I went to a seminar at Xcel HQ a couple days ago, and there's a couple boards set up in the SE corner of the lobby detailing the new HQ building plans, including a footprint drawing. (I tried to get a picture, but my phone crashed instead) So, I can confirm that they're definitely planning to include a skyway connecting this building to the Nicollet Residences, as well as building to allow a future connection to the current Xcel building, and a future skyway heading north across 4th St, if and when that parking lot gets redeveloped.
I can't remember where the file was, but it was my understanding that parking lot would be about 50% park. A link to a basic picture of a old planned sketch which im guessing is already outdated. Although I think a wonderful skyway crossing 4th and a staircase down to the park (like by the Convention center) would be the only likely hood. As I thought the parking lot on the very east side would not be included in the project which would mean the skyway may have to be slanted east crossing 4th to reach the building space. Does anybody have anymore details or thoughts on how that would work?
http://www.minnpost.com/cityscape/2010/ ... evelopment