National County Government Month
April is National County Government Month. This month is a time to recognize the important work of counties across the country and the people who make that work happen. It is an opportunity to reflect on the role we play at Hennepin County in supporting our community each and every day. Thank you to all our employees, it is through your hard work and dedication that everything we do is possible.
Advocacy at the State Capitol
Last month, I had another opportunity to testify at the Capitol on the urgent and critical needs of our hospital- HCMC- and what is at stake if we lose this statewide asset. Thank you to the House Taxes Committee for having me and former patients who lovingly shared their stories.
My appreciation also for members of AFSCME local 2474 representing hospital staff who were present at the hearing! It was great to connect with them as people who take care of residents from all over the state everyday.
Cedar Avenue accessibility improvements begin next week
Hennepin County is planning to make accessibility improvements along Cedar Avenue (County Road 152) from Riverside Avenue to 7th Street in South Minneapolis. Starting next week, we will begin reconstructing curb ramps at Riverside Avenue, 6th Street, and 7th Street. Here’s what you can expect:
Monday, April 13 through early May
Using Cedar Avenue during construction
- If you are visiting a business, call ahead or check their website to see if there is a change in business access or where to park.
- If your home or business is directly on the project area, Cedar Avenue will be open for local access from Riverside Avenue to just north of 6th Street. Contact us with any specific concerns.
- If you drive or bike, you can use Riverside and 20th avenues as a detour route.
- If you walk or roll, you will have access to Cedar Avenue. Our crews will provide temporary access routes for you to get around the construction area.
- If you use transit, some transit stops may be temporarily closed or relocated. For information, contact Metro Transit or visit their rider alerts website.
Learn where county road work will be happening in your community
Road construction season is about to begin. Check out how Hennepin County is improving our roads to make your travel safer, better and more reliably with our 2026 transportation activities map.
Hennepin County 2026 transportation activities
Once you find a project you are interested in, click on the map to get more details and link directly to the project page on HennepinCounty.gov. There you will find the latest information and how to stay updated.
Franklin Avenue Reconstruction
County Road 5 in South Minneapolis
 Hennepin County, in coordination with the City of Minneapolis, is making it safer and easier to travel on Franklin Avenue (County Road 5) in South Minneapolis. On March 23, we begun construction on the north side of Franklin Avenue.
Here’s what you can expect:
If you are visiting the area, plan ahead, follow signage, and be aware of the following:
- Westbound Franklin Avenue will be closed between Lyndale and LaSalle/Blaisdell avenues, and between First and Chicago avenues
- Eastbound Franklin Avenue will be reduced to a single lane for local access only.
Using Franklin Avenue during construction
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If you are visiting a business, call ahead or check their website to see if there is a change in business access or where to park.
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If you drive or bike, you can use one of our detour routes below:
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If you walk or roll, you will have access to Franklin Avenue. There will be one side of Franklin Avenue open (the opposite side of where construction is taking place)
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If you use transit, some transit stops will be temporarily closed or relocated as work moves through the construction area. For information on affected stops, contact Metro Transit or visit their rider alerts website
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If your home or business is directly on the project area, you will still be able to access your entrance. Contact the project team with any specific concerns
Dates are tentative and subject to change
Get Started with Elevate Hennepin
 Join Get Started on April 15 at noon for a no-cost, 90-minute virtual interactive session designed for anyone with a business idea looking for a jumpstart.
Participants will learn from expert facilitator Angel Antje and Elevate Hennepin Business Navigators how to use the Business Model Canvas, an efficient method for building the initial draft of a business plan.
Participants will leave the program with materials, resources, and a process to assess their business idea.
Online event, April 15, 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Register now
Certified Access Academy: Applications now open
Applications are now open for the next session of the Certified Access Academy – an eight-week, Elevate Hennepin cohort-based training opportunity to support disadvantaged businesses become certified to compete for government and corporate contracts.
Applications will remain open through April 21.
Participants will join a virtual cohort and work with experienced advisors to fast-track the completion of the Central Certification Program (CERT) as well as the State of Minnesota Office of State Procurement certification applications.
The session starts on April 30.
Apply Here.
Student Art Contest
“Belonging Begins Here: Our Stories, Our County, and Our Pride” is now on view on the first floor!
The Hennepin County Student Art Contest invited students across the county to explore the meaning of belonging through personal and local lenses. Students highlighted stories, landmarks, and cultural touchpoints that bring people together and represent sources of pride. See the winners at Mia through April 26th.
