Attention Minneapolis locals and urban trail enthusiasts, your input is needed this Monday. According to a recent bulletin from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB), an open house is set to unveil new proposed designs for the Grand Rounds Missing Link—a project aimed at completing a critical section in an extensive network of parks and trails in Northeast and Southeast Minneapolis that has remained incomplete for over a century. No need to register ahead of time, just swing by the Blueprint Room at The Market at Malcom Yards between 4-8 pm on March 10, 2025.
Providing a glimpse into the project, the MPRB has circulated new concept renderings for the Grand Rounds Missing Link, emphasizing the development of regional trails and additional parkland. The corridor will stretch through the city of Saint Anthony Village along with the Mid-City Industrial, Como, and Prospect Park neighborhoods. Beverages and snacks are on the house at the event, while a variety of other food and drink options are available for purchase. "Anyone interested in the Grand Rounds Missing Link project is encouraged to come view the designs in person and discuss the project with staff," the MPRB shared in an announcement.
The Grand Rounds Project spans an impressive 51 miles of scenic landscapes and urban connectivity. Despite its vast reach, the Missing Link has been a persistent void in the city's trail system dating back 140+ years. The new designs aim to bridge that gap, enhancing access to green spaces and enabling seamless transit for cyclists and pedestrians alike.
For those planning to attend, there are several transportation options. Cyclists can access The Market off of the University of Minnesota Transitway, while the Prospect Park Station on the Green Line offers light rail transit nearby. Bus routes 6 and 33 will get you close, too. Rideshare users should set the South Parking Lot as their destination, and if you're driving, park for just $1/hour at the 390 29th Avenue SE ramp after 3:00pm. Once inside the venue, the Blueprint Room is readily located to the right when entering from the North Side.
If you can't make it in person, don't worry. The MPRB has facilitated an online viewing platform complete with a virtual tour and interactive map for the proposed designs. On this platform, your feedback is still valuable and can help sculpt the final form of this anticipated urban trail expansion. To explore the concepts, share thoughts, or learn more about the project, visit the MPRB's site for details.
