Metro briefs: Minneapolis council vote could revive North Side grocery project

A long-awaited North Side grocery store that appeared dead this December may ultimately be revived.

A City Council panel will vote Tuesday on extending entrepreneur Glenn Ford's development rights for a city-owned parcel at Penn and Plymouth Avenues. The three-month extension would be Ford's second, after twice failing to deliver the so-called Praxis Foods project by the city's deadlines.

Ford initially approached the city in 2011 about his plans to build a 30,000-square-foot grocery store, which would have about 75 full-time employees. He hopes to hire Minneapolis residents and sell locally grown food.

The city told Ford in a November letter it would be pulling the plug on the project after the Dec. 31 deadline. He responded that the city was giving up just as he was wrapping up a complicated financing deal.

The new extension — if approved — would give Ford until April 28 to submit architectural plans.

The fate of the project could be an important milestone in North Side revitalization, particularly since the area lacks fresh food options. The store would sell fresh produce, meat and fish, as well as fully prepared meals made on the premises, according to a city staff report.

Eric Roper

"Being involved on a board or a commission is an excellent way to serve Edina and your neighbors," said MJ Lamon, the city's project coordinator. "The city's boards and commissions cover a wide range of interests and expertise, so residents are nearly always able to find a board or commission to serve on that fits their skill sets."

To learn more or to apply, go to EdinaMN.gov/advisory-boards-commissions.

Staff report

Applications are being taken for community grants from the Eagan Foundation. Nonprofit community organizations are encouraged to submit proposals to fund projects in Eagan. Past grants have typically been $1,000 or less, but applicants may submit detailed requests for the amount they are seeking.

Since 1991, the Eagan Foundation has contributed more than $1 million to the Eagan community through scholarships, local initiatives and community grants, including $8,600 to 10 local nonprofits last year.

Staff report

Cross-country skiers: It's time to polish off the gear and head to a Ramsey County park.

Ramsey County Parks and Recreation staff began grooming trails Friday. All trails have been rolled and packed and are open for use.

Trails will continue to be groomed after each significant snowfall and tracks will be maintained as long as a 6-inch base of snow is available, according to county officials.

Ski trails are generally groomed after snow removal is complete at major parking lots and recreational facilities.

Trail maps and grooming updates are available on the Ramsey County Parks and Recreation website at http://parks.co.ramsey.mn.us.