On March 14th, we celebrated our first Hennepin County Student Art contest in partnership with Minneapolis Institute of Art. 35 finalists beautifully explored the theme of belonging through personal and local lenses. Thank you to all of our brilliant students!
Shout out goes to Heather Edelson, Hennepin County Commissioner - District 6, for leading this wonderful initiative.
Building material reuse grant funding available
When it’s time to remodel or demolish a building, materials have the potential to be reused or recycled. In fact, about 85% of the materials in a typical demolition project could be salvaged for reuse and kept out of the landfills through practices like deconstruction and structural moves.
Hennepin County has funding available for the following projects that reuse and recycle building materials. To learn more and apply for grants, go to Building material reuse grants.
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Residential deconstruction grants: Funding for residential properties built prior to 1970 to deconstruct building materials for reuse.
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Commercial deconstruction grants: Funding for commercial properties, including multi-family apartment buildings over 4 units, to deconstruct building materials for reuse
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Structural move grants: Funding to physically relocate a building to another location, avoiding demolition waste and preserving the cultural and historical integrity of the building.
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Used building material installation grants: A new grant to “close the loop” by funding remodel, renovation, and new construction projects that incorporate used building materials into project designs.
Apply for a building material reuse grant
Applicants must be a property owner or developer in Hennepin County. Projects must meet the reuse and disposal criteria. For more details on project eligibility and to complete an application, see Building reuse grants eligibility. Contact Olivia.Cashman@hennepin.us with any questions. Learn more: Building material reuse grants.
Transgender Day of Visibility
 The Hennepin County Board of Commissioners proclaimed March 31, 2026, as Transgender Day of Visibility in Hennepin County. This day provides an opportunity to recognize transgender, gender nonconforming and nonbinary people, acknowledge their contributions and affirm their right to live openly and safely.
This community continues to face disproportionately high rates of discrimination, hate‑motivated violence, unemployment and barriers to stable housing and health care. This observance offers space to recognize these ongoing challenges and reaffirm our commitment to a more inclusive and equitable county for all.
National Public Health Week
  Black Maternal Health Week
 Black maternal health week, April 11 - 17th, is an annual campaign founded and led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance to build awareness, activism, and community-building to amplify the voices, perspectives and lived experiences of Black Mamas and birthing people.
The Maternal Health Initiative began in 2021 to improve maternal health outcomes in Hennepin County. The county is proud to sustain commitment to advancing maternal health and birth justice through the initiative.
Also, the new Birth Justice Community Advisory Board launched in March 2026, with 11 members currently serving, with participation from members of the Birth Justice Collaborative and a focus on diverse membership through representation of Black and American Indian communities most impacted by maternal health disparities in Minnesota. This new board will provide advice and recommendations on maternal health equity matters affecting Hennepin County.
National Volunteer Week
In honor of National Volunteer Week, celebrated from April 19 to April 25 this year, we honor the important role volunteers play in building strong communities.
At Hennepin County, our volunteers have helped extend the reach and impact of our services for more than 50 years. They help us meet residents where they are, with compassion, respect and care.
Fair Housing Month
 Sexual Assault Awareness Month
 Budget Compliance for Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office
In January, overtime for the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office was $1.3 million. The HCSO could overspend its budget by $15 million+ if we don’t change course. Today we unanimously passed a BAR I’ve been working hard on- HCSO is not authorized to exceed the budget set for 2026.
We cannot property tax our way through challenges that our county is facing. Federal disinvestment in health care and cuts to important services are taking a deep toll, we simply cannot afford the sheriff office’s budget to grow anymore than it has.
I am glad that our Board was able to unanimously move forward on this important action today. We are committed to working with the Sheriff and her team to support what we must by statute. To read the full language of the item we passed today: https://hennepinmn.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx....
Every Earth Day, our community is inspired to act together to protect the natural resources that make Hennepin County a special place to call home. There are many events planned over the next few weeks to clean up, plant trees, explore nature, learn about local sustainability resources, participate in swaps, and more!
To help residents discover these opportunities, we have a map (above) and list of about 90 upcoming events on our Earth Day web page (found here).
All of this work is connected to our commitment to foster stewardship of our environment and advance equity to support a healthy and thriving community.
Mighty Mississippi Cleanup Challenge
 Our community shows up in force each year to participate in Earth Day litter clean ups, especially when we asked them to contribute to the Mighty Mississippi Cleanup Challenge for the past two years.
