Minneapolis residents: Act now to protect your riverfront!
The city of Minneapolis is taking public comments on its new ordinance to guide riverfront development and land management. The ordinance has a lot of strengths, but we'd like to see more protections for birds along this crucial migratory flyway.
Learn more by reading FMR's analysis or attending our upcoming virtual Q&A. >>
Metro communities begin adopting new river protections
Metro-area cities and townships are beginning to adopt new baseline riverfront protections. Is your city is on the list of communities writing their ordinances this fall? Find out how you can shape river rules based on your community's values and priorities. One example: Minneapolis might require bird-safe measures for new riverfront construction, since migrating songbirds are especially vulnerable to collisions in cities on the Mississippi flyway. >>
Star Tribune highlights expanded monitoring at Ford Area C
Thanks to advocacy by FMR and its partners, new monitoring wells have been installed at Ford Area C. These wells will provide a better understanding of any hazards posed by this dumpsite on the floodplain. >>
Minnesota to update invasive carp action plan
A record catch of invasive carp in the Mississippi River in southern Minnesota has raised concerns about the species' spread upriver. How is Minnesota responding? >>
What's been happening at Area C?
The official process for cleaning up a hazardous waste site like Ford Area C in St. Paul takes time, and it can be tough to keep up with the developments. Here’s a summary of what you (FMR supporters) have helped accomplish towards a better future at this floodplain waste dump so far, and what's still to come. >>
Northside faith leaders: Police brutality, Upper Harbor Terminal share same racist legacy
Seven faith leaders from North Minneapolis have submitted a powerful letter to elected leaders outlining how police brutality, land ownership and Upper Harbor Terminal are connected. They state, "The killing of Black and Brown bodies by the police is directly connected to the history of the United States' quest for land and profit... The proposed Upper Harbor development in North Minneapolis continues to perpetuate this injustice." >>
Our interactive riverfront developments map
Explore FMR's interactive map of riverfront developments and park planning processes to learn more about what's happening along the Twin Cities riverfront. >>
FMR board member writes in Star Trib: Revamp the Upper Harbor project
In a recent Star Tribune commentary, FMR board member Paul Bauknight and Reverend Robin Bell call for a new approach for Minneapolis's Upper Harbor Terminal riverfront redevelopment — one that truly centers community design and wealth building rather than the current project's "public funding for white-owned business wrapped in the holy cloth of equitable development." >>
Is Upper Harbor Terminal Minneapolis's best rebuilding idea?
Our concerns about state bonds for Upper Harbor Terminal are nothing new (see the video above from Fox 9 in late 2019). But in light of recent events, we're more concerned than ever. Is public funding for First Avenue's privately-operated concert venue at Upper Harbor Terminal still a priority for Minneapolis leaders? Learn more and take action now. >>
Minneapolis park board cuts ties with Minneapolis Police
In recognition of our commitment to public spaces that are safe and welcoming to all, we applaud the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board's recent decisions to reduce its relationship with the Minneapolis Police Department. Read more, including our letter of support. >>