29) that showcases the themes “All Are Welcome at Target Field” and “Celebrating Our Community’s Rich Diversity.”

Video filmed and produced by Dan Collison

Designed by the renowned local duo of mosaic artist Daniela Bianchini and muralist Pablo Diego Pérez Riesco (Kalaka), and comprised of thousands of individual glass pieces, this majestic mural brings many of Minnesota’s cultures and communities together in a colorful expression of unity. 

Thank You to All Who Supported and Participated in the Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup

Photos provided by Great River Coalition

Thank you to the participants, contributors and sponsors of the Great River Coalition's Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup on April 23rd! The Great River Coalition is dedicated to bees and other pollinators, with a goal to create a Pollinator Pathway in Minneapolis, and develop a coalition of partners to extend this critical habitat from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico. Check out more event photos on their Facebook page.

Great River Coalition Big and Little Bee mascots with two of the event sponsors.

Women Drum Corps kicked off the event

Mayor Frey with two young event participants. Third Ward Council Member Michael Rainville is in the background (tan jacket).

Elmer the Elm Tree, mascot of the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board, was on hand.

Participants had the opportunity to learn about efforts to protect pollinators, and their habitat, during the event.

33rd Annual Dandelion Day Celebration at the Ard Godfrey House, May 15

The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis invites you to the 33rd Annual Dandelion Day Celebration at the Ard Godfrey House in Chute Square, May 15 from 1p-4p. This is a great opportunity to soak up some local history - the Ard Godfrey House is the oldest remaining frame house in the city!

April 22 Third Avenue Bridge Project Photos by Doug Verdier

Submitted by Doug Verdier, who continues to document the Third Avenue Bridge refurbishment project.

Among the many construction and preservation activities ongoing at the Third Avenue Bridge, is work to repair the City of Minneapolis' water main on the bridge. Because the water main is located beneath the bridge deck, it is not easily seen. However, the photos below show the water main as it appears when some of the bridge concrete elements are removed for replacement. The water main appears as a horizontal gray tube running between one of the bridge piers and an arch.

The entire project, when completed, is intended to extend the service life of the bridge for another 50 years.

4th Street Reconstruction Project Update - April 21

4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees, and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.

Pavement reconstruction on 4th Street near the Hennepin Avenue intersection

Fourth street roadway reconstruction is underway

Roadway reconstruction continues on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave.

• Construction crews are removing pavement and reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. The roadway is closed to all vehicle traffic between 1st Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Alleyways are not accessible from 4th St. on this block.
• The roadway between 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N is being reconstructed on the north half and is closed to through traffic. Local access maintained.
• 4th St. parking lot access between 2nd Ave N. and 1st Ave N. is currently closed. Access to the parking lot maintained off 1st Ave. N.
• Concrete curb and gutter construction are underway at the 1st Ave. N intersection.
• Xcel Energy will be conducting utility work on 4th St. in front of Minneapolis City Hall during the first week of May.

*Please note that the construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

What to expect during construction?

• During roadway construction, 4th St. will be closed to through traffic between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained from 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N. 
• Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction. Be aware of your surroundings when walking on the sidewalk and biking in the roadway. 
• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.

Upcoming Events

4th street weekly stakeholder meeting

Weekly project newsletters and virtual stakeholder meetings are sent out weekly. Join us at the next stakeholder meeting to get project updates, talk with project staff and get your questions/concerns answered.

Stakeholder Meeting

Occurs every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m.

Via Teams Meeting: Click here to join the meeting

Stay connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/  

Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction

Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774

Avian Influenza is Here, Hotline Available to Report Birds Showing Symptoms

The highly pathogenic avian influenza, which has spread through farms and in the wild across Minnesota, has now been detected in Hennepin County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says humans are not at risk from the disease, and eggs and meat from infected birds are safe to eat. But because it is highly contagious and fatal for birds, this outbreak could affect food production and prices.

