South Minneapolis will look a little different in the months and years to come. Almost a year ago, the Red Lake Nation, the city of Minneapolis, and a slew of other partners were in the process of setting up the temporary Navigation Center in response to the largest homeless encampment in recent memory. Loeffler was proud to help coordinate the construction of the Navigation Center, and we are even more honored to participate in constructing the permanent development on the site, Mino-Bimaadiziwin.
A ceremonial groundbreaking celebration combined with Red Lake Nation’s annual urban picnic was held on September 14th, 2019. With appearances by Minneapolis Mayor, Jacob Frey, the Red Lake Tribal Council and Hereditary Chiefs, and a break in the gloomy weather, the day was a great success! Active construction began last week ahead of cooler weather and winter construction.
The new affordable housing development, Mino-Bimaadiziwin which is an Ojibwe phrase meaning “the good life”, will include 110 studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. More than a third of the units will be available to families at 30 percent of the area’s median income, while others will be set aside for members of the homeless community and people with disabilities. The six-story building will also include a culturally-specific health care center, community space, and the Red Lake Nation Urban Embassy on the first floor. The site itself, which is located near the Franklin Avenue light rail station, will include a courtyard, beautifully shaped green spaces, and a playground.
Native Americans are among the groups most likely struggle with physical and mental health, homelessness, substance abuse and living in extreme poverty. Native people account for roughly one percent of Minnesota’s population, yet account for roughly six percent of the state’s homeless population. Minneapolis is known to be one of the largest communities that has welcomed Red Lake Band and other Native American tribal members.
Loeffler Construction & Consulting is proud to support such an amazing project. After more than 2 years of planning, we’re excited to see the impact Mino-Bimaadiziwin