Parkway Commission 1st Quarter Meeting February 28, 2019 ● 2:30 – 5:00 p.m. State Office Building – Room 400 North

DRAFT AGENDA ______

2:30 p.m. Welcome & Introductions Pierson

2:35 p.m. Approve Today’s Agenda & Minutes from 11/29/18 Pierson/All

2:40 p.m. Informational Presentation - Riverview Corridor Project - Ramsey County Mike Rogers

2:55 p.m. Commission Business - Officer Election All - Budget Status Report Handout/Lewis/Miller - Executive Committee Report Handout/Committee Members - Legislative Updates & MN-MRPC Requests LCC/Legislative Members/Miller

3:25 p.m. National MRPC - 2019 Semi Annual Meeting, Clarksdale, MS Miller - Committee Updates Committee Members

3:45 p.m. Commission Projects - Plan Your Trip/Plan Your Project – Updates Zoff - New MN GRR Print Map Zoff

3:55 p.m. Old Business - Consider Revised MN GRR Logo Policy All - Review MN-MPRC Process for Letters of Support, etc. All

4:15 p.m. Letter/Action Requests - Consider Letters of Support Miller/All o Lady Slipper Scenic Byway o City of Brooklyn Park - Consider Letter of Comment Pierson/All o 311 2nd St SE Development,

4:30 p.m. Commission Member Updates - At Large Lewis - Lake Itasca to Grand Rapids Salminen - Grand Rapids to Brainerd Christianson - Brainerd to Elk River Samp - Elk River to Hastings Pierson - Hastings to Iowa Border Mulry - Agriculture Hugunin - Historical Society Kelliher - Natural Resources Parker/Bonsignore - Transportation Bradley/Zoff - National Park Service/MISS Anfinson

5:00 p.m. Wrap Up and Adjourn

Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission 4th Quarter Meeting – November 29, 2018 State Office Building, St. Paul MN MINUTES – Draft

Commissioners Present Greg Hubinger – LCC Scott Bradley – Transportation Appointee Chris Miller – Staff Nancy Salminen – Lake Itasca to Grand Rapids Megan Christianson – Grand Rapids to Brainerd Commissioners/Technical Advisors Absent Karl Samp – Brainerd to Elk River Andrea Kajer – Historical Society Appointee Cordelia Pierson – Elk River to Hastings Sheronne Mulry – Hastings to Iowa Border Anne Lewis – At Large Lisa Havelka – Tourism Appointee (due to Sen. David Senjem technical difficulties in meeting room) Sen. Patricia Torres Ray Keith Parker – Natural Resources Appointee Rep. Sheldon Johnson Paul Hugunin – Agriculture Appointee

Technical Advisors/Staff Present Guests and Speakers Present Carol Zoff – Transportation Liz Walton – MnDOT John Anfinson - NPS Boxuan Xia – MnDOT Gina Bonsignore – Natural Resources Jody Yungers, City of Brooklyn Park David Kelliher – Historical Society Diane Henry-Wangensteen – LCC

------Meeting called to order at 2:35 p.m. by Chair Johnson followed by introductions. A quorum was present.

Approve Today’s Agenda and Minutes from 8/16/18: Motion by Cordelia Pierson and seconded by Karl Samp to approve the agenda as presented. Motion carried unanimously. After review of the draft 8/16/18 meeting minutes, motion by Cordelia Pierson and seconded by Anne Lewis to approve the minutes as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

Special Recognitions: Chair Johnson presented a letter of thanks to Greg Hubinger, LCC Director, recognizing his outstanding service to the Commission. Chair Johnson also recognized the President’s Award from the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota recently received by Sen. David Senjem. Cordelia Pierson, Karl Samp, Greg Hubinger and Sen. Senjem presented two special recognitions to Chair Johnson – the National MRPC Distinguished Service Award, and a Minnesota House Recognition Resolution. Members present also expressed their thanks to Rep. Johnson for his leadership and guidance and wished him well in his retirement.

Informational Presentation – City of Brooklyn Park, River Park Master Plan: Jody Yungers, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Brooklyn Park, shared information on the River Park Master Plan and the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park Master Plan. An overview of the plan was shared including details on community involvement and input and design concepts. Topics of importance to the community – connect with the river, preserve and protect natural resources, address storm water management issues, touching points. The River Park Master Plan includes an overlook, shoreline restoration, shore fishing spots, and a canoe/kayak access. Construction is to begin in 2020. The city has set aside funds and other sources may also be pursued. Commission members followed up with questions and discussion and thanked Ms. Yungers and the City of Brooklyn Park for their efforts.

Budget Status Report: Chris Miller and Anne Lewis referenced the budget report in the meeting packet.

Regional Meeting Updates: Chris Miller provided an update on status. The Bluffs Regional Meeting was held at the Winona County History Center on November 8 and Sheronne Mulry was re-elected as Regional Commissioner. Interpretive Center training was provided that same day at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum. The Metro Regional Meeting is planned for December 5, 1:00 p.m., at the Transportation Building in St. Paul and all Commission members are welcome.

At-Large Member Election: The At-Large Member of the Commission is to be appointed by the other 14 members, currently on a two year cycle. A call for nominations was recently sent to members via email. Two nominations were received for Anne Lewis, along with a second and a statement of support. Lewis stated her interest in continuing. Chair Johnson called for additional nominations from the floor. None received. Motion by Karl Samp and seconded by Scott Bradley to close nominations and elect Anne Lewis to the At-Large position for a two year term. Motion carried unanimously. A recommendation was made by Sen. Torres Ray to consider diversity of Commission membership and increase outreach to interested and active candidates when positions are up for election. Staff will work with LCC on this.

Legislative Updates/2019 Session: New House and Senate appointments to the MN-MRPC will be needed. LCC will facilitate the requests. Sen. Senjem noted looking forward to Great River Road/MN- MRPC information sharing at the Capitol. There was discussion on timing and a recommendation that this take place early in the session. The Executive Committee will meet to plan details. Megan Christianson mentioned that Explore Minnesota will be holding a Day at the Capitol in conjunction with the Minnesota Tourism Conference, February 4 – 6 and that Hospitality Minnesota will also be planning Capitol activities.

MRPC Strategic Plan Summary: A strategic planning session was held for the ten state MRPC just prior to the Annual Meeting in West Memphis. A summary will be available soon and will be sent to MN- MRPC members via email. Karl Samp mentioned the following priorities/highlights – diversify funding sources (sponsorships); seek full participation from all ten states; pursue grants; increase/improve partnerships; and organizational effectiveness.

2018 MRPC Annual Meeting – Oct. 23 – 25, West Memphis, Arkansas: Anne Lewis reported on the presentation from former U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater describing it as motivating, uplifting and challenging for byways. Karl Samp noted that the 2019 Semi-Annual Meeting will be April 2 – 4 in Clarsksdale, Mississippi. Also at the Annual Meeting – Anne Lewis was elected as Pilot Pro Tem.

Carol Zoff reported for the Transportation Committee – the ten state Corridor Management Plan (CMP) was reviewed and complimented by Secretary Slater; all four standing committees reviewed the CMP and the Board will consider for final approval in December; the final copy will be emailed out to the MN- MRPC; and it was noted that all ten states have the MRPC defined in statute.

