I am excited to see what their plans are!

My fingers are crossed. Opus has owned and sat on that lot since '85. I hope we'll see at least 25 stories. ESG is the architect, which has done some great projects around the twin cities in recent years.

I saw the presentation tonight by Opus/ESG for the 5th & Nicollet site. Spectre was also there along with Elfangor from Minnescraper. Looks like a 6-story podium topped by a slender 27-story apartment tower for a total of 33 floors. 330 units if I recall. Retail on the ground & skyway levels. A skyway connection to Neiman Marcus and a reconnection to the 5th Street Towers across Marquette.

Breaking ground in March.

Nice meeting you there Avian. :) A real slick looking project IMO. Some of my notes I took,

Name of the project is "Nicollet Residences".

33 stories. 6 in the podium, 1 floor above for the residential amenities, then 26 residential floors above. 4 of the floors in the podium will be for parking. 25,000 sq ft of commercial/retail space on the first two floors. Exterior will be cast-stone and glass curtain wall. The render showed a white/greyish stone, and greenish glass exterior. 14 units per floor, except the upper penthouse levels.

What's this about the planned 30-story office tower being increased to 44 stories ?

What's this about the planned 30-story office tower being increased to 44 stories ?

Pure rumor and speculation. Minneapolis isn't getting any office towers anytime soon. It's a miracle we have developers talking about highrise residential buildings.

Pure rumor and speculation. Minneapolis isn't getting any office towers anytime soon. It's a miracle we have developers talking about highrise residential buildings.

Ah, got my hopes up.

Ah, got my hopes up.

Get your hopes up Dan. We have an office tower breaking ground next summer. We will have three significant "crane" projects in 2012!

New renders of the 222 Hennepin project. The corner "tower" is redesigned. I can't decide yet if I like the old or new version. Ryan Companies says they hope to break ground before the end of the year.

http://assets.bizjournals.com/twincities/blog/real_estate/RyanJaguarSite3.jpg?v=1

http://assets.bizjournals.com/twincities/blog/real_estate/RyanJaguarSite2.jpg?v=1

http://assets.bizjournals.com/twincities/blog/real_estate/RyanJaguarSite1.jpg?v=1

What the site looked like in April.
http://assets.bizjournals.com/twincities/blog/real_estate/Jaguar_file_photo.jpg?v=1

Lofts at Farmers Market, today.

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/8990/dscn0511ts.jpg

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/2138/dscn0510k.jpg

Get your hopes up Dan. We have an office tower breaking ground next summer. We will have three significant "crane" projects in 2012!

Source???

I'm very excited to come back from pittsburgh and see how we're doing this summer....

That 222 Hennepin project looks like some really classy infill. Well done, Minneapolis. It seems like there is an abnormally high amount of functional urbanism for a city its size. No doubt it's a leader in the Midwest.

It looks like a new plan for the old Abbot Hospital in Stevens Square:


Decaying Mpls. building to be revived
Article by: ERIC ROPER , Star Tribune
Updated: September 19, 2011 - 11:09 PM

Glancing at the broken windows, graffiti and fortified fences of the vacant Abbott Hospital building in Stevens Square, it's hard to conjure the days when it stood as a bustling hub of a growing neighborhood. The patients moved long ago, replaced by drug addicts and vagrants who now occasionally walk the halls.

But the century-old building may have a brighter chapter left in its history. Three months from now, construction is expected to begin on a $19.5 million project to build 123 rental apartments inside the historic structure. The redevelopment hinges on a multi-million-dollar boost from the city, county and federal governments, which are enticed by the prospect of saving a landmark and reinvigorating a neighborhood...

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/130170063.html

That's great news! I heard they are also building a hotel in the vacant lot across the street

A picture of Opus' Nicollet Residences Tower.

http://finance-commerce.com/files/2011/09/Opus_Nicollet-Residences.jpg

Yet another apartment complex has been approved for the old warehouses at 700 Central Avenue:

http://img855.imageshack.us/img855/2136/700central.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/855/700central.jpg/)

So now it appears that these developers are going to saturate the downtown market with apartments, until that market gets overbuilt and crashes.

So now it appears that these developers are going to saturate the downtown market with apartments, until that market gets overbuilt and crashes.

That's how it goes... offices...condos...hotels...apartments...

I wonder what'll be next.

That's how it goes... offices...condos...hotels...apartments...

I wonder what'll be next.

Quite frankly I hope its stadiums...

Saturation is hardly a concern for highrise fans.

Keep 'em coming, stupid developers!

So now it appears that these developers are going to saturate the downtown market with apartments, until that market gets overbuilt and crashes.

Possibly. Both Nicollet Residences and 1364 LaSalle are being built to condominium standards, so if there is another shift in the market either building can convert any or all of the apartments, which should mitigate the vagaries of the market somewhat.

http://i53.tinypic.com/vfbddi.jpg

Is this by the same guys who designed The Penfield ?

So now it appears that these developers are going to saturate the downtown market with apartments, until that market gets overbuilt and crashes.The difference is that condos were always a niche market while lots of people live in apartments. If 30,000 people move to the Twin Cities every year, Minneapolis can easily absorb a couple thousand apartments.

In the '70s, '80s and '90s most of this type of apartment development was in the suburbs. I think what we are seeing is the sort of action that had typically been in the suburbs returning to the city, combined with the fact that it is harder to get loans to buy houses. Remember that we used to add a couple hundred thousand tract houses a decade to the metro, compared to that what we are seeing in Minneapolis right now is a blip.

Too many luxury apartments is a possibility though

Is this by the same guys who designed The Penfield ?

No. It's designed by ESG Architects (http://www.esgarch.com/). Humphreys did the original highrise version of the Penfield and are also designing the new project at 222 Hennepin.

No. It's designed by ESG Architects (http://www.esgarch.com/). Humphreys did the original highrise version of the Penfield and are also designing the new project at 222 Hennepin.

Thanks.

So now it appears that these developers are going to saturate the downtown market with apartments, until that market gets overbuilt and crashes.
Likely some will be converted to condos once the housing market allows for the opportunity to happen. That's what has happened to many of our condo buildings here, conversion to apartments.

An update from Mill City Times on the American Academy of Neurology HQ, pictures from last weekend.

http://millcitytimes.com/mill-district-condos-lofts/american-academy-of-neurology-hq-construction-update.html

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6156644621_ae803f90ab.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6156648193_dbe0e713b6.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6203/6157192178_bc5fb5b83d.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6157198098_5f24a54b94.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6151/6157201074_47c552d41d.jpg

the facade looks like its coming along nicely! I also just noticed that stained-glass on the 5th side of the nicollet rendering. interesting...

For the 5th and Nicollet building... am I correct to assume they are using precast?

I'm sure it saves a lot of money, but its getting rather tiresome to see precast. It provides little texture or is generally extremely bland. The Ivy had a decent render/drawing but it turned out pretty ugly in my opinion and I'm worried this will too. The render already looks fairly bland and rarely do buildings look better than renders. It'd be nice if developers actually tried to emulate some of the older buildings and but a little artistic effort to the outside. But I'm sure precast is much cheaper and easier to install.

Ah well, I suppose if you coughed up some money you'd get your texture. These are tough times.

For the 5th and Nicollet building... am I correct to assume they are using precast?

I'm sure it saves a lot of money, but its getting rather tiresome to see precast. It provides little texture or is generally extremely bland. The Ivy had a decent render/drawing but it turned out pretty ugly in my opinion and I'm worried this will too. The render already looks fairly bland and rarely do buildings look better than renders. It'd be nice if developers actually tried to emulate some of the older buildings and but a little artistic effort to the outside. But I'm sure precast is much cheaper and easier to install.