Avian influenza is contracted when a bird touches body secretions of a sick bird. It is particularly found in chickens, geese, dabbling ducks and raptors, but can also infect other species of birds.

People who own birds are encouraged to take small but crucial steps to protect them and follow backyard coop protection steps from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

They should watch for the following symptoms: birds are unusually quiet, lying down, off their feed or water intake, have nasal discharge, have difficulty breathing, have difficulty standing, have twisted necks or appear to be continually looking up, have swelling or purple discoloration of head, eyelids, comb, wattle and hocks, egg production decreases or suddenly die.

Anyone who sees a bird – wild or domestic – that shows symptoms should contact the State’s bird flu hotline: 1-833-454-0156. Officers from Minneapolis Animal Care & Control will continue to respond to sick or injured birds when necessary to support State agencies managing this crisis.

Find more information on avian influenza on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture website.

Also follow updates on The Raptor Center's Facebook page and website.

Nonprofit Leader: Andrew Hoffman, Executive Director, Douglas Dayton YMCA

Article by Becky Fillinger 

Andrew HoffmanDid you know we have a downtown YMCA with multiple floors for fitness? Fitness programming is just the tip of the iceberg at the Douglas Dayton YMCA. We talked to Executive Director, Andrew Hoffman, about community engagement, innovation and, of course, fitness offerings at our local YMCA. 

Q:  Please tell us about the Douglas Dayton YMCA facility at 651 Nicollet Mall.

A:  The Douglas Dayton YMCA has many amenities, including a fitness center, multiple fitness studios and a four-lane swimming pool located inside of Gaviidae Common in downtown Minneapolis. We offer personal training, Pilates reformer, group exercise classes and volunteer opportunities.

Right below the fitness center is the George Wellbeing Center. At the George Wellbeing Center we strive to put whole-person, integrative lifestyle care at the frontline of health and wellbeing – and make it personalized and accessible to all.

Q:  The YMCA’s mission states “we believe that in order to strengthen communities, we must understand the current issues and foresee the future needs of the people and communities we serve. We measure success by our positive impact on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.” Please tell us how Douglas Dayton YMCA evaluates current downtown community issues and puts together programs to garner positive outcomes?

A:  The Dayton YMCA at Gaviidae is committed to downtown Minneapolis and the surrounding community. We demonstrate that each day through our work on behalf of the individuals and families who live here. This commitment calls on us to be responsive to the changing needs of our community.

For our community downtown, we have seen tremendous change since the onset of COVID. Yet, for many the Dayton YMCA at Gaviidae provides normalcy and a sense of routine during an otherwise uncertain time. We pivoted to deliver nearly 10,000 hours of fitness through 365 classes per month virtually. In addition, at the Y, we have continued to provide in person cycling, yoga and other group fitness classes while concurrently offering virtual opportunities for those who were not yet ready to take classes in person.

Above and below, photos of the spacious, welcoming facilities.

In response to the Minneapolis Educators strike, Beacons after school programming moved from Edison High School to the Douglas Dayton YMCA at Gaviidae. Students continued to have access to gathering spaces and open gym times with their Beacons staff members. Clubs continued to meet, including the Somali Cultural Club that utilized the Y’s Fitstudio space to lead dance rehearsals in preparation for an upcoming Somali Cultural Club Showcase performance.

We continue to lean into community. Last year, we participated in National Night Out at Commons Park and we plan on participating this year at Commons Park and Gold Medal Park. We also partnered with the mpls downtown council to host the Chameleon Program that directly benefited Latino Businesses. We continue to collaborate with the Downtown Improvement District DID) in helping to bring back the vibrancy of downtown.

Our Equity Innovation Center of Excellence continues its work to support individuals and organizations on their equity journeys. Our team provides educational and enrichment experiences virtually and in person based on the client’s preference. The YMCA Equity Innovation Center is here for everyone to intentionally engage in thought-provoking experiences and resources that will expand their knowledge and skills. Together we can create sustainable change and shift inequitable systems in our communities so that all can thrive.