Nancy Salminen reported for the Culture & Heritage Committee – two new GRR Interpretive Centers were designated (Genoa Fish Hatchery, WI and Museum of the Grand Prairie, AR); Iowa reported on their new Interpretive Center Passport Program; each state has been asked to send three key stories and Sheronne Mulry has submitted for MN; there was discussion on development of rack cards for Interpretive Centers and ways to provide recognition for Centers; a database of ordinances is being developed to provide examples of intrinsic resource protection (Salminen has submitted the Mississippi Headwaters Board plan, and Pierson suggested MRCCA community comprehensive plans as examples).

Anne Lewis reported for the Marketing Committee – a marketing report is included in the meeting packet; a new travel guide, Road Tripping Along the Great River Road (Klinkenberg), has just come out and the National MRPC Office will be working to partner/promote.

Drive the Great River Road Month Report: The MN report for 2018 Drive the Great River Road Month was included in the meeting packet.

Relay of Voices: This event, organized and produced by “A House Unbuilt” will involve a Lake Itasca to Gulf of Mexico relay run with arts activities and community stories along the way. The MRPC will be partnering on marketing to feature the Great River Road and several MN-MRPC members have assisted with local contacts. Minnesota portions of the events will take place in July 2019 and a full closing report will be presented at the MRCTI 2020 Annual Meeting in Bemidji, where the MRPC will also hold their Annual Meeting.

Plan Your Trip Mapping/Regional Travel Guides Update: Carol Zoff reported on recent work with MnIT on technical background needed to refine/finalize the mapping for ongoing use including photos

being included with all resource listings. Feedback was gathered from the Bluffs Regional Meeting and Interpretive Center Training and edits have been made.

New MN Great River Road Print Map Design: Boxuan Xia shared background on development of a new print map design. Drafts were circulated followed by discussion. Gina Bonsignore suggested including park lands using the Recreation Compass as a guide. The design would be finalized and the piece printed if/when funds are available. Carol Zoff congratulated Boxuan on his upcoming graduation which unfortunately also means his assignment with MnDOT will be ending. MN-MRPC members expressed thanks for Boxuan’s work. Motion by Anne Lewis and seconded by Scott Bradley to authorize a letter of recommendation/thanks for Boxuan Xia. Motion carried unanimously.

Review 2019 MN-MRPC Meeting Dates: Proposed 2019 meeting dates were referenced in the meeting packet, no immediate conflicts were noted by members and so the meeting schedule will move forward as proposed.

MN Scenic Byways Strategic Plan: Carol Zoff reported that the plan was adopted at the MN Scenic Byways Workshop in mid-November. A final draft was circulated to members and highlights were shared.

Stone Arch Bridge Repairs: Cordelia Pierson reported that MnDOT is hiring a contractor for underwater assessment, and Scott Bradley noted that Commissioner Zelle and others within MnDOT are working to pull together funding for repairs. Discussions continue with the City of Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.

Consider MN GRR Logo Use Policy: A draft policy for use of the Minnesota Great River Road logo was provided in the meeting packets as follow up to a question at the last quarterly meeting. The National MRPC logo use policy was used as a base and then information was added to specifically address MN- MRPC member agencies and partners. Several revisions were noted and Megan Christianson offered to send additional reference information/social media use recommendations. Edits will be made and an updated draft brought to a future meeting for Commission consideration.

Consider Transportation Alternatives Projects Letters of Support: A list of projects to be considered for potential support was referenced in the meeting packet. Carol Zoff noted that 67 letters of intent to apply for the funds were received by MnDOT, 10 projects were in GRR communities, and six were identified as benefitting the Great River Road. After discussion, motion by Cordelia Pierson and seconded by Megan Christianson to authorize letters of support for the six projects presented based on the guidance provided, if those projects move forward with full applications. Motion carried unanimously. Staff will follow up with the project contacts.

At Large Member Report (Anne Lewis): Minnesota Trails Magazine’s most recent issue featured Minnesota Byways and a two page Great River Road piece. A few copies will be available from the MN- MRPC office if anyone is interested. Special thanks expressed to Boxuan Xia and MnDOT for development of a new print map with focus on Interpretive Centers.

Lake Itasca to Grand Rapids (Nancy Salminen): Lady Slipper Scenic Byway is planning to apply for Transportation Alternatives funding and is working to secure matching funds. Sally Fineday and Nancy Salminen have provided Victoria Bradford with contacts to interview in the Cass Lake and Bena areas for the Relay of Voices event as well as recommended site locations for community events. An upcoming move means that Salminen will be leaving the Commission, potentially after the next meeting but details to be confirmed.

Grand Rapids to Brainerd (Megan Christianson): Listening sessions were held in Grand Rapids and Aitkin. The Aitkin Economic Development Committee’s River Trails Taskforce shared information on debris cleanup planned for this winter; a garbage clean up in spring; the ice house parade; and two summer events – Riverboat Days in August and a River Float Day planned for June or July. In Grand Rapids, Minnesota Power is closing two plants resulting in 50 jobs lost and no future warming of pools of the Mississippi. Grand Rapids Arts and Culture plans include ten new art installations downtown. A ribbon cutting is planned for April on the new walking bridge. Visit Grand Rapids recently launched their “Live Like a Local” campaign featuring short videos by residents. The community of Jacobson will hold a

vintage snowmobile ride in February. Groups in the region have asked about availability of a good app including GIS mapping and distance estimates for paddling the Mississippi. Gina Bonsignore offered to check on information currently available. Carol Zoff noted that boat landings are included in the GRR Plan Your Trip app.

Brainerd to Elk River (Karl Samp): Monticello, St. Cloud and Brainerd riverfront efforts continue. The City of St. Cloud has adopted the RiverWalk Plan. Brainerd will be receiving technical assistance from the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program and is considering plans for a new trailhead, gathering spaces and river access. The riverfront plan is prominent in the City of Brainerd’s comprehensive plan. Rotary Park has created a prairie plant seed plot that others can use to start their own plantings.

Elk River to Hastings (Cordelia Pierson): Significant investment has been taking place and kudos were given to the National Park Service for their five year plan helping to facilitate many activities. NPS is requesting $4.5 million in ATP funds. $15 million was also recently raised by the Minneapolis Parks Foundation for riverfront projects. There are also plans for investment at Father Hennepin Bluffs Regional Park, Mississippi River Gorge Regional Park, and redevelopment of the Ramsey County jail building in downtown St. Paul.

Individual comments (copy in packet) were recently provided to the City of Minneapolis regarding the Riverside Technical Facility Redevelopment. A proposal for the Pillsbury A Mill area currently includes two 30 story towers. There was discussion on this project and potential impacts especially to byway intrinsic resources. John Anfinson noted that the National Park Service has submitted comments and asked for completion of an Environmental Impact Statement. The Minnesota Historical Society will also be submitting comments. The Department of Natural Resources has reviewed related to the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area Rules. Sen Torres Ray offered to work with Pierson and others as information and impacts continue to be evaluated.

Natural Resources (Gina Bonsignore): The Upper Post project was noted including longtime involvement of MN-MRPC member Keith Parker.

Historical Society (David Kelliher): The 2018 season was a great one for Minnesota Historic Site visitation and the Historic Fort Snelling Revitalization Project is now in the design phase.

Transportation (Scott Bradley, Carol Zoff): A request was recently received from the MnDOT Metro District to review documents and provide comments to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board regarding plans for Northeast Minneapolis Parks. The Mississippi Headwaters Board invited MN-MRPC participation in a recent meeting in Aitkin held to evaluate river access implications of possible new easements.