Maybe they can install some various colored panels up and down the sides to tie it in with Cedar Riverside :lol:

Lander Development has unveiled a new 6-story apartment building in St. Paul at the SE corner of Marshall Ave and Otis (SW corner of Town & Country golf course). The building will have 45 units (40 one bedrooms and 5 two bedrooms). Here is a scanned image from the latest issue of the Highland Villager where I found out about the project. Hopefully I'll find a new color image soon.

http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/9940/2318marshall.jpg


Also Stonebridge Companies has proposed two 3-story apartment buildings in the Victoria Park neighborhood in St. Paul on West 7th Street and Otto Ave. They will have 330-350 units. No rendering as yet.

Target Corp has purchased the 3-parcel site directly across the street from their HQ at 10th & Nicollet Mall. This is the site of the proposed office tower mentioned previously (1010 Nicollet). It confirms the rumor that Target was the expected tenant for the original 32-story proposal.

Full Story Here (http://finance-commerce.com/2011/09/target-corp-buys-three-parcels-on-nicollet-mall/)

Hmmm ...

Target Corp has purchased the 3-parcel site directly across the street from their HQ at 10th & Nicollet Mall. This is the site of the proposed office tower mentioned previously (1010 Nicollet). It confirms the rumor that Target was the expected tenant for the original 32-story proposal.

Full Story Here (http://finance-commerce.com/2011/09/target-corp-buys-three-parcels-on-nicollet-mall/)

If nothing else Target is being smart and not letting anyone else build on the property until they are ready to use it. If that is the case though it would be nice if they tore the buildings down and landscaped the area until they are ready.

I took this photo of 1800 Lake today. I think this is going to be a really nice building when it is done. It looks similar to the Edgewater in style, quality and materials - together they will make a good gateway to Uptown.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6147/6209478680_af23f24984_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6209478680/)
mplsoct201103 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6209478680/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

This one is turning out great. I especially like the lightly toned color of the brick. It definitely complements the Edgewater nicely.

^^ Was going to say the same thing. Kind of wish the bricking went throughout the exterior of the rooms though, add more of a contrast between the patio and the bricks.

An article from today's Star Tribune:


Downtown condo sales eat away at supply
Posted by: Jim Buchta under Architecture, Buying, ForeclosuresUpdated: October 4, 2011 - 4:19 PM

Going, going, gone? Well, almost. Two high-rise downtown condo buildings that were once caught in the cross-hairs of the housing downturn are in the sales home stretch. Skyscape, a 248-unit tower on edge of downtown Minneapolis, has one unit left. Phoenix on the River is down to just six.

It’s a notable achievement for both buildings, but not without some pain for their developers, both of whom suffered financial setbacks as units took longer than anticipated to sell.

The buildings, which are about 16 blocks apart, were marketed to different audiences. The Phoenix is a refined 17-story brick and stone building with fewer than 100 units and is in the middle of a historic district on the east bank of the Mississippi River near St. Main and Riverplace. Though the building had some units for less than $500,000, most are much more expensive.

...

There are other condo buildings in the Twin Cities metro that hit the ground during the housing downturn and are still selling units. At last count, Bridgewater, a massive low-rise condo building with nearly 300 units that occupied most of a city block in the downtown Minneapolis Mill District, was down to just a couple dozen units. And down the street the Zenith still has unsold units. Across town in the downtown Minneapolis Warehouse District there are still 17 unsold units at 730 Lofts, which has 111 condos.

By and large the downtown Minneapolis and St.Paul condo markets have fared better than those in the suburbs as buyers focus on proximity to amenities and public transportation.

In Minneapolis, for example, the number of condos and townhouse listings on the market during the past year is 17 percent lower than it was during the previous year, according to the latest data from the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors. Single-family house listings are down only 3.9 percent.

...



http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/homegarden/blogs/131074063.html

I'm hoping Bridgewater sells out soon, then Park Vista will start.

Have there ever been any proposals to cover the sunken Freeways around St. Paul with parks and buildings?

Have there ever been any proposals to cover the sunken Freeways around St. Paul with parks and buildings?

no, but it sounds like a great idea. I would like to see Rondo rebuilt, and both downtowns reconnected with the surrounding areas. I-94 has chokeholds on our downtowns and we need to free them!

There has been pie in the sky ideas floated around to lid over sections of I-94. But the cost would be enormous. I doubt we'll ever see it, but it sure would be great.

There has been pie in the sky ideas floated around to lid over sections of I-94. But the cost would be enormous. I doubt we'll ever see it, but it sure would be great.
Exactly. And with the environment in not just the national political environment but with the state's, covering the freeways with parks or anything really is out of the discussions for now. Sadly, it will take a majority of Democrats in charge in the state and national level to see any serious consideration.

Flux Apartments in Uptown, Oct 4th, photo from the developer, Greco.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6053/6214350348_fccc7cd8d2_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/67797449@N08/6214350348/in/photostream

looks like it's coming along nicely. I still wish they would have built it with the additional 2 floors, but It still looks very dense without them.

A new project for Lynlake:

Greco pitches 170 apartments at Lyn-Lake

Posted: 8:00 am Fri, October 7, 2011
By Burl Gilyard

Greco is proposing a project with about 170 market-rate apartments. The project will be designed by the Minneapolis-based BKV Group. (Submitted rendering)

As competitors plan apartment projects just blocks away, developer Arnie Gregory’s Minneapolis-based Greco is racing to complete his plan for a long-vacant site in south Minneapolis.

The plan may sound familiar to local development watchers: new market-rate apartments.

Gregory wants to build approximately 170 apartments on the 2900 Lyndale Ave. S. site and hopes to start construction in late March. Greco previously developed Blue, a 242-unit building that opened in 2008 and is a block away in the Lyn-Lake area of south Minneapolis.

Other competing proposals for new apartment development near Greco’s site include Track 29 Apartments and the redevelopment of the Bennett Lumber site. Both are within blocks of the Greco property.

“We’re aware of all that, and that’s why we want to be the next ones in the ground,” Gregory said.

Greco has owned the site for more than five years, and various concepts never found traction.

“We’ve had an office building; we had an affordable residential deal. We just couldn’t make anything work,” Gregory said.

For now, the site is something of an eyesore: a vacant lot encircled by a chain link fence in the middle of an otherwise bustling urban neighborhood. Gregory said he has a letter of intent from Bethesda, Md.-based ASB Real Estate Investments to finance the project.

“We’re going to finance it with ASB. It will be the same joint venture that did Blue,” Gregory said.

The $32 million project will include 7,500 square feet of retail/commercial space and 220 underground parking spaces. The Minneapolis-based BKV Group is the project architect. Greco has a purchase agreement with the adjacent James Ballentine VFW Post 246 to buy its surface parking lot. As part of the project, Greco will replace the VFW’s parking but build above the site.

...

http://finance-commerce.com/2011/10/greco-pitches-170-apartments-at-lyn-lake/



A tiny rendering:

http://finance-commerce.com/files/2011/10/Main-Corner-View.jpg

We've got a handle on the height of this now. Emporis (http://www.emporis.com/building/1368lasalleavenuenue-minneapolis-mn-usa) has listed 1368 LaSalle as being 432' (131.68 m) tall:


http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4614/apartmentsloringpark.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/24/apartmentsloringpark.jpg/)

Minneapolis StarTribune (http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/homegarden/blogs/128088343.html)

We've got a handle on the height of this now. Emporis (http://www.emporis.com/building/1368lasalleavenuenue-minneapolis-mn-usa) has listed 1368 LaSalle as being 432' (131.68 m) tall:


Minneapolis StarTribune (http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/homegarden/blogs/128088343.html)

wow! that will really help to spread the skyline to the west

The city of St. Paul has released the construction bid for the Penfield/Lunds development.

http://www.demandstar.com/supplier/bids/Bid_Detail.asp?_PU=%2Fsupplier%2Fbids%2Fagency_inc%2Fbid_list%2Easp%3F_RF%3D1%26f%3Dsearch%26mi%3D686349&LP=BB&BI=233154

http://www.bkvgroup.com/wp-content/gallery/the-penfield/penfield-2.jpg

The tentative schedule is the contract will be awarded after Nov 9th. With construction anticipated to start Apr 1, '12, completion 18 months later.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6161/6233860795_c0ce48a7a8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/millcitytimes/6233860795/)
American Academy of Neurology Update (http://www.flickr.com/photos/millcitytimes/6233860795/) by Mill City Times (http://www.flickr.com/people/millcitytimes/), on Flickr. Oct 8th.