Q:  How do you hope to interact with the downtown community of potential members – those who live in downtown and those who commute in for work?

A:  Most importantly, our Y is for all. The Y is a nonprofit organization that fundraises money each year to ensure all can participate in the many services the Y provides. We hope to engage the downtown community through innovative wellness offerings and volunteer opportunities, and work with corporations, educators, government and community organizations in promoting cultural competency, fostering equity, diversity & inclusion, and understanding unconscious biases.

Q:  You are an advocate for education. You put together an endowment fund in 2015 to assist the continuing education of YMCA team members. Please tell us more about the Employee Education Endowment Fund.

A:  In 2012, I made my first gift towards the YMCA of the North’s Employee Education Endowment Fund. This fund helps YMCA of the North team members in their educational endeavors. Since 2015, when we awarded our first scholarship, we have given out over $12,000.

Q:  Your LinkedIn profile mentions that your role at the Y expanded to continue the charrette process. What is that process and how does it benefit the Y?

A:  Here at the Y we continue to look for ways in innovate and be relevant. The charrette process brings together community leaders to help us solve a problem together and put together a path forward.

Q:  Does the Y offer volunteer opportunities?

A:  The Y has many ways to volunteer, whether that be serving on our Advisory Boards to working hands on with youth or adults. We also have opportunities for employees groups within a business to volunteer together.

Q:  How may we follow news and event at the Y?

A:  We encourage everyone to check out our social media channels – Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter – as well as our website with a page for Dayton Y and the news and events section.

Small Business Spotlight: Uniquely Global

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos by Daniel Collison

Uniquely Global is located in Suite 130 of Gaviidae Common 

Satiya AmporfulLooking for something different? You know the feeling – you’ve shopped the local malls but aren’t seeing anything ‘unique’? Want a custom-made garment of exquisite fabric? We have the solution for you. Uniquely Global, owned by Satiya Amporful, knows your dilemma and created a destination for fashions, cosmetics, spices, jewelry, fabrics and artwork. We stopped by her shop in Gaviidae Common to find out more about her vision, services and product lines.

Q:  Tell us more about the genesis of Uniquely Global.

A:  I started Uniquely Global with pop-up locations – offering distinctive, globally-sourced merchandise, funded with personal savings and retirement funds. As the business grew, I began to think of a more permanent location. I worked with the mpls downtown council to locate a studio space and over time I moved to my current location. Uniquely Global is a minority, woman and service-disabled veteran-owned business. I import culturally authentic products and design fashions from across the globe. Uniquely Global products are from across the globe, to date these items are from Kenya, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Guatemala, Mexico, Nepal and Ghana. As a military dependent, I was raised in Japan, Germany and Korea. I developed a world view early in my life. Many of the designs are Japanese-inspired from my childhood memories.

Q:  How has the store fared with pandemic office shutdowns?

A:  Although the business registration was in 2019, due to the pandemic being what it was, Uniquely Global only made sales during family functions or pop ups in the first two years. The online presence was also closed due to the fact that I was unable to leave Ghana on a shopping trip abroad. Fast forward to October 2021, when I applied to work with the Chameleon Shoppes and the mpls downtown council. The change in locations proved to be a smart move as sales and awareness of the store improved. With the return of fulltime employees downtown in the last few weeks, sales have increased over 40%. To continue the upward sales motion, I have goals to engage the community with DIY classes on how to create skin care items like black soap, shower gels and other shea and cocoa butter-based products, host cultural awareness discussions and collaborate with local businesses.

Satiya with Carlos Santana

The pandemic was tough on the business but I am hopeful that customers will once again want to come out and shop. Carlos Santana visited my shop recently – of all people, Mr. Santana said, "what you’re doing is good and I want to support you." It was a message that inspired me so much! Mr. Santana bought a lot of items and I am currently designing pants for him and a few dresses for his wife.

Q:  Has the online shopping option returned?

