N. Mpls. Commemorates Tornado Anniversary, Looks to Future

One year and tens of millions of dollars in repairs ago, the north side of Minneapolis was hit with a deadly tornado.

Two people died following the May 22 tornado, which was on the ground for six and a quarter miles and damaged 3,700 buildings. Of the 206 worst-hit structures, 149 were repaired or are under repair, 48 were demolished, and nine still remain damaged.

Mayor R.T. Rybak joined students at Lucy Craft Laney school this afternoon as they release balloons in a peace circle. It’s meant to signify hope, healing and resilience.

Rybak and city leaders also planted a tree in the yard of Janet Carstens, whose husband, Rob MacIntyre, died while helping neighbors clean up from the storm. A fund has now been set up in MacIntyre’s name to help plant new trees at homes in North Minneapolis.

A tornado anniversary event sponsored by the Northside Community Response Team took place at the University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center.

For more information about commemorative events, click here.

To view a slideshow of photos from last year’s tornado, click here.

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