Plans for Maple Grove Performing Arts Center Come Into View
Plans for a state-of-the-art performing arts center in Maple Grove are in the initial phase, but nonetheless took a significant step forward for a project that has been in the works for several years.
The plans by Maple Grove nonprofit Avalanche Arts of Minnesota would build a 23,000-square-foot, 300-seat theater on a vacant 2-acre site at the intersection of Main Street and Lakeview Drive, directly across from the Hennepin County Library and overlooking North Arbor Lake. The land is owned by the city, which the nonprofit would lease from.
“The facility is intended to serve as a vibrant hub for performing arts, community engagement, and educational programming,” said Shane Vinup, executive director of Avalanche Arts of Minnesota, in a letter to the city. “The theater will be designed to support a wide range of events, including theatrical productions, lectures, concerts, rehearsals, and special events.”
The Maple Grove Planning Commission recommended approval of a planned unit development concept stage plan, the very beginning of the various development stages, at its March 9 meeting.
City officials have described the performing arts center as a “key component” of Maple Grove’s civic campus vision. Jesse Corrow, Maple Grove’s city planner, said the city has been working with Avalanche Arts since 2023 to bring the project forward.
Avalanche Arts would fund construction and oversee operations and maintenance costs of the facility. The project would also include plans for an outdoor performance lawn and a public art garden.
No specific construction timeline has been given for the project. At the March 9 planning commission meeting, Corrow said Avalanche Arts plans to move forward with a fundraising campaign.
Future Street Improvements
Construction of a performing arts venue would coincide with city reconstruction of Main Street. The project includes building two roundabouts and realigning Lakeview Drive and 82nd Avenue.
Road construction is planned for 2027 with completion in either 2028 or 2029, said Corrow.
New Maple Grove Performing Arts Center building would face Main Street. Construction of two roundabouts would also occur as part of a separate city project.
NOTE: Rendering of Maple Grove Performing Arts Center courtesy Mahler & Associates Architecture
