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$1.5 billion revitalization project aims to transform north Minneapolis
$1.5 billion revitalization project aims to transform north Minneapolis originally appeared on Bring Me The News.
North Minneapolis has endured its own set of challenges throughout the years, battling a reputation for violent crime, an aging housing market, and stalled new development.
Now, a new plan is underway with the goal of changing all of that — with a focus on bringing new businesses, housing, and jobs to the area.
Unveiled Wednesday at the Capri Theater, Northside Forward is a $1.5 billion initiative that combines both public and private investment in the neighborhood, all spearheaded by the African American Leadership Forum.
Several potential funding partners have been identified, and the group is still working to generate additional investments. Over the course of 10 years, leaders aim to bring 50 new businesses, 1,240 new jobs, and 3,800 new housing units to the Northside.
Organizers say the idea grew out of conversations within the community and will center on preserving the culture and identity of the neighborhood. Another priority: increasing the perception of public safety while reducing crime.
Mayor Jacob Frey attended the unveiling, calling Northside Forward 'more than a plan—it's a blueprint for the future of north Minneapolis.'
The proposal is built on what it calls "six key pillars."
Thriving corridors and nodes: Goal to encourage movement, interaction, and a sense of community
Cradle to career learning: Goal to create seamless pathways that guide individuals through different educational phases and into fulfilling careers
New industries and jobs: Goal to ensure residents directly benefit from equitable economic development
Diverse housing options: Goal to foster a broad spectrum of choice at attainable price points to support wellbeing and pathways to wealth generation, including through homeownership
Health, wellness, and safety: Goal to make all residents feel safe in their neighborhood with ample opportunities to support their physical, mental and social health
Engaged and accountable leadership: Goal to increase transparency in government decision making
Organizers believe that adding up to 3,700 new homes, 300,000 square feet in commercial development, 100,000 square feet in retail space, and 100,000 square feet for production and processing space could create a "vital economic engine currently missing" from north Minneapolis.
Areas of focus for development, redevelopment and revitalization are at the following locations:
West Broadway and Penn Avenue
West Broadway and James Avenue
West Broadway and Bryant Avenue
West Broadway and Washington Avenue
Lowry Avenue and Penn Avenue
Lowry Avenue and 2nd Street
44th Avenue and Penn Avenue
You can scan through the entire proposal right here.
This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
