Water Works site near St. Anthony Falls in Minneapolis opens

Minneapolis now has a new community space located in Mill Ruins Park.

A ribbon cutting ceremony took place Thursday for the three-acre Water Works project, overlooking St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge.

The project was designed to represent the area’s cultural and economic significance as a spiritual site for Indigenous people and the birthplace of the city’s milling history.

"This is a fascinating site with an influential and complex history, and I’m glad we took the time to create an ambitious vision and execute it well,” Al Bangoura, superintendent of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, said in a statement. “I’d like to thank the talented team who worked so hard on this project, and for the support of our partners, including the Minneapolis Park Foundation and its supporters, who appreciate the shared benefit of thoughtfully designed riverfront parks.”

The site’s stormwater reuse system is also projected to recycle nearly 1 million gallons of gray water annually as it collects rainwater from nearby rooftops and cycles it through the system.

The outdoor space has a playground, gas fire pits and spots for people to sit and enjoy the waterfront. An indoor pavilion and restaurant will open later this summer.

City leaders break ground on Water Works project in downtown Minneapolis