National Park Service (John Anfinson): The Fort Snelling Upper Post Project recently held a major event marking signing of an agreement between the DNR and Dominium to redevelop the post into housing. Many partners have been involved with this effort and the tax credit championed by Sen. Senjem helped facilitate progress. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Disposition Study for the Minneapolis locks is now on hold and delayed for at least three to four months. Dam removal must now be included as an alternative. The Upper St. Anthony Lock may be on a quicker timeline.

Other Business: Sen. Torres Ray has been contacted by constituents regarding creation of a new mountain bike trail along the Mississippi River. Cordelia Pierson was familiar with the project and explained that no mountain biking is planned for areas other than the flats along East Franklin, which does not impact the areas of concern.

Next Meeting – February 28, 2019, 2:30 – 5:00 p.m., State Office Building Basement Hearing Room

Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m.

LOCALLY PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE Modern Streetcar W. 7th - Hwy 5/Fort Snelling RIVERVIEW riverviewcorridor.com CORRIDOR Saint Paul – Bloomington, Minnesota

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Ave. th • Dedicated connections with METRO Green and Blue lines. 34 The new modern streetcar line will • Decisions will be made in future phases to determine. share segments of track, stations Mall of which segments will be dedicated vs. shared use. and other infrastructure with America existing METRO Blue and Green Key light rail lines and also connect Existing Station Riverview Locally Bloomington South Preferred Alternative to planned Bus Rapid Transit Riverview Station METRO Blue Line Loop concepts METRO Green Line # SuS b-option to be analyzed in corridors serving the Twin Cities futuf re project phase Metro Transit A Line BRT NORTH East Metro area.

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ROUTE TOTAL 2040 DAILY ESTIMATED TRAVEL RIDERSHIP OPERATION & LENGTH NUMBER OF CAPITAL MAINTENANCE KeyTIM characteristicsE of Riverview locally preferred alternative STATIONS COST COST (2027$) 11.7 Total 20,400 (2029$) 44 min. 20 # Transit-dependent $ M miles 4,600 $2.066B per year New Riders 2,700 ROUTE TOTAL 2040 DAILY ESTIMATED TRAVEL RIDERSHIP OPERATION & LENGTH NUMBER OF CAPITAL MAINTENANCE TIME STATIONS COST COST (2027$) 11.7 Total 20,400 (2029$) 20 44 min. riverviewcorridor.comTransit-dependent $ M miles 4,600 $2.066B per year New Riders 2,700 Community Engagement Meaningful community engagement is critical to informed decision making and building trust among residents and business owners. Public input from over 85 events shaped the selection of modern streetcar as the Riverview Corridor locally preferred alternative in 2018. Ramsey County is committed to continue public engagement through the environmental analysis and design process. Next steps The locally preferred alternative has been submitted to the Twin Cities’ regional planning body, the , for addition to the region’s 2040 Transportation Policy Plan. The Environmental Analysis phase of the project is anticipated to continue through 2022.

Federal Transit Administration Process

Modern Streetcar chosen as Environmental Project Final Locally Preferred Alternative Analysis Phase Development Engineering Construction

3 Years 3 Years 2 Years 3 Years 3-4 Years Operations Ongoing Public Engagement WE ARE HERE

riverviewcorridor.com MN-MRPC FY19 Activity/Project Budget 2/18/19

% of Activity/Item Estimate Spent 2/4/19 Pending Remaining Estimate

Quarterly Meetings (4 @ up to $1,650 each) $6,600.00 $1,500.52 $5,099.48 23% Special Meeting (tentative - dependent on need) $1,650.00 $0.00 $1,650.00 0% Executive Committee Meetings (2 @ $250) $500.00 $338.16 $161.84 68% MRPC Dues $15,000.00 $0.00 $15,000.00 0% Admin Contract $26,400.00 $13,200.00 $2,200.00 $11,000.00 58% Website & phone basic costs (incl. 800 website + 300 phone + 204 Constant Contact) $1,600.00 $1,223.69 $32.28 $344.03 78% National Meetings $7,931.56 $4,151.10 $3,780.46 52% Regional Meetings/Elections $600.00 $588.78 $11.22 98% Mailing/Shipping Maps (10 State and MN GRR Maps) $500.00 $96.00 $25.02 $378.98 24% Additional Staff Hours (FY 18 - $7,370 ) $6,250.00 $4,180.00 $1,100.00 $970.00 84% Website Programming Changes - Minimal $500.00 $579.15 -$79.15 116% Other Meetings/Travel/Per Diems $500.00 $684.59 -$184.59 137%

Website Updates for Map Tools, Mobile Devices Ambassador Development New Print Map GRR at the Capitol - Information Meetings/Presentations $138.20 -$138.20

Estimated Total Expenses $68,031.56 $26,541.99 $3,495.50 $37,994.07 44%

Total FY '19 Allocation $63,000.00 Carry forward from FY '18 $5,031.56 Total Funds Available for FY '19 $68,031.56

Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission Executive Committee – December 12, 2018 State Office Building, St. Paul MN MINUTES - Draft

Members Present Technical Advisors & Staff Present Cordelia Pierson – Vice Chair Carol Zoff – DOT Sen. David Senjem – via phone Diane Henry-Wangensteen – LCC Anne Lewis – Secretary/Treasurer – via phone Chris Miller - Staff

Members Absent Rep. Sheldon Johnson Andrea Kajer – Historical Society

------Meeting called to order by Vice Chair Pierson at 2:35 p.m. The draft agenda was reviewed.

Review and Confirm MN-MRPC Statute Amendment Requests: The current statute was reviewed along with possible amendments drafted in 2017. Committee recommended proceeding with an updated version of the 2017 amendment request which would remove the Commission sunset provision, lengthen regional commissioner terms from two years to four years, and also amend MnDOT Statute 161.20 to remove MN-MRPC from the list of organizations that do not further a highway purpose. Motion by Sen. Senjem and seconded by Anne Lewis to proceed with the statute amendment requests. Motion carried.

Review and Priorities MN-MRPC Funding Requests: Cost estimates were prepared as requested at the last Executive Committee meeting (new website, new print MN GRR map, Ambassador Development and ongoing operating funds increase) and have been provided to LCC. Estimates were reviewed followed by committee discussion. A suggestion was made to title the request “CMP Implementation” to better reflect overall purpose and it was noted that all three projects included in the one-time funding list are interrelated. Recommendation was to keep all three projects together and proceed with requests for funding. One time project funds would be requested via a new bill. Ongoing operating funds would be handled as a separate request through LCC. Diane Henry-Wangensteen will double check on this process and will work with Chris Miller on drafts for consideration by the Executive Committee, for both statute amendment requests and funding requests.

There was also discussion regarding MN-MRPC vacancies and new appointees from the House and Senate. There have been some indications of interest and it was noted that those representing river districts and/or with membership on relevant committees may be most applicable.

Planning for Great River Road Presence at the Capitol

Dates - LCC has reviewed schedules for the first few weeks of the session and due to other things planned for the opening weeks of the session suggested looking at the week of January 21 (after MLK Day). Committee was in agreement with using this as a starting point and focusing on Great River Road awareness building via informational presentations to committees and individual meetings with legislators.

