Minneapolis to rebuild George Floyd Square: Some fear businesses won't survive construction

June 8, 2026 - 01:54

Minneapolis is moving forward with a major redevelopment project at George Floyd Square, the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue where George Floyd was killed in 2020. Construction is set to begin in the coming weeks, and city officials say the work will transform the area into a permanent memorial and community space. But the project has sparked mixed reactions, with some local business owners worried they may not survive the months of disruption.

The redevelopment includes new sidewalks, lighting, and a redesigned street layout meant to honor the site's significance while making it more accessible. The city has pledged to keep the memorial intact, but the construction timeline could stretch into late 2025. For small shops and restaurants that have struggled since the protests and pandemic, the prospect of blocked streets and reduced foot traffic is daunting.

"We barely made it through the last few years," said one store owner who asked not to be named. "Now they're telling us we might have to close for weeks at a time. I don't know if we can come back from that." Others in the community support the project, seeing it as a necessary step to preserve the square's legacy and attract visitors long-term. City officials have promised financial assistance and outreach to affected businesses, but critics argue the aid is insufficient and poorly communicated.

The square has remained a gathering place for activists and mourners since 2020, with murals, sculptures, and a constant presence of community volunteers. The city's plan aims to balance that grassroots energy with urban infrastructure needs, but the tension between preservation and progress is far from resolved. As bulldozers prepare to roll in, the question remains: can the square's spirit survive the construction?