So, is the new Vikings stadium going to be way out in the boonies ?

So, is the new Vikings stadium going to be way out in the boonies ?

nope http://www.startribune.com/politics/statelocal/131515763.html

So, is the new Vikings stadium going to be way out in the boonies ?

Well, it is the site the Vikings want. Zygi wants all that potential redevelopment land.

But...

If Ramsey county gathers ~27,000 signatures, it can force a referendum despite what the legislature and Ramsey County commissioners do. I don't think it'll be hard to get that many signatures out of a population of half a million. So the sales tax vote is hardly a done deal.

The Lofts at Farmer's Market,

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/9786/dscn0571n.jpg

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/5699/dscn0572m.jpg

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/808/dscn0575f.jpg


Here's a picture of the new Scientology Center in downtown St. Paul.
http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/6982/dscn0570cl.jpg

The new design for Peavey Plaza in downtown Minneapolis (and the renovation of Orchestra Hall's lobby) was unveiled today. The existing plaza was designed by M. Paul Friedberg in 1974.

Highlights include an amphitheater, new pergola for vendors, new fountains to replace the existing fountains and pool, and a winter skating rink. Groundbreaking is scheduled for next spring.


Images from KARE11 News (http://www.kare11.com/news/article/943092/396/Peavey-Plaza-redesign-aims-to-bring-park-into-21st-Century)

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/8755/peaveynightaerial640.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/856/peaveynightaerial640.jpg/)

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/7640/peaveydayaerial640.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/peaveydayaerial640.jpg/)

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/1003/peaveysummerstairsandfo.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/683/peaveysummerstairsandfo.jpg/)

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/1240/peaveywaterwallandconce.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/405/peaveywaterwallandconce.jpg/)

http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/530/peaveywinterincludingsk.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/peaveywinterincludingsk.jpg/)

The current one looks better. This city is pathologically incapable of respecting good middle aged architecture and design. It is like people in Minneapolis are programmed to tear everything down once it is 40 years old.

^^Completely agree. How is this an improvement over the existing plaza? It looks completely nondescript. Eliminating the reflecting pool and replacing it with those little spray fountains you see in Everywheresville is a crime.

And will this plan also include ripping out all of the mature trees? Yuck.

fugly pos

I'm not so sure about the new design either. I hate the fact that they won't retain the iconic "organ pipe" fountains.

Goodbye, cruel world!!!!

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/2460/nicollet005.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/834/nicollet005.jpg/)

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7863/nicollet006.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/88/nicollet006.jpg/)

I don't get the close proximity of the spray fountains and the amphitheater. How are you going to have anything happening there when you have spray fountains going on? I know you won't have major events going on there, but it seems shortsighted if you even want small events going on there....

^^I would imagine that they would be shut off during a show and covered with protective grates or tiles so they can be walked on.

^^I would imagine that they would be shut off during a show and covered with protective grates or tiles so they can be walked on.
True.

All that really needs to change at the current plaza is that a management company needs to be added to promote events on the plaza. It's a beautiful plaza as it sits today.

Developer plans another 180 upscale apartments for Uptown Mpls.
Article by: JIM BUCHTA ,
Star Tribune Updated: October 21, 2011 - 9:05 PM

The latest sign of confidence in the area's rental market is taking shape at 29th and Lyndale in south Minneapolis.

That's where Greco Development plans to build nearly 180 upscale apartments in the Lyn-Lake neighborhood of Uptown.
http://www.startribune.com/business/132360928.html

I agree with everyone. The design of the Plaza isn't my cup of tea, but as long as it's in good shape, I see no reason to replace it. Unfortunately in Columbus, we'll keep things around forever, but just let it fail apart then spend huge sums of money to fix it.

Developer plans another 180 upscale apartments for Uptown Mpls.
Article by: JIM BUCHTA ,
Star Tribune Updated: October 21, 2011 - 9:05 PM


http://www.startribune.com/business/132360928.html

A small render of the new project,

http://finance-commerce.com/files/2011/10/Main-Corner-View.jpg

An update of the restoration of the Union Depot in downtown St. Paul.

From the http://lettherebelightrail.blogspot.com/ blog. Lots of progress here.

Just a sampling of pics, (visit the website for larger versions).

http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3110.jpg

http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3111.jpg

http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3115.jpg

http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3116.jpg

http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3121.jpg

http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/10/24/s_3122.jpg

I'm not so sure about the new design either. I hate the fact that they won't retain the iconic "organ pipe" fountains.

Goodbye, cruel world!!!!

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/2460/nicollet005.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/834/nicollet005.jpg/)

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7863/nicollet006.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/88/nicollet006.jpg/)

The Fountain reminds me of Falling Water...

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6226/6287381132_56b384fc22_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/millcitytimes/6287381132/)
American Academy of Neurology HQ Construction (http://www.flickr.com/photos/millcitytimes/6287381132/) by Mill City Times (http://www.flickr.com/people/millcitytimes/), on Flickr

Could someone post some pictures of completed projects in the Twin Cities? We would like to put them in Google Earth.

Could someone post some pictures of completed projects in the Twin Cities? We would like to put them in Google Earth.

sure, except i dont know which ones are completed

Could someone post some pictures of completed projects in the Twin Cities? We would like to put them in Google Earth.I started a photo thread of projects that have been finished since 2005 or so. It is a big undertaking but I will try to add to it every week.

Here is a link:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=85290890#post85290890

I also took some construction photos today.

Flux is coming along:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6233/6304439381_8b58104454_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6304439381/)
mplsnov201116 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6304439381/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

I hope this metallic siding on 1800 Lake is supposed to oxidize because right now it is ruining an otherwise nice building:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6120/6304964784_b8b068bd14_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6304964784/)
mplsnov201119 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6304964784/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6117/6304440137_51428d9053_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6304440137/)
mplsnov201120 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6304440137/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

^^I actually really like the metallic siding on 1800 Lake—it adds some much-needed interest in a city where virtually all new residential developments are dominated by brick, kasota stone, and paneling in muted colors. I think you're right, though; it's probably meant to rust and have a look similar to MacPhail Center for Music.

Wow! Lots of progress on both those buildings. I hope some new projects start soon.

Wow! Lots of progress on both those buildings. I hope some new projects start soon.

the Track 29 apartments are starting construction this winter along with the lasalle and 14th tower

An update from today, the Lofts at Farmers Market, and Union Depot. A lot of progress on the courtyard of UD. The area is really coming together.

http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/921/dscn0580yk.jpg

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/7065/dscn0581c.jpg

http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/7158/dscn0582t.jpg

Renders were unveiled on a new 6.5 acre development at 2225 East Lake St (SW corner of Lake and Hiawatha intersection). The site will provide a permanent home for the Midtown Farmers Market. BKV was selected for exclusive development rights. Development is expected to be completed in phases over the next five years.

http://www.corcoranneighborhood.org/advocate/advocate110311.html

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/383800_10150933730545157_760645156_21700676_951515451_n.jpg

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/307269_10150933731975157_760645156_21700702_793904341_n.jpg

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296043_10150933731695157_760645156_21700699_1599601750_n.jpg

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/393256_10150933730785157_760645156_21700680_1093897613_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/312915_10150933730945157_760645156_21700684_63299412_n.jpg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/308149_10150933731120157_760645156_21700685_1629885369_n.jpg

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/305142_10150933731225157_760645156_21700689_1305351056_n.jpg

That is a lot better than what is there now. These neighborhood infill projects collectively excite me as much as any tower development downtown. The densification of these neighborhood commercial corridors with mixed use projects is how we are going to turn Minneapolis into a proper big city.

