Category Archives: Transportation

December 18, 2020 eNews

Happy Holidays from the Armatage Neighborhood Association!

December 15 Meeting Recap

The ANA held its final neighborhood meeting of the year and continued its conversation to update board and committee expectations. Our Coordinator Lauren reported that the Holiday Light Tour has had great attendance with 54 votes and counting. Tour messages will be updated to remind drivers not to idle more than 3 minutes on city streets. Council Member Linea Palmisano joined us for the second half of the meeting to answer questions and give an update on the City’s final 2021 budget after last week’s vote, funding for public safety and the impact of COVID-19 on revenue.

Armatage Holiday Light Tour: Voting Ends Sunday

Enjoy the colorful city streets and light displays of our neighborhood with our Armatage Holiday Light Tour, which runs each night from 5:00-8:00pm through this Sunday, December 20. Download the self-guided tour map at https://armatage.org/holidaylights/

While lights will linger throughout the month, voting wraps up on December 20 at 11:59pm, so after you’ve visited every stop on the tour, head back to vote for your favorite holiday displays. In the spirit of fairness, please hold off on voting until you’ve visited each and every stop. The three addresses with the most votes will get a $50 gift card to an Armatage business!

Huge thanks to our neighbors for making this holiday season so much brighter!

Last Chance for a 2020 Safety Rebate

Have you applied for an Armatage Safety Rebate yet this year?  If you’ve considered upgrading motion lighting, installing new deadbolt locks, or adding outdoor security cameras, check our list of eligible expenses and submit your Safety Rebate application for the 2020 program before December 31. If you’ve already gotten a rebate this year, you’ll have the opportunity to apply again in January 2021.

Whether you rent, own a home or operate a business in Armatage, there’s a Safety Rebate option for you! Click below to learn more:

Take the Minneapolis Purchasing & Waste Survey by Sunday

Got a few minutes? Take Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling’s survey on how your waste generation and purchasing behaviors have changed since March. The responses are anonymous and will serve as a guide for developing community outreach and educational messaging for 2021. The survey will close December 20 at 11:59 p.m. Take the survey here.

Reduce Waste this Holiday Season

Click here for tips to reduce food waste, buy used, safely recycle items like broken strings of lights, opt for low-waste decor and more from Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling!

For all of you exchanging gifts this month, look for wrapping paper that is recyclable and made from recycled paper and does not contain glitter, foil, reflective areas or velvet. These types of wrapping paper cannot be recycled or composted and should be put in the garbage. For extra low waste options, opt for fabric, newspaper (the comics section is particularly fun), old maps or calendars, or plain paper bags or boxes that you decorate yourself.

Take the City’s COVID-19 Vaccine Survey by Dec 31

As the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County and the State of Minnesota plan for vaccinations, your perspectives are vital for creating an equitable and effective distribution plan. Share your hopes, concerns and suggestions through the City’s survey before December 31:

Free COVID-19 Testing

The City of Minneapolis is offering free COVID-19 testing for everyone, whether or not you have symptoms. For more info on what to expect, how to quarantine while you wait for results, when to expect results, and links to more testing sites visit http://www.minneapolismn.gov/coronavirus/coronavirus-testing

Sabathani Community Center, 310 E. 38th St.
Noon-4 p.m. Dec. 19

Columbia Golf Course, 3300 Central Ave. NE
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 20, Dec. 21

Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. S., Exhibit Room E
Noon-7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends starting Nov. 9
Make an appointment here.
Find instructions here.

Native American Community Clinic, 1213 E. Franklin Ave.
2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays
Appointments required: Call 612-872-8086 to schedule an appointment.

Southside Community Health Services, 324 E. 35th St.
2-3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays
Appointments required: Call 612-821-3548 to schedule an appointment.
Same day testing can be done for health care workers, first responders and essential workers. Otherwise, expect to get your test results in about two-three business days.

New Speed Limits in Minneapolis

Crews finished installing signs at Minneapolis entry points to alert drivers that the speed limit is now 20 mph in the city unless otherwise signed. Slower speeds on local streets make travel safer for everyone no matter how you get around.

Now that the gateway signs are installed, the 20 mph speed limit on Minneapolis residential streets is in effect. New speed limits are 20 mph for local residential streets; 25 mph for larger, arterial City-owned streets; and 30-plus mph for a few City-owned streets. Learn more about the speed limit changes at visionzerompls.com

COVID-19 Business Relief Payments Coming Soon

The Minnesota Department of Revenue will send COVID-19 Business Relief Payments to restaurants, bars, gyms and other eligible businesses under a $216 million economic relief package signed into law December 16. Eligible business owners do not need to take any action to receive this aid. The state will determine eligibility and payment amounts based on program requirements outlined at https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/covid-19-business-relief-payments

Free Pet Adoptions at MACC in December

There’s still time to help clear the shelter and help pets find their forever homes for the holidays!  Minneapolis Animal Care & Control has waived all adoption fees for adoptable animals during the month of December! Let’s clear the shelter –  read more here.

Adoption details:

  • Browse adoptable animals at www2.minneapolismn.gov/animals/adopt.
  • Call 311 or 612-673-6222 to request an adoption appointment. All adoptions are being done by appointment to limit the spread of COVID-19.
  • Adopters must meet and spend time with the animal they want to adopt before completing adoption paperwork.
  • Minneapolis residents must purchase a City pet license.

May 22, 2020 eNews

May 19 Meeting Recap

Thanks to Council Member Palmisano for giving an update on how the City continues to address COVID-19, including the current budget deficit. The Board discussed its 2020 Board Election (June 9-16) and planned next month’s virtual Annual Meeting (June 16), approving a small budget for communications and door prizes.

