Bloomington Forward projects

Bloomington made big strides over the summer on the three Bloomington Forward community projects.

A new community health and wellness center is underway

The transformation of the old Creekside Community Center site at 9801 Penn Ave. S. is officially underway. Demolition is scheduled this month, with construction on the new community health and wellness center planned for the site beginning in November through 2026 with an opening tentatively slated for 2027.

Planning wrapped up in August after several community feedback events and City Council and Planning Commission review. The new center will serve residents of all ages and backgrounds with modern, flexible spaces.

Renderings on this page highlight many of the features residents can look forward to, including:

• Spaces for programs, including senior programs.

• Family-friendly pool and locker rooms.

• Fitness studios and exercise spaces.

• Gymnasiums with bleachers.

• Indoor playground and supervised child play area.

• Multi-purpose rooms for events and activities.

• Offices for Public Health and Parks and Recreation.

• Public health program, exam and counseling rooms.

• Walking/jogging track.

Visit bloomingtonforward.org/chwc for project details.

BIG is back!

Bloomington Ice Garden reopens

Get ready to retake the ice! Bloomington Ice Garden is open and looking better than ever.

After a makeover, BIG now shines with new rinks and upgraded plumbing, heating, locker rooms and stadium seating. Whether visiting for open skate, developmental hockey or pro’s ice, it’s time to lace up and hit the rink. Registration is open for Learn-to-Skate and Learn-to-Play Hockey programs. Watch for information about a grand opening celebration in November.

A new community-inspired mural by Minnesota artist Adam Turman will soon greet visitors in the entryway. There are also exciting sponsorship and naming opportunities for local businesses.

So, mark your calendars for upcoming public skating and special events, and remember BIG is a go-to spot for birthday parties, meetings and more.

Get the full schedule, rental information and program details at blm.mn/big. Projects like the BIG improvements show Bloomington’s commitment to creating spaces that reflect community needs and bring people together.

Nine Mile Creek Corridor update: Restoration, recreation
and renewal

Progress has been made on the Nine Mile Creek Corridor Renewal Project, enhancing Moir and Central parks through ecological restoration, upgraded amenities and improved accessibility.

The project is in design development, with construction planned for spring 2026-2027. Tree removal and thinning may begin in early 2026. Community input has aided in shaping the work, from workshops and focus groups to the summer open house showcasing playground, disc golf, shelter concepts and design updates. This strong public engagement effort earned a first-place Savvy Award in the national 3CMA Savvy Awards contest and a second-place Silver Award at the Minnesota Association of Government Communicators Northern Lights Awards.

Work will restore 131 acres of woodland, wetland and creek habitat; and add playgrounds and picnic shelters; and make ADA, infrastructure and trail improvements. A pedestrian bridge north of Queen Avenue that is planned for replacement with the project in 2026 was closed in July 2025 due to significant erosion and structural issues. Visit bloomingtonforward.org/9mile for project details.