Downtown Farmer's Market Field
Architectural visions revealed
4O0ZFwbiPjg

^^I really like this idea! It would be amazing if they could revamp that frankly sad area of downtown into a stadium and public plaza, as it's currently in desperate need of redevelopment. I don't even like to go down there for the farmer's market because of the surroundings.

With a new Vikings stadium right next to Target Field, this would create a "sports district" of sorts with the possibility of lots of quality development to follow, which will radically transform this area of downtown. The surrounding freeways already create a "dead zone" here, cut off from the street grid, so it only makes sense to convert this space to something large in scale that can occupy it in a reasonable way. Then the east side could finally open up to new residential/commercial/office development and the street grid be restored.

I know it's still just a concept, but I really hope that if this site is chosen that the stadium won't resemble anything like what's shown in the rendering. That's one cheap, fugly-looking structure.

LOVE the "market square" idea

I was walking around the East Bank Mills today and ran across this:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6056/6342976210_9935b204c7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6342976210/)
mplsnov201181 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6342976210/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

I believe that sign has been there for a while. on an unrelated note, anyone know what's happening at 26th and cedar in south Minneapolis? there is a construction sign up and last time i drove by it looked like they were digging a foundation

http://www.ouruptown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/citwalk-rendering2011-12-14.jpg

Cowboy Slims redevelopment revisions
Featured, Real Estate — By Thatcher Imboden on December 15, 2011 12:49 am

"Cowboys Slims is still anticipated to be redeveloped into a six-story, retail/restaurant/apartment building. The 92 unit building will also have 23,800 square feet of retail/restaurant space along with 212 parking stalls. The project is located between Lagoon Avenue and Lake Street on the east side of Girard Avenue...."

^^ That's tremendous! I wonder what's happening on the site that is directly opposite Cowboy Slims on the south side of Lake?

^^ That's tremendous! I wonder what's happening on the site that is directly opposite Cowboy Slims on the south side of Lake?

I've wondered about that site myself many times. :dunno:

What an outstanding idea. As we all know, stadiums by their very nature tend to create a "black hole" around them, in that they're designed to bring tons of people in during events, make them spend their money there and send them on their way. It's hard for retail to survive in an area that is only populated during events.

But a famers market? Perfect in that it will always draw people to what otherwise would be an underused area most of the time.

In Indy, Lucas Oil Stadium is attached to our convention center, and is utilized frequently for conventions, but still, your idea is better.

Downtown Farmer's Market Field
Architectural visions revealed
4O0ZFwbiPjg

So now that the two large projects in downtown Minneapolis are approved and slated for construction relatively soon, is there any hope for a third tower? Rental vacancies for Minneapolis as a whole fell another 0.5% in the 3rd quarter 2011 to just 1.5%, and I'm assuming rental vacancies downtown are even lower. Will these two towers satisfy enough demand? Obviously these two towers, 1368 Lasalle and the Nicollet Residences are targeting Yuppies or high end renters. But I'm under the impression from personal experience that people who are middle/working class or just out of college are also looking for rentals. Do we have any significant projects to satisfy the demand for those who were forced out or unwilling to enter the housing market? I mean, I really do like these towers for the most part, but I'm seeing friends who can't find a place to rent because the lower and middle range apartments are essentially "full".

And finally... are there any proposals other than the Penfield for downtown Saint Paul? Its rental vacancy rate was 0.8% in March. Other than the Farmers Market and the Penfield, plus a handful of conversions, I don't see how the vacancy rate will change much. Are developers worried about the lack of retail in Saint Paul?

I know thats quite a few questions. I'm just curious as to where the market is heading outside of the luxury apartments in Minneapolis (DT and Uptown).

Lofts at Farmers Market, from today (12/17).

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/2373/dscn0596u.jpg

http://img804.imageshack.us/img804/7001/dscn0595d.jpg

So now that the two large projects in downtown Minneapolis are approved and slated for construction relatively soon, is there any hope for a third tower? Rental vacancies for Minneapolis as a whole fell another 0.5% in the 3rd quarter 2011 to just 1.5%, and I'm assuming rental vacancies downtown are even lower. Will these two towers satisfy enough demand? Obviously these two towers, 1368 Lasalle and the Nicollet Residences are targeting Yuppies or high end renters. But I'm under the impression from personal experience that people who are middle/working class or just out of college are also looking for rentals. Do we have any significant projects to satisfy the demand for those who were forced out or unwilling to enter the housing market? I mean, I really do like these towers for the most part, but I'm seeing friends who can't find a place to rent because the lower and middle range apartments are essentially "full".

And finally... are there any proposals other than the Penfield for downtown Saint Paul? Its rental vacancy rate was 0.8% in March. Other than the Farmers Market and the Penfield, plus a handful of conversions, I don't see how the vacancy rate will change much. Are developers worried about the lack of retail in Saint Paul?

I know thats quite a few questions. I'm just curious as to where the market is heading outside of the luxury apartments in Minneapolis (DT and Uptown).

I think Magellan's (a Chicago-based developer) project is the most intriguing. Its 355 units, but less than 300 parking spaces (for the residents and retail component). It'll be interesting to see if the project succeeds. I've heard lots of grumblings about the nearby Eitel Apartments (poor management, lack of parking). But it still seems to stay leased up. Magellan is placating the neighborhood critics with the promise to offer valet parking and double decker parking to increase future capacity. But it remains to be seen if Minnesota renters will like the idea of having to "call ahead" to get their automobiles. I'm skeptical that residents will warm up to the idea of having to wait to get their cars. But maybe some folks will think it's "hip" and "cool" to have valet parking.

Magellan has a great track record in Chicago. Take a look at Lakeshore East neighborhood (Aqua Tower, etc). If this project succeeds, then Magellan could shop for other development sites in Minneapolis. And maybe even St. Paul or elsewhere around the Twin Cities. Maybe one day we could see a major residential skyscraper like Aqua.

The downside is this project could fail, the cost of adding double decker parking could be very cost prohibitive. If Magellan doesn't make money on 1368 LaSalle, they may be forced to sell it off and leave the TC market. That would be terrible. Just look at the recently built Skyscape Condo tower. Tandem Developers (another out-state developer) built it, failed to sell all the units, sold it off, and probably will never be seen in this market ever again. I'd hate to lose Magellan.

Opus has a great project as well. But their a Minnesota company. They aren't going anywhere. And I think their project has a better location, more parking, and overall looks to be a more solid project.

As for St. Paul, right now there's about 460 units that'll be coming online in the next couple years. 250 Penfield, 160 Pioneer Endicott, 60 Lofts at FM. That's quite a bit really. Downtown StP has only about 5500 residential units. ~6000 if you want to count the Upper Landing area.

There are a couple lots waiting in the wings so to speak. George Sherman owns a lot near Printers Row. He's got a project called the West Side Flats that's about to start just over the Wabasha Bridge (just south of downtown) in a few months. Sherman Rutzick owns a lot across the street from the Union Depot he purchased in '05. I gotta think he's just waiting out construction on the CCLRT before moving ahead.

Otherwise I don't see much new-construction in the future for Dt StP. But with the Light Rail just a couple years away from completion, who knows.

I haven't seen anything here about this yet but apparently there is a proposal being floated by Olmstead County and the state to build a true high speed rail line from the Twin Cities to Rochester with speeds between 150 and 220 mph. The plan is called Zip Rail, it is currently in the vision stage. It would be really cool if this happened.

http://www.goziprail.org/

I haven't seen anything here about this yet but apparently there is a proposal being floated by Olmstead County and the state to build a true high speed rail line from the Twin Cities to Rochester with speeds between 150 and 220 mph. The plan is called Zip Rail, it is currently in the vision stage. It would be really cool if this happened.

http://www.goziprail.org/

This would be absolutely fantastic. I think something like this has been in planning on-and-off for years if my memory serves.

401 Oak Grove in Loring park has been approved and will likely begin construction soon. It will be 7 stories and will have 124 apartment units.

http://minnescraper.com/forums/download/file.php?id=2554

This project is now under construction.

