Covering life, work, and play in the Historic Mill District and Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront neighborhoods. Have an opinion, local news or events to share? Contact us.
Doug Snyder provides an overview of the changes over time to the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities and his organization’s role in the efforts to clean up and revitalize the Minneapolis Riverfront.
With Michael Rainville Jr., Hosted by Brianna Rose
The tragedy of the fire was followed by the gratefulness that no civilians were hurt and the realization of what could have been. If the fire happened one day before, there would have been many casualties from the thousands of workers in the buildings and in their vehicles during rush hour.
Related: When Firefighters Saved Downtown - The Minneapolis Thanksgiving Day Fire
Every year is a walk down memory lane as the Christmas tree transforms into a glowing and sparkly vision, loaded with ornaments acquired over decades. Much like Thanksgiving 2020, Christmas 2020 will be different for many of us, and it has me more nostalgic than usual.
We imagine many of our neighbors are feeling the same way, and after a year filled with angst, we thought it would be uplifting to give Mill City Times readers the opportunity to share photos of treasured Christmas ornaments and the stories behind them.
Pictured above is a box of Shiny Brite glass ornaments, which my parents acquired in the late 1940's. They came into my possession after my mother's passing in the early 90's, and I've been decorating our trees with them ever since. Over the years I've watched in horror as four of the twelve have shattered to smithereens on the hardwood floor. Makes me wonder how these delicate things survived a household with nine kids!
Those of us who've been around the block a few times remember when safety wasn't "priority #1" - cars without seatbelts, lead-based paint, etc. These ornaments always remind me of a short-lived Christmas treat we loved as kids, giving no thought to how germy and potentially deadly they were: unwrapped hard candies the size, shape, color and flavor of a cherry; impaled with a metal hooked "stem" so they could be hung on the tree (and removed by grubby little hands, licked, and then re-hung with a sly giggle...) Aah, memories.
We invite you to share your ornament memories! Send your story and picture(s) to kim@millcitymedia.org. I will post them on our website, and share on Facebook.
Best wishes for a safe, healthy and holiday season!
Kim :)
Dennis Paulaha, PhD - Great River Coaltion
The question that will not go away whenever the Minneapolis 2040 Plan is discussed is: Was the 2040 Plan intended to help the residents and the economy of the city, and to decrease the city’s impact on global warming, or was it nothing more than a plan to support the less than successful Metro Transit System by letting developers and investors tear down single family homes and replace them with rental units?
Given that neither the Minneapolis City Council nor the City Planning Department was able to show residents how eliminating single-family zoning would improve the health, incomes, and wealth of homeowners, how eliminating single-family zoning would reduce the affordable housing problem for either potential homeowners or renters, or how eliminating single-family zoning to intentionally increase the population and population density of the city while destroying green space would not increase the city’s carbon footprint, the recent push to use language in the 2040 Plan to relax the requirements governing the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), or “granny flats,” adds more weight to the argument that the 2040 Plan is all about busses.
Over the years, accessory dwelling units have at times been allowed and at other times prohibited. Currently, they are allowed, but with restrictions.
One of the current zoning-code restrictions is that backyard dwelling units, whether they are used for granny or rented out as a source of income, can be constructed only on owner-occupied one- and two-family properties.
Other restrictions are related to building code requirements covering fire and sound separation between units, the rise and run (steepness) of stairways, headroom requirements, access to utilities, and the percentage of a single-family property that can be covered with buildings.
Such safety restrictions have limited the number of accessory dwelling units in the city, partly because they add to the cost of constructing ADUs, partly because of limited green space, which is why most accessory dwelling units are built on top of renovated garages, or, in some instances, have replaced garages.
A proposed amendment to the city’s zoning code will eliminate virtually all zoning-code restrictions on ADUs, allowing accessory dwelling units to be added to non-owner occupied properties and not be limited to properties with one- or two-living units.
The idea is to expand the accessory dwelling units idea into a world of “tiny homes.”
And by altering the zoning code so builders of the tiny houses that will cover up even more green space in the city do not have to pay fees for sewer access ($2,485) and park dedication ($1,659), the construction of the tiny houses or newly defined accessory dwelling units will be more profitable for the builders and investors who, once again, end up being the primary beneficiaries of the 2040 Plan.
There are more details in the amendment, all of which make it easier and more profitable for developers and investors to buy and tear down single-family homes and replace them with multi-unit rental buildings.
The bottom line is simple: By being able to add one more rental unit to a property with a multi-unit rental building, the income stream from rents increases.
Which means developers and investors will be able to pay more for single-family homes they will tear down, which means more single-family homes will be demolished, which means the hope of owning a single family house in Minneapolis will increasingly be there only there for the very wealthy.