Committee Presentations – House and Senate Committee schedules were reviewed. Senate committee presentations will be requested first, with January 22 as the preferred date. Sen. Senjem offered to request agenda time on that date (or other dates as needed) - Senate Transportation, Finance and Policy (10:30 – Noon) and State Government Finance and Policy and Election (1:00 – 2:30). Presentations in the House to be requested later when the House has appointed new members to the MN-MRPC. Staff will assist with talking points and materials.

Individual Meetings - MN-MRPC public members will be asked to make individual visits to legislators. Priorities would be committee chairs and then Representatives/Senators in MN-MRPC member regions. Goal would be 3 – 4 legislators per member and visit would include delivery/review of informational materials. Executive Committee and staff will provide details and materials. Discussion included possibility of timing visits on February 28, when members might already be in St. Paul for the next MN- MRPC Quarterly Meeting.

Materials – MN-MRPC/GRR overview documents were included in the meeting packet and were reviewed. Anne Lewis used these in past communications and also provided the MN-MRPC CMP brochure, MN and ten state GRR maps, MN Tourism and the Economy Fact Sheet and MN GRR lapel pins. Committee recommended using this packet as the template with the possible addition of a page used in 2017 describing GRR impact within local areas/regions.

Preliminary Plans for 2020 – Ideas discussed included a GRR Day in the Capitol Rotunda with Interpretive Centers and MN GRR communities invited to participate. The committee recommended moving forward with preliminary discussions on this, including gathering feedback and determining interest from Interpretive Centers.

Member Agency Project Support Appreciation: The committee was asked to consider approaches to thank MnDOT and DNR for their contributions to MN GRR signage and Plan Your Trip/Plan Your Project mapping and travel guides. The committee recommendation was to schedule visits to the DNR and DOT Commissioners after a new MN-MRPC Chair is designated (March?).

Other: A suggestion was made to review composition of regional stakeholder lists at the next Executive Committee meeting (summer 2019).

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 4:10 p.m.

MN–MRPC Funding Needs in Addition to Regular Operating Budget Corridor Management Plan Implementation FY20-21

Type Fiscal Year Purpose

One-time FY20 Development of new Minnesota Great River Road website to improve function on mobile devices, better feature local communities, highlight the new Plan Your Trip mapping and regional travel guides hosted at MnDOT, and improve administrative updating capacity.

One-time FY20-21 Design and printing of new GRR map in FY 20. 70,000 pieces, shipped in two annual shipments to 53 MN distribution locations. Existing design does not include a drivable map, which is often requested. Reprints of the existing map have not been able to keep up with demand.

One-time FY20-21 Launch of an Ambassador Development/Training program. See below for objective. Launch funds to be used for materials, training meetings, and travel. Design, development and first round of meetings in FY 20, expanded second round of meetings in FY21.

Total One-Time Project Funds - $82,000

Ongoing Beginning FY20 In part to allow additional staff resources to be devoted to Ambassador Program management (one of the Corridor Management Plan initial implementation projects) and to allow for greater MN-MRPC membership participation in Ambassador program. The objective of the Ambassador Program is to provide resources, materials and training for MN-MRPC member facility managers, local road and attraction managers, and local businesses and residents to improve corridor management, better serve tourists and encourage economic development.

Also to implement Education and Engagement recommendations of the MN- MRPC Business Plan section of the Corridor Management Plan through partner/stakeholder outreach for letters of support, project involvement, regional meetings, updating Investment Inventory, etc.

Total Ongoing Funds - $15,000 per year ($30,000 per biennium)

1/11/19

Minnesota Great River Road Pilot's Wheel Logo Use Policy

BACKGROUND

The Great River Road Pilot’s Wheel is the official emblem of the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway that guides travelers along the Mississippi River to explore the cultural, historical, natural and recreational attractions along its length. The 12 spokes represent the 10 member states which comprise the Mississippi River Parkway Commission, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana; and former Commission members Canadian provinces Ontario and Manitoba. Wayshowing guide signs along the Great River Road are marked with the Pilot's Wheel and the respective state names, as adopted by the Commission in 1958. Signs are located before and after each turn, and as needed to confirm the byway's route.

The Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission also uses the Minnesota Great River Road Pilot's Wheel logo on letterhead, newsletters, byway travel materials such as maps, tablets, pins, and window clings, interpretive panels, byway plans, www.mnmississippiriver.com, event displays, trade show displays, shirts, etc.

LOGO USE CONDITIONS

The Pilot’s Wheel logo is available in JPG format via email from the MN-MRPC office using the request form in Appendix A. Any use of the Minnesota Great River Road Pilot’s Wheel logo must receive prior approval from the MN-MRPC. Each use must help fulfill the Mississippi River Parkway Commission's mission to preserve, promote and enhance the Great River Road and the Mississippi River. The logo may only be used for general information or promotional purposes by the general public, and as described below. The Pilot’s Wheel logo may not be used on merchandise sold for profit.

 Member agencies of the MN-MRPC and designated Great River Road Interpretive Centers are pre-approved to use the logo at any time for general promotion of the Minnesota Great River Road and/or demonstration of their affiliation with the MN-MRPC/Great River Road.  Marketing partners of the MN-MRPC and media receiving the logo as part of MN-MRPC news releases or promotional information are preapproved to use the logo as part of the news release or promotional information.

Questions regarding use of the Minnesota Great River Road Pilot’s Wheel logo should be directed to the MN Mississippi River Parkway Commission office at 651-341-4196 or [email protected]. Upon publication or completion of your project, please send a sample or copy of the logo use to the MN-MRPC.

The URL www.mnmississippiriver.com may be used without permission as a source of information so that travelers can learn more about Minnesota’s Mississippi River and Great River Road. Thank you for promoting the Minnesota Great River Road!

STYLE AND USAGE

The Great River Road Pilot’s Wheel logo is a visual representation of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway in Minnesota. Any use of the Minnesota Great River Road Pilot’s Wheel logo must help meet the Mississippi River Parkway Commission mission to preserve, promote and enhance the Great River Road and the Mississippi River.

• The Minnesota Great River Road Pilot’s Wheel logo has a suggested minimum size of 1” wide or 72 pixels for online applications in order to ensure clear reproduction and legibility. Suggested minimum placement from other logos is a minimum of ¼ inch. Follow recommendations of online platforms for optimal logo size and resolution (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest).  Upon completion of your project or publication, please send us an example of how you used the logo. • When reproducing the Great River Road Pilot’s Wheel logo, please follow these specifications: - Typefaces Title Text: Historical, unknown (All CAPS, distressed font) Color Palette: Pantone 3435 C green on white background, or black on white - When printing on a 4-color press, use the following: C:90 M:40 Y:91 K:43 When applying to web, use the following: R:0 G:80 B:47 2/13/19

Appendix A:

Request for Use of Minnesota Great River Road Pilot's Wheel Logo Form

Please complete the form below and return it with a draft of your proposed publication or other use to: Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission 56 33rd Avenue S, #283, St. Cloud, MN, 56301 [email protected]

Any use of the Minnesota Great River Road pilot’s wheel logo must meet the Mississippi River Parkway Commission mission to preserve, promote and enhance the Great River Road and the Mississippi River.

Name of Your Organization:

Contact Name:

Business Address:

Business Phone:

Website:

Email Address:

Describe the purpose for which you intend to use the logo(s) and describe the target audience:

UPON PUBLICATION: Upon publication or completion of your project, please send a sample of the piece to the email address listed above.