Trader Joe's is looking to open a store at the corner of 27th and Lyndale. Their plan is to tear down the Sunnyside Up/Coin Laundry building, La Société du Thé , the Soccer store and Art Materials and replace it with this:

http://www.ouruptown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/traderjoes3.jpg

http://www.ouruptown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/traderjoes4.jpg

The first four buildings on the right in this photo would go:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6523791075_02741a1816_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6523791075/)
mplsdec201117 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6523791075/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

More information here:

http://www.ouruptown.com/2011/12/trader-joes-on-lyndale-suburban-box-in-city/

I think Magellan's (a Chicago-based developer) project is the most intriguing. Its 355 units, but less than 300 parking spaces (for the residents and retail component). It'll be interesting to see if the project succeeds. I've heard lots of grumblings about the nearby Eitel Apartments (poor management, lack of parking). But it still seems to stay leased up. Magellan is placating the neighborhood critics with the promise to offer valet parking and double decker parking to increase future capacity. But it remains to be seen if Minnesota renters will like the idea of having to "call ahead" to get their automobiles. I'm skeptical that residents will warm up to the idea of having to wait to get their cars. But maybe some folks will think it's "hip" and "cool" to have valet parking.

Magellan has a great track record in Chicago. Take a look at Lakeshore East neighborhood (Aqua Tower, etc). If this project succeeds, then Magellan could shop for other development sites in Minneapolis. And maybe even St. Paul or elsewhere around the Twin Cities. Maybe one day we could see a major residential skyscraper like Aqua.

The downside is this project could fail, the cost of adding double decker parking could be very cost prohibitive. If Magellan doesn't make money on 1368 LaSalle, they may be forced to sell it off and leave the TC market. That would be terrible. Just look at the recently built Skyscape Condo tower. Tandem Developers (another out-state developer) built it, failed to sell all the units, sold it off, and probably will never be seen in this market ever again. I'd hate to lose Magellan.

Opus has a great project as well. But their a Minnesota company. They aren't going anywhere. And I think their project has a better location, more parking, and overall looks to be a more solid project.

As for St. Paul, right now there's about 460 units that'll be coming online in the next couple years. 250 Penfield, 160 Pioneer Endicott, 60 Lofts at FM. That's quite a bit really. Downtown StP has only about 5500 residential units. ~6000 if you want to count the Upper Landing area.

There are a couple lots waiting in the wings so to speak. George Sherman owns a lot near Printers Row. He's got a project called the West Side Flats that's about to start just over the Wabasha Bridge (just south of downtown) in a few months. Sherman Rutzick owns a lot across the street from the Union Depot he purchased in '05. I gotta think he's just waiting out construction on the CCLRT before moving ahead.

Otherwise I don't see much new-construction in the future for Dt StP. But with the Light Rail just a couple years away from completion, who knows.


Thanks for the response. I'm curious as to the whole impact on the market these two towers will have. I too hope that Magellan succeeds. It'll be nice to get a different perspective from other developers who might take more risks the the local "tried and true" formulaic developments. Not to say that the projects in the past decade are bad, but a lot of them are "safe". You can see the difference in approaches between these two projects. Not that the Nicollet Place apartments are ugly, but the renders are rather flat and unremarkable. The renders kinda remind me of the Ivy so I'm not terribly hopeful this will do much for the aesthetics of downtown. Magellen is actually doing something that most towers in Minneapolis lack... implementing curves! With the exception of the main part of the Capella Tower, Minneapolis is a bit heavy on boxes with flat roofs. So I have my fingers crossed.


I'm really hoping that between the new grocery store and the light rail line, that Saint Paul can get in the game. The area around Mears Park seems to have picked up despite the recession with a number of new restaurants. Wouldn't want the success to be limited to just Minneapolis.

Trader Joe's is looking to open a store at the corner of 27th and Lyndale. Their plan is to tear down the Sunnyside Up/Coin Laundry building, La Société du Thé , the Soccer store and Art Materials and replace it with this:

http://www.ouruptown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/traderjoes3.jpg

http://www.ouruptown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/traderjoes4.jpg

The first four buildings on the right in this photo would go:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6523791075_02741a1816_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6523791075/)
mplsdec201117 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6523791075/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

More information here:

http://www.ouruptown.com/2011/12/trader-joes-on-lyndale-suburban-box-in-city/

Ugh. It's one thing to tear down buildings and replace them with a bigger and higher-quality building, but it's another thing to raze a fourth of a block and then put a parking lot there.

Lyndale should be a high-density area, and I don't see how doing that much damage without figuring out a way to make this a multi-purpose development with parking below can even be allowed.

Ridiculous proposal.

Plus that lot doesn't look like it has a whole lot of parking spaces. For as busy as Uptown is and as popular as Trader Joe's is, I see this store being a nightmare to shop at if you show up in your car.

are you kidding me? that lot is HUGE! it would be a slap in the face to the people of Lyn-Lake and their urban lifestyle

The way the parking lot entrance/exit is put together would replicate the same traffic problems that are caused by the Wedge. It is my understanding that this project would require variances to recent updates to the neighborhood's zoning code. If I were a betting man I would say they don't get them and the project never happens.

The root problem is the ridiculous laws that make it almost impossible to open new establishments that have offsale liquor licenses. There are only a handful of spots in the area where Trader Joe's could open, that is forcing them towards locations that aren't really suited for their type of development.

Need to do this with the Trader Joe

http://www.tampaflattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/GreenWise-SOHO-Tampa.jpg

And Parking is above the main store.

They should incorporate it into a larger mixed-use development like the St. Louis Park store. I assumed that was what they were going to do when I first heard about this store.

Any information on the Mall of America expansion in here?

Any information on the Mall of America expansion in here?

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1345185

Flux from today:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6561470245_097910cc68_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6561470245/)
mplsdec201174 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6561470245/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

I haven't seen anything here about this yet but apparently there is a proposal being floated by Olmstead County and the state to build a true high speed rail line from the Twin Cities to Rochester with speeds between 150 and 220 mph. The plan is called Zip Rail, it is currently in the vision stage. It would be really cool if this happened.

http://www.goziprail.org/

That would be great. When I was a flight attendant, the MSP - RST route was always packed. I think the success of that rail line would depend upon a link from the MSP airport to Rochester, since most national and international traffic into Rochester/Mayo Clinic comes through MSP.

I'm curious what are passenger volumes like on the MSP - RST route currently?

Okay, I answered my own question

There were 10,867 passengers that flew from Minneapolis to Rochester in 2009.

Distance: 76.0 miles
Average Flying Speed: 240.4 mph
Average Gate to Gate Time: 0 hr 46 min


http://flights.expedia.com/Flights_tfaOMSP_DRST.htm

Supporters claim 1,000,000 annual visitors. Very well but in 2009 the ones who flew in numbered a mere 10,867. That's roughly 30 passengers/day. In order to compete, a train service would also have to be a lot quicker and go to where people need it to go most (i.e. a downtown location).

And just how many choose to go by shuttle/taxi or prefer to drive themselves?

The driving distance between MSP and DT Rochester is 84 miles. In ideal conditions it takes about an hour and 15 minutes to get there by car. Let's assume the distance traveled by train equals that of an automobile, then

84/150 (claimed speed) = 33.6 minutes
84/200 (claimed speed, but not possible with existing track) = 25.2 minutes

Compare that to the 46 min it takes to fly there. Granted, according to the Double Tree hotel website, it is an additional 20 min to go from RST to downtown Rochester, so be it 1 hr 06 mins.

Just by comparing the hypothetical travel times alone, one would assume that a train service is feasible in theory, even desirable, between the two metros. In addition to Mayo clinic visitors, at under 1/2 hour the service should be attractive to those working in either of the metros, students, and day trippers. Airport location would also mean that train passengers could transfer to a Hiawatha train and continue to their destinations with little hassle. It would also be handy to know what sort of passenger volumes are there for car and shuttle, too.

