Hennepin County Energy Center asbestos abatement project

The Hennepin County Energy Center is in downtown Minneapolis on South 6th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues South, directly across from the U.S. Bank Stadium. The energy center provides steam and chilled water to the Hennepin County Medical Center and 12 government buildings.

Asbestos abatement project

Hennepin County is upgrading the Energy Center to improve safety, reliability, and efficiency. Cooling tower panels from late 1960s will be removed and replaced. The existing panels contain asbestos, so specialized contractors will safely remove and dispose of them.

Traffic impacts

Beginning in late February or early March, crews will begin. Work is expected to last through late May.

All roads will remain open to traffic throughout construction, but crews will need to close some areas to safely complete the work. If you travel on South 6th Street between 9th and 10th Avenue South, here’s what to expect:

If you drive

• The right lane of eastbound South 6th Street will be closed from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; the other two eastbound lanes will remain open.
• The westbound traffic lane of South 6th Street is not affected.
• The on-street parking lane and parking meters will be closed.

If you walk

• The sidewalk adjacent to the building will be closed, and people walking will be routed across the street.

If you bike or roll

• The bike trail on South 6th Street is not affected.

All dates are tentative and weather dependent.

Safety

You may see contractors in protective gear and respirators. They are trained in asbestos removal and will follow strict safety protocols to keep people safe. Your safety is our priority. As long as you stay out of the designated work area and don’t handle any worksite materials, there is no risk to your health or safety.