Suburban Minnehaha Creek restoration starts

Work begins Wednesday on restoration of a section of Minnehaha Creek in St. Louis Park.

The creek north of Excelsior Boulevard was straightened to allow for development, and now the plan is to rebuild its natural curves and environmental potential.

The project will include new trails, which will provide better access to the creek, and connections to other trail systems.

"We slow down the water, which prevents erosion, we reconnect the creek to adjacent wetlands allowing for infiltration, we enhance wildlife habitat and provide green space for the surrounding community," said Telly Mamayek, spokeswoman for the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. "We are hoping to turn back the hands of time."

The wetlands had been filled in, allowing storm water to flow untreated off parking lots and rooftops adjacent to the creek, she said.

Construction is scheduled to end in mid-February.