Ugh. It's one thing to tear down buildings and replace them with a bigger and higher-quality building, but it's another thing to raze a fourth of a block and then put a parking lot there.

Lyndale should be a high-density area, and I don't see how doing that much damage without figuring out a way to make this a multi-purpose development with parking below can even be allowed.

Ridiculous proposal.

Very lame, especially when you consider that it's not like Trader Joe's isn't accustomed to consolidating the parking and shopping experience into one structure. This (http://www.ericrojasblog.com/2011/04/lincoln-park-trader-joes-almost-open.html) just went up in Lincoln Park in Chicago. Parking is on top.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_NftDyPpwY4/TbngaDycB7I/AAAAAAAAFUk/WeuGCF8iuUY/s320/TraderJoe_LP_1.JPG

^^Even with parking on top, there is no excuse for such an obscenely fugly building. What the hell is that?

I totally agree, Jennifat. What an ugly POS

Okay, I answered my own question



http://flights.expedia.com/Flights_tfaOMSP_DRST.htm

Supporters claim 1,000,000 annual visitors. Very well but in 2009 the ones who flew in numbered a mere 10,867. That's roughly 30 passengers/day. In order to compete, a train service would also have to be a lot quicker and go to where people need it to go most (i.e. a downtown location).

And just how many choose to go by shuttle/taxi or prefer to drive themselves?

The driving distance between MSP and DT Rochester is 84 miles. In ideal conditions it takes about an hour and 15 minutes to get there by car. Let's assume the distance traveled by train equals that of an automobile, then

84/150 (claimed speed) = 33.6 minutes
84/200 (claimed speed, but not possible with existing track) = 25.2 minutes

Compare that to the 46 min it takes to fly there. Granted, according to the Double Tree hotel website, it is an additional 20 min to go from RST to downtown Rochester, so be it 1 hr 06 mins.

Just by comparing the hypothetical travel times alone, one would assume that a train service is feasible in theory, even desirable, between the two metros. In addition to Mayo clinic visitors, at under 1/2 hour the service should be attractive to those working in either of the metros, students, and day trippers. Airport location would also mean that train passengers could transfer to a Hiawatha train and continue to their destinations with little hassle. It would also be handy to know what sort of passenger volumes are there for car and shuttle, too.

I think it would also be fair to add in about 30 minutes to the air travel time due to the typical requirement to be on the plane 20 minutes before takeoff and the additional time needed for clearing security at the airport. Thus, it easily becomes more like a 1.5-2 hour trip by air. But shifting 10,000 passenger trips/year certainly wouldn't justify the expense. I suspect that a fair number of additional trips would be created by students and others without cars who would like to travel more often between the Cities and Roch than they currently do, but the real question is how it will compare to private auto travel times, and whether lobbying by communities in between will result in additional stops that will increase travel time. Such a train should not be looked at as a development stimulator for the entire corrdior if travel time is of the esssence.

The Lowry Avenue Bridge under construction:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/6603859005_966d1135c7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6603859005/)
mplsdec2011119 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6603859005/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

Rendering:

http://images.publicradio.org/content/2009/06/10/20090610_lowry_final_boards_33.jpg

^^^^I'm thinking probably going to be the best looking bridge in the entire Twin Cities.

^^^^I'm thinking probably going to be the best looking bridge in the entire Twin Cities.

It is certainly up there with the likes of Hennepin ave bridge and the Hiawatha bike bridge.

It is certainly up there with the likes of Hennepin ave bridge and the Hiawatha bike bridge.

Agreed, though I like the historic bridges like the Stone Arch and 3rd Avenue. The new Lowry Bridge is structurally similar to the Cedar Avenue bridge in Bloomington, but much more graceful.

The new Lowry Bridge is structurally similar to the Cedar Avenue bridge in Bloomington, but much more graceful.

that has me thinking, I hope they keep this painted white instead of just letting it get oxidized like they did on Cedar Ave.

I'm thinking [the new Lowry Ave. Bridge is] probably going to be the best looking bridge in the entire Twin Cities.

Agreed. It's too bad we can't manage to build higher-quality bridges (design-wise) like this one, especially for high-profile spans like the new I-35W bridge. While I'm satisfied with what we got, it could have been something monumental and a landmark for the Twin Cities.

In a metro area that should be celebrating its river/water heritage, I don't think we do a decent enough job playing it up with beautiful infrastructure (that doesn't have to be exorbitantly expensive).

Sometimes I forget I live in a river town

Agreed. It's too bad we can't manage to build higher-quality bridges (design-wise) like this one, especially for high-profile spans like the new I-35W bridge. While I'm satisfied with what we got, it could have been something monumental and a landmark for the Twin Cities.

In a metro area that should be celebrating its river/water heritage, I don't think we do a decent enough job playing it up with beautiful infrastructure (that doesn't have to be exorbitantly expensive).

No kidding. Just look at the new Lafayette Bridge is St Paul. It's basically an exact replacement of the original boring utilitarian design, only wider. Unfortunately the nearby airport and some power lines prohibit some arches or any sort of pizzazz.

Lofts at Farmers Market, from today. Some very nice artistic touches have been added. A few artists were doing some touch up work as I walked by.

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/5986/dscn0599yp.jpg

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/412/dscn0601fw.jpg

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/6589/dscn0598r.jpg

http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/6388/dscn0600f.jpg


Cossetta's Alimentari.

http://img543.imageshack.us/img543/990/dscn0604o.jpg

http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/9367/dscn0605x.jpg

http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/3571/dscn0607a.jpg

Construction update for Stadium Village Flats. Pictures from its Facebook page.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/381802_306180919417164_199489486752975_812666_822735478_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/394991_306180969417159_199489486752975_812668_943082907_n.jpg

I ran across this at the corner of 27th and Nicollet. It isn't the greatest project in the world but it looks like it has proper urban form in that comes up to the sidewalk, will fill most of the Nicollet side of the lot with a building and uses the existing curb cuts. It is better than the vacant lot that is currently there.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6805622811_8166ddc448_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6805622811/)
mplsjan201222 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6805622811/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6805622695_ac995a8262_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6805622695/)
mplsjan201221 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6805622695/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

I also took a picture of the progress on the downtown Lund's grocery store.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6813867975_0fb2b2dd7e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6813867975/)
mplsfeb201211 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40863599@N05/6813867975/) by afsmps (http://www.flickr.com/people/40863599@N05/), on Flickr

Cossetta's Alimentari update. Pictures by me from today. Steel work is coming along very nicely.

http://img864.imageshack.us/img864/551/dscn1110w.jpg

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/8361/dscn1111f.jpg

Some pictures from today by me of the Union Depot renovation. The Kellogg Blvd side is coming along very nicely. The glass really livens up the street. What a huge improvement.

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/266/dscn1112wx.jpg

http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/1248/dscn1113e.jpg

http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/253/dscn1114i.jpg

Ryan Companies have finally broken ground (http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/blog/real_estate/2012/02/ryan-breaks-ground-on-222-henneppin.html) on the 222 project in downtown Minneapolis at the corner of Washington and Hennepin. The 286-unit luxury apartment complex will be anchored by a Whole Foods store. This project, along with the new Lund's Grocery at 13th & Hennepin under construction and the existing Target grocery department on the Nicollet Mall will be a huge amenity boost to downtown's residents. Prior to these two new developments the closest full-service grocery store was the Lund's just across the river in Old St. Anthony.


http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/4040/222hennepinave02.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/62/222hennepinave02.jpg/)

Some development news on the north side:

Penn & Broadway: The Next 50th & France?
Posted: February 15, 2012 | Author: Jeremy Striffler

Developer Steve Minn, retailer dream big after May tornado

Last May’s tornado in north Minneapolis may have accelerated the redevelopment already occurring at Penn Avenue North and West Broadway Avenue — a blighted area that officials hope could someday become like 50th and France or other key Minneapolis retail hubs...

more (http://twincitiesretailing.com/2012/02/15/penn-broadway-the-next-50th-france/)

http://finance-commerce.com/files/2012/02/TORNADO-MAP.jpg

New apartments proposed across the street from the future 222 apartments.

http://assets.bizjournals.com/twincities/blog/real_estate/velo2-%20sm.jpg?v=1

http://assets.bizjournals.com/twincities/blog/real_estate/velo1%20sm.jpg?v=1

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/02/opus-pitches-north-loop-apartments/

A press conference is scheduled today revealing a deal for a new Vikings stadium in downtown Minneapolis on the Metrodome site:

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/02/29/vikings-stadium-announcement/

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/140984883.html

so will it be exactly where the metrodome is now, or just east of it by the highway?

http://stmedia.startribune.com/documents/Downtown+East+Site+Plan.pdf This is the site plan.

