City, Metro Transit leaders provide preparations update for upcoming Derek Chauvin trial

Mayor Jacob Frey, along with other City and Metro Transit officials, held another media briefing this morning to share updates on preparedness plans ahead of the March trial of former MPD officer Derek Chauvin.

Briefing highlights

• The Minneapolis Police Department is continuing to work with law enforcement partners to ensure the success of Operation Safety Net, which brings together local and state law enforcement agencies under a unified command to respond to any civil unrest interrupting peaceful protests during the upcoming trial. Minneapolis Police Deputy Chief Erick Fors highlighted the shared commitment to dedicating law enforcement personnel to business corridors, especially those hit hardest during last summer’s civil unrest, as a deterrent to destructive behavior.

• Metro Transit is actively working to identify and plan for potential disruptions to Metro Transit service. At this time, no disruptions are planned for service to downtown Minneapolis. As the trial progresses and approaches verdict time, detours around Hennepin County Government Center are anticipated. Those service changes will be communicated through Metro Transit rider alerts and social media, among other communications channels.

• The City’s Office of Violence Prevention plans to fund a network of community-based groups that can be activated during periods of heightened tension during the remainder of 2021, including during the trials of the former officers involved in the killing of George Floyd. The groups will assist in providing accurate information and resources with the community. The City Council’s Policy & Government Oversight Committee is reviewing the request for application process for the community groups this afternoon.

• The City’s Community Planning and Economic Development Department continues to work directly with businesses, business associations and technical assistance providers to collaboratively develop information on what business and property owners need to know to keep properties secure and workers and customers safe. It’s important we keep supporting our local businesses during these challenging and uncertain times. The City recommends businesses develop emergency preparedness plans. Ready.gov has sample plans and guidance. Businesses can also reach out to 612-673-2499 or SmallBusiness@minneapolismn.gov with questions about advanced preparation before the trial, business operations during the trial and general information about regulations and resources.

• Note: The City Council will be briefed about the City’s plans and preparations related to the upcoming Chauvin trial 10 a.m. Monday, March 1. The meeting will be broadcast and livestreamed on City Council TV and the City’s YouTube channel.

Reminders

• On March 1, Sixth Street South (the street and both sidewalks) will be closed between Third and Fourth avenues next to the Hennepin County Government Center. Currently, other streets will remain open. The City will provide updates when other closures are anticipated.

• The City of Minneapolis is committed to working with the community to reconnect 38th & Chicago after the conclusion of the Chauvin trial. The City is sending surveys out to residents and businesses near the intersection to determine a preferred option to preserve the memorial and art while ensuring delivery of critical services in the area. Learn more.

• Follow the City of Minneapolis on Facebook and Twitter and sign up for the City Update newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest news and information. Stay tuned to news from Operation Safety Net on Facebook and Twitter.

—Information provided by the City of Minneapolis