The new Neighborhood Art Journal is underway with many submissions received already. The Board approved funds to continue spreading the word through chalk drawings, social media and flyers around the neighborhood. Additional topics of discussion: board expectations, Mini Grant recipient orientation, Rain/Native Garden program, and the Green Team’s Organics Workshop (thanks to all who attended!).

Armatage Neighborhood Art Journal

During this time of social distancing, what have you and your family members done to express yourselves creatively? Please share your creations with us as we compile a journal to document this moment of time in Armatage. We will assemble your submissions into a free journal available to download at armatage.org/art and possibly feature them in ANA communications about this project or in a future community mural.

See submission guidelines and an awesome video about this project at armatage.org/art/

Armatage Annual Meeting & Board Election

Tuesday, June 16
7:00-8:30pm
Zoom

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting! Connect with your elected representatives, win a gift card to a local business, and hear a short, fascinating talk on the 2020 Census and its impact on Minneapolis before board election results are announced.

Please note that voting for this year’s Board Election will be held online from June 9 through June 16 at 7:30pm. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated business representatives are able to vote in the election through an online form that will be posted at armatage.org on June 9. See below for more details on running for election!

Join the Board

We will have a few open board seats in June so why not run for the Armatage Neighborhood Association’s Board of Directors?  Board members have a critical role in shaping our neighborhood nonprofit for years to come.

Members of underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to run for the board, including renters, seniors, residents with disabilities, and residents who identify as LGBTQ or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color).

Learn more about what’s involved and register to run by June 8 at armatage.org/2020boardelection/

Take Action by 5/31 to Win a $50 Gift Card

Did you know that our community loses $2800 per year for every person not counted in the census?  Help out by May 31 and enter to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses:
  1. Take the 2020 Census: my2020census.gov
  2. Take Action. Choose from the following list…
    • Snap a selfie and share with hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Share a social media post with my2020census.gov and hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Reach out to a neighbor (or two!) about completing the Census using #socialdistancing. (This is a perfect chance to check in remotely).
  3. Visit armatage.org/2020census and enter your info for a chance to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses. All Minneapolis residents are eligible to enter.

Masks Required Indoors Starting 5/26

Yesterday Mayor Jacob Frey signed Emergency Regulation 2020-12, which will require people in Minneapolis to wear cloth face masks or coverings when they are in an indoor place of public accommodation, including grocery stores, recreation centers, hotels, retail businesses, the skyway system, and government buildings.

The order takes effect Tuesday, May 26 and applies to everyone over the age of 2. See mask FAQs at http://www.minneapolismn.gov/coronavirus/faqs#Masks

Request Your Absentee Ballot to Vote by Mail

Many public agencies including the City of Minneapolis recommend voting early by mail this election year. Sign up now to get your ballots for the August primary and November general election mailed to you. It takes just a couple minutes to sign up and ballots will arrive approximately six weeks before those elections, along with postage-paid envelopes for return.

Register to vote (or update your registration) here

Apply for an Absentee Ballot here

Share your Stories with the Hennepin History Museum

As we transition into this new phase of the COVID-19 response, the Hennepin History Museum asks that you take a short survey to document your experiences so far. Their hope is to gather stories to preserve snapshots of our lives.

The museum will preserve these stories in their archive and–if you want–will share some of them online. Stay tuned for snippets from some of the stories that have already been submitted!  Link to survey: https://hennepinhistory.org/documenting-our-experiences/

Armatage Park Play Area Improvements Survey

If you haven’t done so yet, there’s just one week left to weigh in on upcoming improvements for the Armatage Park Play Area. Take the survey and sign up for project updates at https://bit.ly/ArmatagePark

This survey is open through May 29 and is expected to be first in a series on prioritizing and designing improvements. Thanks in advance for sharing your ideas and opinions for our beloved park! Click here to take the Armatage Park survey.

Comment Period for the Transportation Action Plan Ends Today

Did you know that streets and public right-of-ways make up 22% of the land in Minneapolis?  The draft Transportation Action Plan is a 10-year action plan to guide future planning, design and implementation of transportation projects for these spaces and for all people in all the ways we move around Minneapolis.

Visit the interactive website at http://go.minneapolismn.gov/ to provide your input on specific strategies and actions during the public comment period, which runs through today (May 22).

NRPA Social Distancing Graphic

Minneapolis Park Amenities to Re-open

Playgrounds, skate parks, athletic fields, and courts will slowly open over the next week to groups of 10 users or less. Read through the details at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/coronavirus-covid-19-information/

Please keep social distancing measures in place when you and your family members use parks to keep these critical community spaces safe for everyone. Check the MPRB’s COVID-19 page in the weeks to come for updates.

pic

Minneapolis Firefighters’ Virtual Story Time

Check out Minneapolis firefighters reading children’s books for a virtual story time in partnership with Minneapolis Public Schools. Watch the videos here:

Help is Available

Check out our updated COVID-19 Resource Page for links to emergency assistance, unemployment, food shelves, maps of local businesses offering curbside pick-up, online kids’ activities, and details on our new Stay Safe MN order at https://armatage.org/covid19. We are in this together. <3

May 14, 2020 eNews

May 19 Meeting Agenda

6:30-8:30pm | Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/94646891472
All meetings are open to community members. Please allow time to sign in at the link above.

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • Update from Council Member Palmisano
  • June Online Annual Meeting & Board Election
    • Resolution for a Remote Annual Meeting
    • Agenda and speakers
    • Board election volunteers
    • Communications and budget
  • Art Journal Project
    • Communications & Outreach Plan
  • ANA Board & Committee Expectations
  • Other Business
  • President’s Report
  • Minutes – need to approve
  • Treasurer Report – financials emailed
  • Committee Updates
    • Green Team
    • Mini Grants
    • Complete Count
  • Coordinator Update:
    • New Board Orientation & Board Refresher

Monday, May 18
7:00-8:00pm
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83728133761

Thinking of making a change that will have a huge impact on your family’s environmental footprint? Now is the perfect time to start organics recycling and check out our free Organics Recycling How-to Workshop on May 18! We’ll cover what can and can’t go into the green cart, tips and tricks, and lots of ideas to affordably set up your home.