A cool overhead shot of the Stadium Village Flats apartment building U/C. From it's Facebook page.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/407526_328357307199525_199489486752975_861510_286047663_n.jpg

MoZaic in Uptown. A little disappointed the colored panels aren't used more extensively. Their a nice touch.

http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/7913/dscn1119m.jpg

http://img848.imageshack.us/img848/4491/dscn1122hz.jpg

http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/2253/dscn1123l.jpg

Here's a picture of one of the sculptures in the plaza.
http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/2921/dscn1121pr.jpg

only blue panels???

There are green panels as well, and orange panels facing the Hennepin side. I like the perforated metal design, though.

Mozaic is a gigantic, hulking, nondescript beast. I'll reserve final judgments until it's completed, but so far, I am not impressed.

Considering that it mostly contains a multistory parking ramp, Mosaic does a commendable job masking it utilitarian side. The addition of said decorative elements should further improve the overall impression.

I agree with Jennifat. I had reservations the moment they published the revised design.

It's an ugly, precast, overbearing presence in Uptown that looks like it was designed in 1982. May there be other buildings that will eventually cover up this monstrosity.

I mean, gawd, this looks like it belongs behind a hospital in Bloomington. Absolutely hideous.

I agree with Jennifat. I had reservations the moment they published the revised design.

It's an ugly, precast, overbearing presence in Uptown that looks like it was designed in 1982. May there be other buildings that will eventually cover up this monstrosity.

I mean, gawd, this looks like it belongs behind a hospital in Bloomington. Absolutely hideous.

I cry over what we could have had originally. A work of art and then this piece of something else.

The city is seeking applications for a design committee on the park.

Here is a picture of the current conception,
http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/8967/vpcurrent.png
The actual full size document is here, http://www.stpaul.gov/DocumentView.aspx?DID=19862

In the upper right section you'll see some new development plans. Here is a site plan for the proposed two phase apartment development.
http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/7082/vpaptsplan.png

I cry over what we could have had originally. A work of art and then this piece of something else.

anybody have the renderings for the original mozaic plan?

anybody have the renderings for the original mozaic plan?

These tiny thumbnails were the only images I could find—this is what we could have had:

http://www.condo.com/PartnerImages/BLD/NC/71/8371.jpg

http://www.downtownjournal.com/publications/southwest/images/stories/7575/news10.jpg

And this is what we're getting:

http://www.ouruptown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/MoZaic-from-Fremont-1024x628.jpg

More mediocrity for the city of Minneapolis!

The problem is that the approval process took to long. Different elements of the community complained about many facets of the project. By the time they were done tweaking it to make everybody happy the bottom had dropped out of the condo market. It is a classic example of good intentions leading to bad outcomes.

but they (neighborhood NIMBY groups) never learn!!!

But the NIMBYs are fine with that?

Well they blocked a great building and instead got a very mediocre one. I think if most people were given a choice between the original Mozaic and what was eventually built they would take the original.

They'll put some flower pots and planters on the roof it'll look alright

^^Yeah. We're stuck with it now, so whatever they can do to dress it up will have to do. I'm really hoping they're going to plant trees on the rooftop patios like the rendering suggests.

Hello everyone, I actually live in SD but visit the Twin Cities alot, I am a big fan of the Vikings and was wondering about what everyone thinks of the new stadium plan.

I was a fan of the Arden Hills site since it is currently vacant land and the location seemed great, Right off of 35W and 694. However it looks like the stadium will be built at the Metrodome site.

http://images.publicradio.org/content/2012/03/01/20120301_vikings_stadium_metrodome_33.jpg

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/03/01/vikings-stadium-deal-minneapolis/

I'm not from Minnesota either -- but I think a downtown site is a lot better. If the Twin Cities land future major events (Final Four, Super Bowl, Big Ten Football Championship, etc.) I'd much rather visit the event if it were in downtown Minneapolis then if it were in a suburban town away from all of the interesting things to visit in the Twin Cities.

In downtown Minneapolis -- you can walk all over the place to visit the various museums, historical buildings, dense areas of night life, shopping, lots of hotels, restaurants, etc. In Arden Hills you would drive into a big parking lot for the game. And you'd likely have to go drive to other places many miles away to find interesting things to do. Downtown Minneapolis makes a lot of sense to me.

Its obvious that keeping the stadium downtown is best because of the existing public transportation lines recently completed and the future ones to come. Just like Target Field.

Even if downtown Minneapolis would not work for whatever reason, why not downtown St. Paul? Why not anywhere on the train lines? This just makes no sense.

Even if downtown Minneapolis would not work for whatever reason, why not downtown St. Paul? Why not anywhere on the train lines? This just makes no sense.

There isn't room for a football stadium in dt StP, much less along the University light rail line. It's Minneapolis or a suburb.

Bigos Development is proposing a new luxury apartment building near Lake Calhoun. Here are some of the proposed designs. Guess which one the neighborhood will likely support?

http://cidnalanduse.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/120213-2622-wlake-tower-massing-study-600wjpg.jpg
136ft tower.

http://cidnalanduse.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/120213-2622-wlake-c-massing-600w.jpg
56ft C-shaped structure.

http://cidnalanduse.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/step-back-c.jpg?w=500&h=335
56ft C-shaped structure w/ setback facing Midtown Greenway.

http://cidnalanduse.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/120213-2622-wlake-l-massing-600w.jpg?w=500&h=323&h=323
88ft L-shaped tower.

http://cidnalanduse.wordpress.com/2012/03/02/ted-bigos-proposes-apartments-at-lake-st-thomas-ave/

Construction update on the Stadium Village Flats from the "let there be light rail blog", http://lettherebelightrail.blogspot.com/2012/03/minne-happenings.html

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--_5fzwchH0M/T2fucI8xSRI/AAAAAAAAG5Q/cgUFkt17SMc/s1600/IMG_2322.JPG

FIY There is yet another 4-story student housing / dormitory going up on the U campus. It's being built on the site of a former classroom building at University Ave and 17th St.

Bigos Development is proposing a new luxury apartment building near Lake Calhoun. Here are some of the proposed designs. Guess which one the neighborhood will likely support?
I'm guessing this is a very NIMBY neighborhood? I wouldn't understand why they would oppose the 136 ft. tower when you have something that is roughly the same height right next to it. But I can't understand NIMBYism anyways. :)

I'm guessing this is a very NIMBY neighborhood? I wouldn't understand why they would oppose the 136 ft. tower when you have something that is roughly the same height right next to it. But I can't understand NIMBYism anyways. :)

There are a few tall high rises in the area. But another one added to the neighborhood just makes the NIMBYs think their whole world is turning into Manhattan. Ridiculous of course. But you can bet there will be a strong fight against the taller proposals...

Minnesota has 11,000+ lakes. For the love of Sidney, can't just one of them have high-rises on it??? Calhoun is NOT Mille Lacs or Itasca or Vermillion. It's an urban lake for pete's sake. I say let's truly make it into one.

this ^^

American Academy of Neurology HQ, almost finished.

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/3614/dscn1124yp.jpg

http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/1447/dscn1126z.jpg

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/255/dscn1127nu.jpg


701 2nd Street Apartments in the North Loop.

