Efforts to redesign George Floyd Square remain in limbo as the Minneapolis City Council’s Climate and Infrastructure Committee voted to table plans for a pedestrian plaza on Thursday, citing opposition from property owners on the 3700 block of Chicago Avenue.
Community Feedback Halts Progress
A survey conducted by the city’s Public Works Department found that 15 out of 20 property owners on the block opposed the pedestrian-only plaza concept. Under Minnesota law, a pedestrian plaza cannot be constructed if more than half of the abutting property owners oppose it.
To address concerns, city staff proposed an alternative “flexible-open” model, which would allow traffic to flow while incorporating green spaces, memorial areas, and gates to close the street temporarily for events.
Despite this compromise, Council Member Aurin Chowdhury expressed concerns about logistical hurdles for community members hosting events, particularly the need for permits. “I don’t know if that feels right to me,” she said.
Diverging Opinions Among City Leaders
Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw criticized the push for a pedestrian plaza despite property owner opposition, emphasizing the importance of moving forward. “I don’t think we’re ever going to make everyone happy…but people want to see progress,” Vetaw said.
Meanwhile, Council Vice President Andrea Jenkins acknowledged the community’s struggle to reach consensus but stressed the urgency of making decisions. “We can’t stay in this cycle of inactivity and non-action,” Jenkins said.
Mayor Jacob Frey also called for decisive action, urging the Council to recognize the urgency of redevelopment. Frey warned that further delays could push construction back to 2028.
What’s Next?
The Climate and Infrastructure Committee will revisit the issue on February 6, 2025, to continue discussions on the future of George Floyd Square.
For now, the fate of the historic site remains uncertain, with no consensus on how to balance community priorities, business interests, and the area’s ongoing role as a space for reflection and activism.
Has anyone considered something along the lines of a Dutch “continuous sidewalk” combined with the existing roundabout? Basically, the well marked sidewalk goes through the intersection with no drop to street level. It also serves a speed bump for cars.
I’m not from the neighborhood, so simply asking. Perhaps it’s already been discussed.