Taught by our Coordinator, Lauren, who ran organics recycling programs and taught workshops all over the Twin Cities before coming to the Armatage neighborhood, we promise it’ll be a short and fun Zoom workshop! Open to all, even if you live outside Armatage: armatage.org/online-organics-recycling-workshop/

Armatage Neighborhood Art Journal

During this time of social distancing, what have you and your family members done to express yourselves creatively? Please share your creations with us as we compile a journal to document this moment of time in Armatage.

Your submission could be artwork and paintings; sidewalk art; original poetry or short stories; knitted, crocheted or sewn creations; new gardens; home DIY projects; recipes you’ve cooked up; or images from walks. We will assemble your submissions into a free journal available to download at armatage.org/art and possibly feature them in ANA communications about this project or in a future community mural.

See submission guidelines and an awesome video about this project at armatage.org/art/

Armatage Annual Meeting & Board Election

Tuesday, June 16
7:00-8:30pm
Zoom

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting! Connect virtually with your elected officials and hear a short, fascinating talk on the 2020 Census and its impact on Minneapolis before board election results are announced.

This year’s Board Election will be held online from June 9 through June 16 at 7:30pm. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated business representatives will be able to vote in the election through an online form that will be posted at armatage.org. See below for more details on running for election!

Join the Board

Thinking about running for the Armatage Neighborhood Association’s Board of Directors?  Thank you!  Board members will have a critical role in shaping our neighborhood nonprofit for years to come.

Members of underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to run for the board, including renters, seniors, residents with disabilities, and residents who identify as LGBTQ or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color).

Learn more about what’s involved and register to run by June 8 at armatage.org/2020boardelection/

Take Action and Win a $50 Gift Card

Help neighbors and friends take the Census by May 31 and enter to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses:

  1. Take the 2020 Census: my2020census.gov
  2. Take Action. Choose from the following list…
    • Snap a selfie and share with hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Share a social media post with my2020census.gov/ and hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Reach out to a neighbor (or two!) about completing the Census using #socialdistancing. (This is a perfect chance to check in remotely).
  3. Visit armatage.org/2020census and enter your info for a chance to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses. All Minneapolis residents are eligible to enter.

Help is Available

We updated our COVID-19 Resource Page to make it much easier to navigate, especially on mobile. Check it out to find links to emergency assistance, unemployment, food shelves, maps of local businesses offering curbside pick-up, online kids’ activities, and details on our new Stay Safe MN order at https://armatage.org/covid19.

Armatage Park Play Area Improvements Survey

Dreaming of when we’ll be able to safely play in parks again? Us too! In the meantime,  please help weigh in on upcoming improvements for the Armatage Park Play Area by taking the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board’s survey and signing up for project updates at https://bit.ly/ArmatagePark

This survey is open now through May 29 and is expected to be first in a series on prioritizing and designing improvements. Thanks in advance for sharing your ideas and opinions for our beloved park! Click here to take the Armatage Park survey.

Comment on the Transportation Action Plan by May 22

Did you know that streets and public right-of-ways make up 22% of the land in Minneapolis?  The draft Transportation Action Plan is a 10-year action plan to guide future planning, design and implementation of transportation projects for these spaces and for all people in all the ways we move around Minneapolis.

Visit the interactive website at http://go.minneapolismn.gov/ to provide your input on specific strategies and actions during the public comment period, which runs through May 22.

Stay Safe MN Details

Beginning May 18, non-critical businesses, like retail stores and main street businesses, can reopen if they have a social distancing plan and operate at 50 percent capacity. Also, starting May 18, Minnesotans are welcome to gather with friends and family in groups of 10 or less with safe social distancing practices in place. Learn more at https://mn.gov/covid19/

Comprehensive District Design Passes

The Minneapolis School Board voted to approve the district’s Comprehensive District Design recommendations this week.  Learn about the changing school boundaries and pathways, magnet schools and timeline for implementation at https://www.cdd.mpls.k12.mn.us/

NRPA Social Distancing Graphic

Minneapolis Park Closures

Minneapolis playgrounds, skate parks, athletic fields, and courts are closed. Check out the closure details at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/coronavirus-covid-19-information/

Parks and trails are still open during this time. Please do your part to keep them safe for everyone and check the MPRB’s COVID-19 page in the weeks to come for updates.

May 7, 2020 eNews

Armatage Park Play Area Improvements Survey

Dreaming of when we’ll be able to safely play in parks again? Us too! In the meantime,  please help weigh in on upcoming improvements for the Armatage Park Play Area by taking the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board’s survey and signing up for project updates at https://bit.ly/ArmatagePark

This survey is open through May 22 and is expected to be first in a series on prioritizing and designing improvements. Thanks in advance for sharing your ideas and opinions for our beloved park! Click here to take the Armatage Park survey.

Gardening Happy Hour on May 12

Tuesday, May 12
8:00-9:00pm
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/502813335

Social distancing got you craving connection? Our Happy Hour topic of the month is gardening, so come discuss your adventures with vegetable gardens, perennials, annuals, hard-scaping and dealing with the urban critters who disrupt our plans (🐿+🐇). Open to all, even if you don’t live in the neighborhood.

Thanks to the Armatage Green Team for hosting this month’s Neighborhood Happy Hour!

