Tree-Planting Block Party Called Off
A big Arbor Day Block Party planned for the North Loop on April 24th is being postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the planting of about 130 trees—which was the centerpiece of the celebration—may still happen on schedule.
Spring is an ideal time for tree planting, so the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is considering whether to let arborists plant at least a majority of the trees along 3rd Street in April and schedule a celebration at a later date when it’s safe again for crowds to congregate.
When the Park and Rec Board chose the North Loop for its annual Arbor Day party, it was a first for an urban area. The event has always before been in a neighborhood park.
Philip Potyondy, the Sustainable Forestry Coordinator for the MPRB, said he was impressed by the North Loop’s level of engagement and excitement over the new trees. “Every year I get to work with a new group of people in a different part of Minneapolis,” he said, “This year’s Arbor Day Committee has been by far the most momentum building group of people to be working with.”
The committee had been working plans to shut down several blocks of 3rd Street for the block party, with live music, food trucks, a beer garden, and several tree-themed activities for families.
“I am optimistic that we will still be able to host an amazing celebration after we get through this current challenging season,” Potyondy said.