You may know that the Mississippi River through the Twin Cities is a national park. But few of us know how our special river became a national park in the first place. We interviewed National Park Superintendent John Anfinson about the development proposal that started the fight to protect our park and the surprising role that this exact same site — the potential home for a new River Learning Center — could play in its future. >>
River Corridor Land Use and Development Blog
As more cities move to embrace the river and capitalize on its exceptional value, FMR works within metro river communities to ensure that public access, scenic views, historic preservation and environmental quality are respected.
Here are the park plans and developments that our river corridor team has its eye on. Learn more about the program, how we evaluate development plans and all the places we work.
Development and land use updates are also shared on social (Facebook and Twitter) and in FMR's Mississippi Messages newsletter.
Join us! Sign up to be a River Guardian to receive email action alerts when we need your help the most, plus invitations to educational happy hours and other events.
April 24, 2020
We're happy to see FMR board member Paul Bauknight interviewed for the most recent issue of Architecture MN magazine.
Bauknight, a registered architect and designer, discusses his excitement for a new riverfront park in North Minneapolis, and how building trust with community members is crucial to any design process. >>
April 10, 2020
With your support, the City of St. Paul could begin work on a new River Learning Center later this year. This special site would strengthen public access to the river and serve as a destination for the National Park Service, environmental learning, and recreation. >>
April 7, 2020
If all goes well at the State Capitol this spring, the City of St. Paul could begin designing a new River Learning Center at Crosby Farm Regional Park later this year. >>
April 7, 2020
In these changing times, we have more questions than ever about whether Minneapolis' Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment plan can deliver promised community benefits. The city has paused the public planning process, but is continuing to seek state funds for First Avenue's concert venue on the site. >>
April 1, 2020
Looking for something impactful to do while you’re inside? If you reside in Minneapolis or use Minneapolis parks, consider filling out the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s (MPRB) Parks for All survey. >>
April 1, 2020
Starting this year, each metro river city and town will update its laws guiding local riverfront development. These updates will be important tools for communities that want to shape the river for years to come.
We’ve pulled together a field guide for this Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area ordinance process — complete with briefings, videos, maps, updates for your city and more — to help you stay informed and involved. >>
March 11, 2020
The City of Minneapolis' top priority this legislative session is securing $20 million for First Avenue's amphitheater at Upper Harbor Terminal. But we still have some basic, important questions about this project — questions that deserve answers before the state invests public dollars. >>
March 4, 2020
The Wishbone is a proposed new walkway that would cross the river in downtown Minneapolis. We look forward to exploring its environmental and technical considerations, and community dialogue about how this project fits into the city's riverfront park priorities. >>
February 26, 2020
After polluting on the North Minneapolis riverfront for years, Northern Metals was given a second chance to build a new facility in Becker. However, before that facility was even fully open, a large pile of cars caught fire and burned for five days. We spoke to KSTP News about Northern Metals' history of violations and community harm. >>