About The Project
Nicollet Mall has been Minneapolis’ civic “Main Street” for more than 100 years. Host to the city’s busiest light rail station and several bus routes, Nicollet provides access to downtown destinations including, Orchestra Hall, the Loring Greenway, the Minneapolis Convention Center, and Target Center. CCS was involved in the complete redesign and reconstruction of the streetscape of this aging pedestrian and transit corridor known as a national model for a pedestrian mall.
The new design resulted in a pedestrian thoroughfare, promenade, and public green space that provides a flush, curb-less and continuous public space. The project involved an 80′ right of way from building face to building face for the twelve blocks between Washing Avenue and Grant Street. Vehicle drive and bike lanes were delineated through material and pattern changes and the use of devices such as bollards. The design also considered the physical sizes, shapes, and locations of light elements, signage, trash cans, seating elements, fountains, public art, warming bus shelters, and other street furniture to maximize the ease and flexibility of public use and pedestrian circulation. As part of the redesign project, the sidewalks along Nicollet Mall were prioritized and widened. New transit shelters and kiosks bring activity to the street and ensure the continued use of buses and future use of streetcars. A Reading Room between 12th and 11th Streets defined by a curvilinear bench is equipped with Wi-Fi, book exchange, charging stations, and an over-scaled reading lamp where people can wait to catch a bus or streetcar.
The Groves
The Island