2/13/19

Mississippi River Parkway Commission of Minnesota 300 33rd Avenue South, Suite 101  Waite Park, Minnesota 56387 Phone: 651-341-4196  E-Mail: [email protected]

Members of the House: Sheldon Johnson (DFL – 67B) – Chair Members of the Senate: David Senjem (R – 25); Patricia Torres Ray (DFL – 63) State Agency Appointees: Paul Hugunin – Agriculture, Scott Bradley – Transportation, Adam Johnson – Explore Minnesota Tourism, Keith Parker – Natural Resources, Andrea Kajer – Historical Society Regional Appointees: Nancy Salminen – Lake Itasca to Grand Rapids, Open – Grand Rapids to Brainerd, Karl Samp –Brainerd to Elk River, Cordelia Pierson – Elk River to Hastings, Sheronne Mulry – Hastings to Iowa Border Member at Large: Anne Lewis

Process for Project Comments, Letters of Support, or Related Action

The following process will be followed after a request for Commission action is received.

1) If the timeline allows for discussion at a regular quarterly meeting –

 The topic will be placed on the agenda at the discretion of the Chair with information sent out to members in advance for review and consideration.  The agenda will be posted to the legislative calendar and MN-MRPC meeting webpage to allow for public notice. Public testifiers may be asked to sign up in advance.  Discussion and public testimony, if applicable, will take place at the meeting.  Commission will vote on requested action.  Staff will follow up with letter requestor as directed by the Commission.

2) If the timeline does not allow for discussion at a regular quarterly meeting –

 A regional Commission member may choose to attend meetings for information or communicate with their stakeholders directly regarding an issue, without speaking on behalf of the full Commission or representing the full Commission.  The Chair will determine whether to call a special meeting for consideration of the request.  The request and any background information will be emailed to MN-MRPC members.  A meeting of the MN-MRPC will be scheduled to allow for public testimony with the agenda posted to the legislative calendar and the MN-MRPC meeting webpage. A meeting notice will be posted on the Commission’s website, and a room will be available at the State Office Building to allow for members of the public to attend.  MN-MRPC members may participate by phone or in person.  Discussion will take place and a decision will be made on how to proceed.  Commission will vote on requested action.  Staff will follow up with letter requestor as directed by the Commission.

The MN-MNRPC asks for the following information to help facilitate the process -

 Name of requestor and contact information  Topic  Brief overview or link to details for Commission review  Action requested (letter, MN-MRPC representation at a meeting, presentation to MN-MRPC, material/update for information purposes only, etc.)  Positive or negative impacts to the Great River Road, Scenic Byway Intrinsic Resources (archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, scenic) and/or MN-MRPC mission (To preserve, promote and enhance the scenic, historic and recreational resources of the Mississippi River, to foster economic growth in the corridor and to develop then national, scenic and historic byway known as the Great River Road.)  Deadline for requested action or related meeting date  Details on where letter is to be sent, or meeting to be attended Adopted 5/19/16 Revised 3/2/17, 8/31/17

City of Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center 5600 85th Ave. N. Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 763-493-8333 www.brooklynpark.org

To: MN Mississippi River Parkway Commission Chris Miller, Director

From: Jody Yungers, Director 5600 85th, Ave N. Brooklyn Park, MN

Re: Request of MN Mississippi River Parkway Commission’s support for City of Brooklyn Park’s application to MN Outdoor Recreation Grant Program for River Park redevelopment

Date: January 27, 2019

The following is a request for the MN Mississippi River Parkway Commission to consider supporting for the City of Brooklyn Park’s application to MN Outdoor Recreation Grant Program for River Park redevelopment.

River Park sits on the banks of the Mississippi River and the City is in the process of finalizing the Master Plan for the park. Currently River Park is underutilized and has issues of untreated stormwater run off and by its current design does not connect persons to the river or celebrate the Mississippi River’s grandeur. The River Park Master Plan has many goals, as described on the attached draft Concept Plan for the park.

While the redevelopment plan for the park includes upgrading recreational amenities, including trails, picnic facilities, overlook and shore fishing structures, the City’s application to MN Outdoor Recreation Grant Program will be focused on the need to restore and stabilize the riverfront shoreline and establishment of river walk, shore fishing amenities and pre‐treated stormwater system, making River Park a place of natural beauty and a unique park that connect people to nature and the river.

Over the last eight months the City has conducted multiple community engagement meetings to develop the vision and goals for the park. The City is still in the process of finalizing the River Park Master Plan, with City Council’s final approval planned for March 25, 2019. The City has included within its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) funding for the redevelopment of the park ($2.1 million), with its’ interest in leveraging other grant resources available to advance its redevelopment plan. The City intends to apply for multiple grant programs to help support the redevelopment of the park.

The City has submitted a grant application to the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, Five‐Year Alternative Transportation System program CIP, in the amount of $362,000 to improve the trail system within the park, connections to the W. Mississippi Regional Trail and to create a non‐motorized canoe and kayak access to the River.

Letter of Request MMRPC River Park Page 2

We believe the City of Brooklyn Park’s goals for the park will help advance the Commission’s broader goal “to preserve, promote and enhance the scenic, historic and recreational resources of the Mississippi River, to foster economic growth in the corridor and to develop the national, scenic and historic byway”.

We appreciate your consideration of our request. The deadline for the grant application is March 29, 2019 and would appreciate a letter of support to be included within the City’s application.

If you have any questions related to this request, please do not hesitate to contact me, Jody Yungers, Director, Recreation and Parks, 5600 85th Ave N., Brooklyn Park, MN 55443, 763‐493‐8337.

Attachments:

 Draft Master Plan (1/25/2019)  River Park Redevelopment Goals and Emerging Themes

Cc: Jay Stroebel, City Manager LaTonia Green, Finance Director Jeff Lunde, Mayor Recreation and Park Commission Jesse Stuve, City Engineer

K:\011887-000\Cad\Exhibits\011887-000_ Final Concept_1.9.19 January 9,January 2019 Brooklyn Park, Minnesota River Park |DraftMaster Plan * 83rd AveN. Stone FishingPlatform Location(4) Nature PlayNodesthroughout park(4) KEY Vegetative Buffer | WSB Project number: 011887-000 Connection toMRT Native Grasses(typ.) to GreenspaceintheFuture. as lifecycleallows.Convert Existing CourtstoRemain Existing Restrooms 81st AveN. Vegetative Buffer Open Views Lawn Prairie toRemain Existing Restored * Existing Wetland Existing overlooktoremain Connection to MRT Tennis Courts Playground Parking Existing Existing Trail Open Views Trail to Remain Existing Shelter Storage Building Proposed Restrooms/ Kitchen Upgrade Remain / Shelter to Existing Flexible Green Open Lawn/ Treatment Wetlands Water Space Classroom /Shelter Proposed Outdoor * to PreventErosion Restore Shorelinethroughout & BoatLaunch Existing ParkingLot

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* Mississippi River Mississippi Overlook Platform Open Views * Open Views Trail Erosion throughout toPrevent Restore Shoreline 0’ Shoreline Rip-rap toStabilize Stone FishingPlatforms/ 25’ Island Paddle SharePad B Native Grasses Pedestrian Bridge 50’ Bay /Cove Excavated Arbor Structure Launch Canoe /Kayak Scale inFeet 100’ 200’ EXISTING PRAIRIE RESTORATION AREA

