A mix of commercial, institutional and residential land uses characterize the east end of Lake Street from 27th Avenue to the Mississippi River. Newer commercial facilities with parking lots fronting the street tend to dominate the visual character of this segment of the corridor. Numerous surface parking lots at street intersections interspersed with older buildings and missing pieces in the building wall break up the continuity of the street edge and weaken the pedestrian environment. Increased interest and activity at 27th and Lake Street illustrate the potential for re-use and infill redevelopment at several key crossroads throughout the neighborhood. There are a number of local services and institutions along this section of Lake Street, including banks, a post office and library. Their relationship to the street should be strengthened and celebrated as important neighborhood amenities.

The relationship between Lake Street and the Greenway corridor changes significantly through this neighborhood. Rather than paralleling Lake Street, the Greenway curves several blocks to the north and is elevated above a mix of industrial, residential and park uses along its edge. Opportunities to strengthen both visual and physical connections between the Greenway, Lake Street, adjacent neighborhoods and local attractions should be explored. Brackett Park, recently renovated with a new community center, remains an important gathering place and recreational facility in the area.

The Longfellow Community Council is undertaking a planning study and neighborhood process for East Lake Street from 27th Avenue to the Mississippi river. They recognize that this segment of the Midtown Corridor has a much different character than areas to the west and lack neighborhood identity or gathering places except at individual buildings. They are implementing a process to identify key crossroads where they can focus investment strategies to foster placemaking and build on neighborhood based market opportunities.

There are many neighborhood businesses fronting east Lake Street, including several restaurants with outdoor seating.

The Greenway Corridor heads north, away from Lake Street as you travel east along Brackett Park.