And so, the question is: What does the accessory dwelling units amendment have to do with supporting the Metropolitan Transit bus system?
A lot.
As everyone should know by now, replacing owner occupied single-family homes with rental units replaces city residents who do not normally use city busses with renters who are more likely to do so.
By making it profitable to tear down even more expensive single-family homes, there will be even more potential bus riders.
An allowing a massive expansion of tiny homes also brings more renters into the city, meaning it also increases the population of likely bus users.
How does a plan that will knowingly lead families who can afford to buy single family homes to leave the city help the city’s economy? It won’t.
How does a plan that increases the city’s population and population density while decreasing its green space reduce the city’s carbon footprint? It won’t.
How will young people who are happy being renters today be able to become homeowners in the future? They won’t, unless they move out of the city.
The sad truth is, the Minneapolis 2040 Plan is not a plan for the future. It is a plan to accommodate today’s young singles with little or no regard for their future. And, as should have been expected, the huge building boom for apartments is not lowering rents; it is increasing rents.
Is there an alternative for those who are worried about affordable housing, where affordable housing is defined as renting, not owning?
There is, and it is already in place.
The Southwest Light Rail Transit Line, even though completion is years away, has already led to plans to build large rental complexes, and some condo buildings, within walking distance of the new stations. Will that lower rents inside the City of Minneapolis? Not likely.
Is it a solution to the affordable housing problem in Minneapolis? It is if city politicians and planners accept the fact that it is impossible to drive down rents by gutting the city without changing the city in ways most will regret and that are irreversible, and, equally important, if they accept the fact that a plan that puts people first will make use of the interaction between the city and its suburbs, which is, at least on paper, the function of the light rail system.
In the end, the accessory dwelling units amendment is one more step down a path that, instead of solving problems, leads Minneapolis away from doing what can be done to make one of the world’s great cities even better.
Via the December e-newsletter from Northrup King Building:
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Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.
If you were to stand on the corner of Second Street NE and Broadway, you would notice a new apartment building being built on the southwest corner of the intersection, a recently opened independent living facility for Catholic Eldercare on the southeast corner, another apartment building on the northwest corner, and standing amongst these new developments on the northeast corner is one of the older buildings that can be found in Minneapolis. Stonehouse Square has provided quality living space for over forty years, but the building is much older than that.
A Catholic religious order known as the Little Sisters of the Poor first came to Minneapolis in 1889 with the goal of opening a home for the older citizens of Minneapolis. Once they were settled in, they hired local architect Frederick G. Corser, who also designed Westbrook Hall at the University of Minnesota and served as the architect for the Minneapolis Fire Department. Throughout his career, Corser was more concerned with functionality than decoration, and he stayed true to that when designing the Home for the Aged.
Little Sisters of the Poor Building, 1967
The first phase of construction took place in 1895 when Corser built a three-and-a-half story wood framed, yellow brick building and an attached chapel. The Little Sisters of the Poor and its residents quickly outgrew that facility, and in 1905, Corser came back to make an addition, the east wing. Even though Corser paid more attention to a building’s function, he still wanted his addition to look original, and he did just that.
The Sisters and residents once again outgrew their building, so in 1914, plans to construct a west wing were made. This time, the Sisters went with the firm Kees and Colburn who used steel, brick and tile. However, in order to stay true to the original building and out of respect for Corser, the exterior was made with yellow bricks and wood framing. This turned out to be a great idea as it blended in perfectly with the existing building.
1948 photo of a sister helping a resident with physical therapy.
The Little Sisters of the Poor Home for the Aged, also called St. Joseph’s Home, provided top notch care and great facilities for their residents for over eighty years in Northeast Minneapolis. However, as the years went on, the building kept deteriorating and newer standards and codes meant that the Sisters would have to spend a fortune to bring the building up to code. 1977 was the last year this building housed the Sisters and their elderly residents before they moved to a new location over in St. Paul.
When the Sisters left for our neighboring city, it was a huge loss for the surrounding neighborhoods. However, Northeast Minneapolis did not have to wait too long for a new senior care organization to take root in the area. Just a couple blocks away down Second Street, Catholic Eldercare opened their now named Albert J. Hofstede Care Center in 1983, and they picked up where the Sisters left off.
2019 photo by Mark Peterson for the Northeaster.
The Minneapolis Housing and Redevelopment Authority purchased the Home for the Aged in 1977, and the next year it was included in the National Register of Historic Places. Soon after, a private developer bought it with the intent of preserving the historic architecture for years to come and renovate the interior. They even kept the original brick and wrought iron fence that borders the property. After the successful renovation, the seventy-one-unit building was ready to house residents once again, and to this day, the building provides excellent living for Northeasters.
