catalyst community partners

In April of 2007, Catalyst Community Partners/The Ackerberg Group, in partnership with Welsh Construction, Collaborative Design Group and the Center for Communication Development / KMOJ-FM responded to a City of Minneapolis issued Request for Proposals (RFP) to renovate the former Delisi’s building located at the southeast corner of Penn Avenue North and West Broadway. When finished, Delisi's will be known as the 5 Points Building.

This property is currently vacant and sits boarded at one of North Minneapolis’ busiest intersections. It is located near many significant Northside landmarks and amenities such as the Capri Theater, North Commons Park, the YMCA, North Memorial Hospital and Theodore Wirth Park.

A spectacular reorientation of the existing building will focus a new entrance toward the vibrant intersection and will include a pedestrian-scale outdoor plaza. 5 Points will also be the new home for KMOJ-FM radio ("The Peoples' Station" - 89.9 FM). The plaza will have patio space for first floor restaurants and transit stops complete with pedestrian-friendly public art. Both the building and plaza will invite community-based gatherings and be the signature of the five-corner West Broadway and Penn Avenue North intersection.

Specifically, the project includes the total renovation of a long-vacant building and the creation of a 23-space asphalt parking lot from two adjacent parcels. The existing brick structure which was constructed in 1914 and most recently housed the Delisi Bar and Restaurant requires a new roof, new floors, new mechanicals, elevator installation and extensive window and tuck-pointing work.

Catalyst Community Partners believe vibrant tenant-partners bring energy, identity and sustainability to the neighborhood community. As anchor tenant of 5 Points, KMOJ-FM's mission supports the development work of Catalyst Community Partners:

“KMOJ exists to develop and support the empowerment of the Black community through the power of mass communication by 1) providing information and education not offered through mainstream media outlets, and 2) teaching members of the Black community responsible journalism and media skills that offer professional experiences and increase the numbers of Black people employed in the media industry.”

In addition, Catalyst Community Partners are working with several community residents who have interests in opening sit-down restaurants at the building. These local entrepreneurs are currently developing business plans, seeking financing and receiving mentorship from successful restaurant owners. In addition, we are seeking second floor office users wishing to relocate to this prominent intersection.

Construction is expected to begin in early spring and be complete by summer 2009.

Catalyst Community Partners are committed to the Northside community and are thankful for the opportunity to assist in West Broadway’s rebirth.

Ownership
Catalyst Community Partners

Developer
The Ackerberg Group | www.ackerberg.com

Architect
Collaborative Design Group | www.collaborativedesigngroup.com

Contractor
Norman Construction

Tenants
Center for Communication and Development/KMOJ-FM

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