grand rounds national scenic Byway

The Grand Rounds Parkway system is a multi-modal transportation greenway, simultaneously supporting separated motor vehicle; bicycles, scooters and skates; as well as pedestrian traffic.

Since the late 1880's, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) has envisioned a park system that would link all sections of the city. The Grand Rounds is the nation's largest urban scenic byway stretching 50 miles and circling three fourths of Minneapolis. The Grand Rounds contains a park-like road, biking and walking trails, and green open spaces.

The "missing link" through prospect park

Since the 1930's plans were partially implemented to complete the system. A three-mile "Missing Link" exists between St. Anthony Parkway in Northeast Minneapolis and East River Parkway along the Mississippi River in Southeast Minneapolis.

In 2007, a plan was initiated by MPRB and the City Council to complete the system. The south part of the "Missing Link" will utilize a portion of future Granary Road and connects from Granary Road to existing East River Parkway using existing and expanded SE 27th Avenue. The south section includes two parkway segments and two park projects: D) Granary Road from the new parkway Bridge to SE 27th Avenue, and E) SE 27th Avenue from Granary Road to East River Parkway. Since 2007, the MPRB has been acquiring land and rights-of-way through the industrial area north of Prospect Park.

In 2018, the Prospect Park Association Environment Committee forwarded an enthusiastic letter of support to MSRB for the current proposed route to complete the Grand Rounds. Read the current plan here at the MSRB website.