Message from Council Member Kevin Reich

Shoreham Yards, which is owned by Canadian Pacific Railway, has a significant presence in Northeast Minneapolis. This 230-acre train and bulk distribution site extends from Central to University Avenues NE and 27th Avenue NE to St. Anthony Parkway. The area is designated in the City’s Comprehensive Plan as an Industrial Employment District, guided for employment growth. 18 acres of contiguous land along Central Avenue have been viewed as a potential opportunity for development, as pollution remediation moves closer to completion. Two years ago Surly Brewing came close to selecting this location for expansion, though finally settling on a property in Southeast Minneapolis Industrial (SEMI).

Though additional remediation continues and technical and logistical discussions and site preparation would still be required, I am pleased to announce that the MN Cycling Center has expressed serious interest in making Shoreham Yards the home of their proposed new multi-purpose Velodrome and event center. After significant review of alternative locations, they are putting an exclusive focus on pursuing this site. They require for their operation a location that would allow them to develop a sports complex, a world-class 200 meter indoor racing track, and an outdoor BMX track, while at the same time allowing them to further their mission of providing fitness and vocational educational opportunities for youth and adults. Additionally, a row of retail stores on the Central Avenue side would be incorporated. MN Cycling Center is enthusiastic about locating in Northeast Minneapolis because of the vibrancy of our bicycling community, the proximity of bikeways and bike boulevards and the ability to reach out to an active and diverse community of children, families, neighbors and commuters. The Roundhouse would be incorporated to maintain its historical significance and add character and interest to the development.

I invite you all to a community meeting to learn more about this potential new partner to the Northeast community: Tuesday, October 8, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Columbia Manor, 3300 Central Avenue NE.