A:  Yes, you may visit our website and purchase all sorts of unique products. As I mentioned, we are also so pleased to offer customized clothing as well – just email me directly at scrsa@uniquelyglobal.net. 

Q:  How may we follow your news? I think that many of us will want to attend your classes.

A:  Please do follow my business: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and my website.

Flying to the Moon by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

While photographing the moon early Easter morning I had a pleasant surprise. It was a beautiful morning, the first blue sky morning I had seen in quite a while. Out of my right eye I spotted a plane on a trajectory to fly right across the face of the moon. I had no time to adjust camera settings or recompose the scene. I shot 15 images in six seconds. I don’t know how one plans to take a photo like this. I think you just have to react when the circumstances unfold. I plan to have this image printed and displayed at the Tres Leches Art Gallery for Art-A-Whirl, May20-22.

See more of my work @ricrosowphotography.com and @treslechesartgallery.com.

Flying to the Moon

West River Parkway Closes Between 4th Ave N and Portland April 24-May 8

West River Parkway is scheduled to close between 4th Avenue N and Portland Avenue from Sunday, April 24 through Sunday, May 8 for work related to the reconstruction of the 3rd Avenue Bridge by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The Stone Arch Bridge parking lot will remain open.

The bike and pedestrian trails will also close through that section of parkway, but will reopen on weekends. The trails will also reopen for the Minneapolis Public Schools Kids Bike event on May 4, 3-5 pm.

Please visit the Hwy 65/3rd Avenue Bridge Reconstruction website for details on this project.

4th Street Reconstruction Project Update - April 15

4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees, and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.

Fourth Street Roadway Reconstruction is Underway

Roadway reconstruction work on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. began this week.

• Construction crews have begun removing pavement and reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. During reconstruction, the roadway will be closed to all vehicle traffic between 1st Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Alleyways will not be accessible from 4th St. on this block.
• The roadway between 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N will be reconstructed one half at a time, starting with the north half, and will be closed to through traffic. Local access will be maintained.
• Concrete curb and gutter construction is planned for the 1st Ave. N intersection.
• 4th St. parking lot access between 2nd Ave N. and 1st Ave N. will be closed beginning Monday, April 18. Access to the parking lot will be maintained off 1st Ave. N.
• Traffic signs are posted. Road closures and detour routes are currently in effect for the area.
• Xcel Energy will be conducting utility work on 4th St. in front of Minneapolis City Hall between May 2 and May 6.

*Please note that the construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

What To Expect During Construction?

• During roadway construction, 4th St. will be closed to through traffic between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained from 2nd Ave. N & 1st Ave. N. 
• Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction. Be aware of your surroundings when walking on the sidewalk and biking in the roadway. 
• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.

Upcoming Events:

4th Street Weekly Stakeholder Meeting

Weekly project newsletters and virtual stakeholder meetings have resumed. Join us at the next stakeholder meeting to get project updates, talk with project staff and get your questions/concerns answered.

Stakeholder Meeting - Friday, April 22 - 9-9:30 a.m.

Via Teams Meeting: Click here to join the meeting

Meetings will occur every Friday throughout reconstruction.  

Stay connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/  

Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction

Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774

Pavement removal on 4th Street near the 2nd Avenue N intersection

Road restriction at the 1st Street N intersection looking east

Kolman & Pryor Gallery is now Kolman & Reeb Gallery

Kolman & Reeb Gallery is located in Studio 395, Northrup King Building at 1500 Jackson Street NE, Minneapolis

Jodi Reeb Joins Anita Sue Kolman as Partner and Owner of the Newly Renamed Kolman & Reeb Gallery

Kolman & Reeb Gallery, (formerly Kolman & Pryor Gallery), is thrilled to announce Jodi Reeb, long-time gallery artist and gallery sales associate, has joined Anita Sue Kolman as a partner and owner, and curator of the newly renamed Kolman & Reeb Gallery. “Jodi has been an artist with the gallery for 10 years and our lead salesperson, as well as a full-time fine artist, curator, and teacher in Minneapolis for more than 25 years,” says Kolman.

