Hiawatha Links

City leaders presented their proposal to the city council at its Committee of the Whole meeting on Nov. 12 (with many community members present), and again at the Climate & Infrastructure Committee on Nov. 21. Transportation planner Nathan Koster acknowledged that there is no consensus on the plan and said the community is deeply divided. That is true for Council Members Andrea Jenkins (Ward 8) and Jason Chavez (Ward 9), whose wards both include George Floyd Square, as well. Jenkins, who was integral to developing the 38th St. THRIVE plan, supports the city’s plan. “It’s really important that we invest in this community to demonstrate that we do recognize the disinvestments that created the conditions that led to [George Floyd’s] murder,” she said. Chavez does not support the city’s plan. “We’re talking about tearing up a street without talking about the investments that 38th St. THRIVE deserves and needs,” he said, stating that the plan wouldn’t improve people’s housing situation or economic challenges. The proposal is expected to go to the full city council on Thursday, Dec. 5.

Posted Friday, November 29, 2024 11:57 am

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) announces "Hiawatha Links," a new phase of design and engineering work that will build on the long-term plan for Hiawatha Golf Course completed in 2022.
Hiawatha Links continues the vision created in the Hiawatha Golf Course Plan by fleshing out designs in greater detail and conducting more detailed community engagement focused on specific design elements. It will look at how all the pieces fit together while respecting the site’s history, ecology, and regulatory guidelines.
The MPRB is working with a new team led by Damon Farber Landscape Architects to conduct schematic design work. The design team has already begun its work by studying the previous studies and project materials, analyzing current site conditions, and organizing future community engagement efforts. Over the next several months, the MPRB will announce opportunities to give detailed input to the design team that will help guide a more detailed design.
MPRB Commissioners approved the Hiawatha Golf Course Plan in 2022 and the Metropolitan Council approved it in 2023. The plan outlines transitioning the course from its current 18-hole configuration to nine holes with reduced groundwater pumping, improved ecology and water management, and expanded trails and recreation opportunities. In addition to the 9-hole course, the plan includes a driving range and practice facilities that are aimed at introducing new players to the sport in an unintimidating and welcoming space, and interpretive elements incorporated within the design exposing visitors to the rich history of Black golfers at the course.
In 2023, Hiawatha Golf Course was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The golf course is at risk of loss due to flooding.