The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) will hold a public hearing on the Ridgway Parkway Trail and Overlook on March 20, 2013 at 6:30pm., in the board room of the MPRB Headquarters Building, 2117 W. River Road.

The MPRB proposes to replace the existing sidewalk along Ridgway Parkway between Stinson Boulevard and St. Anthony Boulevard with a shared-use bicycle and pedestrian path, including construction of a new park overlook. The Ridgway Parkway Trail and Overlook is the first implementation project to emerge from the 2008 Grand Rounds Missing Link Development Plan.

In accordance with Section 6009 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) Public Law 109-59, enacted August 10, 2005, the MPRB is soliciting comments on the effects this project would have on Ridgway Parkway. Enhancing the overlook for park patrons will improve the existing park by providing a more relaxing and inviting space for visitors to enjoy the Minneapolis skyline. It is anticipated that the MPRB will request the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to determine that the proposed action at Ridgway is a Section 4(f) de minimis action in accordance with Section 6009(a) of SAFETEA-LU. A de minimis finding may be made when uses of Section 4(f) land will have no adverse effect on the protected resources.

Information on this impact and avoidance, minimization, mitigation or enhancement measures is available at the following website project page. Please use this link to comment on the proposed trail and overlook, use the online survey or contact the project manager.