Stanley’s in NE Minneapolis Spared from Closure Amid Road Project

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — One of Northeast Minneapolis’ most recognizable dining spots, Stanley’s Northeast Bar Room, has avoided what could have been a devastating closure.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) confirmed it will no longer consider taking over the restaurant’s property as part of a major redesign of University Avenue Northeast.

The decision comes after months of uncertainty in which eminent domain was on the table, potentially leading to the demolition of Stanley’s to make way for roadway changes.

A Safer but Still Impactful Plan

The University Avenue project aims to “increase safety and make University Ave. Northeast easier for everyone to travel on,” according to MnDOT. The Lowry and University avenues intersection, where Stanley’s sits, is known for heavy crash activity — dozens of injury collisions in the past five years — and the restaurant’s building itself has been struck by vehicles at least two dozen times.

“It’s a wild intersection,” said Luke Derheim, co-owner of Stanley’s operator Craft and Crew Hospitality. “We know that there’s an elevated risk of traffic accidents.”

Instead of leveling Stanley’s, MnDOT now plans to shift the intersection south, a change officials believe will reduce crash rates, cause fewer traffic delays, and create more space for large vehicles.

Lingering Concerns for Businesses

While Stanley’s is safe from demolition, the proposed design will still impact its operations and other businesses along the corridor.

“We know there are still businesses facing potential challenges, and we continue to stand with them,” Stanley’s said in a public statement.

History and Community Presence

Stanley’s occupies a 130-year-old building that has served many purposes over the decades and has operated under its current name for the past 15 years. It’s become a community hub known for its pet-friendly patio, hearty pub food, and vibrant neighborhood events.

Project Scope and Timeline

Construction for the University Avenue redesign is slated to begin in 2027. Key elements of the plan include:

• Narrowing University Avenue from four lanes to three
• Widening sidewalks to improve pedestrian access
• Adding boulevards for enhanced safety and aesthetics
• Reconfiguring traffic flow at Lowry and University to reduce collisions

Balancing Safety with Business Vitality

MnDOT’s updated approach represents a balance between safety upgrades and preserving local institutions. While some commercial properties will still be affected by construction impacts, the decision to spare Stanley’s is being welcomed by many in the neighborhood as a win for local culture and history.

“Stanley’s is part of the fabric of Northeast Minneapolis,” one resident said. “It’s good to see progress that doesn’t erase our landmarks.”

Originally reported by Anthony Bettin in CBS News.