Allen E. Hoppe, CFA, CTP, Director - Banking, Investments and Debt
Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis, MN
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The City of Minneapolis has unveiled a draft Development Framework for the highly anticipated New Nicollet Redevelopment project, guided by input from thousands of community members. Through 14 in-person and virtual events, 2,245 survey responses, and 520 in-person interactions, the community’s voice is represented and shaping every aspect of this project.
During an open house at Whittier International Elementary School, the project team celebrated the public’s engagement and shared a bold vision for transforming the former Kmart site into a thriving hub of green space, a variety of housing options, and small business opportunities.
“Reconnecting Nicollet Ave. has been a decades-in-the-making vision, and we are going to get it done right,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “For far too long, this space has separated our communities rather than united them, and this community-driven process is bringing them back together. Opening it up with people, a park, and public realm improvements will drive life into a place that everyone will want to be.”
The New Nicollet Redevelopment site spans 10 acres of land between the Midtown Greenway trail, Lake Street, First Avenue and Blaisdell Avenue. The City's plan includes the reconnection of Nicollet Avenue and creates more opportunity for
“Residents are at the center of the New Nicollet Redevelopment project, which is a generational investment in our community. Thousands of residents have offered their feedback as part of the extensive community engagement guiding the project,” said Minneapolis City Council Vice President Aisha Chughtai. “I’m committed to ensuring impacted residents have a seat at the table and their vision guides every decision in this development.”
A few of the top resident priorities emerging from community engagement include enhanced public spaces, a variety of housing choices for households at all income levels and a new grocery store.
"Whittier Alliance has been thrilled to partner with the City and other local community organizations to drive community engagement on this project. We know that effective planning happens when community members' voices are heard,” said Anna Schmitz, executive director of Whittier Alliance. “It's exciting to see the results of that engagement in this Development Framework--and, crucially, we know that engagement work can't stop here. We look forward to continuing to bring community members to the table as this project continues to move forward."
"The New Nicollet Redevelopment is a testament to the power of inclusive, community-driven planning. Thanks to the dedication of our planning staff and the thousands of residents who shared their ideas, we are creating a vision that reflects the needs and aspirations of the people who live and work in this area,” said Community Planning and Economic Development Director Erik Hansen. “This project will bring new housing, green space, and economic opportunity to the heart of Minneapolis, and we are excited to continue this work together."
The project team will seek approval of the Development Framework from City Council and the mayor this spring. Construction on Nicollet Avenue is expected to begin later this year.
