The Unity Trail will be a five-mile loop of interpretive stops along existing paved trails in Inver Grove Heights. The Unity Trail will honor and recognize the contributions of Indigenous, Black and communities of color. It will also emphasize the connection between racial equity, sustainability and environmental conservation. The trail will connect community spaces in Inver Grove Heights to reach new and underrepresented users. The project is a partnership of:
- Dakota County Parks
- Inver Hills Community College
- ISD 199
- City of Inver Grove Heights Parks and Recreation
- Dakota County Library
This project is funded by a grant from the Metropolitan Council. It also has support from the City of Inver Grove Heights, Dakota County, and the Dakota County Statewide Health Improvement Partnership.
The project has two parts
Interpretive trail
The interpretive trail will recognize the contributions of Indigenous, Black and people of color. It will share their stories and experiences. There will be seven interpretive stops. These stops will be at the following locations:
- Mississippi River Greenway (three stops)
- Inver Hills Community College
- Inver Grove Heights Community Center
- Simley Island Park
- Inver Glen Library
During community engagement, residents shared a strong interest in public art and more seating spaces. They also shared an interest in themes that celebrate Black, Indigenous and people of color.
These included:
- Stories of people involved in social movements, science, art, and literature
- Local history
- Diverse cultures and nationalities
- Stories of resilience
- Activism
- Social change
Because of this feedback, the interpretive features will include mosaic art benches that connect to these themes. Poetry will also be added to the sidewalks near some of the benches.
Activities
The project will include programs, and events that increase awareness of and support the themes of the Unity Trail. These programs will also provide opportunities to get to know the trail.
Comm-Unity Trail Event
Come join us for a fun, intergenerational event with interactive activities. Enjoy music and dance by Afrocontigbo and a Twin Cities Native Lacrosse demonstration game. There will be resource tables from mosaic artist Lori Greene, Dakota County Parks and the Inver Glen Library. Bring your enthusiasm and join the fun. Snacks will be served. All ages welcome.
Date: Monday, April 27
Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Location: Inver Glen Large Meeting Room
Audience: All Ages
Find more information on the Dakota County Library website.
Unity Trail Poetry Contest
Participate in the Unity Trail Poetry Contest at Inver Glen Library from April 1-25.
For poets who live, work or attend school in Inver Grove Heights. There are three categories:
- Children (ages 6–12)
- Teens (ages 13–17)
- Adults (ages 18 and older)
Poetry themes
Submit original poems for possible selection as sidewalk poems on the Unity Trail. Poetry themes must include:
- Unity between nature and community
- Celebration of diverse cultures and nationalities
- Resilience, joy and positive social change
Contest deadline
Poems must be received by 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 25.
Submitting your entry
Bring your poem and the entry form to the Inver Glen Library service desk during regular business hours. The library address is 8098 Blaine Ave., Inver Grove Heights. Paper forms must be dropped-off in-person, they will not be accepted by mail, email or any other format.
For more details, please see the 
Unity Trail Poetry Entry Form.
Provide input
If you have questions about this project, contact Anna Ferris at anna.ferris@co.dakota.mn.us.
Timeline
- September 2022–January 2023: Project start and community engagement
- February–December 2023: Planning
- January 2024–June 2026: Construction and installation