Online survey available through December 6, 2024
In early 2024, soil contamination was discovered at Soo Line Garden that exceeded Minnesota Pollution Control Agency thresholds. The contaminants were likely from prior railroad and grain elevator uses.
Although the contaminants are not absorbed by plants, they do adhere to soil and removal is recommended. In March 2024, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board closed the site, moved gardeners’ plots to temporary locations nearby, and focused on a remediation plan for 2025. The site will return as a gardening and gathering place after soil is replaced and cleanup is complete.
Draft Garden Designs
Three draft concept designs for the future remediated garden have been created for public feedback. Check them out and share feedback through an online survey:
Soo Line Garden Design Survey
Share this survey using this link: surveymonkey.com/r/soolinegarden2024.
Survey responses will be collected through December 6, 2024.
The concepts include:
- Community gardening plots, including new wheelchair-accessible gardening beds
- Robust pollinator areas
- Enhanced public gathering space
- A new accessible footpath connecting the neighborhood to the Midtown Greenway
Use this link to view the full concept designs:
Soo Line Garden Concept Designs
Visit the project page for Soo Line Garden – MPRB Response to Environmental Conditions for more information and sign up for email updates.