This year, partners are raising awareness about the progress that has been made to restore the Mississippi River through the Sacred Water, Shared Future campaign.
In 1926, the Mississippi River was declared effectively dead in the Twin Cities. A century of collective action brought it back to life, and this movement is celebrating that progress and inspiring the next 100 years of stewardship.
A variety of river-focused events, activities, and programs are happening throughout the year, including the River Days of Action from June 1 to 15.
Phillips West Community Cleanup
 When: Saturday, April 11th from 10:00 - 11:30 AM
Where: 24th & Portland, Minneapolis, MN
The snow is melting and that means the Spring trash has come out! PWNO is hosting a Neighborhood Clean Up to help us jump into Spring and keep our neighborhood beautiful. We'll be stationed at 24th and Oakland with coffee, breakfast treats, and clean up supplies. Come meet your neighbors, pick up your equipment, and head out into the neighborhood to pick up trash!
Can't make it on the 11th, but want to have a block clean up with your neighbors? Let us know and we'll provide snacks and clean up supplies!
East Bank Earth Day Cleanup
 When: Saturday, April 18th from 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Various locations below
1. Boom Island; 724 Sibley St NE
2. Chute Square; 28 University Ave SE
3. Father Hennepin Bluffs Park; Corner of Main St & 6th Ave SE
4. Van Cleve Park; 901 15th Ave SE
5. East River Flats Park; 351 E River Pwky
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board - Earth Day Cleanup
 When: Saturday, April 18th from 9:30AM - 12:00 PM
The Earth Day Cleanup is the largest community service event in Minneapolis, with more than 40 clean-up sites across the city. Since its inception in 2008, more than 25,000 residents have come together to remove over 175,000 pounds of waste.
How to Get Involved in 2026
The 2026 Earth Day Cleanup is a drop-in volunteer activity — no need to pre-register! Simply choose a clean-up site that works for you and arrive at 9:30 AM on Saturday, April 18th. Each site will have a coordinator to check you in, distribute equipment, and provide instructions.
The clean-up wraps up at noon, so be sure to bring your enthusiasm and help us make a difference! Thank you for your commitment to cleaner greener parks!
Visit website for locations: www.minneapolisearthday.com
2026 Earth Day 5k Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup
 When: Saturday, April 19th from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Boom Island Park; 24 Sibley St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
The 11th Annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/Cleanup, Boom Island Park, Minneapolis, Minnesota, in the only National Park offering scenic views of the Mississippi River! Bee with us for our 11th Annual event! For more details, click here.
Earth Day Art in the Park
 When: Sunday, April 19th from 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: Matthews Park; 2318 29th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Join us for a pre-Earth Day celebration as we come together to make art with our surrounding nature. We will create a sun print activity using foraged materials from the park around us. Stop by and join us when you can!
This is a free activity for all ages. Materials will be provided for those who participate. Bring and friend, and your creative spirit! Find us in Matthews Park near the playground.
MN 350 Earth Day Celebration
 When: Sunday, April 19th from 1:30 - 4:30 PM
Where: Brian Coyle Community Center; 420 15th Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN
MN350 teams will come together for an Earth Day gathering, where community members can explore the work happening across our movement and learn about real climate solutions being built right here in Minnesota. We are excited to celebrate with you! Let us know you're coming by signing up today.
mn350.org/earth-day/
Elliot Park Earth Day Cleanup
 When: Wednesday April 22nd from 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Shift 1: 10:00 AM — Noon
Shift 2: 12:30pm — 2:30pm
Where: Elliot Park Recreation Center; 1000 E 14th St, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Volunteers will be provided with gloves, grabbers, bags, and all the tools needed. No experience necessary—just bring yourself!
Sign up here (or just show up!): elliotpark.org/calendar
For more details, visit elliotpark.org or call/text EPNI at (612) 234-2280.
Arbor Day - Minneapolis Park & Rec Board
When: Friday, April 24th from 4:00 - 8:00 PM
Where: Bethune Park; 1304 N 10th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55411
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) Forestry Department and its network of community partners welcome everyone for a unique festival with an array of tree-themed activities, education, and entertainment for all ages.
About 60 trees will be planted across the park during the celebration, and everyone can help: Scroll down for details on all activities.
Please consider walking, biking or taking transit.
