Page 12 - Steve Cramer News Today

It could take three years before business returns to normal at the Convention Center, which saw at least 70% decline in revenue during the pandemic.

Visitors, positive publicity left leaders feeling good about a return from pandemic and civic struggles.

The NCAA Women's Basketball Final Four was the first major multi-day event in downtown Minneapolis since the coronavirus pandemic began. The crowds brought new hope for businesses trying to recover.

Downtown Minneapolis restaurants and bars are looking forward to thousands of people coming downtown to dine in over the course of the NCAA Women's Final Four this weekend.

The NCAA Women's Final Four will generate millions of dollars and bring national exposure to Minneapolis at a time when the city is bidding to host other big events.

Travelers workers have started a new hybrid model. Ecolab and Securian have set dates. The 3M corporate campus is officially open to all workers again as well.

The RBC Gateway tower is the tallest office building to be built downtown in 30 years and is expected to bring round-the-clock energy to the north end of Nicollet Mall.

As office workers return — many with hybrid schedules — public safety remains a concern.

Several structures will display Ukrainian colors following Russias invasion.

There are growing signs of commercial life as more big employers have started a hybrid back-to-office rhythm in the past few weeks as omicron rates come down.