Minneapolis Calling For Re-Design Of Nicollet Mall

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The City of Minneapolis says Nicollet Mall is due for a makeover. It's been more than 20 years since the main street through downtown Minneapolis has been updated.

The city is calling the bid process for the Nicollet Mall update a competition. They've already narrowed the field down to four different design teams that specialize in urban planning.

The winner will get to take the lead on this major overhaul of Nicollet Mall.

When Nicollet Mall was revamped in the 1980s, its main purpose was for public transit. Bus traffic has caused wear and tear on the streets and the upkeep costs for the granite paved sidewalks have increased.

There are 13,000 people that work within a block of Nicollet Mall. Because of that, the city is really looking for a design company that will link green space, shops and offices.

The public will also get a say in the overall look of the Nicollet Mall redesign.

The estimated cost is $30 to $40 million. Funding will come from the state and downtown property owners.

The project should be done by 2016.