Jodi Reeb“Jodi is a perfect partner as we take the gallery forward with our new Project Space Grant Program, continue our popular and critically acclaimed gallery activities and exhibitions, and develop new ways to engage and interact with the public,” Kolman adds. “If you liked us before, you’re going to like us even better now. Jodi and I are energized about the whole enterprise.”

Reeb has taught printmaking, acrylic, and encaustic painting as well as book arts. She is a CORE instructor for R&F Handmade Paints and is a GOLDEN Acrylic Paints Artist Educator. Her artwork is in many private and corporate collections including Target Corporation, United Health Care Group, Hilton Hotel in Minneapolis, and Wells Fargo Mortgage in Minneapolis. Her studio is located in the Traffic Zone Center for Visual Art, where she’s facilitated exhibitions for 15 years. She was the recipient of a Minnesota State Arts Board Artist Initiative Grant in 2018. Reeb graduated from the Minneapolis College of Art & Design (MCAD) where she taught printmaking for almost a decade.

“I’m so excited to be collaborating with Anita as an owner and her partner in the gallery I’ve been a part of for so long,” says Reeb. “My background as a fine artist and curator, along with my extensive teaching experience, will allow Anita and I to program an array of new experiences in the gallery for our collectors and the public, while maintaining the excellence Anita has established. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the gallery.”

Major Renovation of Father Hennepin Bluff Park Begins April 18

A new performance stage and seasonal restroom building next to the Stone Arch Bridge is part of the project

Project includes new stage, seasonal restroom building and improvements to park entry, paths, lights, wayfinding, landscaping and stormwater management

A project to renovate and improve Father Hennepin Bluff Park is scheduled to begin construction on Monday, April 18.

Tree protection fencing and erosion control is scheduled to be installed starting Monday, with select tree removal beginning mid-week. Pathway removals will likely begin late next week and go into the following week. Underground utility installation is scheduled for late April.

At this point there are no plans to fully close access to the entire park during construction. Some areas are anticipated to remain open, but please stay away from areas that are fenced off or where construction is happening. Detour signs will be placed around the park to direct people around closed areas.

Project Details

This Father Hennepin Bluff Park Improvements project includes:

• A new performance stage and attached seasonal restroom facility
• New park entry plaza spaces
• Upgraded lights, path connections, wayfinding signage and trail markings
• Landscape and stormwater management improvements

The improvements are focused on the upper part of the park, not the lower paths closer to the Mississippi River. Follow this link to view the project design and some illustrations of the new stage/restroom facility: Father Hennepin Bluff Park Improvements Design

Project Page

Community Innovator: Minnesota Twins

Article by Becky Fillinger

Chris IlesThink you know what’s happening with the Minnesota Twins? Yes, there is Spring baseball, but beyond that check out the surprising innovation happening with the Twins! We talked to Chris Iles, Senior Director, Brand Experience and Innovation to learn about this initiative, which is unique for a major league baseball club.

Q:  You're overseeing the Minnesota Twins Accelerator by Techstars – the intersection of technology, sports & entertainment. Tell us more about the program and why this intersection is called the fastest evolving on the planet?

A:  The Minnesota Twins Accelerator by Techstars is a 3-year program that will see the Minnesota Twins invest in more than 30 startups operating at the intersection of tech, sports and entertainment. Each year, we select a cohort of startups, giving them access to mentorship, funding and other resources that help them drastically accelerate their rate of growth. Given the highly public nature of our business, we are uniquely positioned to place emerging innovations in front of our broad network of fans, allowing startup founders unprecedented access to a wide audience. At the same time, we’re able to deliver never before seen experiences; giving our fans access to ideas and technology that will ultimately impact the future of sports.

The 2022 cohort of the Minnesota Twins Accelerator by Techstars

AWSM Sauce founders Carl Starkey and Paul Lehman. AWSM Sauce is piloting their patented powder to pour technology in the Delta SKY360 Club at Target Field in April.

