This technical tour is a walking tour of Minneapolis and the ways its vibrant downtown has transformed its transportation network to truly include all modes of transportation. We will start with a stroll down the recently renovated Nicollet Mall, the longtime core shopping and entertainment artery. This third transformation of the pedestrian and transit mall focused on pedestrian-friendly features, including lots of trees, colorful chairs, and a plethora of art. Completed in 2017, just in time for Super Bowl LII, the comprehensive remodel has enhanced the mile-long pedestrian experience for visitors, workers, and residents. We will tour all five sections of Nicollet Mall and have the opportunity to take a selfie with the "Mary Tyler Moore" statue.
The tour will then review Washington Avenue and its new bike facilities also completed in 2017. A joint project between Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis reconstructed six blocks to include a five-lane roadway for motorized traffic, wide sidewalks for pedestrians, and a cycle track for bicyclists. We will walk through this corridor to review the narrow driving lanes, use of green pavement markings, and bicycle signals among other amenities. Since the full corridor is not yet complete, we will also examine the transition between the new and old sections of Washington Avenue.
Along the way, we will also see Marquette and 2nd Avenues, better known as the Marq2 transit corridor. Rebuilt in 2009 to better serve the thousands of commuters arriving by express bus each day, this one-way pair corridor has side-by-side bus only lanes and wide sidewalks. Heated waiting shelters and NexTrip real-time transit displays are also common features.Â
As we continue around the City, two final spots will be the green spaces around the US Bank Stadium and the Hennepin County Government Center. Both reflect the City's commitment to public green space for respite and everyday activities whether you're a worker, visitor, or resident.
Please wear comfortable shoes and make sure to bring water and sun protection. The tour will be on generally flat city pavements, and we will cover about 3.1 miles (5 km) on foot.