Neighborhood Vibrancy

Improving neighborhood quality of life goes beyond the built environment and financial stability. It means finding creative ways to leverage community assets, inspire resident engagement, improve safety, and promote healthy lifestyles.

Drumming at the Little Africa Fest

LISC was one of the earliest proponents of comprehensive community development in the Twin Cities, and we continue to explore innovations in creative placemaking and community health.

In partnership with the National Football league Foundation, we manage the NFL Grassroots Program, which has contributed $1.6 million to create or restore 10 youth athletic fields in the Twin Cities.

East Lake Street Cultural Corridor

Mercado Central on E. Lake Street | Photo by Tom Borrup

Named "Making Connections," this cultural plan presents the outcomes of a thorough study authorized by the Lake Street – Greenway Partnership and completed by the Creative Community Builders consultant group. The plan is a call to action for building on the artistic and cultural riches of East Lake Street for economic stability and growth. The report provides expert and community based recommendations, actions, and strategies to rebuild East Lake Street after the decimation it experienced following the murder of George Floyd. The study employed various methods, including analyzing planning documents, mapping cultural assets, collecting historical and census data, conducting interviews and surveys, and collaborating with various private and public anchor institutions of the region.

East Lake Street, a deeply historic and centrally located commercial corridor in the Twin Cities, is recognized for being home to hundreds upon hundreds of immigrant business owners and cultural workers. This plan highlights the area's geography, public transportation infrastructure, and racial diversity. The plan helps readers to visualize and articulate the significant role this corridor has played – and should continue to play – as a central hub for cultural innovation, entrepreneurship, social cohesion, and sustainability.

This report was made possible by funding from LISC Twin Cities, the Lake Street Council, the Graves Foundation, and the McKnight Foundation.