There may currently be a development boom in Minneapolis, but during this Thanksgiving week I’m thankful that I live in a city where the old and new can coexist in a way that creates a unique atmosphere and character that makes Minneapolis, well, Minneapolis.
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About Michael Rainville, Jr.
A 6th generation Minneapolitan, Michael Rainville Jr. received his B.A. in History from the University of St. Thomas, and is currently enrolled in their M.A. in Art History and Certificate in Museum Studies programs. Michael is also a historic interpreter and guide at Historic Fort Snelling at Bdote and a lead guide at Mobile Entertainment LLC, giving Segway tours of the Minneapolis riverfront for 7+ years. Contact: mrainvillejr@comcast.net. Click here for an interactive map of Michael's past articles.
Original air date: November 16, 2020
This episode features speakers and content you’ll not want to miss:
What topics would you like to see covered on the show? Milling About with Brianna Rose is a production of Mill City Times, and we cover topics of interest to our readers. We focus on local entertainers, small businesses, neighborhood stories, Mississippi River connections, local food producers and history - and are open to suggestions! Please email Becky Fillinger, executive producer, at becky_fillinger@hotmail.com to suggest ideas or to be a guest on the show.
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) Superintendent, John Anfinson, will retire at the end of the year. I can't recall which function we were attending when I first heard John speak, but I was an immediate fan and have held him in the highest regard ever since. Those are some incredible shoes to fill!
All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 relives an astounding actual time in history when Allied troops and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the Christmas holiday together, sharing food and drink, playing soccer, and singing carols. It was a brief interlude before the business of war continued. The play is drawn from actual letters and memoirs from the men who were present at the event.
The Theater Latte Da production of All is Calm (by founding director Peter Rothstein) was filmed last December by New York Public Media (WNET) for national broadcast this year. We spoke to Benjamin Dutcher, a major player in the ensemble production, which he calls “the most important piece of theater ever created”.
Set your televisions to watch the filmed version at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, on TPT (Twin Cities PBS) and premiere nationwide. It will be available to stream starting Dec. 15 at pbs.org. Congratulations to Benjamin, Peter Rothstein and Theater Latte Da!
Were you thinking that with COVID restrictions there would be no Holidazzle this year? Well, Santa would not allow that to happen! We interviewed Leah Wong, VP for External Relations, of the Minneapolis Downtown Council to learn about the many ways that Holidazzle will be delivered virtually this year. There are many events and activities that you may watch at your convenience and it all starts with the Holidazzle Show presented by Comcast, starting on November 27 and then on 3 consecutive Thursdays. You’ll find holidazzle shows, DIY ideas, holiday-themed activities and interactive engagement - not to mention free Zoom meetings with the big guy. Great job, Santa and other Holidazzle planners!
Watch the full interview on YouTube...
Via a recent Press Release:
Experience the Twin Cities is offering a new locally-curated Twin Cities Holiday Gift Box full of Minnesota-made treats, and it includes personal delivery by Santa Claus or Santa’s elf via the Experience the Twin Cities bus. The gift box is full of goodies from local brands such as Candyland, The Cookie Store, Tiny Footprint Coffee, Legacy Chocolates, We Are Nuts, and Regina’s Fine Candies. The gift box can be purchased on the Experience the Twin Cities website for $69 each, which includes delivery by Santa or Santa’s elf within a 20-mile radius of Minneapolis.
Experience the Twin Cities normally centers its business on guided specialty tours to local breweries, wineries, restaurants, and more. The company developed this new offering for a special way for Minnesotans to support and enjoy local businesses from home.
"Normally during this time of year we are busy having fun on our Minneapolis and St. Paul tours, but we obviously had to adapt in 2020. We have such wonderful local businesses to support and we’re thrilled to put these brands together in one delicious gift box. We’re also very excited about the delivery by Santa Claus aspect. It will be really memorable for our colorful Experience the Twin Cities bus to pull up to homes and offices and for Santa to hop out to deliver these gift boxes,” explained Rebecca Pfeiffer, owner of Experience the Twin Cities. “We also hope the fun delivery will appeal to businesses who want to send a special holiday gift to their employees and clients working from home.”
The Twin Cities Holiday gift box is on sale now. Nationwide shipping is also available, and bulk and corporate orders can be customized with company branding or messaging for a nominal fee.
About Experience the Twin Cities
Editors Note: Mill District resident Doug Verdier continues to document the progress of the Water Works project (along with some bonus pictures of the Third Avenue Bridge refurbishment project).
More landscaping and preparation for bricklaying were the order of the days during the past couple of weeks in Water Works Park. And not to be outdone, work on the Third Avenue Bridge continued in numerous locations. Following are just a few photos of progress captured during the past week.
The scaffolding erected along two sides of the pavilion has been covered with plastic to provide a warm and weather-protective environment for bricklayers when that phase of the project begins. Meanwhile, interior work continues.
