Uptown has long been one of Minneapolis’s most recognizable neighborhoods. For decades it was a destination for restaurants, music, shopping, and nightlife. But like much of the city, the area has struggled in recent years with vacant storefronts, declining foot traffic, and ongoing debates about public safety and street conditions.
In this week’s interview, we spoke with Kevin Norman, founder of the grassroots group Uptown United. Norman recently launched a letter-writing campaign and a new community initiative aimed at helping restore confidence in the neighborhood.
The effort will kick off publicly at a community meeting on March 19 at 6 p.m. at Arizona Taco in Seven Points, where residents, business owners, and local officials will gather to learn more and sign up to participate.
To learn more about the organization or the event, visit the website:
Interview Summary
Norman, who moved back to Uptown after a decade working in the Bay Area tech industry, said his goal is simple: help bring Uptown back to life. Through Uptown United, he is organizing volunteer “community ambassador” walks where residents spend time in the neighborhood, meet neighbors, and help create a more welcoming atmosphere.
Norman emphasizes that the effort is meant to be apolitical and community-driven. His hope is that by increasing positive activity and engagement on the streets, Uptown can rebuild momentum, support small businesses, and once again become a vibrant place where people feel comfortable spending time. The March 19 meeting will introduce the program and recruit volunteers for the first set of community walks planned later this month.