Monday, May 18
7:00-8:00pm
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83728133761

Thinking of making a change that will have a huge impact on your family’s environmental footprint? Now is the perfect time to start organics recycling and check out our free Organics Recycling How-to Workshop on May 18! We’ll cover what can and can’t go into the green cart, tips and tricks, and lots of ideas to affordably set up your home. Open to all, even if you live outside Armatage. Learn more at https://armatage.org/online-organics-recycling-workshop/

Win a $50 Gift Card and Help Our Community Count in the Census

There’s still time to help ensure Minnesota gets its full share of funding for schools, health care, roads and public services by getting more of your friends, family and neighbors to take the 2020 Census.

Help out and enter to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses:

  1. Take the 2020 Census: my2020census.gov
  2. Take Action. Choose from the following list…
    • Snap a selfie and share with hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Share a social media post with my2020census.gov/ and hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Reach out to a neighbor (or two!) about completing the Census using #socialdistancing. (This is a perfect chance to check in remotely).
  3. Visit armatage.org/2020census and enter your info for a chance to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses. All Minneapolis residents are eligible to enter.

Help is Available

Safety at Home: Stay at Home should never mean you stay somewhere unsafe. There are places of sanctuary open for anyone facing abuse or violence. Please call Minnesota’s statewide crisis hotline – available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – at 1.866.223.1111 or text 612.399.9995.

Unemployment Support: Minnesota is one of the first states to implement both the $600 per week additional compensation and the 13 week extension of benefits. Find these and answers to other unemployment questions here.

Mental Health: If you’re worried about a loved one, or if you want someone to talk to, know you can reach out. We have a website with mental health resources. You’re not alone in this challenge.

Find info on assistance programs, free food and meals, chore help, local businesses, volunteer opportunities, kids activities and more at https://armatage.org/covid19.  Please keep sharing this link!


Sign up for the Rain & Native Garden Program

We’ve teamed up with local nonprofit, Metro Blooms, again this year to help Armatage residents install a low cost rain or native garden. Slots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis and there are just a couple left!  Apply today at armatage.org/programs/rain-gardens/

Participants pay an average of $300-$450 and are responsible for planting and maintaining their garden. Additional need-based grants are available through the ANA for residents who meet income guidelines: click here for guidelines and to apply for additional assistance. We’ve been busy retooling the program with your safety in mind so site visits and installations will take place through social distancing – learn more at armatage.org/programs/rain-gardens/.

Adopt-A-Tree with Brewing a Better Forest

In honor of Arbor Day and the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day, consider adopting a tree.  There’s no housebreaking or litterbox training. No obedience classes. All an adopted street tree asks of you is water – once a week through the current growing season.

Brewing a Better Forest has thousands of public trees available for adoption, including many in Armatage: Select yours today.


Free Virtual Home Energy Visits

The Home Energy Squad is now offering free virtual home energy visits to help you find your biggest energy savings. The cost-free visit is conducted online to help you discover low cost energy-saving opportunities. They’ll also help identify possible future projects to save you even more, so you’ll be ready for action when the time comes. Learn more and sign up at https://www.mncee.org/home-energy-squad/sign-up/

You can also sign up to borrow the Armatage Thermal Camera to pinpoint energy waste through a no contact pick-up and drop-off at https://armatage.org/thermal-camera/


Doors Open Minneapolis Facts & Photo Contest

Learn about your community as you enjoy Doors Open Minneapolis’ new project, Strolls Through the Streets. Check out facts and addresses of notable landmarks around the city here.

You can also enter this year’s photo contest on Instagram and share the exterior of your favorite venue to win $250 for you + $250 for a COVID relief charity of your choice. Learn more at https://www.doorsopenminneapolis.org/stroll

Transportation Action Plan Open House

Check out the draft Transportation Action Plan website to read the draft plan and provide feedback. The interactive website includes opportunities to provide your input on specific strategies and actions during the public comment period, which is extended until May 22.

One more Open House is scheduled for you to hear about the plan, give input, and interact in real time:

NRPA Social Distancing Graphic

Minneapolis Park Closures

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board made the difficult decision to close playgrounds, skate parks, athletic fields, and courts last week. Check out the closure details at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/coronavirus-covid-19-information/

Parks and trails are still open during this time. Please do your part to keep them safe for everyone, which means…

  • Bringing a water bottle, hand sanitizer, etc. while buildings are closed
  • Not visiting parks or trails if you feel sick with a fever, body aches, coughing, nasal congestion, runny nose and/or sore throat.
  • Staying at least six feet away from anyone who doesn’t live with you.
  • Washing your hands immediately before and after visiting a park.
  • Walking or rolling to your local parks. The MPRB has asked that folks don’t drive across the city or metro to visit popular park attractions.
  • Not holding any group activities with people who don’t live with you.

Extended Stay at Home Details

ICYMI, our #StayHomeMN order is extended through May 18 but many retail and other businesses can start offering online sales and curbside pick-up. Learn more at https://mn.gov/covid19/

 

Transportation Action Plan

Comment on the Minneapolis Transportation Action Plan

The City released its draft TAP this month, which will guide future planning, design, and implementation of transportation projects for all people in all the ways they move around. View the plan and submit your comments by May 22 at go.minneapolismn.gov/

Three Open Houses are scheduled for you to hear about your plan, give input, and interact in real time:

April 13, 2020 eNews

April 21 Meeting Agenda

6:30-8:00pm | Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/94646891472
All meetings are open to community members. Please allow time to sign in at the link above.

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • Annual Meeting & Board Elections
  • Virtual Happy Hours & Coffee Breaks
  • Social distancing engagement:
    • Collect art, photos, poems
    • More summer ideas
  • Other Business
  • President’s Report
  • Minutes – need to approve
  • Treasurer Report – financials emailed
  • Committee Updates:
    • Green Team:
      • Rain & Native Garden Program update
      • Virtual Organics Workshop – May 18
    • Mini Grants: Approve 2020 grant recipients
    • Complete Count: 2020 Census social media campaign
    • Summer Festival: alternatives
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Armatage Park playground construction

Virtual Neighborhood Happy Hour Tomorrow!

