| There are numerous issues and specific challenges to overcome in order to re-open Nicollet Avenue and re-create a more humane and public environment for the residents and visitors at this important commercial node. Formerly home to a minor league ballpark (the Minneapolis Millers) and small commercial storefronts lining the streets (just those qualities urbanists are trying to re-create in cities across North America!), the Lake Street and Nicollet intersection once contained a rich mix of uses and a truly civic character.
Key components to the rebirth of this focus area include re-orientation of the K-Mart store, strong links to the Greenway, more attention to transit and transit stops, redevelopment along the north edge of the Greenway and on the reconstituted blocks that re-opening the street would provide, and the creation of a more gracious public realm with wide sidewalks, landscaping and other amenities.
The Zimmerman-Volk market study (prepared for Hennepin Community Works) described numerous residential development opportunities in this area, particularly along the north edge of the Greenway. The challenge is not only to re-open the street but also to create strong links to Nicollet Avenue “Eat Street” and the mix of uses to the north. It is a crucial connection in order to provide a safe and interesting pedestrian street environment and to redevelop the big-box retail shopping district into a more urban scale at the Nicollet/Lake crossroads.
The construction of I-35W just east of Nicollet Avenue has certainly left its mark on adjacent neighborhoods, but it also provides some interesting opportunities for better access to the Lake Street commercial centers. | | |
