Gas Prices on the Rise
Gas prices across the Twin Cities are ticking up this week as global oil markets react to escalating conflict involving Iran and concerns around supply routes in the Middle East. Several local stations are already creeping back toward (and in some cases above) the $3/gallon mark.
Nothing dramatic yet — but if tensions persist, prices could continue climbing into mid-March.
Tip: Fill up earlier in the week when possible. Weekend demand tends to nudge prices higher.
HCMC Budget Troubles, how Downtown Minneapolis of them
Hennepin Healthcare (formerly HCMC), the major Level-I trauma center in downtown Minneapolis, continues facing significant budget pressure tied to uncompensated care and insurer reimbursement gaps. County leaders are exploring options to stabilize long-term funding. It’s a major employer downtown and critical to the region’s emergency care infrastructure.
Downtown Snapshot
Downtown Minneapolis continues its slow rebuild. Office occupancy remains below pre-2020 levels, but event traffic, concerts, and restaurant activity are steadily improving. New small business openings are helping fill storefront gaps, and safety initiatives remain a major focus heading into spring.
Restaurant Brief
New & Notable
🍝 Risata Cucina is opening in downtown Robbinsdale, bringing classic Italian fare and neighborhood-driven menu input to the west metro.
🍽️ Kitchen and Rail has opened its second location, expanding its popular steakhouse-style menu.
👋 D'Amico & Sons is closing its final Twin Cities locations later this month after more than three decades locally.
Spring tends to be restaurant shuffle season — expect more openings (and some quiet closures) over the next 60 days.
Sports Brief
⚽ Minnesota United FC (The Loons) opened the 2026 season with a strong road win. Early momentum, good energy.
🏀 The Minnesota Timberwolves signed veteran forward Kyle Anderson, adding versatility and experience to the rotation.
🏀 The Minnesota Golden Gophers women's basketball secured a strong Big Ten tournament seed after closing the regular season with a statement win. NCAA Tournament positioning looks promising.
Weather Brief: Spring is near
Overall trend:
Early week cool (upper 30s to low 40s)
Midweek mix possible
Warming toward upper 40s / low 50s by the weekend
Classic early-March swing. Layers in the morning, lighter jacket by afternoon.