FRIENDS OF TRIANGLE PARK
Dedicated to preserving and beautifying Triangle Park, the "front yard" of downtown Minneapolis.
The History of Triangle Park
The Beginnings...
Triangle Park was born in 1975 when the State of Minnesota Department of Highways constructed inbound and outbound ramps to I-35W, serving downtown Minneapolis between 4th and 5th Avenues and 10th and 11th Streets. The "triangular" parcel of land between the two ramps was thus created and the State installed a seating area and fences in the Upper Garden area of the park and then planted a small forest of honey locust trees. An irrigation system was installed in 2025.
City Partnership
The State, through the Highway Department contracted with the City of Minneapolis to provide services to the Park. The City agreed to build and maintain electrical service, lights, water, maintenance of the irrigation system, lawn mowing, trash pickup, and also, through the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, pruning and maintenance of the trees.
Non-Profit Formed
In 2007, concerns about the maintenance and safety conditions of Triangle Park were brought to the attention of MnDOT and the Lieutenant Governor. They responded with an invitation to work with a group of neighborhood citizens to maintain the Park. This led to the creation of "Friends of Triangle Park," a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in neighboring Grant Park Condos (built in 2004). FTP's stated purpose is "Restoring and maintaining Triangle Park so that it is a prominent landmark for downtown Minneapolis, which will welcome visitors and neighbors to a safe and beautiful place. The corporation will supply the means to provide and maintain flowers, trees and improvements to the park."
Two of Our Founders
Dean Jacobson was a founding member of FTP and responsible for forging its successful relationship with MnDOT, the City of Minneapolis, and corporate sponsors. He passed away in 2024.
Jerry Dustrud was a leader of the Friends of Triangle Park since its formation as a non-profit organization. He was the driving force behind the park’s pollinator garden and other features. He passed away in 2025.
Partnering
The City and the State Highway Department (now MnDOT) are now established partners with the Friends of Triangle Park and we successfully work together to make the park a source of pride for the community.
