Project supported by new $4.7 million grant
After 10 years of community-led discussions, Tribal engagement, fundraising and project design, the Dakota-led nonprofit Owámniyomni Okhódayapi has announced construction will begin this month on the restoration of a five-acre site at Owámniyomni (St. Anthony Falls), adjacent to the Upper Lock on Ȟaȟa Wakpá (Mississippi River) in Minneapolis.
Once complete, the restoration will create both a wildlife habitat and human experience at one of Minnesota’s most popular and iconic outdoor spaces that reflects the significance of the sacred Dakota site before colonization. Owámniyomni Okhódayapi recently received a $4.7 million grant from Mellon Foundation, directly supporting the immediate land transformation work ahead.
“This moment marks more than the start of construction for the Owámniyomni project – it is a step toward healing a sacred Dakota place, restoring our relationship with the land and water, and making Dakota people visible in our homelands again. We are deeply grateful for this transformative gift of nearly $5 million from Mellon Foundation, which helps make it possible to bring Dakota voices, values and stewardship back to the River, while fundamentally reshaping how people understand Mnísota and healing historical wounds. We are grateful that the Mellon Foundation recognizes the significance of Native-leadership, tribal sovereignty and community healing. Together, we are ensuring this place is honored not as a resource, but as a living relative for generations to come.” Shelley Buck, president, Owámniyomni Okhódayapi
The restoration will occur over a phased timeline, with phase one focused on the land and plant elements in 2026-2027. Phase two, which will focus on water and shoreline restoration, is planned for 2028.
Project construction beginning in mid-May 2026 will mark the start of the land transformation of the Owámniyomni project, focused on site preparation and planting. Initial activities to prepare the site will include removing the second level of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers central control station, a non-functioning restroom facility and the Upper Lock parking lot. Security fencing and utilities will also be relocated. From there, planting will begin to reintroduce Native species at the site, including oak savanna and upland prairie, using seeds and soils sourced from Dakota Tribal lands in Minnesota.
While the site will be closed for construction until spring 2027, the public is invited to visit the surrounding area, take in the view from the Stone Arch Bridge, attend interpretive tours and participate in programming at the new Owámniyomni Engagement Space. The Owámniyomni Engagement Space is adjacent to the project site and is located in the Crown Plaza building, directly across from the entrance to the Stone Arch Bridge.
Funding for the Owámniyomni restoration comes from a mix of public and private funders as the organization leads a $60 million fundraising campaign. To date, $40.5 million has been raised, thanks to early support from Paul and Mary Reyelts, Mark and Nancy Wilson, Mellon Foundation, Bush Foundation, McKnight Foundation, Minneapolis Foundation, and hundreds of additional supporters. Funding is also provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund and Outdoor Heritage Fund.
The organization is on track to gain ownership of the federal land through conveyance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in late 2026.
To learn more, visit the project website at owamniyomni.org/design.
