Committee approves West River Parkway Phase 2 and special assessments

The Minneapolis City Climate and Infrastructure Committee voted Dec. 4 to approve resolutions to advance the West River Parkway Phase 2 construction project, City Project 2294, after a staff presentation and no public testimony.

Public Works senior professional engineer Michael Ritchie told the committee the project would build about 0.3 miles of new parkway to connect Phase 1 to the 30th Street roundabout and support future development including an arts center and Upper Harbor Regional Park. "The proposed project will construct approximately 0.3 miles of new parkway," Ritchie said during his presentation. He said the project includes new sidewalks, ADA‑compliant ramps, curb and gutter, pavement, utilities, signage, pavement markings and stormwater infrastructure.

Public Works estimated total project construction at $3,718,402, with Reef Street construction assessments of $718,402 based on 2026 uniform assessment rates. Ritchie said the remaining funding would come from common project reserves and tax increment financing funds. After the presentation, Chair Cashman opened the public hearing, saw no speakers sign up for this item, and closed the hearing. Council member Vito said he appreciated the project, calling it an important connector to river access on the north side.

The committee moved the item and approved the staff resolutions by voice vote. The action orders the work to proceed, adopts special assessments, authorizes sale of assessment bonds and authorizes abandonment and removal of area ways in conflict with the project. The committee record shows the motion carried and staff will proceed with the steps required before construction.