July 9, 2026 Climate & Infrastructure Committee

The City of Minneapolis Climate & Infrastructure Committee held a meeting on July 9, 2026, focusing primarily on the Lyndale Avenue reconstruction project. The committee reviewed a comprehensive presentation by Hennepin County and city staff detailing the project's scope, goals, community engagement, and design elements aimed at improving safety, accessibility, transit efficiency, and greening along the corridor. The project includes significant infrastructure upgrades such as utility replacements, pedestrian and bike lane enhancements, transit advantage lanes, and tree preservation efforts. Public testimony revealed a divided community with some supporting the safety and environmental improvements, while others expressed concerns about potential negative impacts on local businesses, parking, and construction disruptions. The committee discussed federal funding constraints, construction timelines, and strategies to minimize business disruptions, ultimately moving the project forward without recommendation to the full city council. Additionally, the committee received a report on the proposed closure of the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC), outlining the logistical, environmental, and financial implications of waste disposal alternatives, including increased costs and emissions associated with landfill use. The meeting concluded with the postponement of the climate equity action plan to a future date.