Q:  How did you become interested in innovation? Were you involved in innovation efforts at your prior places of employment, Padilla and HealthPartners?

A:  I’ve always been fascinated by those who are poking at the edges of human possibility and what’s “next.” I’ve been in the fortunate position to work with technology and technologists throughout my career in communications and marketing, and am thrilled that innovation is now a greater focus of my role with the Minnesota Twins.

EDGE Sound Research founders Valtteri Saltomaki and Ethan Castro test their ResonX Sound Lounge in advance of the 2022 season.

Q:  How is technology revolutionizing baseball? Entertainment? How will the Twins branding be expressed in the new partnerships?

A:  Technology plays a crucial role in all aspects of sports and entertainment, from human performance on the field, to all aspects of the fan journey, to the in-stadium experience, to how we consume the game/brand outside of the stadium. Tech touches everything we see whether we realize it or not. Ultimately, we want the Minnesota Twins to be seen as an innovative brand,and that doesn’t happen without actively experimenting in the tech space.

Q:  Why is this a space of interest to the Minnesota Twins?

A:  There are three reasons. 1. Brand – We believe this is an opportunity to push the Minnesota Twins brand beyond baseball. 2. Culture – We want to infuse innovation across all levels of our organization and believe there is no better way to do that than to expose our culture to the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative nature of startup founders. 3. Revenue – As teams seek to diversify revenue streams, we see early-stage investing as a long-term strategy with many ancillary benefits.

Q:  How will you inform fans – business and sports – of the program’s progress? How may we participate?

A:  People can follow our progress on any of the channels below or by visiting our program page. If you know of any great startups that could be a fit for our program, please let us know! Otherwise, we hope to see you at Target Field, where you can try out our latest innovations in person.

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  There are many ways: 

Twinsbaseball.com

twitter.com/Twins

Instagram.com/twins

facebook.com/Twins

youtube.com/twins

tiktok.com/@mntwins

snapchat.com/add/twins

...and come to the park!

Minneapolis' Version of the Bat Signal?

Thank you to Rick Kittock for sharing this photo taken outside of Target Field.

The Minneapolis Arbor Day Celebration heads to the North Loop on April 29!

Annual spring celebration shifts to the streets with a block party along Third Street North between Fifth and Sixth Avenues

The 2022 Minneapolis Arbor Day Celebration brings an entertaining evening in appreciation of trees to North Loop neighborhood on Friday, April 29, 4-8 pm! After a two-year pandemic hiatus, this year the award-winning, traveling festival shifts out of the park and into the streets with a block party planned along Third Street North between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.

Supporting street trees is the focus of this year’s Minneapolis Arbor Day Celebration. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is responsible for all trees planted on public property in Minneapolis, which includes all trees on park land, but also approximately 200,000 trees that line 1,100 miles of city streets and parkways.

The MPRB is teaming up with partner organizations that support the city’s urban trees to educate festival-goers on how to help trees survive and thrive in urban environments. The event is being held on a stretch of Third Street North that was recently rebuilt, so people will have opportunities to help plant new trees along the freshly paved street and learn about urban tree care.

An initial rundown of activities and attractions is below. Share this event with anyone who may be interested at minneapolisparks.org/arborday.

Tree Planting

Join MPRB Arborists for tree planting excursions leaving every half hour, 5-6:30 pm.

Arbor Day Stage

4:30-6 pm: Live music from the Brass Messengers
6-6:30 pm: Announcements and remarks from local elected officials
6:30-8 pm: Live music from the Wailing Loons

Activities

- Information and activities from environmental organizations

- Tree-sized lawn games

- Ask an Arborist booth

- Food Trucks

- Beer Garden

- Arbor Day Fun Run – see MN Brewery Running Series website for details

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A few photos from a precious Arbor Day event (Theodore Wirth Park, pre-pandemic, 2019):

Photo credit: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board