Improvements are coming to Bethune Park, through a Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) project.
Noted in the draft concept plan for the project, the improvements include:
- New baseball field with an unfenced outfield to accommodate community events such as Juneteenth and field sports
- Renovation of basketball courts
- If funding allows: additional park paths, path lighting and wading pool shade structure
The project is guided by Bethune Park’s master plan. It was approved in 2019 as part of the North Service Area Master Plan (NSAMP), which features plans for all Northside neighborhood parks.
The Bethune project is also coordinated with the North Commons Park improvements project. The NSAMP plan calls for MPRB to build a new baseball field at Bethune Park before removing the existing field at North Commons Park. While removal of the North Commons ball field is planned, timing is still tentative.
Staff have begun stakeholder engagement with the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, Bethune Community School and Heritage Park Neighborhood Association. Additionally, staff will be attending community events in the area to inform the general public about the project.
Construction is planned for summer 2023!