The City of Minneapolis is advancing its plans to redevelop the 10-acre site where a former Kmart store has obstructed Nicollet Avenue for nearly 50 years. On Tuesday, city officials unveiled a draft development framework, laying out a vision for the long-awaited transformation.
Community-Driven Development Vision
“We should be able to see development of a grocery store, development of market-rate and affordable housing,” said Erik Hansen, the city’s director of community planning and economic development. “We’ll see the opportunity for homeownership on this site as directed and desired by community members.”
Hansen emphasized the extensive community engagement efforts that have shaped the current plans. Over the years, city officials have hosted numerous in-person and virtual sessions to ensure residents’ voices were heard in the redevelopment process.
Anna Schmitz, director of the Whittier Alliance, underscored the significance of community input in crafting the draft framework.
“This whole plan is really informed by what the community has been asking for,” said Schmitz. “What we’re hoping to see here is that this project will truly open up opportunities for the neighborhood, particularly for small business owners.”
The Whittier Alliance was originally formed in 1977 in response to the closure of Nicollet Avenue and the construction of the Kmart. Schmitz pointed to the lessons learned from that decision.
“I think it’s a little bit of a lesson that you might be able to avoid 50 years of headache when you listen to community members,” she said. “So I’m really happy to say that things have been different this time around.”
Acknowledging Past Missteps
Mayor Jacob Frey acknowledged the past missteps, stating that while officials at the time may have believed the decision to place a department store across a major thoroughfare was beneficial, it ultimately proved to be a mistake.
Reflecting on the demolition of the former Kmart in 2023, Frey described it as a “bucket list” moment. He believes the redevelopment will be a long-term asset for residents of the city.
“It’s something that so many community members will be able to enjoy for generations,” said Frey. “They advocated for it. They pushed us, they helped make it happen, and we’re so proud to partner with them.”
Next Steps: City Council Approval and Construction
The development framework also includes plans for a public park. The proposal still requires approval from the city council and the mayor. Meanwhile, construction on the Nicollet Avenue bridge, adjacent to the site, is scheduled to begin later this year.