University of Minnesota seeks council input on riverfront park paths

Chair told the workshop that the University of Minnesota planned to meet with city staff about a park study (described as the MAC) and wanted council input on potential walking and bike paths along the river. "What the U of M would like us to do is ... get some different ideas for some potential walking paths, bike paths, kind of creative area along the river," the Chair said, and asked council members to sketch or suggest loop and trail ideas during the meeting.

Discussion noted flood-prone areas that would limit paved paths in some places, suggested using gravel or dirt trails in vulnerable stretches, and identified underutilized city-owned property that could be integrated into trail loops. The Chair said the study would help refine a broader park plan and that staff would follow up with adjacent property owners where access or lighting constraints exist. No formal vote or funding decision was taken during the workshop.