Minneapolis Seeks To 'Re-Envision' Site Of George Floyd Killing

MINNEAPOLIS — The city of Minneapolis is soliciting the public's input as it looks to redesign the 38th Street and Chicago Avenue intersection, where George Floyd was killed by former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin on May 25, 2020.

The intersection became known as "George Floyd Square" as a memorial to him after his death. It remained closed to vehicle traffic for over a year but was reopened in June.

"This project will seek to balance traditional asset management needs with the intersectionality of justice, healing, placemaking and culture," the city said in a news release.

"The streets of 38th Street East and Chicago Avenue South were built in phases between 1957 and 1963 and have exceeded their useful life."

The city also noted that residents and businesses have also faced access challenges traveling in the area due to the "expansive memorial and artworks."

"Given the age and condition of the streets, as well as evolving uses within the space, a reconstruction is necessary to support a re-envisioned intersection," the city said.

The reconstruction project will include:

• New sidewalks
• Pedestrian ramps
• Pavement, curb, gutter, lighting, and utility improvements

Officials will also consider integrating the METRO D Line bus rapid transit and local bus routes 5 and 23 into the plans for the new intersection.

The city will host two open house sessions on the project this month:

• An in-person open house will be held from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at 3740 Chicago Avenue.
• An online open house will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 26.

Also read: Cops Convicted For Lack Of Intervention In George Floyd's Death