Construction on the largest-ever investment in a Minneapolis neighborhood park is underway. Improvements at North Commons include adding the Minneapolis Park system’s first modern-day fieldhouse, rebuilding North Commons Water Park, and renovating North Commons Community Center.
The 25.7-acre park is in the heart of North Minneapolis at 1801 James Ave. N and has served as a flagship neighborhood park for the Minneapolis Park system since it was built in 1907.
“North Commons Park holds meaning and memories for generations of people,” said MPRB Superintendent Al Bangoura. “Today we celebrate years of work with the community to create an exciting vision that builds on the park’s history to better serve future generations. I’m incredibly grateful for the support North Commons receives from our federal, state and local government partners, as well as the Minneapolis Parks Foundation and its generous supporters.”
This transformative project replaces and updates two longstanding community assets: the North Commons Water Park and North Commons Community Center. It also constructs the first modern fieldhouse in the Minneapolis Park system, adding 51,000 square feet to meet longstanding demand for athletic space and flexibility for a range of other recreation programs and community events.
These facilities are located in the northeast corner of the park. The green space and mature, top-quality tree stands at the south end of the park will be preserved.
Project features include: New 22,000 square-foot fieldhouse quintuples indoor space for athletics and events and includes ramp, stair and elevator access to three full-size gyms and main-level walking track; new entry lobby/lounge, concessions, fitness space and water park facilities on the west side of the fieldhouse; renovated and reconfigured community center with an enlarged teen room, kitchen, maker spaces for crafting, wellness and activities for older adults, and an open lounge area; a new 40,000 square-foot water park accommodates 600+ people with a six-lane lap/open swim pool, separate areas for wading and deeper-water activities, two slides and a plunge area; and enhanced south-side plaza and paths to North High School.
A little info on construction: Work is underway installing infrastructure for utility services – part of early construction for new buildings. Contractors dig trenches, lay pipes and conduits to create infrastructure for essential utilities like water, electricity, gas and telecommunications. As the utility work is completed, excavation for the fieldhouse building will begin.