The Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA) is seeking volunteers interested in participating in the development and implementation of a historic sign project. The purpose of the project is to create signage that highlights the history behind buildings and potentially other architecture in the downtown community, that enhances the pedestrian experience for residents and visitors, and that creates a better sense of community in the downtown neighborhoods.
The DMNA is hoping to install up to ten signs in the Downtown East and Downtown West neighborhoods in 2021, with the goal to continue the project into future years. The North Loop Neighborhood Association and Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc., have similar projects. DMNA Board Member and Chair of the DMNA Branding Committee, Dianne Walsh, received guidance on this project from North Loop Board Member Mike Binkley based on his work on the North Loop project. Binkley has been instrumental in researching and writing the stories for the North Loop signage. The DMNA’s plan would be to start with buildings in the Mill District, such as the Mill City Museum, the Stone Arch Lofts, the Whitney Lofts, the Ceresota Building, the Crown Roller Mill Building, The Depot, etc. and then expand to other areas in the Downtown East and Downtown West neighborhoods. The DMNA will do the project at no cost to the buildings’ owners.
Volunteers would assist in selecting properties, researching and writing the history of the respective buildings, and designing the signage. Walsh, as chair of the DMNA Branding Committee, will coordinate the project. The plan is to include a QR code on the signage that will link to a page on the DMNA Website with additional information and historic photos. If you have an interest in participating in the DMNA’s Historic Sign Project, please send an email to Neighborhood Coordinator Christie Hantge at [email protected].