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Block E To Undergo Major Renovation By Late 2014

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- After months of Block E standing for "Block Empty," there's a new plan in place to bring some life to the desolate area in downtown Minneapolis.

The Minnesota Timberwolves and the Minnesota Lynx have signed a letter of intent to create a world-class training facility in Block E, which is right across the street from Target Center.

There are also plans to try to get new restaurant and office tenants.

The owner of the property, located on 600 Hennepin Ave., said security continues to be their No. 1 priority with convenience, and both exterior and interior improvements a close second.

They said they hope to transform the space into a true destination for downtown, with a modern, classic design.

Kieran's Irish Pub, The Shout House Dueling Pianos, Starbucks and Jimmy John's will be a part of the new Block E.

Provident Real Estate Ventures and its management partners purchased the property in 2010 and say since that time, security conditions have significantly improved.

RSP Architects has signed on to design the building's exterior and interior renovation, which is expected to be completed by late 2014.

No public financing or subsidies for the proposed redevelopment are being requested.

Additional renderings of the renovation are below:

Block E Rendering Exterior Day Shot 600 Hennepin Avenue Front Entrance
(credit: Provident Real Estate Ventures)
Block E Exterior Evening Shot 1st Avenue and 6th Street
(credit: Provident Real Estate Ventures)
Block E Interior Shot 1st Avenue Lobby
(credit: Provident Real Estate Ventures)
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