Print Icon
 
   

Rooted in Black History. Moving Forward Together.

This month, we honored the resilience, brilliance, and enduring legacy of Black communities across the country and especially here in Rondo. Black history is not just something we reflect on in February; it lives in the stories of our elders, the strength of our families, our cultural traditions, our businesses, and our continued fight for justice and restoration.


In Rondo, that history is carried and shaped by elders like Marvin Anderson, Nieeta Presley, Deb Montgomery, Margaret Lovejoy, and so many others whose lived experiences ground our work in truth. Their leadership, memories, and unwavering commitment to community remind us what was built here, what was lost, and what is still possible.


As we advance restorative development and work to reconnect Rondo, we do so standing on the shoulders of those who came before us. Their vision inspires our mission to reclaim, rebuild, and reimagine a thriving future for Rondo — not just this month, but every day.

     

Rondo Night Recap: Reconnecting with Community

Hosted by the Rondo Roundtable, this special evening brought together community members, local businesses, and leaders to celebrate the culture of Rondo. It was powerful to see so many familiar faces and new supporters connecting, sharing stories, and standing together in pride.


Events like Rondo Night remind us that while so much was taken from our neighborhood, the spirit and strength of Rondo continue to shine. Thank you to everyone who came out and made the night unforgettable. We’re grateful to the Rondo Roundtable for creating space for community — and we’re already looking forward to next year!

     

Behind the Scenes: The Technical Studies Moving Us Forward

Traffic Study Update: What We’re Learning About I-94

As part of the Rethinking I-94 process led by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), a detailed traffic study is underway to better understand how travel through Rondo works today and how it could change in the future.

What's Happening?

Our project team is taking a deep dive into how traffic moves through the area by:

  • Reviewing past traffic studies

  • Looking at current and future land use

  • Analyzing existing traffic data like traffic counts, signal timing, and how roads and intersections are designed

They are also running traffic models for two future scenarios:

  • Scenario 1: I-94 stays as it is

  • Scenario 2: A Land Bridge is built

To do this, the team is using a mix of big-picture and close-up modeling tools, including travel models from the Metropolitan Council and more detailed, dynamic models that zoom in on neighborhood-level impacts.

Why it Matters

This traffic analysis helps us understand how people move through Rondo now and how they’re likely to move in the years ahead. These insights will play an important role in shaping:

  • The Neighborhood Area Plan

  • The federal NEPA environmental review

  • Other key project decisions

In short, it’s about making informed choices that reflect real travel patterns and support a better future for the Rondo community. We’ll share more updates on the traffic study and what it means for Rondo in an upcoming webinar — stay tuned.

Rondo Air Check, Coming Soon

This spring, we’ll be installing six PurpleAir sensors around the Rondo area to learn more about local air quality near I-94.


Sensors will be placed near community spaces make installation easier and more accessible. More details on timing and locations are coming soon.


This data helps us better understand air quality today, so we can plan smarter for tomorrow. Thanks for staying engaged, Rondo!

Restorative Neighborhood Area Plan Update

The Restorative Neighborhood Area Plan guides how ReConnect Rondo will restore connection, culture, and opportunity in the historic Rondo neighborhood. The plan looks at housing, arts and culture, transportation, health, and economic development. Right now, we’re implementing key strategies, coordinating with community members, and turning the plan’s vision into action that benefits residents today and for generations to come.

National Environmental Policy Act Update

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) ensures that projects like the ReConnect Rondo land bridge are carefully reviewed for environmental, social, and community impacts before moving forward. Right now, we’ve defined the study area, identified what will be analyzed, and are gathering input to guide the next steps in the process — keeping community voices at the center of planning.

     

Make Your Voice Heard: MnDOT Public Comment Period Closing Soon📢 

MnDOT’s public comment period for the Rethinking I-94 project is still open — but not for long. The comment period closes March 23rd.


Through the Rethinking I-94 comment period, community voices will help shape the future of the I-94 corridor and its impact on connection, mobility, and equity in Rondo. You can share your input in several ways: submit comments by email, letter, or online through MnDOT’s website, or stop by the ReConnect Rondo office and we’ll help submit your comment for you.


We encourage all community members to participate and make their perspectives heard. Every comment matters and every comment helps inform what comes next for Rondo.

     

Stay Connected