The story of the Historic Coliseum Building‘s restoration stands as a testament to the resilience and vision of women leaders in our community.

The Coliseum Building has long been a community cornerstone. Used by everyone from the Women’s Nonpartisan Club to the Housewives Union, and the Minneapolis Branch of the NAACP, the building has been witness to the passage of time in Downtown Longfellow for over 100 years.

Though originally slated for demolition after damage it sustained during the civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis Police in 2020, these four women stepped in to bring the building back as a beacon of hope, healing, and revitalization.

Architect Alicia Belton, FAIA, NOMA (Urban Design Perspectives) is a champion of urban design and community development. Belton brings her expertise to the project, ensuring that historical authenticity meets modern functionality.

With her keen business acumen and commitment to community engagement, Coliseum Co-Developer and Co-owner Janice Downing (Commonsense Consulting@Work) works to ensure the building becomes a hub for local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Coliseum Co-Developer and Co-owner Shanelle Evens Montana (Lagniappe) infuses the project with her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social justice, envisioning the Coliseum Building as a space where diverse voices are celebrated and empowered.

As the Director of Property Development at Redesign, Inc., the lead developer on the project, Taylor Smrikárova (née Cooper) leads the charge in bringing the vision of the Coliseum Building to life, ensuring it creates positive change in the community.

Together, these women are writing a new chapter for the Coliseum Building, transforming it into a space that honors its rich history while embracing the future.