Reimagine Central: Series of events celebrates entrepreneurship in Central neighborhood of Minneapolis

We’ve reported on the restructuring of George Floyd Square in south Minneapolis. Now, a neighborhood close to it is looking to reimagine its future. KSTP’s Brandi Powell reports on how a community organizer is hoping to celebrate business ownership in the city’s Central Neighborhood.

The organization Central Neighborhood is kicking off a series of events on Saturday. Last year, they had a big flea-market style event at East 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, now known as George Floyd Square. This year, the focus is on the nearby Central Neighborhood with an emphasis on entrepreneurship.

"It’s going to be a lot of fun," said Tommy McBrayer, a community organizer for Central Neighborhood.

For the next three Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the park by the intersection of 34th and Fourth avenue south in Minneapolis, you can "Reimagine Central."

"It’s the wave of owning your own business, being your own boss, and that’s what we are promoting at the Reimagine Central is be your own boss," McBrayer said.

McBrayer said the focus will be on financial stability and thriving for both neighbors and businesses.

This area will look much different on event days. McBrayer says Reimagine Central will be a chance for neighbors to see clothing, jewelry, food and build partnerships with a lot of family fun featuring bouncy houses, arcade trucks and jump roping, strengthening community.

"Our neighbors, we stick together," McBrayer said.

After a couple of tough years with COVID-19 and the murder of George Floyd, McBrayer said, "We are dealing with our trauma now, the aftermath of the uprise."