Why Don't We Do It In The Road: Open Streets Minneapolis

Hoof it, bike it, skate it or stroll through it on stilts if that’s your thing. As long as you’re not traveling by motorized vehicle, you’re good to go on 20 blocks of Lyndale Avenue South this Sunday.

The event is inspired by Ciclovia, Bogota Colombia’s 35-year-old tradition of weekly car-free events where pedestrians take over the streets and public performances are given.

From 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Sunday, Lyndale Avenue between 22nd Street and 42nd Street will swap car tires and exhaust for bike tires and flip flops. This free event offers a safe and healthy opportunity for neighbors to engage with local businesses and each other.

Minneapolis spokesperson Matt Lindstrom said the logistics of closing off a large section of Lyndale Avenue for Open Streets are similar to what would need to be done for a parade–and that the necessary work for the event is something the city finds value in. 

“The City is a huge proponent of biking and walking. This fit within our city goals,” Lindstrom said.

Those attending the event and those in need of crossing Lyndale by car during the Open Streets hours should take note that while east-west running streets with stop sign intersections will be blocked, traffic signal controlled cross streets such as Lake Street will remain open.

Open Streets Minneapolis is hosted by the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition with funding provided in part by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Bikes Belong Coalition, Modern Climate, Nice Ride Minnesota and Bike Walk Twin Cities. 

For more information on the first–and possibly the first of many–Open Streets Minneapolis, visit the event’s website or find it on Facebook.

What: Open Streets Minneapolis
When: Sunday June 12, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Where: Lyndale Avenue South between 22nd Street and 42nd Street
Cost: Free