Standish-Ericsson (SENA) Earth Day Cleanup
 When: Saturday, April 25th from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: A Baker's Wife's Pastry Shop; 4200 S 28th Ave, Minneapolis, MN
Join SENA on Saturday April 25th at 9am for our annual Earth Day Cleanup along 42nd St E & get entered into a raffle for Tare Market. This is a great way to meet neighbors while caring for our neighborhood.
Embrace spring cleaning as we clear 42nd St!
Seward (SNG) Earth Day Cleanup
 When: Saturday, April 25th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Meet at Zipp's Liquor; 2618 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Help keep Seward beautiful this Earth Day! Join your neighbors for a morning cleanup around the neighborhood. Supplies and treats will be provided — just bring yourself, a water bottle, gloves, a hat, and sunscreen.
Nokomis East (NENA) Neighborhood Cleanup
 When: Saturday, April 25th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Shoreview Triangle; 5342 25th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Join us for a neighborhood clean up day to help keep our neighborhood clean and beautiful. We'll provide everything needed, along with donuts! Hope to see you there!
Healthy Hearts Social Group
Another Healthy Hearts Social Group kicked off at NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center and I got to join last night! So many of our stories are shared and we're healthier, together. Keeping stress low, eating healthy, self advocacy and moving our bodies daily are just some of our commitments to keep our hearts healthy for generations to come.
The next cohort will start May 7th. Join any of the following dates: 5/07, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/04 & 6/11/2026
National Walking Day
 April is MOVE MORE MONTH! On April 1st our team kicked off the month with National Walking Day. If you are able, even just a few minutes of movement a day goes a long way in keeping your body healthy and releasing stress.
American Heart Association
Visit to Nutritious U
 Last week, I had the pleasure of joining Congresswoman Ilhan Omar on a student body led tour of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities Nutritious U Food Pantry.
It is located in the basement of Coffman Memorial Union, next to Whole Music Club.
It is open weekly during the regular fall and spring semesters, every Wednesday & Thursday 10am - 6pm.
With 10,251 visits during the fall 2025 semester, the food pantry has been seeing about 1,200 visit per week, which is around 100 people an hour. This does include their proxy deliveries that have been occurring since the invasion of federal agents in our community.
Women in Politics Panel
I joined Council Member Robin Wonsley - Minneapolis Ward 2, State Representative Samantha Sencer-Mura, State Representative Lucy Rehm, and Professor Kathryn Pearson for a panel discussion on women in politics.
We discussed barriers women face when running for elected positions, intersections with health, race, gender, and much more!
Thank you to the University of Minnesota Twin Cities student government and political science association for hosting this event!
Pancake Breakfast
 Last Friday, I tasted the most amazing maple syrup at the 2nd annual Urban Sugar Bush made possible by our great partners at Four Sisters Urban Farm and Dream of Wild Health ! Wild rice pancakes and a variety of syrups tapped from maple trees all across the Southside and boiled to perfection with neighbors at East Phillips Park. A wonderful gathering honoring the traditional foodways of our Indigenous relatives.
Community Safety Resource Fair
 Saturday was an incredible display of community! Many community partners were at the Public Safety Resource Fair at Phelps Field Park hosted by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board! Thanks to all who came and shared valuable health, wellness and safety tools for our neighbors.
Special shout out to our Parks Commissioner Kay Carvajal Moran for your presence and all the goodies you brought for the kids, and of course, my home neighborhood org - Bryant Neighborhood Organization!
Visit with HUD
 This month, I joined Deputy County Administrator Kareem Murphy, and Assistant County Administrator David Hewitt to meet with regional leaders from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including Senior Advisor Ethan Hollenberger, Regional Administrator Duey Stroebel, and Minnesota Field Office Director Michele Smith.
The discussion focused on Hennepin County's success in striving to end youth homelessness, veteran homelessness, and how our supportive services keep people housed. The meeting was also an opportunity to hear from HUD how they define opportunity zones and what that means to this administration.
Black Women's History Month
 International Black Women's History Month is celebrated annually in April to honor the global contributions, resilience, and achievements of Black women across history and across the world.
View the staff-created and general recommendations list HERE.
