Land Use & Planning

As more cities move to embrace the river and capitalize on its exceptional value, FMR works within metro river communities to advocate for public access, equity, environmental sustainability, and community enjoyment of the river. 

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.

POSTS

Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment plan faces first lawsuit

The Minneapolis City Council recently approved the controversial Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment plan for the North Minneapolis riverfront. Community members have filed a lawsuit alleging that the project's environmental review was inadequate (and we agree).  >>

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Mississippi Dunes moment of action [CLOSED]

In December, the Cottage Grove city council will be voting on a master plan for the former Mississippi Dunes golf course on the Mississippi riverfront. Take a moment to submit your comments on the plan and learn how to stay involved >>

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Quick tips for speaking at a public meeting

City and township leaders sometimes listen to people who show up to speak at meetings more than they listen to other input. It's an important way to influence your local community. Here are our tips about what to expect at a public meeting and how to prepare.  >>

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Endangered species found at Maplewood sites under development consideration
When we learned that Ramsey County was considering developing open space that we believe provides essential habitat, FMR requested a natural resources inventory. The report confirms: Endangered and rare birds depend on this grassland. Read more
From Ramsey to Ravenna, updated riverfront protections come to life

Until recently, the Twin Cities riverfront lacked consistent development standards and environmental protections. After many years of work, FMR is now supporting 25 cities and townships as they finish the final step in a long journey for better riverfront management.  >>

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Cottage Grove seeks community feedback about Mississippi Dunes plan

Last week, 50 community members gathered to discuss opportunities to influence decision-making about the former Mississippi Dunes golf course in Cottage Grove. Here are several ways to speak up in the coming weeks.  >>

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What's still possible for Mississippi Dunes?

Cottage Grove residents have been busy advocating for a new public park at the former Mississippi Dunes golf course. We're concerned that without strong city leadership, the site will be largely developed into housing without sufficient community input. Join us on September 28 to get involved.  >>

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'Do you think nature has surrendered to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers? I don't think so.'

A little-known underground wall holds St. Anthony Falls back from a catastrophic collapse that would endanger the Twin Cities' water supply, bridges, and other infrastructure. So why isn't anyone monitoring the wall's condition? FMR board member John Anfinson explained the puzzle in an excellent Star Tribune article. >>

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Upper Harbor Terminal: The benefits and their cost

It can be challenging to weigh or even track what benefits the Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment promises against their cost. This infographic lays out what we see as possible positive outcomes against the uncertainties and costs.  >>

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Upcoming Events

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 9:30am to 12:00pm
West River Parkway and 36th Street/44th Street, Minneapolis
Applications due Friday, May 3 by 5 p.m.
Virtual and in-person
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 - 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Hampton Woods Wildlife Management Area