Hennepin and First avenues switch to two-way traffic

Depiction of Hennepin Avenue after the two-way conversion

Hennepin and First avenues, two major streets in downtown Minneapolis, have switched from one-way to two-way streets. The conversion help make Downtown more accessible for many folks.

  • This change is a key step in revitalizing Hennepin and First avenues and making them even more vibrant “main streets” for Minneapolis that showcase what’s best about our city.
  • Two-way streets give drivers better, more direct access to their destinations, leading to fewer “around the block” trips.
  • With two-way traffic come some important enhancements that make biking and walking Downtown a better option than ever.

Other important changes along Hennepin and First avenues:

o There are now bicycle lanes along First Avenue. They’re located between the curb and parallel parking spaces on both sides of the street.

o Some intersections along Hennepin and First avenues have new “bike boxes,” which make it easier for bicyclists to make left turns.

o Hennepin Avenue now has a shared lane that bikes, buses and all vehicles turning right use.

Listen/download: How two-way conversion of Hennepin and First avenues will help make Downtown more accessible (MP3 file)