Hidden Behind Sound Barriers

Found this 1878 cottage behind sound barriers where two freeways meet. Next door, an 1889 brick row house is caught in the tarantula-like grip of a frame that supports billboards.

Lawlessness

Caught glimpses of the Mississippi below through cracks and gaps as I wheeled my bicycle across the bridge. The railroad company had installed a steel grid walkway for their workers over rotting and missing boards. A sign that once stated “No Trespassing” exuded lawlessness.

Interracial Housing

Cycled along a street of 28 modest homes constructed in the 1950s as part of the first privately-developed interracial housing project in Minneapolis, and one of the first housing projects in the country to offer federal-government-insured (FHA) mortgages.

Minneapolis Protest Street Art

The elderly white woman periodically topped up our wine glasses. When she decided we were sufficiently lubricated, she turned the conversation to race, specifically African Americans. “They need to get over it,” she announced, repeating with added vehemence, “Get over it.” That conversation has been reverberating in my head as I’ve been looking at street… Continue reading Minneapolis Protest Street Art

Eagles at Pickerel Lake

Included West St. Paul on our cycle ride. At Pickerel Lake, spotted an eagles nest sitting directly on a power line. Eventually, two eaglets peered out, probably impatient for food to be delivered.

10th Avenue Bridge

Walked under the 10th Avenue Bridge, currently undergoing major rehabilitation. It’s next to the Interstate 35W Bridge that replaces a bridge that collapsed, without warning, during rush hour in August 2007.