Thank you to everyone who joined us last week for our program and for those of you who brought guests. We’ve received outstanding feedback that the event featured a fresh perspective in a concise format, with a focus on member participation and connection. 

The future of freeways within cities is a topic of public discussion in Minnesota and nationally. Highways such as I-94 are reaching an age where major decisions are required about their reconstruction, reprogramming or decommissioning; these are generational choices that affect all residents. On March 13th, LAI Minnesota convened a focused, insightful discussion on the future of urban freeways that engaged attendees in a group exchange about the interdependent transportation, health, ecological, placemaking and racial justice elements at play. Keith Baker, executive director of ReConnect Rondo, and Jordan Van Der Hagen of the Duluth Waterfront Collective, led the discussion, facilitated by me as chapter president.

Following the discussion, generously hosted by Sunrise Banks at their headquarters adjacent to I-94 and Highway 280, members and guests walked next door to the Case Building, where Kimley-Horn sponsored food and drinks for a reception full of connection.

Special thanks to Terri Banaszewski of Sunrise Banks for hosting and welcoming the group, to LAI member Dan Elenbaas for coordinating the Kimley-Horn event, to LAI board member Martha Faust for coordination, and particularly to Keith Baker and Jordan Van Der Hagen for sharing their perspectives.