Twenty light poles were recently delivered and await placement throughout the park. In the foreground are vertical posts that will be part of a railing along the edge of the grassy area in front of the Bank of America City Steps.
Sod has now been installed between the newly resurfaced bike and pedestrian path and West River Parkway. The contractors regular watering of the sod, trees and shrubs planted throughout the park helps ensure the plantings will establish healthy root systems.
Another view of the new sod along the bike and pedestrian path and roadway.
A new pedestrian walkway on the park side of the bridge on First Street over the woonerf will connect new sidewalks on that side of the street between Third and Fifth Avenues. Rebar is in place within the frame awaiting concrete pour.
Shown here is the bridge walkway following the pouring of concrete, as workers smooth out the surface. Ornamental railing similar to that on the other side of the bridge will replace the wooden safety barriers on the right.
Repair and replacement of concrete on the base of this Third Avenue Bridge pier nearest Main Street is visible following removal of the forms. Similar work is underway in various stages on other piers across the river.
Steel pilings are in place around another of the bridge piers, forming a coffer dam to allow removal of damaged concrete around the base and below the water line and replacement of the surface concrete after attaching rebar to the bases of the piers. Article by Becky Fillinger
Nell RuecklI’ve been lucky in my life to have visited spas and bath houses in many cities. We are all going to be the beneficiaries of Nell Rueckl’s new venture, Watershed Spa. Let the soaking begin!
Q: Tell us about Watershed, your new venture.
A: Watershed is a new destination for ritual-based, communal bathing in a respectful, safe, and clean environment, coupled with holistic spa services, integrative wellness treatments, and a retail area with green beauty, skincare, and home spa offerings. It will be located at 514 2nd Street NE, in the historic Soap Factory building. We plan to open late spring or early summer of 2021.
Q: What makes the Soap Factory facility ideal for your vision?
A: First, proximity to the river! Not only are we all about water’s healing properties, but we’re envisioning a contemporary take on ancient traditions, so it’s fitting to be in a historic setting. The heart of our cities is the Mississippi, crucial to history, to life, and to the community, and we feel really linked to it. Plus, it’s not far from our original Spot Spas location - I love the support from our current community - we are so lucky to celebrate 20 years of bringing spa services to the Twin Cities.
Q: What was the inspiration for Watershed?
A: Having practiced massage for nearly 30 years, I am aware of the power of people connecting to their bodies and committing to health. As I’ve shaped my vision for Watershed, I’ve been visiting spas and communal baths around the country and around the world, and I can tell you that partaking in healthy practices in public, in community - quietly witnessing all kinds of people participating in the same rituals - has a magnifying effect that is simply unquantifiable. It’s powerful!
Q: Why do you feel the Twin Cities is missing a key experience with no business currently offering a soaking ritual?
A: Many people are looking for alternatives to bars as a gathering place to meet up with friends - people want to connect, but in a healthy way. There are saunas around town, but I firmly believe adding the sauna in with the rest of the components of bathing and spa treatments make for a really transformative addition to the options for individuals or groups. A visit would be a great way to start the day, end the day, or a great option before going out for a meal or after a yoga class, bike ride, ski or run.
Q: How would you describe the Watershed experience? What is Watershed’s bathing ritual?
A: Watershed will offer a contemporary take on the classic bathing ritual. Combining many traditions, Watershed will have all the elements of a full bathing experience, plus spa treatments - we’ll be the first location in town to have both!
The bathing ritual helps reset the mind and body. Visitors to Watershed will emerge with a sense of peace and calm. After checking in, guests will enter a changing area with secure storage of personal goods. Next up is a visit to western-style showers in order to clean the body and further prepare for the communal bathing experience. This is followed by access to a communal soaking tub that is social but a restful place, and sauna and steam areas, which aid in detoxification and enhance relaxation, as well as a cold plunge pool, which recharges and rejuvenates. The hot-cold cycle is really restorative. Bathers can rest and repeat as much as they wish throughout their visit. We’re creating some really wonderful areas for rest and relaxation, including one with energetically infused gemstones. We’re also creating a sea salt floor, which cleans and brightens energetic levels and restores balance.
Watershed is co-ed, but single-sex bathing times will be available. Bathers wear swimsuits, special footwear that we give out, and we will incorporate the strictest cleaning and safety precautions.
Q: What other services are available besides the baths?
A: A full range of spa services will also be available:
Additionally, we will have a really lovely retail area with our favorite clean skincare products, green beauty items, and home spa items - candles, gifts and more.
Q: Will Spot remain as a stand-alone business?
A: Spot's staff will move over! We’ll most likely let the NE location go because of proximity to Watershed.
Q: Will you have grand opening special events?