I am the Tree, the Tree is Me Exhibit
 When: Saturday, April 11th from 3:00 - 5:00 PM - OPENING RECEPTION
Where: Minneapolis Central Library; 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Based on a project undertaken by The Touchstone Center for Children, the I am the Tree, the Tree is Me: Playing and Knowing, Imagining and Becoming, the Nature we are exhibit celebrates the art and poetry by children in a New York City public school, as they discover and express their wondrous relationship to the natural world. Their artwork, as well as the writings of Richard Lewis, founder and director of The Touchstone Center, and the plant photography of Minneapolis-based Touchstone artist Lilly Crawford, in turn invite each of us to consider our own connection to plants. Hands-on activities will be available to help capture thoughts and images stirred by this inspiring and varied exhibit. Sponsor: Friends of the Hennepin County Library.
The I am the Tree, the Tree is Me exhibit will be on display April 1-May 29 in Cargill Gallery on the second floor of Minneapolis Central Library.
Coming Home Reentry
 When: Tuesday, April 14th from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: Minneapolis Central Library; 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Are you justice-impacted and ready for real opportunity? Join us at Coming Home, a family-friendly resource fair designed to help you thrive in 2026 and beyond! Hosted by Twin Cities R!SE and Minneapolis Central Library, this event is all about connecting you to the support, tools, and opportunities you need for a fresh start.
What you can look forward to:
- Meet with Fair Chance Employers: Achieve financial stability by exploring current job opportunities for people who are justice-impacted.
- Job Training and Support: Sign up for free job training programs and personalized assistance with your job search.
- One-on-One Support: Sit with a career counselor or expungement lawyer for an individual consultation tailored to your needs.
- Community Resources: Find programs for housing, healthcare, and more.
- Empowering Workshops: Build your skills and find inspiration.
- Free Professional Headshots: Stand out with a free headshot that shows off your best self.
- Complimentary Refreshments: Enjoy snacks and drinks while connecting with community.
This is your chance to meet caring professionals and community members ready to support your journey. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Schedule
8:30 a.m.: Registration opens
9:15-10:50 a.m.: Panel Discussion – Beyond the Record: Reclaiming Identity and Building a Future
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Job Fair and Community Resources Tabling
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Individual Career and Expungement Consultations
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Professional Headshots
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Plant-Animals! Free workshop for ages 1 to 100 in Cargill Gallery
1 p.m.-2 p.m.: Lunch provided
Workshops
11-11:50 a.m.: A Reality Check on Background Checks: Know Your Rights Under Minnesota’s Clean Slate Law
11-11:50 a.m.: Justice-Impacted and Staying Empowered
noon-12:50 p.m.: Acing the Interview with a Background
noon-12:50 p.m.: Inheritance, Voice, and Collective Imagination
Note: Schedule subject to change.
Collaborator: Twin Cities R!SE.
Sponsors: Chef Jeff, Minuteman Press Uptown, Friends of the Hennepin County Library, Metro Transit, Westwood Community Church.
Partners: Art From the Inside, City of Minneapolis Attorney's Office, Elpis Enterprises, Hennepin County Attorney's Office, Minnesota Justice Research Center, The Legal Revolution, Touchstone Center for Children, Volunteer Lawyers Network.
Get a free transit pass to the event: bit.ly/cominghometransit26
STEAM Activity: Lava Lamps
 When: Friday, April 10th from 3:45 - 4:45 PM
Where: Roosevelt Library; 4026 28th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Drop in for fun and creative STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) experiments and projects geared towards teens! Materials provided. Led by Roosevelt Library’s STEAM Squad.
Wearable Art
 When: Saturday, April 11th from 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: East Lake Library; 2727 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Grades 6-12. Explore various shirt design techniques and create your own wearable masterpiece by painting or heat-pressing a custom design onto a shirt. Materials provided.
Led by COMPAS Teaching Artist Broderick Poole.This program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Registration required
STEAM Activity - Franklin Library
When: Every Wednesday from 5:00 - 6:00 PM
Where: Franklin Library; 1314 E. Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Drop in for fun and creative STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) experiments and projects! Materials provided.
Led by Franklin Library’s STEAM Squad
Bunny Fest
 When: Saturday, April 11th from 1:00 - 2:30 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser Library; 1222 4th St. SE, Minneapolis MN 55414
Join us for Bunny Fest, a celebration of bunnies, books, and spring! You'll have the opportunity to meet Ambassador Rabbits from Bunny Besties. Practice your reading skills with a bunny or watch them hop in their bunny castle! We will have additional bunny art activities for all to enjoy. Materials provided.