Tuesday, April 14
8:00-9:00pm
Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/502813335
Topic: Supporting Local Businesses

Join your neighbors on Zoom for a virtual Happy Hour. We know this is an isolating time for many so grab a drink or snack of some kind and come share all the ways we can support our local businesses.

Kids, pets and funny background filters welcome! Open to all, whether you live in Armatage or not. We recommend downloading the free Zoom app on your device.

Win a $50 Gift Card and Help Our Community Count in the Census

The 2020 Census is HERE and we need your help to ensure Minnesota gets its full share of funding for schools, health care, roads and more.

Help out and enter to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses:

  1. Take the 2020 Census: my2020census.gov
  2. Take Action. Choose from the following list…
    • Snap a selfie and share with hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Share a social media post with my2020census.gov/ and hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Reach out to a neighbor (or two!) about completing the Census using #socialdistancing. (This is a perfect chance to check in remotely).
  3. Visit armatage.org/2020census and enter your info for a chance to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses.

Thanks to support from the State of MN and the Minneapolis Foundation! All Minneapolis residents are eligible to participate.

COVID-19 Resources & Links

Do you need to…

  • Learn about all the new small business, nonprofit and individual emergency loan programs available,
  • Access Hennepin County assistance,
  • Find free food or meals,
  • Request help around your home (esp. if you’re a senior or have a disability),
  • Get more ideas to keep kids busy during the day,
  • Check the details of our extended #StayHomeMN order?

We couldn’t find these links all in one place so we’ve gathered these and MANY more at https://armatage.org/covid19 and update it daily. Thank you to everyone who has shared this resource with their block’s e-list or on social media. Please email additions to anacoordinator@armatage.org.


Transportation Action Plan Open House Today

Check out the draft Transportation Action Plan website to read the draft plan and provide feedback. The interactive website includes opportunities to provide your input on specific strategies and actions during the public comment period, which is extended until May 22.

Attend the Online Open House TODAY, Monday, April 13, from 4:30-5:30pm on the Minneapolis Facebook page to hear about your plan, give input, and interact in real time.


Updated Comprehensive District Design Plans

Minneapolis Public Schools has released its final draft for the Comprehensive District Design. The updated plans outline changes to community school boundaries, magnet programs like Armatage Montessori, school pathways, special education, and more.

Community members can view the plans at https://www.cdd.mpls.k12.mn.us/ in advance of the School Board’s scheduled vote on May 12. If you would like to submit a  comment on the plans, please visit https://board.mpls.k12.mn.us/public_comment for detailed instructions. Voicemails will be played during virtual board meetings.


Last Chance to Comment on the SW Parks Master Plan

The comment period for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan ends on April 25, 2020. With park buildings now closed, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans.

https://www.nrpa.org/contentassets/e8a6e296777f473f9859cc482e5e7d7b/covid19-urban-parks-1000.jpg

Park Event and Facility Closures through August 31

ICYMI, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board made the difficult decision to cancel all park/neighborhood events and close recreation centers, restrooms, pools and beaches through August 31. Parks, trails, athletic fields and courts, parkways, dog parks, and golf courses will remain open.  Read the full list of what’s open, closed and canceled here.

The ANA is working on ways to support the neighborhood this summer without our usual events.  In the months to come, [lease stay safe while enjoying parks and trails with these tips from the MPRB:

  • Stay six feet apart – if you are able to, please move aside for families with young kids, seniors, and people with disabilities.
  • No group sports, play dates, or activities
  • Don’t drive across the city or metro to visit popular parks
  • Use parks in moderation
  • Don’t visit parks or trails if you feel sick or have symptoms like a fever, runny nose and/or sore throat

April 3, 2020 eNews

Win a $50 Gift Card and Help Our Community Count in the Census

The 2020 Census is HERE and we need your help to ensure Minnesota gets its full share of funding for schools, health care, roads and more.

Help out and enter to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses:

  1. Take the 2020 Census: my2020census.gov
  2. Take Action: choose from the following list…
    • Snap a selfie and share with hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Share a social media post with my2020census.gov/ and hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Reach out to a neighbor (or two!) about completing the Census using #socialdistancing. (This is a perfect chance to check in remotely).
  3. Visit armatage.org/2020census and enter your info for a chance to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses.

Thanks to support from the State of MN and the Minneapolis Foundation! All Minneapolis residents are eligible to participate.

COVID-19 Resources & Links

Do you need to…

  • Find a food shelf,
  • Apply for unemployment or an emergency small business loan,
  • Look up high risk grocery shopping hours,
  • Request help around your home (esp. if you’re a senior or have a disability),
  • Find ideas to keep kids busy during the day,
  • Check the details of our the #StayHomeMN order?

We have links to these and more in one place and are updating our page daily: https://armatage.org/covid19 If you haven’t done so yet, please send it to your block’s e-list or share on social media. Email suggestions for additions to anacoordinator@armatage.org.

https://www.nrpa.org/contentassets/e8a6e296777f473f9859cc482e5e7d7b/covid19-urban-parks-1000.jpg

Park Event and Facility Closures through August 31

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board made the difficult decision to cancel all park events and close recreation centers, restrooms, pools and beaches through August 31. This includes the cancellation of neighborhood events like Armatage Summer Festival that are held at parks. Parks, trails, athletic fields and courts, parkways, dog parks, and golf courses will remain open.  Read the full list of what’s open, closed and canceled here.

