Brady PieperMinneapolis is unveiling a draft Development Framework that re-envisions connections and pedestrian infrastructure for Nicollet Avenue in South Minneapolis.
The draft framework, presented during a public open house at Whittier International Elementary School, highlights a new plan for a 10-acre corridor between the Midtown Greenway trail, Lake Street, First Avenue and Blaisdell Avenue. The long-anticipated project, known as the New Nicollet Redevelopment, seeks to revitalize this key corridor, improve multimodal connectivity and advance a community-driven vision for the future of South Minneapolis.
“The New Nicollet Redevelopment is a testament to the power of inclusive, community-driven planning,” Community Planning and Economic Development Director Erik Hansen said. “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.”
The city anticipates financing the estimated $23.3 million project through a variety of mechanisms, including Value Capture Funds, Special Assessment Bonds, Metro Transit Funds, state Community Planning & Economic Development funding and Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority contributions.
The project seeks to reconnect Nicollet Avenue by constructing an improved bridge over the Midtown Greenway and redeveloping Cecil Newman Lane from Nicollet Avenue to 1st Avenue S. The project will also include an ADA-compliant access ramp to the Midtown Greenway from 1st Avenue S, pedestrian and bicycle facility improvements on Cecil Newman Lane, new green stormwater infrastructure and safer crossings.
The 10-acre lot within the project site, formerly a Kmart store, will be transformed into a vibrant, community-centered space that offers green areas and opportunities for local businesses.
The plan was informed by several rounds of community and business feedback, including public input from over a dozen events, nearly 2,500 survey responses and over 500 in-person interactions. Primarily, local stakeholders noted enhancing public spaces and developing housing options as top priorities for the future of Minneapolis.
In response to this feedback, the city’s redevelopment project will include the development of a new park, community gathering spaces and affordable housing options for residents at all income levels.
In addition to reconnecting Nicollet Avenue from Lake Street to Cecil Newman, the city anticipates this project will provide local businesses and residents alike, an opportunity to thrive in sustainable, safe and convenient spaces.
If the redevelopment project is approved by the City Council and the mayor, initial construction work on Nicollet Avenue could begin as soon as this year. The full project would be expected to be complete by 2030.
“Thousands of residents have offered their feedback as part of the extensive community engagement guiding the project,” Minneapolis City Council Vice President Aisha Chughtai said. “I’m committed to ensuring impacted residents have a seat at the table and their vision guides every decision in this development.”
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