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Introduction to The Commons August 2016 The Commons is a new park idea for Minneapolis. After 133 years of enjoying one of the most celebrated public park systems in the United States, Minneapolis will now host a highly activated downtown destination park, run in the model of a public/private park conservancy. Green Minneapolis, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is the fundraiser for The Commons and the presumed operator. In modeling the ethos of a destination park — exemplary maintenance and security, an oasis of green space and gardens, bustling with programming and people — Green Minneapolis has looked to successful destination parks run by conservancies around the country. Park Conservancies now exist in over half of large US Cities', and combine the best of public parks with management efficiencies, expertise, and funding leverage of the private sector. Notable examples include: • Bryant Park, New York • Discovery Green, Houston • Campus Martins, Detroit • Pioneer Square, Portland • Civic Center Park, Denver • Millennium Park, Chicago This booklet lays out the idea and practical application of running a successful destination park Placemaking (pages 5 & 6) is both a philosophy and hands-on process, and guides The Commons in creating a great place for people. Physical amenities such as mobile seating, sweeping lawns, gorgeous gardens, and breathtaking views of the city skyline are the foundation on which thoughtful planning and curating overlays activities, events, and discovery to draw people to the park and keep them coming back. Equity is foundational in creating a great place for ALL people. Community Outreach and Engagement (pages 7 & 8) are crucial elements for a destination park to remain relevant and connected to the people it serves. On-going engagement with residents, city leaders, employers and downtown workers strengthens dialog, invites emerging ideas, and builds ownership and excitement with the people who use The Commons. Funding The Commons will be an on-going effort. Reliant on an array of funding sources, Green Minneapolis will look to revenue -generating sources (such as a restaurant and other concessions), philanthropy, and corporate sponsorships to underwrite the hundreds of free programming activities offered to park visitors. A Request for Interest for Potential Sponsors (pages 11-13) outlines our approach to attracting and sustaining substantial dollars to keep The Commons activated and relevant. Programming is what will set The Commons apart from other parks. A concentration of energy and people, punctuated by activities that delight, engage, challenge and connect visitors will be the park's hallmark. Categories of "Sponsored" and "General Unsponsored" programming are included. We invite you to imagine with us all that The Commons can be — a vital, equitable, financially sustainable park that is the "collective front porch" of a vital city. We think it is going to be great: Welcome to The Commons! t Trust for Public Land, "Public Spaces/Private Money;' 2015 24