Sponsor: Friends of the Hennepin County Library. Collaborator: Bunny Besties
STEAM Activity: Seed Bombs
When: Friday, April 17th from 3:45 - 4:45 PM
Where: Roosevelt Library; 4026 28th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Drop in for fun and creative STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) experiments and projects geared towards teens! Materials provided. Led by Roosevelt Library’s STEAM Squad.
Learn to Plant a Garden / Aprende a Plantar un Jardín
 When: Saturday, April 18th from 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Where: Hosmer Library; 347 E. 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Learn the basics of planting a garden in a small space! No registration necessary.
¡Aprende los conceptos básicos de plantar un jardín en un espacio pequeño! No es necesario registrar.
Collaborators/Colaboradores: Plant-Grow-Share (Central Area Neighborhood Development Organization), Minnesota Translator and Interpreter Cooperative.
Read With An Animal
 When: Saturday, April 18th from 2:30 - 4:30 PM
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 34th Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Grades 1 - 3. Cuddle up with a certified therapy animal and practice reading aloud. Most libraries host dogs but you can call ahead to see if other animals will be visiting. Sign up when you arrive for a 15-minute slot.
Collaborator: Reading Education Assistance Dogs.
Mary Ann Key Book Club Discussion: The Serviceberry
 When: Tuesday, April 21st from 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser Library; 1222 4th St. SE, Minneapolis MN 55414
Join your neighbors in a discussion of our 2026 season selection: "The Serviceberry" by Robin Wall Kimmerer. While Indigenous scientist and author Robin Wall Kimmerer harvests serviceberries alongside the birds, she considers the ethic of reciprocity that lies at the heart of the gift economy and how we can learn from Indigenous wisdom and the plant world to reimagine what we value most.
The Mary Ann Key Book Club uses reading as a catalyst for intercultural conversations around understanding and addressing past and current injustices that impact Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
Copies of the book can be reserved; eBooks and eAudiobooks are available through www.hclib.org.
Make a Textured Tile: 3D Printed Rollers & Clay Creations
When: Saturday, April 25th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser Library; 1222 4th St. SE, Minneapolis MN 55414
Get hands-on with clay and create unique textured tiles! Experiment with 3D printed rollers to imprint fascinating patterns and designs. This sensory adventure encourages exploration, creativity, and playful fun with air-dry clay. Materials provided. Children under age 10 may need adult assistance.
Collaborator: Make with Sam. This program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Pratt Elementary Student Art Show and Reception
 When: Thursday, April 30th from 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser Library; 1222 4th St. SE, Minneapolis MN 55414
Join us for an art reception to celebrate the student artists of Pratt Elementary School! Everyone is welcome to enjoy art, music, and activities for all ages. After the reception, student artwork will be on display in the library during the month of May.
Collaborator: Pratt Elementary School. Sponsor: Friends of the Hennepin County Library. This program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Puppet Lab Festival
 When: Friday, April 10th - Sunday, April 19th | Various times
Where: Open Eye Theater; 506 E 24th St, Minneapolis, MN 55404
PUPPET LAB is a 2-week festival of brave, quirky, imaginative, and visually dazzling new puppet work, the culmination of a 6-month development residency for emerging puppetry artists. Learn more.
Opening Reception for Uŋči Said So
 Exhibition run: April 10 - June 6, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, April 10, 6 - 8 pm
Join All My Relations Arts and NACDI for the opening reception of “Uŋči Said So,” a solo exhibition from artist Danielle SeeWalker (Húŋkpapȟa Lakȟóta, Standing Rock Sioux Nation).
This work showcases a diverse range of styles, from bright and humorous to serious and tender, with a nod to the matriarchal elders who have shaped our perspective on the world. These works are rooted in stories told around bowls of soup and frybread, amongst big auntie laughter, and in humble cultural gestures that become our collective identity. This exhibition is a reminder: we are still here because Uŋči said so.
Youth Gun Violence Prevention Listening Session
 When: Saturday, April 11th at 1:00 PM
Where: Sabathani Community Center; 310 E 38th St Minneapolis, MN
Join us next Saturday for a Youth Listening Session
Protect Minnesota, Rise & Remember, and the Daunte and Kobe No More Names Initiative invite young people to come together for an important conversation about ending the impacts of gun violence in our communities.
Featuring special guest Katie Wright, mother of Daunte Wright.
This is a space for youth voices to be heard. Come prepared to share your experiences and perspectives:
• How has gun violence impacted you as a young person?
• What does safety look and feel like to you?
• What do you wish our leaders and policymakers would do to address gun violence?