Stay safe while enjoying our parks and trails:

  • Stay six feet apart – if you are able to, please move aside for families with young kids, seniors, and people with disabilities.
  • No group sports, play dates, or activities
  • Don’t drive across the city or metro to visit popular parks
  • Use parks in moderation
  • Don’t visit parks or trails if you feel sick or have symptoms like a fever, runny nose and/or sore throat

mnhealth on Twitter: "Viruses don't discriminate, and neither ...
Check Out this Message from Mayor Frey and Chief Arradondo

There have been increased incidents and attacks against Asian American communities across the nation as a result of racism coupled with coronavirus fears. Watch and share Mayor Frey and Chief Arradondo’s video to learn about how the City is responding.

Call 311 to report discriminatory actions to the City’s Civil Rights Department and call 911 in an emergency.

The Minnesota Department of Health also has some great anti-discrimination posters available on its website.

Minneapolis City Trees Program

Low-cost Tree Sales for Minneapolis Residents

The Minneapolis City Trees Program is now open to ALL Minneapolis property owners! Sales are happening on a new online system through May 1 or until trees are sold out.

Unlike past years, there is no lottery and available trees will be smaller in size (#5 and #7 containers) in order to make more trees available to more property owners. Visit https://mpls-tree-sale.myshopify.com/ and please spread the word to your neighbors!


SW Parks Master Plan Comment Period Extended

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board extended the comment period for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan through April 25, 2020. With park buildings now closed through until May, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans.


Transportation Action Plan Comment Period Extended

Check out the draft Transportation Action Plan website to read the draft plan and provide feedback. The interactive website includes opportunities to provide your input on specific strategies and actions during the public comment period, which is extended until May 22.

Attend the Online Open House on Monday, April 13 from 4:30-5:30pm on the Minneapolis Facebook page to hear about your plan, give input, and interact in real time.

Comment Period Extended to July 15

The City of Minneapolis has extended the public comment period for the Neighborhoods 2020 Draft Guidelines through July 15, 2020.

Proposed funding levels for neighborhoods like Armatage will significantly decrease in 2021 and beyond to shift more funding toward areas of the City with greater equity needs. Base funding levels will drop to 1/3 of their current level for Armatage, which will impact our ability to serve the neighborhood. Read the draft guidelines and learn more at www.minneapolismn.gov/ncr/2020

We Love Our Neighborhood

Thank you to Armatage neighbors Linda and Maggie for sharing their sidewalk poetry with us during this turbulent time!

Let us know how you’re making Armatage a bit brighter so we can share it with the neighborhood by emailing anacoordinator@armatage.org.

March 27, 2020 eNews


Update from the ANA on COVID-19

Do you need to…

  • Find a food shelf,
  • Apply for unemployment,
  • Look up high risk grocery shopping hours,
  • Request help around your home (esp. if you’re a senior or have a disability),
  • Find ideas to keep kids busy during the day,
  • Check the details of our upcoming #StayHomeMN order?

We couldn’t find all this info in one place, so we created a new page with these links and more and are updating it daily: https://armatage.org/covid19 Send it to your block’s e-list or share on social media and send suggestions for additions to anacoordinator@armatage.org.

Care for our community: follow #StayHomeMN guidelines. Practice social distancing for essential trips out of the house. Support the heroes who staff our hospitals and clinics, emergency services, grocery stores, nonprofits, and care-giving facilities.  Check in with neighbors who may need assistance with groceries, shoveling (though let’s hope snow stays FAR away), or just a friendly phone call or text. ❤️

NEW: Armatage Virtual Coffee Break

Tuesday, March 31
9:00-10:00am
Zoom – https://zoom.us/j/816580272

Join us for a virtual neighborhood coffee break next Tuesday morning. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, download the free Zoom app on your device (trust us, it’s MUCH easier), create an account, and click on the link above. We know this is a tough and isolating time for many of us and hope you can join in and connect with neighbors.

Kids are welcome in the background (we love Zoom – it’s easy to mute!), no partisan politics please, and if you’d prefer, simply call in on your phone. We’re going to try this out and think about adding an evening (8:00pm?) Happy Hour option, too!


Enter to win a $50 gift card to one of four local businesses! How? The 2020 Census is HERE and we need your help to ensure Minnesota gets its full share of funding for schools, health care, roads and more. How to help: take the Census, complete a quick action from the following list, and enter your info at armatage.org/2020census for a chance to win a $50 gift card!

  1. Snap a selfie with your Census postcard or completed Census screen and share on social media. Use the hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 and #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
  2. Share a 2020 Census post on social media with a link to my2020census.gov/. Encourage your network to take the Census and use the hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 and #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
  3. Reach out to a neighbor (or two!) and remind them to complete the Census. Leave a note, send a text or email, or say hello from at least 6 feet away using your #socialdistancing. (This is a perfect chance to check with neighbors in the coming weeks).

Thanks to support from the State of MN and the Minneapolis Foundation! All Minneapolis residents are eligible to participate. Recipients will be drawn in May. For more census info, visit my2020census.gov/ or www.wecountminneapolis.org/


More info on this order at mn.gov/stayhomemn

March 17, 2020 Meeting Recap

The ANA held its first virtual neighborhood meeting on Zoom – thanks to everyone who joined us! Council Member Palmisano gave an update on the City of Minneapolis’s efforts to prepare for COVID-19. The board planned a COVID-19 resources page (linked above), voted to postpone the Annual Meeting & Board Elections until June 16, and discussed a response for the Neighborhoods 2020 comment period, which ends on April 17. The Mini Grants Committee is in the midst of weighing applications for the 2020 grant round and the ANA’s Complete Count Committee is reworking its 2020 Census outreach strategies to be online-only (see above).


Minneapolis Transportation Action Plan

Check out the draft Transportation Action Plan website to read the draft plan and provide feedback. The interactive website includes opportunities to provide your input on specific strategies and actions.

Attend an upcoming online open house
We’re planning a series of online open houses to get your input on the plan. Join us to hear about the plan and interact in real time.