A: TBD! Right now I would suggest people follow us on Facebook and Instagram and we will continue to serve during this time, virtually or otherwise.
Q: We all live in close proximity to the Mississippi River and many lakes. Does the access to water resources inspire you?
A: Yes, I am so excited about the proximity to the river and the location. A great synergy.
Q: Tell me more about the @ifundwomen campaign.
Yes, we’ve just launched a fundraising campaign to help give us a boost as we begin construction. There’s been great enthusiasm from the community, both from people who weren’t familiar with this concept and from people who have visited baths in other cities - it’s wonderful. With the campaign, we’ve designed many levels so people can participate according to their budget. I think we’ve come up with a nice variety of incentives for donors, from gift packages to day-passes to a variety of memberships. We also have a limited number of founding memberships available - those come with extra perks that won’t be available once we’re open.
Q: Will you offer gift certificates for purchase in time for the holidays?
A: Absolutely! Our website launches on November 27th, or folks can follow @WatershedSpa on social media. We also have gift certificates still available for Spot Spas. Shop early, shop local! This not only gives shoppers something to look forward to, but it helps support small businesses during a particularly difficult time.
The logo depicts a water droplet and a rooftop or shed. Created by Kelly Munson.
Q: Please tell me any other important dates in the lead up to opening.
A: Our website launches on Black Friday, November 27, and we’ll open our doors in late spring/early summer of 2021, stay tuned for ribbon cutting info. We are optimistic we can create a safe, healthy, healing, and unique oasis for people. There’s a reason why the bathing ritual has been around in many cultures for many generations!
Via a November 20 Press Release from mpls downtown council:
The 2020 Holidazzle experience launches in 1 week. Plus, Holidazzle announces virtual Santa schedule
You can still share your holiday wish and take your photo with Santa this Holidazzle season
Holidazzle is teaming with Santa to offer free Zoom meet-and-greets, story times, and phone greetings to get together online this holiday season.
Santa will be participating in the following activities during the Holidazzle season, which runs November 27 through December 20, all of which are free and can be accessed at Holidazzle.com.
Holidazzle is bringing holiday cheer to you virtually this season, wherever you are. Along with Santa and The Holidazzle Show, enjoy HoliTivities brought to you by Xcel Energy, watch DIY holiday videos, engage with Holidazzle activities and challenges on social media, and more.
Visit www.holidazzle.com, or follow Holidazzle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to enjoy this year’s virtual content.
I want to extend positive wishes of thanksgiving and ask that everyone stay safe and healthy as we celebrate the holiday next week.
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Last Friday the Minneapolis City Council voted 7-6 to approve a stop-gap funding request from the Police Chief to help stabilize staff levels through the end of 2020. This vote gives Chief Arradondo the ability to hire officers from the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department and/or Metro Transit Officers to help the Minneapolis Police Department do patrols and respond to 911 calls. These partnerships are very common and something the city implements ever summer in downtown Minneapolis.
MPD staff levels have declined significantly since the first of the year. 40 officers have retired and an additional 121 are out on medical leave due to PTSD claims. Meanwhile, crime rates are up and although the leadership team has been able to shift staff and priorities, more work with less people has its limits. Without additional temporary assistance, we will continue to see a decline in staff and an increase in response time for 911 calls. When response times diminish, the ability to apprehend suspects is seriously compromised.
While the city is actively looking at transformative ways to improve the MPD – which I support – I feel strongly that we must support our Police Chief and embrace a both/and approach instead of an either/or stance so that we are able to maintain public safety as we work to improve public safety for all people in Minneapolis.
There are three upcoming online public hearings for people to share thoughts on Mayor Jacob Frey’s recommended 2021 City Budget. Comments can also be submitted online at the City’s website.
Online public hearings:
Learn how to participate in online public hearings.
Comments submitted online will be entered into the public record and shared with the mayor and council members. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget on Wednesday, Dec. 9.
Mayor Jacob Frey’s proposed $1.5 billion budget calls for a 5.75% maximum levy increase. With a 12% increase in the overall tax base growth, three-quarters of Minneapolis residential property owners will see a decrease in their property tax bills with the median-valued household set to experience a $59 yearly decrease.
Visit the City’s website to learn more about the mayor’s recommended budget, key dates in the approval process, FAQs and more.
The City of Minneapolis is now accepting applications for the Minneapolis 4d Affordable Housing Incentive Program. This program helps property owners obtain property tax reductions for agreeing to keep a portion of rental units affordable for 10 years. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis with a final deadline of January 8, 2021. Property owners are encouraged to apply early.
Since the launch of the program in May 2018, the Minneapolis 4d program has helped preserve over 1,100 affordable housing units through partnerships with more than 100 property owners. It is one of several strategies the City is deploying to address the affordable housing shortage in Minneapolis.
