Open house for Lake Harriet retaining wall replacement set for Sept. 23

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is considering options to replace the deteriorated Works Progress Administration (WPA) wall along a section of the western shoreline at Lake Harriet.
The original construction documents show the wall consisting of a stone veneer and cap over a poured concrete core and footing. The veneer tapers from approximately 18" at the footing below the cap. 
In 2016, the walls were examined along the shore side and the water side. Based on these inspections, the faces of the walls and the caps are in uniformly poor condition. The deterioration is especially pronounced at the waterline where the masonry is subject to freeze-thaw cycles and to abrasion from moving ice. Segments of the wall have already collapsed or are severely leaning inward towards the lake.
An open house is planned for Sept. 23, 5:30-7 p.m. on Lake Harriet Shoreline near W 42nd Street, south of Bread & Pickle (in case of rain, the meeting will be relocated to Linden Hills Recreation Center) to introduce the public to the initial draft concepts.
The public is welcome to stop by and learn more about this project. Staff will be on hand to answer questions and share graphics showcasing wall replacement options being considered.
Construction would likely occur in 2027.
• Fall 2026:  Design Development/Permitting
• Winter 2026/2027:  Construction Document Preparation
• Spring 2027: Bidding and Award
• Summer/Fall 2027: Construction
This project is funded by Met Council Regional Funds.