EXISTING PARKING LOT

EXISTING EXISTING BATHROOM PARKING AND BUILDING BOAT LAUNCH

EXPANDED PARK BUILDING WITH NEW KITCHEN AREA

EXPANDED HARDSCAPE PLAYGROUND CONNECTION TO PICNIC RIVER EDGE, TYP. AREA/ GATHERING SPACE

WOODLAND RESTORATION OPEN UP VIEWS AREA TO RIVER, TYP. EXISITING SOFTBALL SWITCHBACK FIELD TRAIL TO ACCESS RIVER EXISTING VOLLEYBALL

EXISTING TENNIS COURT

EXISTING PICNIC FISHING BASKETBALL COURT AREA/ PLATFORM PICNIC GATHERING SHELTER SPACE

PLAYGROUND NEW PARK BUILDING & RESTROOMS

RECONFIGURED KAYAK/CANOE PARKING LAUNCH RIVER STORMWATER INLET/SAFE TREATMENT HARBOR TRAIN SYSTEM BIG MOVES RIVER PARK • Walking loop- create better connections between the north • Possible relocation of Nature Preschool and incorporate LOCATION: 101 83rd Avenue North and south portions of the park into new facility ACREAGE: 41.65 • Create trail connections from WMRT to park (81st and • Expand parking to accommodate expanded gathering PARK CLASSIFICATION: Community Park 83rd) space on south side of park • Improve water access from river to park - canoes, kayaks, • Eliminate or phase out baseball fields etc. Support paddle share program. Create safe harbor for GOAL • Gathering space for families/picnic overflow non-motorized boats. Create a river destination park that highlights natural • Multi-Purpose field space • Restore shoreline, low trail, with a combination of resources and focuses on picnicking and gathering. hardscape and softscape design applications • Incorporate nature play within riparian area and near new building to the south Strengthen the community connection to river by • Expand wooded/riparian habitat providing opportunities to access the river visually and • Create treatment train system that is a park amenity • Open views to the river with selective clearing/removal of and educational opportunity to handle existing untreated physically. invasive species stormwater • Create new trail connections/overlooks to river edge • Incorporate interpretation and educational opportunities in CONNECTION TO EMERGING THEMES • Create opportunities for shore fishing (fishing pier and/or prairie restoration area. • Connections to the River platform) • Add additional overlooks on the north side of park • Connections to the natural world • Expand existing building/shelter – add kitchen • Natural Resources conservation and interpretation • Add new park building/picnic shelter on south side to • Introduce new or expanded Special Use Facilities- Large accommodate day camp use and expanded picnic Gathering Spaces programming • Increase connectivity of trail system • Improve Safety/Conveniences for Park Users

E NGINEERS P LANNERS Concept Plan D ESIGNERS RIVER PARK | Consulting Group, Inc. DRAFT | October 2017 Request for action by MN-MRPC on 2/28/19

Name of Requestor and Contact Information

Cordelia Pierson, Regional Commissioner

Topic

Protecting Nationally Significant Resources by Honoring Height Maximum for development at 311 2nd Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414 (Doran-CSM SE II, LLC-Developer) in City of Minneapolis Historic Preservation Review and Planned Unit Development Land Use Application Review

Brief Overview for Commission Review

The City of Minneapolis is now reviewing a proposal to develop six acres in the heart of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District, within view of the Great River Road and . At the same time, the City of Minneapolis and private partners are seeking state investment in the area. This is a critical time for MN-MRPC to highlight for local decision-makers the value of protecting and enhancing the assets of the Mississippi River Valley and Great River Road, and for recently elected leadership, to introduce the MN-MRPC and how we can support their riverfront investments that complement our mission.

Action Requested

Letter to decision-makers at local and state levels

Positive or Negative Impacts to the Great River Road, Scenic Byway Intrinsic Resources (archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, scenic) and/or MN-MRPC mission (To preserve, promote and enhance the scenic, historic and recreational resources of the Mississippi River, to foster economic growth in the corridor and to develop then national, scenic and historic byway known as the Great River Road.)

See letter. Excerpt: Honoring historic district height limits and city-adopted guidelines is critical at this site within the viewshed from the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway, which follows West River Parkway alongside , , and Gold Medal Park.  At thirty-two stories, this project is clearly incompatible with the character area and visible from “key public viewpoints inside and outside of the historic district” as specifically noted in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District Design Guidelines, and affects key viewsheds from the Great River Road. SAFHD design guidelines restrict building height to eight (8) stories in this University Transition area, and to the Red Tile Elevator height (15-17 stories) in the adjacent East Bank Mill area. This project would dwarf the historic mill buildings surrounding the Pillsbury A Mill on the East Bank.  The height restriction is particularly critical for the historic, scenic and cultural resources of this site, immediately adjacent to the National Historic Landmark Pillsbury A Mill complex and within specifically listed “key” viewsheds from public sites: Mill City Museum, Mill Ruins Park, the Great River Road, and the Stone Arch Bridge. The historic mill buildings of the East and West Bank Milling areas together define the district on both banks of the Mississippi River and create the historic Water Power Character Area; views from Hennepin Bridge and downstream show the remarkable, parallel mill sites with their defining signs: the Gold Medal Flour sign on the west, and the Pillsbury sign on the east.  This height guideline protects additional Great River Road intrinsic resources, both natural and spiritual. The project is within the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area, five blocks from an active Bald Eagle nest, and one block from many natural resources of national, state and local significance. Eight eagles have fledged from this nest since 2014. The Mississippi flyway is a vital corridor for migrating birds, and it is well documented that large structures in the flyway contribute to significant bird mortality. Dakota people have found the return of nesting eagles to the falls area inspiring, and have hosted annual American Indian programs in the riverfront park overlooking the falls, Father Hennepin Bluffs Park. A structure at or below the Red Tile Elevator height would pose a substantially smaller hazard to wildlife as compared to a thirty-two-story structure, and would respect the spiritual and cultural importance of this area.  Within this two-block site, a project can easily be designed to meet the Certificate of Appropriateness standards and Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area rules: A design for this transformative project, encompassing two full city blocks, can be compatible with historic designation, ensuring its continued integrity, consistent with the SAFHD guidelines, and consistent with the spirit and intent of preservation policies and laws.

Deadline for Requested Action

March 5 Heritage Preservation Commission vote, followed by Planning Commission, with appeals likely after each.

Details on Where Letter is to be Sent

See letter draft.

DELIVERY VIA EMAIL DRAFT FOR MN‐MRPC CONSIDERATION

To: Ginny Lackovic, Chair, Heritage Preservation Commission Jacob Frey, Mayor Lisa Bender, President, City Council Jeremy Schroeder, Chair, Zoning and Planning Committee, City Council Steve Fletcher, City Council Matthew Brown, President, Planning Commission

Cc: State Delegation representing the City of Minneapolis Local Elected Officials representing the City of Minneapolis: City, Hennepin County, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, Mississippi Watershed Management Organization Cara Letofsky, Metropolitan Council Member Kjersti Monson, Friends of the Lock and Dam Tom Evers, Minneapolis Parks Foundation Whitney Clark, Friends of the Mississippi River

From: Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission

Date: February 28, 2019

Re: Protecting Nationally Significant Resources by Honoring Height Maximum Certificate of Appropriateness (COA), Historic Preservation Review and Planned Unit Development Land Use Application Review 311 2nd Street SE (Doran‐CSM SE II, LLC‐Developer)

The City of Minneapolis, through its Heritage Preservation Commission, City Council, and Planning Commission, will soon make critical decisions about a proposed project redeveloping the General Mills Riverside Technical Center, at 311 2nd Street SE. The Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) will decide whether to deny a certificate of appropriateness (COA), or to grant a COA with conditions. After HPC review, the Planning Commission will review a land use application for this planned unit development. The City Council reviews both decisions on appeal.

