For decades, the Bloomington clock tower at the intersection of Lyndale Avenue and 98th Street has been a familiar feature. Over time, the structure's condition has declined and it now presents ongoing maintenance and safety concerns.
The City’s facilities team and an external consultant did a comprehensive assessment to review the tower’s structural integrity, mechanical systems, safety compliance and long-term maintenance needs.
The evaluation found advanced structural wear from age and weather exposure, outdated clock components requiring full replacement and reconstruction needs that go far beyond routine repair. Costs to restore the tower would be substantial and out of proportion to its remaining useful life. And its components are no longer manufactured or available to purchase.
Based on these findings, the City plans to remove the clock tower in mid-September. The City is exploring options with the property owner for what’s next for the site.
To honor the history of the clock tower, the City will carefully remove and store the clock face. And the historical plaques on the tower will be transferred to the Bloomington Historical Society. Stay up to date at blm.mn/clock-tower.
