The intersection of 50th Street and France Avenue has been the commercial heart of Edina for more than a century. What began as a streetcar corner with a creamery, blacksmith, church, garage, and general store gradually evolved into one of the Twin Cities' most vibrant retail and dining destinations — today home to approximately 175 retailers, service providers, and restaurants.
A Peek at the Past
A century ago, the corner served everyday needs for a farming community making its way into a streetcar suburb. Two early landmarks established the neighborhood's character: Gregg's Pharmacy, which opened in 1929, and the historic Edina Cinema, which opened in 1934 and introduced Art Deco architecture to the streetscape.
Today, 50th & France is also a year-round event hub. The Edina Art Fair — held each June and featuring 280 fine artists — has been voted the top art fair in Minnesota and 36th nationally. Other annual events include Open Streets on 50th, the Style Edina Fashion Show, Pumpkin Fest, Winter Market, Small Business Saturday, Tree Lighting, and the Crazy Days sidewalk sale.
Pardon the Progress
Construction on the redevelopment began in January, following city approval the previous summer. All stores remained open throughout the construction period. To ease access during the disruption, the city offered complimentary valet parking Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with no tipping required.
Looking to the Future
The redevelopment was scheduled for completion in September 2019. Planned improvements included additional parking, more retail options, new apartments, pedestrian walkways, and outdoor plazas.
The project's guiding philosophy was to honor the neighborhood's 150-year history while creating the infrastructure needed to sustain 50th & France as a premier Twin Cities retail destination for the next generation of visitors and residents.