The City of Bloomington celebrated a year of significant infrastructure investments and national recognition during its 2024 State of the City address, highlighting major progress on community facilities and economic development initiatives.

The Bloomington Forward Projects saw substantial advancement throughout the year, with groundbreaking on the Bloomington Ice Garden Modernization Project leading the way. The 50-year-old facility's transformation will ensure continued service for future generations, while design work progressed on the Community Health and Wellness Center, which will support recreational activities and community programs for regional residents. The Nine Mile Creek Corridor renewal project gained momentum through multiple community engagement events.

Two major park developments will be completed in 2025, according to the presentation. Bryant Park will feature the city's first fully accessible playground, while Tretbaugh Park is being transformed into a bike skills park for cyclists of all ages. The Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for completing both projects by the end of 2025.

Economic growth highlighted the year with the inaugural Hatch Bloomington Contest awarding $100,000 to Scramblin' Egg, which transitioned from food truck to brick-and-mortar location at 7828 Portland Avenue South. Several businesses expanded their local presence, including Luro Boots and Gyropolis, while new establishments joined the commercial landscape. Industry leaders Polar Semiconductor and SkyWater Technology continued investments in the community through Federal Chips Act funding.

Bloomington received multiple awards in 2024, including the Best in Glass distinction for highest quality tap water in Minnesota from the American Water Works Association. The Minneapolis Regional Chamber recognized the police department's Community Brain Health Services program and the Nine Mile Creek project at its Leaders and Innovators Awards. The city also earned a Voice of the People award for health and wellness transformation and was named among the top arts communities in the United States, ranking fifth nationally in the Arts Vibrancy Index.