Around thirty neighbors and community leaders gathered at Maxfield Elementary School in December to begin working on a community vision for the future of the Victoria Street bridge over I-94 and the surrounding area. Artist Seitu Jones and Rondo Avenue Inc. founder Marvin Anderson kicked off the workshop with an uplifting call for the bridges over I-94 to become an opportunity for healing and reflection of the core values of the Rondo neighborhood. A walk outside in the rain, with stops at Brooks Funeral Home and the future site of the Rondo Commemorative Plaza, gave us a chance to evaluate the area and share community stories and history. Three workshop tables allowed us to consider short and long term ideas for the bridge itself, as well as a larger, more ambitious vision for the broader area including a potential freeway cap or lid over I-94. We rounded out the evening with some delicious homemade chili and some chicken from Big Daddy’s BBQ.
Thanks to everyone who joined us in person or has been following along even though they couldn’t make it! Please take the online survey if you haven’t had a chance, and save the date for Saturday, February 20th 3-6pm. We’ll be participating in an outdoor winter event with art installations, fire pits, hot cocoa, and a chance to continue looking carefully at how we can advocate for improved bridges over I-94.
