Update: Lilydale River Bluffs plan to go before council soon
We're happy to report that the concept plans for a senior development in Lilydale (original article) have been revised to better protect the river bluff as well as scenic views. As the city council moves to vote June 25, we're advocating for several conditions to address stormwater management and more. >>
River planning is wrapping up for most corridor cities
View from Schaar's Bluff at Spring Lake Park Reserve in Hastings, part of the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area.
Most Twin Cities communities have completed their draft plans for land use and development along their local riverfront, but a few are still seeking public comments in the coming weeks or months. Learn where your community is in the process and weigh in while there is still time. >>
Riverfront regional park plan roundup
FMR has been participating in the master planning processes for Above the Falls, Mississippi Gorge and Hidden Falls Crosby Farm regional parks in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Here's a roundup of the draft plans, FMR's comments on these plans and opportunities for future public participation. >>
Upper Harbor Terminal - Where do we go from here?
Despite public opposition, the Minneapolis City Council approved the concept plan for the Upper Harbor Terminal (UHT) site in North Minneapolis. FMR continues to have many concerns and will stay engaged as planning progresses. >>
FMR opposes Upper Harbor Terminal plan, calls for more community engagement
The Minneapolis Upper Harbor Terminal site is key to improving the North Minneapolis riverfront. Done correctly, the redevelopment of this city-owned site can better connect residents with the river and be a model of sustainability and community wealth-building. So why would the city let private companies take the lead and reap the majority of benefits? >>
Action Alert: Deny the Upper Harbor Terminal Concept Plan [CLOSED]
The City of Minneapolis is moving quickly to advance the proposed Upper Harbor Terminal Concept Plan along 1 mile of riverfront in Northside Minneapolis. The plan allows private interests to take the lead and reap the majority of benefits from this publicly-owned property.
Minneapolis residents, join us in telling your city council representative and Mayor Frey that we can do better before the council's committee meeting on February 19. >>
There's still time to weigh in on local river planning
View of the High Bridge from Cherokee Park in St. Paul.
Several Twin Cities communities have completed their draft plans for land use and development along their local riverfront, but a number are still seeking public comments in the coming months. Find out where your your community stands. >>
River Heights Park saved, restoration begins!
Inver Grove Heights residents, including many FMR River Guardians, helped save this park!
After hearing from dozens of community members (including many FMR River Guardians), the Inver Grove Heights city council unanimously voted to save River Heights Park on Monday, May 14.
The council had been considering carving up and selling the 7.5-acre undeveloped natural area as three 2.5-acre lots for housing developers. Instead, the city, FMR and neighbors are going to work together to make the park more accessible — adding a park sign and bench, with details to be determined — while keeping it a natural area and restoring important bird habitat. >>
Several metro cities want to hear from residents about their riverfront
As summer turns to fall, Twin Cities communities throughout the metro are moving fast to wrap up their draft plans for land use and development along their local riverfront.
Hastings and St. Paul Park — two cities with an abundance of high quality riverine habitat — are accepting comments through the end of November and December, respectively. Several other cities want public comments submitted before the end of September. >>
Will St. Paul block future park trails?
Pig's Eye is a favorite spot in our local flyway for pelicans. (Photo by Monica Bryand for Great River Passage.)
A railroad expansion proposal threatens planned community trails that would connect Pig’s Eye and Eagle Lakes in St. Paul’s largest park. >>