Minneapolis is set to gain a fresh outdoor amenity with plans for a new trail segment along the Mississippi River thanks to a recently approved agreement between the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) and BNSF Railway Company. The connection will link Ole Olson Park and the 26th Avenue North Overlook, enhancing the city's network of bicycle and pedestrian paths.
The latest project is a 1,000-foot trail slated to begin construction this year, as detailed in the agreement approved on February 21, 2024. This addition to the urban landscape will bridge a gap along the riverfront, extending the reach of a scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians alike. "This is a critical connection in our long-term vision to extend equitable access to Minneapolis' waterfront on the Northside," Superintendent of the MPRB Al Bangoura conveyed in, a statement obtained by government briefing. The trail enhancement importantly fosters connectivity between green spaces in North Minneapolis and the broader 51-mile Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway.
Funding and planning of the trail development have been in the works for years. The MPRB received a vital $3 million state grant in 2020, intended for creating the trail connection. Public engagement also played a crucial role with open houses, surveys, and public hearings conducted in 2022 to solicit community input on the design.
Under the terms of the agreement, MPRB will pay BNSF $48,150 to build the trail on land owned by the railway company. BNSF meanwhile, will retain rights to operate and maintain its railway and bridge, with no changes required to existing structures, the MPRB will own and maintain the trail, complete with lighting and a protective overhead structure for debris. A fence and gates will also be installed for added safety and will be owned by BNSF Railway, as described in Resolution 2024-39.
This infrastructure outcome is not only about trails and transportation but embodies a strategic vision for equitable access and urban revitalization. With construction set to begin soon and completion projected for 2025, residents of North Minneapolis and visitors from afar can look forward to a richer, more accessible riverfront experience.
