November 11, 2025
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Minneapolis weighs downtown public restroom expansion

Minneapolis’ Public Health and Safety Committee is reviewing a 62-page city report on the shortage of public restrooms downtown and options to increase access, including installing standalone “Portland Loo” units or compelling businesses to open facilities. The analysis cites 27 city 311 complaints about human feces and 26 about public urination from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, and notes costs of $152,000–$185,000 per unit (or ~$24,000/year to rent) as the Council considers next steps.

Local Government Public Health

📌 Key Facts

  • City report finds few publicly accessible restrooms downtown outside special events; many business restrooms have restricted access.
  • 311 logged 27 feces-related and 26 public-urination reports (July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025).
  • Standalone ‘Portland Loo’ units are estimated at $152,000–$185,000 each or ~$24,000/year to rent; council may also consider ordinances affecting business access.

📰 Sources (1)

Public restroom problem: Minneapolis wants to increase access downtown
FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul by Nick.Longworth@fox.com (Nick Longworth) November 11, 2025