Robbinsdale Residents Push for Return of Curfew Siren
Every night for several decades, a siren would blare across Robbinsdale at 9 p.m. to alert the city that minors should go inside.
That curfew siren has been silent since August, but now there’s a group of Robbinsdale residents who are calling on the city to bring it back.
“I’d like to see it continue,” said Kate Richardson of Robbinsdale. “I know that there is a small expenditure to changing it out, but it is something that’s so unique to Robbinsdale. And it is that small town vibe that is unique. Nobody else does it. It’s a great reminder for kids. It’s a great reminder for adults.”
Richardson is one of a number of Robbinsdale residents who are making a push on social media to bring back the curfew siren.
According to Robbinsdale officials, the city cut power to the curfew siren — which is located on the historic water tower — back on Aug. 22 because an adjacent building that houses the siren’s infrastructure is scheduled to be demolished.
Robbinsdale’s curfew siren is located on the historic water tower.
For the siren to be reactivated, the city would have to find a new place to put the controls and wiring.
Robbinsdale would also have to spend between $6,000 to $10,000 for a new variable-frequency drive (VFD), controller for the siren, miscellaneous parts and labor to move the siren.
“So right now, council’s taking feedback,” said Robbinsdale City Manager Tim Sandvik. “We’re looking for information from residents. Is this something you want to bring back online? Is it something that the city should maintain? There is a cost associated with that, and there will be some infrastructure work, again, because where it’s housed will be coming down.”
The city manager recommends people reach out to him directly to share their feedback on the curfew siren.
The Robbinsdale City Council will address the issue at a future meeting.
Related: Robbinsdale Water Tower Reaches Maximum Height
