HomeMy WebLinkAboutFrance CrossingContact: Debbie Townsend, Communications Coordinator
Phone 952-826-0346 • dtownsend@EdinaMN.gov • EdinaMN.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feedback Sought on Safer Way to Cross France Avenue
Edina, Minn., May 7, 2025 – The City of Edina seeks resident feedback about a possible pedestrian and bicycle route that would connect neighborhoods west of France Avenue to Centennial
Lakes Park, the Edina Promenade and other destinations east of France.
The route would allow people to bike and walk on both sides of France, crossing under the street instead of having to cross six lanes of busy traffic. More than 27,000 vehicles a day
travel along France Avenue in the Greater Southdale area.
“The City continues to explore ways to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety in Edina. Over the past few years, we’ve looked into improved street-level crossings, an over-the-road bridge
and a below-grade underpass,” said Economic Development Manager Bill Neuendorf. “The under-the-road option is preferred to integrate into the existing topography.”
New renderings and a video flythrough of this potential route have been created to illustrate how it could connect the South Cornelia and Parklawn neighborhoods to Centennial Lakes and
the Promenade. Neighbors, residents and other stakeholders are invited to review the information at EdinaMN.gov/FranceCrossing and use the “Share Your Thoughts” tab to provide feedback.
“This concept has potential, but community input is needed to inform the City Council before they decide whether or not to pursue funding for this type of improvement,” Neuendorf said.
The route proposed at the edge of the South Cornelia Neighborhood between West 72nd Street and Gallagher Drive is being considered now because it could be integrated into the redevelopment
projects already underway in this area. It’s also an ideal location for a safer crossing as the adjacent neighborhoods have the highest population density in Edina, including many school-age
children, seniors and people with disabilities, Neuendorf noted.
No funding has been established yet. If the City decides to move forward with the concept, funding would be sought from federal, state, Metropolitan Council and Hennepin County programs.
Money also could come from new property taxes generated by the adjacent construction projects.
For more information, contact Neuendorf at bneuendorf@EdinaMN.gov or 952-826-0407.
-30-