We support micro-initiatives that inspire permanent changes in our communities.
The Center for Prevention funds short-term, low-cost projects that make staying active easier. These initiatives have the potential to inspire additional support and build momentum for permanent improvements in Minnesota communities.
Examples of recent Active Places Demonstration Projects include:
- Arrowhead Regional Development Commission — installation of a temporary protected bicycle lane on Michigan Street in downtown Duluth.
- Clay County Public Health — creation of a pop-up protected bike lane on Center Avenue, which spans the two-mile distance between downtown Fargo and Moorhead.
- Metro Blooms — establishment by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board of a model bioswale boulevard site in the Harrison neighborhood to demonstrate the potential of citywide bioswale policies.
- Mississippi Watershed Management Organization — reviving the Lincoln School playground to encourage community connections and create opportunities for children to learn and play.
- North St. Paul — demonstration of the benefits of fulfilling the city’s “living streets” policy by creating bike lanes as part of street construction projects.
- Southside Greenway Council— promoting block parties along the greenway route to give community members a way to connect with their neighbors and further momentum for the greenway.
- Spring Grove Parks Department— temporary paths near city parks and the swim center to create a conversation supporting the benefits of permanent walking paths.
- Transit for Livable Communities — helping residents reimagine public spaces by encouraging the exploration of two temporary parklets in St. Paul.
- Urban Oasis— improving neighborhood walkability by installing garden planters to honor the diverse food traditions on St. Paul’s East Side.
- Winona — hosting events featuring tuj lub, a traditional Hmong top-spinning game, at public schools to help diminish a sense of isolation felt among members of the growing Hmong population, inspire interest in Hmong culture for other area residents, and build community.