Neighborhood Funding to Decrease

The new Neighborhoods 2020 Draft Guidelines are here and we encourage neighbors to check out the plan and comment by April 17. The City Council plans to vote on this in May.

Proposed funding levels for neighborhoods like Armatage will significantly decrease in 2021 and beyond to shift more funding toward areas of the City with greater equity needs. Base funding levels will drop to 1/3 of their current level for Armatage, which will impact our ability to serve the neighborhood. Read the draft guidelines and learn more at www.minneapolismn.gov/ncr/2020


SW Parks Master Plan Comment Period Extended

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board extended the comment period for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan through April 25, 2020. With park buildings now closed through until May, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans.

https://www.nrpa.org/contentassets/e8a6e296777f473f9859cc482e5e7d7b/covid19-urban-parks-1000.jpg
Visiting parks during #StayHomeMN? Use this handy graphic to maintain social distancing!

March 5, 2020 eNews

Neighborhood Happy Hour

Tuesday, March 10
7:00-9:00pm
Red Wagon Pizza

Meet neighbors and catch up on everything that’s happening around Armatage at our next Neighborhood Happy Hour! With lots happening around neighborhood funding, the Census, and some exciting new organics recycling work, we hope you can stop by!

Helpful details: complimentary pizza provided by the ANA, cash bar, no need to RSVP, kids are welcome and help tipping our servers is appreciated.

Mini Grants Deadline Extended to March 7

Workshops, a community bread and pizza oven, bike clinics, little free libraries, tool sharing… the possibilities are endless. What could YOU do for the neighborhood with a $1,000 Mini Grant?

The deadline to apply for the 2020 Mini Grant round is extended to this Saturday, March 7. Check out the grant requirements and download the application at armatage.org/mini-grants

Organics Recycling Volunteers Needed

Huge thanks to everyone who attended our Organics Recycling CONFIDENT(ial) workshop last week!  This workshop kicked off an exciting year of neighborhood organics recycling outreach.  At the moment, only 47.68% of eligible Armatage neighbors are signed up for the City’s organics recycling collection program.  We think we can push that number MUCH higher and we need your help!

Can you help us by donating a few hours sometime this summer?  We’ll be door knocking, delivering starter kits, and tabling at neighborhood events in teams.  All experience levels welcome – training and materials will be provided and you can sign up when it works for you.  Sign up to help here.

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Palmisano Presents: Future of Neighborhood Organizations & Funding

Tuesday, March 24
6:30-8:00pm
SW Mpls location TBD

Save the date for a final conversation with City staff and Council Member Linea Palmisano to talk about the future of the Minneapolis neighborhood organizations.  Big changes are proposed and the City Council is scheduled to vote this May.

The final Neighborhoods 2020 Draft Guidelines were released late last week and residents can comment through April 17. Proposed funding levels for neighborhood organizations like the ANA will significantly decrease in 2021 and beyond to shift more funding toward areas of the City with greater equity needs. Read the draft guidelines and learn more at www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ncr/2020


Transportation Action Plan Open Houses

The City will be opening public comment on the draft 10-year Transportation Action Plan next week, which will guide future planning, design, and implementation of transportation projects for all people in all the ways they move around. View the plan and learn more at go.minneapolismn.gov/

Public comment on the draft plan will begin next Monday March 9th and will continue for 45 days. The City will host  hosting the first of 4 open houses to learn and give feedback.

  • Wednesday March 11th – Open house, Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall, 4pm-6pm
  • Tuesday March 24th – Open house, MLK Jr Recreation Center, 4055 Nicollet Avenue S, 5pm-7pm
  • Wednesday April 8th – Online open house, Minneapolis Facebook page, 6pm-7pm
  • Monday April 13th – Open house, UMN Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC), 2001 Plymouth Ave N, 4:30-6:30pm

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Get Ready for the 2020 Census

Every ten years, the U.S. Census Bureau works to count every person in the United States, including everyone living in Minneapolis. The resulting count will guide the distribution of billions of dollars to our communities, determine political representation for the next decade (including Minnesota’s number of congressional representatives), and provide data that shapes how policymakers and business leaders decide to invest public and private resources. Getting an accurate and complete count of all residents is vital.

Info on completing this year’s Census will be mailed soon!  In the meantime, see a sample census form and check out FAQs, how you can help, census guides in English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong and more at www.wecountminneapolis.org/

Upcoming Workshops – Resilient Yards and More

Metro Blooms will host a series of low cost, do-it-yourself workshops again this spring on Resilient Yards, Turf Alternatives, and Healthy Soil. Plus, a Resilient Yards workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22 at Armatage Park and we don’t know a better way to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day than that!  Learn more and sign up  at bluethumb.org/events/


Updated Plans for SW Minneapolis Neighborhood Parks

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board released updated park plans for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan.  A 45-day public comment period runs now through April 5, 2020.

Visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans online or visit any of the 13 recreation centers in the Southwest Service Area to see a paper copy and leave written comments.

Recycle Smart - no plastic bags, large plastic items or random metal items in your recycling cart

Minneapolis Recycling Info

Minneapolis started 2020 with a recycling contamination rate of 8.51%. While this is a great result, we can do better! Keeping non-recyclable items out of your cart helps reduce challenges with collection, sorting, and processing your items into something new. Learn more at minneapolismn.gov/solid-waste/

Always recycle:

  • Mail, office and school papers
  • Magazines, newspaper and inserts
  • Boxes (food, beverage, toiletries)
  • Cardboard
  • Steel and aluminum cans
  • Glass jars and bottles
  • Plastic bottles, containers, jugs (#1, 2, 5)
  • Cartons (milk, broth, juice)

Never recycle:

  • Plastic bags
  • Bagged recycling
  • Large plastic items (laundry baskets, storage tubs, toys)
  • Random metal items (pots and pans, pipes and poles, hangers)
  • Food-soiled paper (napkins, paper towels, paper plates, fast-food wrap)
  • Straws and utensils
  • Electronics and batteries
  • Hazardous materials (motor oil, propane tanks, etc.)
  • Medical waste (sharps: needles and syringes, lancets)
  • Tanglers (hoses, cords, holiday lights, etc.)

