Calhoun Square Uptown Forward Plan - Commercial Space Available
The Calhoun Square Revision, branded as Uptown Forward, presents a comprehensive redevelopment strategy to transform a key Uptown Minneapolis site into a vibrant, community-centered urban destination. Rooted in the area’s history but designed for future resilience, the plan emphasizes public realm investment, activation of underutilized spaces, and long-term neighborhood value creation. Central to the vision is the “de-malling” of Calhoun Square—replacing a closed retail mall model with an open, street-based experience that prioritizes people, local businesses, and cultural activity.
The proposal outlines public realm goals that include establishing a new central plaza, enhancing public safety, downsizing retail footprints, introducing significant green infrastructure, and improving mobility connections. By reimagining streetscapes, introducing stoop-lined pedestrian corridors, and integrating residential frontages, the plan positions the district as both a neighborhood anchor and a regional draw. Safety is redefined through “eyes on the street,” community policing, and active frontages, while year-round programming—such as music weekends, seasonal events, and art installations—ensures continuous activation.
The proposal delivers a community-first financing and implementation model. The approach combines public tools, private equity, and innovative financing mechanisms to ensure sustainability. The proposal further supports small, local businesses through incubator strategies, targeted tenant support, and collaboration with stakeholders, ensuring a tenant mix that reflects the neighborhood’s unique culture and identity rather than generic large-scale retail.
Ultimately, Uptown Forward proposes a multi-layered redevelopment strategy that blends housing, commerce, and public space into a cohesive vision for the next century. The introduction of 250 new residential units, including affordable options, will expand housing diversity, while curated retail, wellness amenities, and flexible commercial activators will strengthen Uptown’s role as a cultural and economic hub. By prioritizing placemaking, sustainability, and equity, the plan positions Uptown as a forward-looking model for adaptive reuse and urban regeneration—demonstrating how thoughtful design and planning can safeguard community identity while driving long-term economic vitality.
