Lake Harriet Bandshell Repair Update and Frequently Asked Questions
Posted on 9 May, 2022Wood shingles on the roof of the Lake Harriet Bandshell and its adjacent concessions building are failing and will be repaired beginning this fall or next spring.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) understands the importance of rehabilitating these iconic buildings. Lakeside entertainment at Lake Harriet has been a part of the Minneapolis park system since 1888. Lake Harriet has seen two entertainment pavilions burn down, one destroyed by a severe storm and a “temporary” bandstand last nearly 60 years before the current Bandshell, the fifth at Lake Harriet, was built in 1986.
Now, after 36 years, it’s time to repair the Bandshell for future generations. High winds this spring exacerbated damage to the roof and the MPRB fielded a lot of questions and concerns over the fate and safety of the Bandshell area. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries received.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the condition of the Bandshell and concessions building?
The cedar wood shingles, which are 36-years old on the Bandshell and 33-years old on the concession building, need to be removed and replaced. As bad as the shingle loss appears, initial building analysis indicates no major damage to either building’s structure, but repairs must be completed before the roof suffers more extensive damage.
What’s being done right now?
Bentz Thompson Reito, the firm that originally designed the Bandshell buildings, completed a comprehensive analysis of the buildings this spring. It’s a full evaluation looking at the roof, building structure, electrical, HVAC, code compliance and accessibility.
A report was presented to MPRB Commissioners on May 18 with renovation recommendations. View Bandshell Renovation Presentation. The recommendations assess short- and long-term options for repairs and financing.
How quickly will the buildings be repaired?
Roof repairs will be bid out to contractors this fall, with work scheduled to begin in late fall or early spring, depending on lead times for materials. Future phases include updates to the buildings’ electrical systems and lighting, bathroom and door accessibility, and installing bird-safe coating to windows. Those are expected to occur Fall 2023-Spring 2024, and again in Fall 2024-Spring 2025.
Will the Bandshell and concessions building remain open?
Bandshell entertainment, restaurant operations and bathroom availability are expected to continue as normal this summer. Repairs are anticipated to begin as soon as Bread and Pickle closes for the season. The cycle of performing repairs and updates to the buildings during off-peak seasons and keeping everything open and operating during the summer is the preferred option at this point.
Originally published May 9, 2022. Updated May 27, 2022.