Water Works Phase 2 Water Works Phase 2 is the continuation of the design process for the conveyance of lands surrounding the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock.

Milestones (anticipated project schedule by month/season)

Design Phase:  Approximate 6 months
Construction: TBD

Background

The MPRB has been working with the City of Minneapolis, Owámniyomni Okhódayapi, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers on the conveyance of lands surrounding the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock, lands holding significant spiritual meaning for indigenous peoples. After more than four years and during 2026, Owámniyomni Okhódayapi begins its restoration of those disturbed lands, creating a restored landscape supporting Dakota-based programming and cultural activities. MPRB parkland surrounds the Owámniyomni Okhódayapi lands within Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park, including Water Works. The MPRB’s plans for Water Works include a yet-to-be-implemented second phase along the Mississippi River. Since the Board of Commissioners’ approval of Water Works, planning has progressed on other parts of the river, particularly upstream from Water Works, with a restorative approach aligned with Owámniyomni Okhódayapi’s intentions for its lands at the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock.

In August 2024, the Board of Commissioners approved Resolution 2024-154, recognizing the common boundary of the MPRB and Owámniyomni Okhódayapi lands. The Coordination Agreement allows the MPRB to provide input to Owámniyomni Okhódayapi’s design for its lands and directs design and programming for Water Works Phase 2, aligned with a harmonized experience for visitors and greater coordination of the evolution of both properties.

View the Coordinating Agreement [PDF] for more information.

Funding

No capital funds have been allocated to the project.