New Bde Maka Ska pavilion site concepts released for public comment

Two concepts both propose two buildings to replace pavilion lost to 2019 fire; review graphics and video describing vision, guiding principles and concepts and send feedback via online survey by April 1

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) published two site concepts to replace the Bde Maka Ska pavilion that burned down in 2019. Both concepts divide the pavilion into two buildings set in a revamped landscape to best meet goals outlined in the project vision and guiding principles.

A video walkthrough and graphic presentation explaining the project vision, guiding principles and concepts are posted online:

Video Walkthrough

Graphic Presentation

Public Comment

An online survey asking for feedback on the concepts is available through April 1:

Bde Maka Ska Pavilion Survey

Three online Open Houses are scheduled for people to ask questions about the project. A brief presentation will take place at the beginning of each Open House, however, attendees are encouraged to review concept options before joining. Use the links below to join the respective meetings:

March 23, 12-1 pm

March 24, 5-6 pm

March 29, 7-8 pm

Questions and answers will be posted to the project page following each session.

Background

The former Bde Maka Ska concessions pavilion, also called a “refectory,” was built in 1930. It was engulfed in flames on May 16, 2019 and torn down 12 days later. The MPRB paved over the site to provide a temporary gathering space at the popular northeastern corner of the lake and installed electrical hookups for pavilion vendor Lola’s to operate food trucks.

The Bde Maka Ska-Harriet Master Plan, approved in 2017, provided guidance for the pavilion site improvements. The concepts were designed by a team led by Cuningham after working with MPRB staff and numerous stakeholders over the past several months.

Timeline and Funding

After the public feedback period closes, MPRB staff will compile responses and present a single concept to MPRB Commissioners this summer that will be adjusted to reflect a proposed budget. The concepts published today do not have a specific cost estimate. Potential funding sources include insurance compensation, regional park improvement funding and additional options being explored by MPRB staff. The concept and project funding require Board approval.

Construction is expected in 2022 with concessions resuming for the 2023 season.