This six‐acre site, only one block from the Mississippi River and the Mississippi River Trail, is within several areas of national significance: the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, and the St. Anthony Falls Historic District. Despite a height maximum of 15‐17 stories, the developer first proposed a 32‐story tower, and is now revising its proposal. This major project will impact the intrinsic resources of the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway, and depending on its design, will enhance – or diminish – this nationally significant place.

The Mississippi River Parkway Commission requests the Heritage Preservation Commission, the Planning Commission, and the City Council of Minneapolis to:  deny the required certificate of appropriateness for the 32‐story tower proposal at 311 2nd Street SE for failure to meet COA standards,

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 provide guidance to the developer to re‐submit a proposal for this two‐block site that conforms to historic district guidelines, including limiting height to the Red Tile Elevator and avoiding impacts to “key views” defined in the guidelines and protected as intrinsic resources of the National Scenic Byway;  protect the integrity of the district’s Water Power Character Area in this and future private and public developments that impact the Great River Road.

MN Mississippi River Parkway Commission: The mission of the Mississippi River Parkway Commission (MN‐MRPC) is to promote, preserve and enhance the resources of the Mississippi River Valley and to develop the highways and amenities of the Great River Road. The Great River Road is an 80‐year old National Scenic Byway, connecting communities from the Headwaters at Lake Itasca to Forest History Center in Grand Rapids, from Oliver Kelley Farm to Fort Snelling, from Oheyawahi (Pilot Knob) to the National Eagle Center in Wabasha.e Along th Great River Road, people can experience beautiful views and nature; learn about American Indian culture today; discover stories about how farming, sawmilling and grain milling here changed our state and nation; and enjoy biking, paddling and walking.

This mission or promoting, preserving and enhancing is complementary to the corridor management directive for the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA). The statutory role of the MN‐MRPC, established under Minnesota Statute 161.1419, is to work toward the planning, construction, maintenance, and improvement of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. The Commission includes representatives of the Minnesota House and Senate; representatives from the Minnesota Departments of Transportation, Natural Resources and Agriculture, the Historical Society, and Explore Minnesota Tourism; five regionally appointed citizens; and an at‐large member. The National Park Service serves as a non‐voting member.

The MN‐MRPC promotes, supports, and advances actions, responsibilities, procedures, controls, operational practices, and strategies to maintain the intrinsic archaeological; cultural; natural; historic; recreational and scenic qualities that support National Scenic Byway Designation. With local public and private projects and programs, the MN‐MRPC both supports and provides comments to shape these investments to enhance the resources of the Mississippi River Valley and the Great River Road National Scenic Byway.

In Minneapolis, by the Mississippi River’s only falls, the riverfront boasts an incredible blend of all those values – scenic, natural, spiritual, cultural, historic, recreational. Minneapolis is lucky to have two National Historic Landmarks – the sister mills facing each other, one now the Mill City Museum, and the other affordable artist housing at Pillsbury A Mill. From the Great River Road, you can easily see these mills and grain elevators that define the area’s “Water Power Character” area, at the heart of this national and state‐designated St. Anthony Falls Historic District. At night, you can see “Gold Medal Flour” towering over the West bank, and “Pillsbury” atop the Red Tile Elevator on the East bank. Tying together sister communities in Greater Minnesota, where grain elevators dominate the landscape of rural towns, these mill complexes helped build a city, shaped the region’s economy, and changed how we eat.

This protected, historic character makes this area unique. Private and public investment – well over $2 billion ‐ has followed, and new private and public investment is proposed.

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Request to Deny Certificate of Appropriateness for 32‐story Tower, and Require Revised Project to Honor Height Limit, Historic District Guidelines and Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area Rules Honoring historic district height limits and city‐adopted guidelines is critical at this site within the viewshed from the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway, which follows West River Parkway alongside Mill Ruins Park, Mill City Museum, and Gold Medal Park.  At thirty‐two stories, this project is clearly incompatible with the character area and visible from “key public viewpoints inside and outside of the historic district” as specifically noted in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District Design Guidelines, and affects key viewsheds from the Great River Road. SAFHD design guidelines restrict building height to eight (8) stories in this University Transition area, and to the Red Tile Elevator height (15‐17 stories) in the adjacent East Bank Mill area. This project would dwarf the historic mill buildings surrounding the Pillsbury A Mill on the East Bank.  The height restriction is particularly critical for the historic, scenic and cultural resources of this site, immediately adjacent to the National Historic Landmark Pillsbury A Mill complex and within specifically listed “key” viewsheds from public sites: Mill City Museum, Mill Ruins Park, the Greatr Rive Road, and the Stone Arch Bridge. The historic mill buildings of the East and West Bank Milling areas together define the district on both banks of the Mississippi River and create the historic Water Power Character Area; views from Hennepin Bridge and Nicollet Island downstream show the remarkable, parallel mill sites with their defining signs: the Gold Medal Flour sign on the west, and the Pillsbury sign on the east.  This height guideline protects additional Great River Road intrinsic resources, both natural and spiritual. The project is within the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area, five blocks from an active Bald Eagle nest, and one block from many natural resources of national, state and local significance. Eight eagles have fledged from this nest since 2014. The Mississippi flyway is a vital corridor for migrating birds, and it is well documented that large structures in the flyway contribute to significant bird mortality. Dakota people have found the return of nesting eagles to the falls area inspiring, and have hosted annual American Indian programs in the riverfront park overlooking the falls, Father Hennepin Bluffs Park. A structure at or below the Red Tile Elevator height would pose a substantially smaller hazard to wildlife as compared to a thirty‐two‐ story structure, and would respect the spiritual and cultural importance of this area.  Within this two‐block site, a project can easily be designed to meet the Certificate of Appropriateness standards and Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area rules: A design for this transformative project, encompassing two full city blocks, can be compatible with historic designation, ensuring its continued integrity, consistent with the SAFHD guidelines, and consistent with the spirit and intent of preservation policies and laws.

Protect the State’s Interest in Development Honoring Integrity of National Resources: The state and federal government have invested substantially in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District, and private investment has followed. According to the City of Minneapolis, public investment through 2010 exceeded $339 million, and private investment of over $1.9 billion has followed. Public investment includes: Stone Arch Bridge 3rd Avenue Bridge Mill City Museum Hennepin Avenue Bridge Pillsbury A Mill redevelopment

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As stated in the city’s Mississippi River Critical Area plan, “St. Anthony Falls has cultural, historic, economic, scenic, and recreational significance to the nation, the state, the region, and the City, and should be treated with the utmost respect.” The view of the Stone Arch Bridge, Pillsbury A Mill and this site from the Great River Road is iconic; it is featured both in the city’s draft Mississippi River Critical Area plan (p. 74) as a viewshed worth protecting, and on the homepage of the new Great River Road Metro Travel Guidewebpage.

The City of Minneapolis is now seeking state funding for private‐public partnerships in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District. The City of Minneapolis has asked the Metropolitan Council to approve its protection of this area’s views and other resources in its Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area plan, as part of its 2040 Minneapolis Plan.

