Construction has had a crippling effect on businesses in Edina, especially in Grandview and 50th & France.
To combat this the city implemented what's called "Worth The Detour, Edina."
"A second year in a row, construction has interrupted the flow of traffic to these businesses," explains City Council Member Carolyn Jackson. "So we really felt, my goodness, this is such an important part of our town we have to do what we can to direct people there. Because they're not only businesses but they're also community builders there, and it's very important that they thrive."
Those interested can pick up a passport at either City Hall or one of the participating businesses.
"And then when you go to visit these businesses, they will stamp your passport," she explains. "And when you get to five stamps, you can be eligible for a drawing, for a prize drawing, and they're going to draw prizes every three weeks."
As for getting in and out of the notoriously busy area even without construction, Jackson suggests an easier route.
"You can access 50th and France by coming north on France from 62 and France, and coming south from Excelsior in France," says Jackson. "So France is wide open now, so you can still get there. You don't necessarily have to take 100, so I want to encourage people to think of getting to 50th and France from those routes."
The City of Edina, Hennepin County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation is replacing the bridge over Highway 100 and the Vernon Avenue Bridge over the Canadian Pacific Railroad. The overall project will also improve the intersections at Interlachen Boulevard, Gus Young Lane, Arcadia Avenue and the Highway 100 on- and off-ramps.
The passport program lasts until November 15th. Visit here for a full list of businesses involved.