Program benefits
Eligibility
Owners of market-rate multifamily properties that have a Tier 1 or Tier 2 rental license with at least 20% of the property’s rental units affordable to households making 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Starting this year, single family rental homes can be enrolled in the 4d program. In order to support future affordable homeownership opportunities, the City will release a 4d program declaration of restrictive covenants only if the property is sold to a current tenant, or another buyer with an income at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI), and in either case the buyer signs an affidavit that says they will occupy the home as their primary residence.
Learn more about eligibility requirements
Property Owner Commitment
Record a 10-year affordability declaration on your property stating:
For more information, email 4dprogram@minneapolismn.gov or call us at 612-673-5055 or 612-258-3390.
Partners from the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County and State of Minnesota are coming together to encourage people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in Hennepin County to come inside as winter weather arrives.
A broad coalition of government agencies, nonprofit and philanthropic partners are currently operating the largest and safest emergency shelter system that has ever existed in Hennepin County as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These collective efforts have thus far allowed us to avoid the devastating impacts COVID-19 has had on people experiencing homelessness in other cities.
There is existing emergency shelter capacity, especially for women, children and families. Emergency shelters continue to see beds becoming newly available each day, and some go unused each night. There are also around 200 current vacancies in board and lodge facilities, which provide low-barrier housing that people can access today.
Partners are also working to open new spaces that meet the individual needs of people sleeping outside before the end of the year, and to make permanent improvements to ensure COVID-19 safety guidelines continue to be met at existing and new shelter spaces, as they have since the beginning of the pandemic.
By the end of 2020, partners, including city, county, state and philanthropy, plan to invest $55 million to open at least seven sites to provide emergency shelter, low-barrier housing and protective housing for people experiencing homelessness, as well as enhance existing shelters and expand support services and street outreach. An additional 670 units of very affordable housing designated for people experiencing homelessness will have opened or begun construction by the end of this year.
Partners recognize that emergency shelter may not meet everyone’s individual needs. We are committed to working directly with individuals to find the best solutions available. One person sleeping outside is too many. We are committed to making full use of the options available right now, even as we bring more online.
So far in 2020, 1,300 people experiencing homelessness have found permanent housing with help from city, county, state and nonprofit partners.
Get connected to shelter
Hennepin County
New safe spaces, enhanced shelter and expanded supports expected by year’s end
Four new emergency shelter locations |Total investment of $15.2 million for 200 total beds
New protective housing sites are also being acquired to replace hotel rooms currently leased by Hennepin County for people at high risk of COVID-19 complications due to age or underlying health conditions | $20-30 million total investment
Enhancements to all existing shelters to improve safety and meet CDC COVID-19 guidelines | $5.7 million total investment
Expanded support services | $17.4 million total investment
670 additional units of affordable housing for people experiencing homelessness
In addition to these investments, city, county, state, nonprofit and philanthropic partners continue to work together to develop and preserve permanent affordable housing and to create policies that support a variety of housing options.
Twelve projects with 670 units of new housing designated for people experiencing homelessness will have opened or begun construction by the end of this year, including:
New policies to support affordable housing and shelter under review in Minneapolis
The City of Minneapolis is also working on an ordinance to allow shared housing in the city, which would create additional low-barrier, affordable housing options. Zoning requirements related to emergency shelters are also under review to make sure the city can continue to provide adequate shelter space for those who need it.
The Minnesota Peacebuilding Leadership Institute has several upcoming trainings that are partially funded by the Minneapolis Foundation for all those who live, work, and/or play in Minneapolis.
Introduction to Restorative Justice for Community Healing and Transformation
Pay-What-You-Can-Up to $50; CEs available for MN social workers, teachers, and nurses
Monday, November 23, 2020, 9am-11am CST: FB page: https://fb.me/e/1Dj2Pemlg
Introduction to Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience for Cultural Competence, Racial Healing and Equity
Pay-What-You-Can-Up to $30; CEs available for MN social workers, teachers, and nurses
Monday, November 23, 1pm-3pm CST: FB page: https://fb.me/e/cGZKwTKqb
Friday, December 4, 10am-12pm CST
Coming to the Table (CTTT) Racial Healing Talking Circles
These free monthly events are free, and donations are gratefully accepted
Saturday, November 21, 2020, 10:30am-12pm CST FB page: https://fb.me/e/5HboZBg4E
Monday, November 23, 2020, 7pm-8:30pm CST: FB page: https://fb.me/e/27pzvcW3o
Introduction to Self-Care for Resilience: Training for Practice in Everyday Life
Pay-What-You-Can-Up to $50; CEs available for MN social workers, teachers, and nurses
Friday, December 4, 2020, 2pm-4pm CST
STAR-Lite Training: Learning Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience in a Single Day for Cultural Competence, Racial Justice Healing and Equity
Early Tuition: $99 Standard Tuition: $155 CEs/CLEs available for MN mental health professionals, attorneys, teachers, and nurses.
