New visitor center proposed for Fort Snelling raises hopes, concerns

A proposal by the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) to give the Fort Snelling visitor center a facelift has many positive elements, but a modern visitor center perched near the bluff could change the face and character of this nationally significant historic site.

Built in 1825 on the bluff overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, Fort Snelling is one of the most significant historic sites in the state of Minnesota. Today it is a designated National Historic Landmark and a centerpiece of a National Park — the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA). Settlement of the Twin Cities began with Fort Snelling, and as a modern metropolitan area grew up around it, we are fortunate that much of the historic character and scenic beauty of the site has been preserved for nearly 200 years.

The Historical Society is proposing to build a new visitor center at the site to replace the mostly underground building that currently serves this purpose. The proposal also includes stabilization and improvements to several historic buildings, improved connectivity and trails, new landscaping and reduced surface parking. The proposed new building has a sleek modern design with an exterior of wood and limestone materials, and would be located 40 feet from the edge of the bluff. The project would cost $25 million and MHS is hoping to secure the funds from the Legislature next year.

Because of the sites national status, MNRRA has oversight and approval authority for changes to the site. National Park Service staff are currently reviewing comments submitted regarding the proposal to determine if it can go forward as planned or if it requires changes or additional public review and comment. FMR registered comments asking for the latter — to slow down the review process, and allow adequate time for all stakeholders to come to the table, offer creative suggestions, and respond to a variety of options.

Proposed changes for a place this rich in history, cultural heritage and scenic beauty deserve a thorough and robust public process to match the sites significance, said FMR executive director Whitney Clark in a letter to MNRRA Superintendent Paul Labovitz. FMRs primary concern is the potential visual impact of siting a visitor center on the bluff where it would be visible from the river and numerous parks and overlooks around it. He also suggested the need to carefully evaluate opportunities to reuse historic buildings on the site instead of building something new that does not match the character of the historic setting.

More information

• FMR letter to MNRRA outlining concerns (73 KB PDF)
• Park Planning section of the National Park Service/MNRRA web site.
• Historic Fort Snelling Revitalization Project at the Minnesota Historical Societys web site.