The City of Minneapolis Proposes New Plan for George Floyd Square

George Floyd Square could see major changes as soon as next year. According to the City of Minneapolis, the proposed plan for 38th Street East and Chicago Avenue will make the area safer and more accessible for pedestrians, while allowing for Metro Transit to resume service along Chicago Avenue.

The project scope includes redesigning two corridors — 38th Street from Park Ave. and 10th Ave., as well as Chicago Ave. between 37th and 39th Street— and creating a flexible open street design concept.

The project will include traffic calming measures and will allow for the street to be occasionally closed to traffic, if needed. Additionally, the revamp will involve new ADA accessible sidewalks and intentional gathering spaces. As suggested in the press release, “The design concept will offer new sidewalks, planted boulevards, green stormwater treatment, pedestrian street lighting, new off-street bikeways for all ages and abilities, and some on-street parking, as well as additional green space for trees. The design concept also preserves locations for existing and future memorials.”

The City also hopes to remedy aging infrastructure, including underground utilities, during the remodel.

The plan calls for collaborating with a local organization around the redevelopment of the Peoples’ Way, which had previously been a gas station. The City hopes to find a “community-centered owner” willing to buy and develop the site. There will be an application available on the City’s website now through November 22nd for interested parties.

In a press release, a representative for the City stated that thousands of people have provided input for the future of George Floyd Square. The representative went on to explain that, with their feedback, community members have “contributed to a vision that honors this space as an active memorial, centers community needs and takes important steps forward in repairing the collective harms experienced by the community due to the historical impacts of racism and the murder of George Floyd.”

The City claims that the plan will prioritize honoring George Floyd’s life and legacy, as well as the sacred cultural space that the community has built since his murder.

However, many community members are not convinced. Some have voiced that the project has not received enough feedback from Black and Brown residents and those who frequent George Floyd Square, among other concerns. Community members who are opposed to the plan hope to urge the City to, instead, focus on healthcare and housing initiatives for those in need.

There will be a community-organized meeting on November 6th at Calvary Lutheran Church (3901 Chicago) to discuss alternate plans for the space.

City Council will hear the final proposed vision during its meeting on November 12th.