Curious about Bloomington? This city is a dynamic urban center. It is located on the north bank of the Minnesota River. Bloomington sits just 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis.
Bloomington’s history stretches back centuries. Native Americans traveled and settled along the Minnesota River. European explorers and traders also came here. In the 1820s, Fort Snelling became the first European settlement nearby. Missionaries sought to convert the Native Americans.
In the 1850s, Europeans began farming here. On May 11 1858 the town of Bloomington was established. This was the same day Minnesota became a state. For a century Bloomington was mainly agricultural. It raised produce for Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
Bloomington transformed into a boom town in the 1950s. Its population soared. It jumped from 9900 in 1950 to 50500 in 1960. In 1960 voters approved Bloomington’s transformation to a city.
Bloomington added amenities and businesses. It also built infrastructure and schools. School enrollment peaked at 26000 in 1971. The Bloomington volunteer fire department was established in 1947.
The Bloomington Police Department was formed in 1953. The first traffic signal was installed that year. It went up at 98th Street and Lyndale Avenue. Almost a third of Bloomington has been preserved for conservation.
The first city parks were created in 1954. These were Bush Lake Beach and Moir Park. In 1956 Metropolitan Stadium opened. It became home to the Twins and Vikings.
In 1982 Minnesota’s pro teams moved out of Bloomington. Redevelopment led to Mall of America. Today hospitality is Bloomington’s number one industry. There are more than 9700 hotel rooms.
Bloomington is now Minnesota’s fourth largest city. Its central location and airport access create a strong economy. Bloomington is an important economic engine for Minnesota.
Bloomington is one of only 40 US cities with triple-A ratings for fiscal management. Excellent bond ratings signal a strong financial future. Bloomington provides excellent transit connections. The city hosts Minnesota’s busiest transit station.
Bloomington’s history is rich and varied. From Native American settlements to modern urban life it has seen many changes. It continues to grow and evolve. Bloomington is a high-quality place to live work and visit.