February 14, 2025

Dear Neighbor, 

Early yesterday morning, I learned of a large water main break at the intersection of 50th and Penn. This break has left significant amounts of standing water in the area and poses issues for neighboring properties due to the freezing temperatures.

City staff has worked hard to provide prompt, coordinated response. The Minneapolis Fire Department was the first on the scene at 3:30 AM, responding to reports of a fire alarm. They were followed by the Water Department, Police, and Community Planning and Economic Development Department. Public Works cancelled all their other jobs yesterday and sent every possible crew member to the scene to help. We are going to be dealing with the effects of this for a long time, and our locally owned businesses will feel this, too.

I am especially grateful to residents who live near the intersection, some who had to be evacuated, for their patience and cooperation as we work in the intersection. We have personally spoken with each business owner in the area and will continue to share regular updates from Public Works as this situation evolves. Please avoid the intersection of 50th and Penn for the time being. 

Yours in service, 

Contact the 13th Ward Office

• Linea Palmisano, Council Member  –  linea.palmisano@minneapolismn.gov
• Ruth Olson, Policy Aide – ruth.olson@minneapolismn.gov
• Anna Ayres, Policy Associate – anna.ayres@minneapolismn.gov
• Office Phone – 612-673-2213 

We've moved while work is being done in City Hall. Our office is in:

Room 100, Public Service Center
250 South 4th St.
Get directions

For reasonable accommodations or alternative formats please contact 311.  People who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to call 311 at 612-673-3000. TTY users call 612-263-6850. Para ayuda, llame al 311. Rau kev pab, hu 311. Hadii aad caawimaad u baahantahay, wac 311.