Minneapolis locals have a chance to shape the future layout of the city's streets. The City’s Public Works Department is putting forward a new design concept for a pedestrian mall on Chicago Avenue, between 37th and 38th streets. This proposal aims to limit through traffic and intends to form a cul-de-sac and public plaza near 3744 Chicago Avenue, an area also known as The People’s Way. This new plan is a deviation from an earlier concept that allowed for through traffic.
The city is now calling for community input to refine this idea. Public Works is collecting detailed information related to the design, operation, and maintenance of the proposed mall. These plans include handling deliveries, accommodating emergency vehicles, managing transit access, and confronting the demands of snow removal. An important aspect being considered is the potential tax assessments necessary to support the ordinance as required by state statute.
An open house is scheduled on Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 6-8 p.m. at the Chicago Ave Shops located at 3736 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407, to present these alternative street designs. The city invites community members to this event to learn more about the proposals, raise questions, and make their voices heard. As an incentive to participate, light snacks will be provided to attendees. Community members interested in the future design of 38th & Chicago can find more details about the project by visiting the 38th & Chicago Re-Envisioned project webpage.
Following the gathering of community feedback, the findings and insights will be brought before the City Council’s Climate and Infrastructure Committee on Dec. 4, 2025, to be reviewed and potentially adopted. Those unable to attend the upcoming open house can still access a comprehensive summary of various right-of-way concepts, including street design alternatives, in the Visioning and Priorities report cited on page 30. For further depth on Minneapolis' efforts regarding the transformation of George Floyd Square, residents may refer to the dedicated program webpage.