Plus sign up to go on a tour of Eureka Recycling’s sorting facility, where our Minneapolis recycling is processed and sorted!

December 23, 2019 eNews

Happy Holidays from the Armatage Neighborhood Association!

December 17 Meeting Recap

Council Member Linea Palmisano gave an update on the City Budget, new law enforcement training facility, and Vision Zero Plan implementation that may include safety efforts like lowering the speed limit for all Minneapolis streets, adjustments to high injury corridors, addressing unsafe behavior, education, and enforcement.

The Board voted to renew both the Coordinator and Accountant staffing contracts for 2020. Our Coordinator, Lauren Anderson, and Accountant, Rachel Ireland-Henry, are looking forward to another great year with the ANA! The Board also discussed its anticipated 2020 programming, including a few upcoming events in January:

  • Neighborhood Happy Hour • January 14 • 7:00-9:00pm • Red Wagon Pizza
  • Chili Cook-off • January 24 • 6:30-8:30pm • Armatage Park’s Fire & Ice event.
  • Mini Grants Info Session • January 30 • 7:00pm • Book Club Restaurant

Armatage Chili Cook-off

Friday, January 24
6:30-8:30pm
Armatage Park Fire & Ice Skating Party

Do you claim to have the best chili? Put it to the test and sign up for the First Annual Armatage Chili Cook-off to compete against your neighbors and claim the prize of the best chili in the neighborhood.

The Chili Cook-off takes place inside the Armatage Rec Center on Friday, January 24 from 6:30-8:30pm as part of Armatage Park’s Fire & Ice free skating party. Registration closes on Sunday, January 19 so competitors are encouraged to sign up here as soon as possible to reserve their spot. It’s free to compete and just $5 to eat. Competitors should plan to bring a full crock-pot or instant pot of chili to the park by 6:00pm on January 24.


Last Chance for a 2019 Safety Rebate

The Armatage Neighborhood Association offers rebates to residents for up to $100 per calendar year for eligible home safety updates. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your exterior lighting, deadbolt locks, adding security cameras, or more, check our list of eligible expenses and apply for a Safety Rebate before December 31 to take advantage of the 2019 program. If you’ve already gotten a rebate this year, you’ll have the opportunity to apply again in January.

The Resident Safety Rebate program is open to both renters and homeowners and the Business Safety Rebate program is open to any business operating in Armatage. Learn more at armatage.org/programs/safety-rebate-program


If you have a neighborhood project or idea you have always wanted to explore, we invite you to apply for a Mini Grant to support that dream. Applications for the next round of funding will be available on January 6, 2020 at armatage.org/mini-grants and are due February 29, 2020.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage can apply for up to $1,000 to support a project that directly benefits the neighborhood. Some restrictions apply: grant funds cannot be used for general operating, food, entertainment, religious, partisan, or capital expenses. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants or save the date for our upcoming Info Sessions:

  • Thursday, January 30 • 7:00pm • Book Club (5411 Penn Ave S)
  • Tuesday, February 11 • 7:00pm • Armatage Park

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Comprehensive District Design Studies & Listening Sessions

Have you been following the district’s Comprehensive District Design process that aims to increase equity and close student achievement gaps in MPS?  Two new studies available this week propose changes to Minneapolis Public Schools’ magnet programs and community school boundaries. The studies outline significant proposed changes for Armatage School and Zone 3. If passed by the school board next spring, proposed changes would start to take effect in Fall 2021.

Community listening sessions are scheduled for January and February and you can also give feedback online.  Learn more about the Comprehensive District Design process here.

Comment on the City’s ADA Transition Plan

The City of Minneapolis is seeking public comment on the draft Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan for Public Works – a plan that identifies priorities for removing accessibility barriers in the City’s public right of way.

The City is accepting comments on the draft plan through December 27. It is a supplemental plan to the City’s ADA Action Plan, a comprehensive policy document for the City of Minneapolis to comply with the Title II requirements of the ADA. The draft plan was last updated in 2012.

55th & Washburn Holiday Lights

Learn all about how the 5500 block of Washburn Avenue S hangs their magical holiday lights along the boulevard from Armatage resident Jess Bell at armatage.org/lights

Photo credit: Matt Sepeta


Apply for Lawns to Legumes Pollinator Grants

Applications are now open for the state’s new Lawns to Legumes Assistance program, through which all Minnesota residents are eligible to apply for a $350 cost-share in order to establish pollinator habitat in their yards. Applications will be chosen through a randomized drawing, with priority given to projects in high-priority areas – including our community! The first application period runs through Feb. 28. Submit your materials today!

Community outreach Q&A

Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan

On October 25, 2019, the Minneapolis City Council adopted a resolution to approve the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Implementation of the plan is already underway and will focus on achieving the goals of eliminating racial disparities, expanding housing options, addressing climate change and improving the lives of residents throughout Minneapolis.

Initial implementation efforts include a text amendment to the zoning ordinance that allows 3-unit residential buildings in areas previously reserved for only single-family residences, and a permanent Inclusionary Zoning ordinance, both of which go into effect on January 1, 2020. In the coming years the City will continue to implement elements of the 2040 Plan.


Free Manufacturing Career Training

Local nonprofit HIRED is offering free manufacturing career training and certification courses.  The next round of training begins January 21, 2020 and priority is given to Minneapolis residents. Learn more and apply at http://www.hired.org/training/manufacturing/