Victory Memorial Parkway Trail, Minneapolis

To assist the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board in the reconstruction of the Victory Memorial Parkway Bike Trail, WSB contributed preliminary design, environmental documentation, final design, and construction administration services to the project, which was federally funded. The project corridor, approximately 3.4 miles in length, passes through the Victory Memorial Park, dedicated in 1921 to Hennepin County casualties of WW I, and is one of the most historically sensitive areas of Park Board land. The project is also a part of the Grand Rounds, the historic Scenic Byway system of urban parkways and trails, 50 miles in total length.

In preparation of the preliminary design, WSB balanced satisfaction of neighborhood concerns identified in the parkway Master Planning process, while respecting the historic nature of the surroundings. Preliminary design included completion of a Project Memorandum, a Federal document which addresses the environmental issues in the corridor. Final design of the 10- to 12-foot off-road bituminous trail included preparation of plans and specifications. An additional feature of the project included several landscaping improvements contributed by landscape architect Ingraham & Associates (now Hoisington Koegler, Inc.), including gateway planting monuments, two rest stop areas, and other plantings designed to enhance other historical monuments within the park. WSB also provided administration of the contract for construction, as well as construction survey.

Client: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
Completion: 2006