Thursday, December 10, 2020, 9am-5pm CST
Minnesota Peacebuilding Leadership Institute :: 5200 47th Avenue South :: Suite 101 :: Minneapolis, MN 55417 : 612-345-4310 : www.mnpeace.org
Crews have finished installing signs at entry points in Minneapolis alerting drivers that the speed limit is now 20 mph in the city unless otherwise signed. The City of Saint Paul expects to complete its installation of new citywide and downtown gateway signs by early 2021.
Slower speeds on local streets make travel safer for everyone no matter how you get around. The speed limit changes follow detailed technical studies done by the cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul Public Works departments to determine appropriate local speed limits as required by state statute.
Now that the gateway signs are installed in Minneapolis, the 20 mph speed limit on local residential streets is in effect. The cities will generally not be posting 20 mph signs on local residential streets.
New speed limits are 20 mph for local residential streets; 25 mph for larger, arterial City-owned streets; and 30-plus mph for a few City-owned streets. Per Minnesota law, cities do not have authority to change speed limits on County and MnDOT roads. Speed limits on these streets in Minneapolis and Saint Paul will not change.
Reducing speed limits is one of the key strategies in the Minneapolis Vision Zero Action Plan, which outlines key steps for the next three years to advance the City’s goal of ending traffic deaths and injuries on City streets by 2027
Video
Watch a video promoting the new slower speed limits in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong.
Learn more about the speed limit changes at visionzerompls.com and stpaul.gov/speedlimits.
As the spread of COVID-19 skyrockets across the state and hospitals voice concern about the ability to treat those who fall ill, Gov. Tim Walz announced new actions to help control the spread of the virus. Turning the dial back, Walz announced a four-week pause on in-person social activities, in-person dining, sports and fitness establishments.
The scientific research and public health data indicate that the virus is spread most in places where people gather for long periods of time, especially when masks are not consistently worn. For instance, a quick stop at a retail store with a mask and physical distancing appears to have a lower risk than a gathering of friends for dinner where guests are likely to be seated closer together and unmasked while eating or drinking — whether it’s at a restaurant or in their own home.
New restrictions
Beginning 11:59 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, and lasting until Friday, Dec. 18, in-person social gatherings with individuals outside your household are prohibited; bars and restaurants are dialed back to take-out and delivery service only; gyms, fitness studios, entertainment venues, event spaces, and similar establishments will need to close; and adult and youth sports are paused. Retail businesses, salons, and places of worship may continue to operate with proper precautions in place. Childcare remains open. Schools will continue to operate under the Safe Learning Plan, which shifts between in-person, distance and hybrid learning depending on the local conditions of the virus. All other current restrictions also remain in effect.
The pandemic has reached a concerning and dangerous phase throughout much of the Midwest this November. It took 29 weeks to reach 100,000 infections in Minnesota, and just six weeks after that to reach 200,000. Less than three weeks after reaching 200,000 infections, Minnesota will reach 300,000 infections.
To support small businesses that are struggling as they do their part to combat the spread of COVID-19, Walz has announced an additional $10 million in Small Business Relief Grants. This funding will support an additional 1,000 businesses that have applied for the grant program. It supplements hundreds of millions of dollars in small business support that Minnesota has allocated since the beginning of the pandemic. With options at the state level severely limited moving forward, the governor is pushing the federal government for additional support. Minnesotans with questions about unemployment insurance are encouraged to visit uimn.org.
Find more information on the new restrictions.
Because of the explosive community spread of COVID-19 all across Minnesota, holidays need to be different this year. In order to stay safe, protect our loved ones and slow the spread, stay home this Thanksgiving. A huge part of the spread has been through people with no symptoms who don’t even know they’re sick.
New restrictions from Governor Walz limit social gatherings to only the people you live with. This applies to both indoor and outdoor gatherings. These restrictions from 11:59 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, through Friday, Dec. 18, will help fight the spread of COVID-19. For everyone’s safety, do not host in-person Thanksgiving gatherings with anyone outside of your household.
Celebrating virtually is always a way to feel the love while protecting our loved ones. This year may be the time to develop special new rituals. Some ideas are to write cards of gratitude to loved ones, cook the same recipes in your separate locations, and virtually show off your Thanksgiving decorations and children’s artwork.
Get tested
Even if you don’t feel sick, consider getting tested for COVID-19. You may be infected without having any symptoms. Find local testing sites on the City website, including free saliva testing at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Remember to quarantine until you’ve received your test results and isolate if you test positive.