Your voice matters. Your story matters. Be part of the conversation.
Seward (SNG) Community Potluck and Clothing Swap
 When: Sunday, April 12th from 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: Matthews Recreation Center; 2318 29th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
Join Seward Neighborhood Group and neighbors for an afternoon potluck and clothing swap. We will spend the afternoon sharing lessons and learning from each other how to build community with our neighbors. Whether you are new to the Seward community or a long-time community-builder, there is space for you to join the conversation. All ages are welcome. There is no cost for attendance.
Clothing for all ages are welcome for the swap. Spring and Summer clothes preferred. Anything leftover will be donated.
Potluck and conversations will be held in the Rec Multipurpose Room. Clothing Swap will be in the School Multipurpose Room. We will have greeters to help you find each room.
George Perry Floyd Square @ 38th & Chicago: Next phase of improvements begins June 2026
 Learn more about construction at upcoming open houses
- Tuesday, April 14, 2026 6-8 p.m. Phelps Park - 701 E 39th St, Minneapolis
City moving forward with vision at George Floyd Square
The City is preparing to begin the next phase of work at George Floyd Square. This summer, street and infrastructure improvements will begin, marking an important milestone in a project shaped by significant community engagement.
The goal is to move forward with care—supporting remembrance, gathering and safety while honoring the significance of this place.
Construction timeline
Work is expected to begin in June 2026, with substantial completion in 2027. Detailed information can be found on the 38th & Chicago Re-envisioned project webpage.
Stay informed about construction
The project newsletter will continue to share major project milestones
For detailed construction updates—including schedule changes, traffic impacts and other notices—you can sign up to receive weekly emails.
Midtown Farmers Market Opening Day
 When: Saturday, May 2nd from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: Market Plaza, 2225 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN
Farmers Market season is arriving… Anyone else counting down the days? As usual, Midtown Farmers Market will be open on every Saturday, May through October. Our opening day will be on May 2nd. Mark your calendars!
Swap It: Outdoor Gear
 When: Saturday, May 2nd from Noon to 2:30 PM
Where: Rockford Road Library; 6401 N 42nd Ave, Crystal, MN 55427
Early drop-off begins on May 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. and May 2 at 11 a.m.
Final items accepted at 2 p.m.
Remaining items will be donated to the Southwest Metro Lending Library.
Learn more about items accepted and non-accepted here.
Annual FRNNG Duck Race
 When: Saturday, May 2nd from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where: Minnehaha Creek
Start: 12th Avenue Bridge & Minnehaha Parkway
Finish: 17th Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway
The Duck Race is one of the most beloved spring events in South Minneapolis. Each year, hundreds of neighbors gather along Minnehaha Creek to cheer on thousands of bright yellow rubber ducks as they race downstream. It’s a joyful, high‑energy community tradition that brings together families, local businesses, and visitors from across Minneapolis.
East Bank Bike Tour
 When: Saturday, May 2nd from 10:30am - 1:00 PM
Where: Meet at Freewheel Bike; 750 9th St SE, Minneapolis, MN
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10:30 am → Meet @ Freewheel Bike
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11:00 am → Ride the Tour
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12:15 pm → Food @ Mpls Cider Co.
The East Bank Neighborhoods Partnership is excited to invite you to our next East Bank Bike Tour. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a casual rider, or just looking for a fun way to explore our neighborhoods this tour is a great way to experience the East Bank on two wheels.
We’ll ride together through our vibrant neighborhoods—connecting Dinkytown, Nicollet Island, Southeast Como, Marcy-Holmes, University and beyond—while highlighting local projects, hidden gems, and community spaces that make this area unique. Along the way, you’ll meet neighbors, learn more about ongoing initiatives, and see firsthand how our neighborhoods are evolving.
This is a relaxed, community-focused ride designed for all skill levels. We’ll keep a comfortable pace, make a few stops, and create plenty of opportunities to connect. Whether you come on your own, with friends, or with family, you’ll be part of a welcoming group that celebrates biking, community, and the East Bank.
We’ll also be offering free bike helmets (while supplies last) as part of our bike safety initiative—so if you’ve been meaning to grab one, this is a perfect opportunity. Read more about our helmet giveaway here:
https://www.eastbankmpls.org/helmets
Tree Steward
 Become a Tree Steward! Join Hennepin County’s free class from 10:00 AM to 3:00 pm on Saturday, April 18 to learn the basics of tree care and how to help plant and care for trees in your community. No experience needed. Tools, safety gear, and lunch are provided. Details and registration: https://beheardhennepin.org/urban-community-forestry
Report a Pothole
 Spot a pothole? Crews are out patching county roads, but with more than 2,200 lane miles, we can’t catch them all.
