Uptown United’s community ambassador program has been operating since late March 2026 as one solution to a rise in public drug use and loitering around Lake Street and Hennepin Avenue.
“We’ve seen really encouraging momentum in Uptown since our community walks began in March,” said Kevin Norman, who heads Uptown United, the group sponsoring the walks.
Anywhere from 50 to a handful of people take part in the 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday night walks that start at Seven Points Mall. Some people carry “Show Uptown” signs that are also displayed in windows of nearby businesses and homes.
“There has been a noticeable improvement in cleanliness, with virtually no visible trash or drug paraphernalia during our walks now,” Norman said, adding that the weekly walks are reconnecting area businesses with their neighbors.
“We regularly hear words of appreciation from small business owners we stop in to support,” Norman said. “And it’s been great to see new friendships and a real community of champions for Uptown forming along the way.”
The walks and signs are Uptown United’s efforts to reinvigorate the area by creating a safer and more welcoming commercial district.
Uptown United will partner with Moona Moona and Magers & Quinn for “Uptown Summer Kick Off” on May 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with Twin Cities chef Ann Kim providing free Uptown hot dogs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the corner of Hennepin Avenue and 31st Street.
For more information on the ambassador program and Uptown United, visit https://uptownunitedmpls.org.
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