You first, the Hennepin County Board said to Minneapolis last week.
The board heard from Ryan Companies Vice President Rick Collins about the planned $400 million mixed-use development west of the new Vikings stadium. Collins told the board of the company's goal to close all or parts of Park and Portland avenues to enhance the "urban park experience" at 4th Street S. and Portland Avenue.
Board members have expressed opposition to restricting traffic because of concerns about access to Hennepin County Medical Center.
Collins said building a bridge over or a tunnel under Portland would be too expensive.
Commissioner Peter McLaughlin expressed concern about how emergency patients would get to the hospital. "They're not all going to fly in on a copter," McLaughlin said.
Board Chairman Mike Opat said the county won't take a stand on road issues until the Minneapolis City Council makes a recommendation.
ROCHELLE OLSON
@rochelleolson
