MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced the reopening of Phase 1 of the Hennepin Ave. S construction project on Nov. 26. The project enhances the Uptown corridor with a new multimodal design that improves accessibility for all users.
The updates include infrastructure improvements and provisions for future METRO E Line stations, which aim to improve traffic flow and transit safety.
Key improvements include:
- Replacement of 14 water lead service lines, 2,127 ft. of sanitary sewer
- New signal and lighting systems
- New electrical infrastructure installed by Xcel Energy
- New gas main & service upgrades installed by CenterPoint Energy
“It’s been 50 years since this road was reconstructed, and the completion means we’re clearing the way for small and local businesses to revitalize the corridor,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “This milestone also means it just got a whole lot easier to visit your favorite local shops – go visit them! With the holidays just around the corner, I’m excited for residents and visitors to rediscover the energy, creativity and community spirit that makes Uptown a Minneapolis treasure.”
Next steps
Buses will return to regular routes on Nov. 27, and starting Dec. 2025, the METRO E Line will improve service along the Route 6 corridor with upgraded stations featuring real-time signs and ticket machines.
Enhancements will include off-board fare payment, wider stop spacing, dedicated bus lanes, and technology for better traffic signal coordination. Three new E Line stations are under construction on the rebuilt Hennepin Ave. S.
“Uptown has endured a lot over these past few years, and it is exciting to officially mark the halfway point of implementation for this major reinvestment,” said Council Member Katie Cashman. “I look forward to continuing the work of securing programmatic resources for safety, small business support, the arts, and community planning efforts to ensure this new streetscape lays a foundation for Uptown’s transformative next chapter.”
City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher praised the City teams that helped get the project finished on time and on budget.
“From getting stations to support Bus Rapid Transit to replacing lead service lines and a new lighting system, getting this first phase done is a big deal for Uptown and everyone who travels on Hennepin,” said Anderson Kelliher. “Thanks to a lot of collaboration across City staff and cooperation and feedback from small businesses along the corridor, we are wrapping phase one on schedule and on budget.”
Phase 2 begins in the spring
Construction for Phase 2 will start in the Spring along W 26th St. to Douglas Ave., continuing work from Phase 1, which includes safety enhancements and utility upgrades.
The City’s Project team will maintain effective communication and improve outreach as modernized infrastructure, better pedestrian safety, a bicycle network gap, efficient transit service, and green stormwater improvements are implemented after Hennepin Ave. S is completed.
“The completion of this project is nearly six decades in the making,” said Public Works Director Tim Sexton. “Projects like these are necessary to replace aging infrastructure and improve safety and mobility. In the long run, it’s such a benefit to residents, visitors and businesses.”
More information about the Uptown construction projects can be found on the City’s Projects page.