If you see a pothole, report it: 612‑596‑0299.
Not sure if it’s on a county road? Check our map: https://hennepin.maps.arcgis.com/.../media/index.html...
Bus Rapid Transit H Line
Metro Transit is expanding the arterial bus rapid transit (BRT) network in the region. The METRO H Line is a planned bus rapid transit line that will provide faster and more reliable transit service, using enhanced station platforms and comfortable buses. On March 23, Metro Transit will release the H Line Draft Corridor Plan for public feedback through May 4.
The H Line corridor is approximately 17 miles long and is proposed to have 45 stations spaced 0.4 miles apart, on average (see map here). The H Line will run from downtown Minneapolis to the Sun Ray Transit Center on Saint Paul’s East Side, providing enhanced east-west service connecting the two cities. The route will travel on Washington Ave, Pleasant St SE, 15th Ave SE, and Como Ave SE in Minneapolis, and on Como Ave, Maryland Ave, and White Bear Ave in Saint Paul.
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Draft Corridor Plan – Public Comment Period, March 23 - May 4
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Recommended Corridor Plan – Public Comment Period, Late Summer 2026
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Final Corridor Plan – Met Council Adoption, Fall 2026
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Engineering – Fall 2026 - 2027
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Construction – 2028 - 2029
New East River Flats Concept Plan and Public Hearing Notice
A new Concept Plan for East River Flats Park proposes to transform a portion of the park into a sand volleyball hub, ideally situated near the University of Minnesota campus, with excellent parking, trail connections and improved river views. Construction is expected to begin summer 2026 and be completed by the end of the year.
East River Flats is located on the East Bank of the Mississippi River and is part of the larger Mississippi River Gorge Regional Park. It's adjacent to the University of Minnesota East Bank campus and is the site of the boathouse for the U of M women’s rowing team.
The proposed improvements include:
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Eight sand volleyball courts
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Two picnic shelters with grills
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A non-motorized river access point for canoes and kayaks
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An outdoor riverfront classroom
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Drinking fountains, benches, bike parking and picnic tables
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Stormwater infrastructure
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Riverfront invasive species removal and native vegetation restoration
Community and stakeholder engagement included outreach to paddling groups, fly fishing advocates, University representatives and MPRB staff.
Participate in the Public Hearing on April 15
A Public Hearing will be held April 15 at 6:30 pm in the Board Room of the Mary Merrill Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Headquarters, 2117 West River Road, prior to the Board meeting.
The purpose of the Public Hearing is to hear public comments on the East River Flats Park Improvements Project, as approved in the 2019 Mississippi Gorge Regional Park Plan.
Speak in person: Go to Mary Merrill MPRB Headquarters on the day of the hearing and add your name to the sign-up sheet at the front desk. Individuals who would like to provide comments to the Board of Commissioners about the amendment may sign up to speak at the meeting before 6:30 pm.
You may also call 612-230-6400 before 3 pm on the day of the hearing to sign up to speak.
Email written comments: Email your comments to opentime@minneapolisparks.org by 3 pm on the day of the hearing. Comments will be included in the public record of the meeting.
Renew The Blue
 System Restoration Initiative
After 20 years of service, the METRO Blue Line is ready for needed improvements, upgrades, and other essential maintenance. A multi-year transformation is underway for your entire Blue Line. Stay ahead of what is coming in each phase and discover the scope of the various projects and improvements coming to the corridor.
Renew the Blue includes the following projects:
Renew the Blue will preserve and protect a critical piece of our infrastructure investment, helping it remain a safe, reliable, and affordable transit option for many years to come in the communities it serves.
metrotransit.org/renew-the-blue
MWMO Photo of the Month – Car washes
 These trucks may look like they’re getting the spa treatment, but there’s a meaningful reason behind it. When vehicles are washed in driveways or streets, all that soapy water, road salt, oil, and winter grime can flow straight into storm drains, and from there, directly into rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Commercial car washes are required to capture and treat that dirty water instead of letting it run off untreated. So when it’s time to rinse off months of Minnesota winter, a trip to the car wash helps keep both your vehicle and our waterways cleaner.
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