As the City of Minneapolis requests public and private investment in its Mississippi riverfront, the MN‐MRPC strongly encourages the City in its own decision‐making to protect and enhance the resources of the Mississippi River Valley and the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. The MN‐MRPC will continue to support local requests for state investment where local governments are protecting, promoting and enhancing the intrinsic resources of the Mississippi River Valley.

“People visit places, not cities,” the National Geographic has noted. This project will transform the character of the Mississippi River Valley by the river’s only falls, impacting the Great River Road and associated historic, cultural, natural and scenic resources of this National Scenic Byway. This project sets the stage for future private and public projects affecting the Great River Road in the Mississippi River Critical Corridor Area and Historic District, adjacent to a National Historic Landmark. We owe it to future generations to transform this place in ways that enhance, not degrade, our nationally significant resources.

Thank you for your consideration.

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Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission Agency & Regional Updates February 2019

Metro Region (Elk River to Hastings) – Cordelia Pierson______

 In the metropolitan area, all local governments are submitting 2040 comprehensive plans to the Metropolitan Council for review. Each plan will include a Mississippi Corridor Critical Area plan, their first critical area plans since the DNR rules were adopted.

 Development in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District – The City of Minneapolis is reviewing a development proposal for the former General Mills Riverside Technical Center, in the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area and the St. Anthony Falls Historic District. This development, depending on its height, may impact the intrinsic resources of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. The regional commissioner is asking the MRPC to send a letter to the City of Minneapolis, encouraging the city to protect the intrinsic resources of the Great River Road, particularly as the City seeks additional state support for this nationally significant area. This opinion article was published in Mill City Times. http://millcitytimes.com/news/opinion-act-to-protect-the-power-of-the-falls.html

 Stone Arch Bridge - MNDOT has identified $15 million in funding to repair the bridge, with $12M from federal transportation alternative funds and $2M from Minnesota Rail Service Improvement Program and $1M from 2018 bonding. Inspections and proposals are next, with repair work likely to begin in 2021. Pedestrian and bicycle access is expected to be maintained through the repair period. http://www.startribune.com/full-funding-secured-to-repair-stone-arch-bridge/505226102/

 WaterWorks - Site preparation gained momentum in fall 2018 with deconstruction of the Fuji-Ya building and temporary excavation of the area known as the “South Plaza,” along with on-going exploratory archeology and repair inside the Bassett mill structure. In September, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board revealed the final refined design for Water Works, launching the last phase before construction begins in spring 2019. The refined plan concentrates the pavilion in the Bassett mill remnants and maintains river views, play areas, and dining space with a modified 2-story design; pedestrian access, traffic calming and naturalized play spaces come to life through smart landscaping, tree-sheltered city steps, creative traffic flow, and buried power lines. Storytelling continues to be an important creative element and will be supported with a $450,000 city arts grant. Over time, visitors will add their own stories through art, play, performance, food, and social media. 2019 – Mezzanine Phase ground breaking; 2020 – Mezzanine Phase grand opening. https://mplsparksfoundation.org/projects/water-works/

 Upper Lock Decommissioning - Comments were solicited by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (due Feb. 12) on the subject of implementation guidance for the recently passed Water Resources Development Act of 2018, which includes sections pertinent to the Upper Lock. Friends of the Lock & Dam provided comments, along with the City of Minneapolis and National Park Service. The letter sent to the Corps by Senators Klobuchar and Smith speaks to Congressional intent behind the legislation, and underscores Congressional intent for the reuse of the Upper Lock to reflect the public interest, consistent with the vision adopted by the City of Minneapolis.

 Upper Lock Funding – The City of Minneapolis is requesting state funds for Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock Redevelopment, for pre-design and design for the redevelopment of the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock into a destination visitor and interpretive center and event space, The Falls. The recent Congressional Page 1 of 2

suspension of navigation at the Lock provides a rare opportunity to create a unique space to learn about Minnesota’s story. The Falls will tell the myriad stories of the St. Anthony Falls and the Mississippi River in our community and region, including Native American history, the story of the civil works era and opening the Upper Mississippi to commerce and navigation, and the story about the birth of a city that became the “flour milling capital of the world.”

 Minneapolis Upper Harbor Terminal Plan – The Upper Harbor Terminal site includes over 48 acres including Mississippi River frontage. The City and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board have been refining their overall vision for what they would like to achieve through redevelopment of the site, and the concept plan includes over 19 acres for parks. Private development in Phase 1 includes: o An outdoor music performance venue along the river; o A hospitality mixed-use building along the river; o A residential mixed-use complex with both market-rate and affordable units; o An office mixed-use building; o An innovative mixed-use building dubbed “The Hub” along the river; and o Parking to support the development. The plan for the former Upper Harbor Terminal is currently scheduled for a full city council vote on March 1. The city is requesting state funds of $2,000,000 for predesign and design for the proposed outdoor music performance venue, with a priority ranking of #2. https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/MarkedAgenda/EDRS/741 http://upperharbormpls.com/

 Mississippi Gorge Regional Park Master Plan – Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board planning process is underway for this 132-acre area along the Great River Road and Grand Rounds in Minneapolis, on both sides of the Mississippi River from the University area (Bridge 9) to Minnehaha Regional Park. Public comments are due on the draft 20 year plan by March 10. https://www.minneapolisparks.org/park_care__improvements/park_projects/current_projects/mississippi_ gorge_regional_park_master_plan/

 East of the River Parks Master Plan – Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is completing its review of the 20-year plan for all Minneapolis neighborhood parks in the Northeast/Southeast service area, east of the Mississippi River. This plan includes a Mississippi River connection in the Grand Rounds from Northeast Minneapolis to the Southeast Minneapolis riverfront, just west of Highway 280. This missing link was identified as a vital river connection generations ago. https://www.minneapolisparks.org/park_care__improvements/park_projects/current_projects/east_of_the _river_park_master_plan/

 Downtown St. Paul - Ramsey County land development - Riverfront Properties is a nearly five-acre site located along the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River in downtown Saint Paul. The proposed development centers around connecting downtown residents, workers and visitors to the Mississippi River. https://www.ramseycounty.us/your-government/projects-initiatives/riverfront-properties

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Lake Pepin Habitat Restoration

Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance (LPLA) has spearheaded a large-scale restoration project to rejuvenate the areas most impacted by sediment. The project aims to improve water clarity, create fish and wildlife habitat, and increase recreational access in Upper Lake Pepin. It will also provide a beneficial use for the dredge material in Lower Lake Pepin, which is suitable for the construction of new islands designed to redirect sediment flows and reduce overall impact. Onsite dredge material can be used for capping islands as a top layer. Island construction has already been done successfully throughout other US Army Corp. of Engineers portions of the Mississippi River. creates new islands on north end of Lake Pepin to improve habitat, solve problem on sout The Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) is leading implementation and end funding 65% of the costs, but LPLA is responsible for fundraising the local cost-share, estimated to be $3.5 million. Last year, LPLA raised an anticipated $867,500 through grants and municipal pledges, which could be enough to start construction in 2020. The WI DNR and LPLA also successfully applied for a pilot program that will direct more federal funds to the project and expand the scope to include features Boat Groundings on Lake Pep with social and economic benefits, such as dredging the Bay City Lead to Study harbor and improving access to the lake.

To learn more, read our blog posts:

Lake Pepin Restoration: Why do it like that?

LPLA Top 5 Reasons for Restoration