Target Field Station Stormwater Reuse

Target Field Station was built with a number of features that capture, clean and reuse stormwater runoff. An MWMO grant funded construction of the stormwater reuse system, which is used to supply water to the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC).

Also known as “The Interchange,” Target Field Station is a multimodal transportation hub located adjacent to the baseball stadium from which it takes its name. Located in Minneapolis’ North Loop Neighborhood, the site serves as a light rail station, rail bridge, public plaza and entertainment space.

The stormwater reuse system captures approximately 25 percent of runoff from Target Field Station and stores it in a pair of cisterns. From there, it is pumped into the nearby Hennepin Energy Recovery Center and used to help produce energy. The system enables the reuse of more than 1 million gallons of stormwater runoff each year, removing an estimated 97 percent of sediment and 62 percent of phosphorus from the captured runoff.

Another feature (not funded by the MWMO) that benefits water quality is a no-shovel snowmelt system. An antifreeze mixture is pumped through 50 miles of plastic tubing embedded in the concrete platform. This system melts the snow without the use of salt or deicing chemicals, which reduces pollution in the Mississippi River. The Interchange also incorporates a green roof, tree pits, permeable pavers and swales — all of which help reduce the amount of runoff from the site.

Interpretive signage at the station educates visitors on the benefits of these best management practices.