And remember, stay home if you don’t feel well, if you've been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 14 days, if you're showing COVID-19 symptoms or if you’re at a higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.
Situational updates: Minneapolis
Situational updates: Minnesota
Thanksgiving guidance
Health Department Incident Command updates
Case investigation/Contact tracing
Community COVID-19 testing and flu shots
COVID-19 vaccination
Responding to community needs
Businesses
The City specific COVID email address is: COVID19@minneapolismn.gov.
Kieran Folliard is a prolific entrepreneur and we're so lucky to have him creating so much goodness nearby! Here's a quick video update from Kieran on his mission to - " highlight, promote and build the brands produced at the Food Building". Do you need holiday provisions? Check out the offerings from the Alemar Cheese Company, Red Table Meat Company and Bakers Field Flour and Bread - you and your guests will be delighted with the variety, freshness and quality.
What's the most popular annual art sale in the Twin Cities? That would be the MCAD student art sale, now in its 23rd year. Cindy Theis, VP of Advancement at MCAD explains to us that you'll find several thousand pieces of art for sale by 200 artists. The art sale started as a curriculum item - helping the students understand how to market and sell their artwork in the community. It still serves that purpose but it has evolved into a must attend event. Previews begin Wednesday online at mcad.edu/artsale. Although the sale runs through midnight on Saturday, don't dawdle. With thousands of shoppers, you'll want to shop early!
EDITOR'S NOTE - Via a November 17 e-announcment from Northern Lights.mn:
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Via an October 29 e-announcement from Northern Lights.mn
Madweyaashkaa: Waves Can Be Heard
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Via email from Council Member Fletcher:
This week, a request was brought by the Police Department for the authorization of $500,000 out of our contingency fund to fund contracts with the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office and/or Metro Transit Police for additional law enforcement services. I voted no on this proposal, and I want to share a little bit more about why.
We do urgently need solutions. There are violent crimes occurring in our community that are not acceptable. The City Council brought in violence intervention experts and passed a staff direction identifying staff resources and outlining a targeted, strategic approach to disrupt the social dynamics that are generating most of the violence. That approach does not lead with law enforcement, but does have a law enforcement component that I support. It is urgent that MPD collaborate and fulfill their role in this violence prevention work.
The Chief’s proposal did not provide for that collaboration, did not emphasize the kind of intelligence-based, targeted strategy we’re calling for, and provided no real alternative strategy. It seeks to add patrol, which in and of itself, is not a strategy to stop crime. We have since learned that Metro Transit Police do not have capacity to provide to MPD, and that MPD has not worked out any details with the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office. It seems pretty unlikely that any additional shifts will materialize before the end of the year, making this vote all the more meaningless.
MPD has also not provided financial transparency that I would request of any department that came to us asking for more money at year’s end, about how they’re managing their $185 million budget. They are projected to be $5.9 million over budget at the end of the year, and we cannot afford to throw endless money at a department with no plan, especially now.
We can act with urgency and still focus on solutions backed by evidence. We all agree on the problem, and we’re all passionate about solving it for our city. I’m a “no” vote on proposals that are designed to address anxiety rather than provide real solutions. We’ve got to do better.
10th Avenue Bridge and Watermain Project
This project will rehabilitate the historic 10th Ave SE bridge over the Mississippi River and W River Pkwy. A new water main will be installed under the river as part of the project.
Latest Project News
Construction Update Meeting - Friday, November 20 at 10:30 a.m.
Project staff will hold a virtual construction update meeting next Friday using GoTo Meeting. Members of the public are invited to join the online meeting and hear updates on construction progress and speak with project staff.
Please use this link to join the 10th Ave Bridge Online Construction Update Meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/784924461
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (224) 501-3412 Access Code: 784-924-461
The bridge was closed on March 30th and the contractor has been actively working on repairs. For more details on the repairs, schedule and bridge deck changes, please see the latest Construction Update or go to the project page 10thavebridge.com
Check out the new drone videos showing construction progress on the project website.
What's Coming Up
The 10th Ave Bridge will remain closed to all traffic including, vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians until Summer 2021.
West River Parkway (roadway only) will be closed to motor vehicles through December 15, 2020. The adjacent trail will remain open for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Work requires the use of heavy equipment that will increase noise, vibration, and dust
in work areas.
Access to adjacent apartments and businesses will remain open during the construction activity.
For More Info
Bridge Contact: Meseret Wolana, meseret.wolana@minneapolismn.gov or 612-673-3527
Water Main Contact: Peter Pfister, peter.pfister@minneapolismn.gov or 612-661-4906
Mill City Times | 35W Bridge Memorial | Mill District Block Party | Mill City Media
Monday, November 30, 2020 at 6:04AM
