Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board canceled all outdoor activities for Thursday due to hazardous air from wildfires in northern Minnesota. Parks, trails, and beaches remain open without lifeguards, and health officials advise limiting outdoor exposure until air quality improves. A decision on Friday cancellations will be made later Thursday.

Heightened security measures, including a visible Minneapolis Police Department and Park Police presence, were implemented at Boom Island Park and other Red, White and Boom venues during the Fourth of July celebrations. The increased safety efforts aim to prevent dangerous incidents, such as fireworks-related attacks and a 2022 shooting that injured seven people.

A St. Paul School Board member faces backlash for controversial Facebook comments about the Minnehaha Dog Park closure, which is on sacred Dakota burial land. Chauntyll Allen suggested creating dog parks at 'White Christian cemeteries' and faced national attention for the remarks. Allen is also a defendant in federal felony charges related to a 2022 St. Paul protest.

The Met Council reported a $336 million cost increase for the Blue Line extension to Brooklyn Park, totaling $3.6 billion, sparking debate among officials. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board faces opposition over closing Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park due to archaeological concerns, while a Minneapolis council member highlights safety issues at Heritage Park affordable housing.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board voted to close the Minnehaha off-leash dog park, citing the area as sacred Dakota land. The decision followed a heated debate.

The Minneapolis Planning Commission postponed decisions on the Democracy Center project and approved improvements to Camden High School's athletic fields, including a new track, artificial turf, and facilities. Additional approvals included a large sign permit for the US Bank building and property transfers to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.