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/2936/dscn1132k.jpg

Construction update of 222 Hennepin, from today. Demo work is going well. They were even working today.

http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/1363/dscn1128x.jpg

http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/59/dscn1129c.jpg

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/995/dscn1130i.jpg

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/328/dscn1131t.jpg

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/5271/dscn1133kc.jpg

http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/5660/dscn1134d.jpg

http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/2227/dscn1135w.jpg

http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/2015/dscn1136n.jpg

Good bye ugly POS

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7116/7021715117_8a8d6eb754_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/93694546@N00/7021715117/)
New Building for the American Academy of Neurology (http://www.flickr.com/photos/93694546@N00/7021715117/) by mgtelu (http://www.flickr.com/people/93694546@N00/), on Flickr

Construction update for Cossetta's Alimentari expansion in downtown St. Paul.

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/9625/dscn1154a.jpg

http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/5316/dscn1157g.jpg

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/5361/dscn1158a.jpg

While no "signature" projects lately, lots of great infill buildings! Hopefully the Nicollet Residences and LaSalle projects kick in soon.

222 Hennepin's crane was just erected this week. Pictures from this morning by me.

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/5106/dscn1159i.jpg

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/3294/dscn1160u.jpg

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/4294/dscn1162y.jpg

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/466/dscn1163q.jpg

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/7866/dscn1164sk.jpg

Great pics everyone! Any updates on the Central Corridor?

Aerial shot of Stadium Village Flats from its Facebook page.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/564776_365669010135021_199489486752975_953813_2072334156_n.jpg

While we're on the topic of campus developments...

The University Aquatic Center Expansion from yesterday

http://i41.tinypic.com/2l517b.jpg

It is one BIG add-on relative to the existing building

the location:

http://www1.umn.edu/twincities/maps/UAqCtr/small.gif

Typical of U of M's "trademark" style, the four-story building's exterior is a mixture of glass and brown brick:

http://i40.tinypic.com/1tlje1.jpg

Similar to other recent U of M buildings, this one will have what looks like a particularly ample-sized and well-lit main lobby, a great potential meeting space for students. An understated design, it should age well?

Although I didn't get a picture, across the road I saw a foundation being excavated for yet another important addition to the U: the Physics and Nanotechnology Building

... On to the Medical Discovery District ...


Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Building nearing completion.

http://i44.tinypic.com/2i956yc.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/9jqhp4.jpg

Expected to become a LEED Silver building, the 64,000 sf interior is promised to flow with natural daylight.

After two years of intense construction works...

http://i41.tinypic.com/161nf9v.jpg

I remember driving around the area watching TCF Stadium under construction. The whole surrounding area was just desolate. Now it's just crane after crane. Awesome! And not just cheap stick framed infill housing. But top notch research buildings.

^^ And in years before TCF was built there was nothing there but abandoned grain elevators and empty warehouses. An amazing transformation it has been indeed...

While we're on the topic of campus developments...

The University Aquatic Center Expansion from yesterday

...
Typical of U of M's "trademark" style, the four-story building's exterior is a mixture of glass and brown brick:
.....

Similar to other recent U of M buildings, this one will have what looks like a particularly ample-sized and well-lit main lobby, a great potential meeting space for students. An understated design, it should age well?

Wow, I thought the Aquatics center was pretty damn good on its own. Why the expansion? What will it house?

Just drove University Ave this morning checking out the light rail construction. I saw signs at the corner of University and Hamline revealing renders for PPL's (Project for Pride Living) proposed 2x4 story mixed use buildings.

A really good piece about growth and development in MSP.


No love for the heart of the city (http://www.startribune.com/opinion/commentaries/149300655.html)

Article by: STEVE BERG Updated: April 28, 2012 - 7:04 PM

Minneapolis and St. Paul are failing to grow, despite their thriving suburbs, while competitor towns like Seattle and Denver are booming along with their metro areas. Why?

Just drove University Ave this morning checking out the light rail construction. I saw signs at the corner of University and Hamline revealing renders for PPL's (Project for Pride Living) proposed 2x4 story mixed use buildings.

Found a rendering,

http://www.minnpost.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/article_detail/images/articles/HamlineLRTStationSketch640.jpg
http://www.minnpost.com/cityscape/2012/04/grants-help-fund-twin-cities%E2%80%99-transit-oriented-development

wow that is a lot bigger than I imagined when I heard two 4-story buildings. also, upon reading the article in the strib about the A-mill project just a bit more closely I read the part about the underground museum with access to see the water flowing through the tailraces. sounds like a really amazing plan!

anybody have a subscription to finance and commerce that can post the entire article?

Greystar plans 600-plus units at Bennett Lumber site
Posted: 4:29 pm Fri, May 4, 2012
By Burl Gilyard

South Carolina-based Greystar Real Estate Partners has big plans for the former Bennett Lumber site in the Uptown area of south Minneapolis.

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/05/greystar-plans-600-plus-units-at-bennett-lumber-site/

^^ Here's a summary of the article:

Greystar Real Estate Partners has paid $5.65 million for the Bennett Lumber site in Uptown.

Previous owners had plans for 710 apartments for the three-block site along the northern edge of the Midtown Greenway.

Greystar now owns about a third (5.6 acre) of the total site, but was given an option to buy the rest.

The land was previously owned by two local groups: Uptown Aurora Properties LLC and JPG-OFG LLC. Records show that the properties sold for $3.75 million in 2006.

The total site addresses include:

2828 Emerson Ave. S (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2828+Emerson+Ave.+S&hl=en&ll=44.950986,-93.294144&spn=0.004548,0.008256&sll=44.950719,-93.292809&sspn=0.004548,0.008256&t=k&hnear=2828+Emerson+Ave+S,+Minneapolis,+Minnesota+55408&z=18).
2828 Dupont Ave. S (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2828+Dupont+Ave.+S&hl=en&ll=44.950631,-93.293898&spn=0.004548,0.008256&sll=44.950908,-93.29475&sspn=0.004548,0.008256&t=k&hnear=2828+Dupont+Ave+S,+Minneapolis,+Minnesota+55408&z=18).
2836 Colfax Ave. S (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2836+Colfax+Ave.+S&hl=en&ll=44.950719,-93.292809&spn=0.004548,0.008256&sll=44.950631,-93.293898&sspn=0.004548,0.008256&t=k&hnear=2836+Colfax+Ave+S,+Minneapolis,+Minnesota+55408&z=18)

Greystar are pretty mum about the details at this point. Right now they are involved in the construction of a 430-unit apartment complex in located in a Dallas' suburb.

Previously, a local developer secured a 217-unit apartments on the eastern-most parcel. No other proposals were submitted for the remaining parcels.

City Council is currently working on the environmental assessment of the site.

Wow, I thought the Aquatics center was pretty damn good on its own. Why the expansion? What will it house?

From the rec center website:


More room for strength training and fitness-related activities (25,000 sq. ft)

http://i45.tinypic.com/i1fpmu.jpg

New climbing center featuring 3,200 st. ft of climbing surface

http://i47.tinypic.com/j0bd50.jpg

General fitness and workshop rooms

http://i46.tinypic.com/veahk1.jpg

Full-service cafe

http://i46.tinypic.com/5008zl.jpg

Multiactivity sport courts

http://i45.tinypic.com/w1cwg3.jpg

... AND

Elevated track (!)

http://i45.tinypic.com/dcvpko.jpg

so do the 600 units planned include all 3 blocks or just the one block?

^^
Greystar currently only has plans for the western-most parcel identified in the article. No word on how many units are being planned for, however developers before Greystar secured the city's permission for as much as 217 units there. Past owners wanted 700 units to be built on ALL THREE parcels, but that is not necessarily relevant to this particular deal.

What's going on with the empty lot along Lake St next to the Calhoun Square mall
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2828+Emerson+Ave.+S&hl=en&ll=44.948124,-93.296357&spn=0.001137,0.002064&sll=44.950719,-93.292809&sspn=0.004548,0.008256&t=k&hnear=2828+Emerson+Ave+S,+Minneapolis,+Minnesota+55408&z=20

For such a prime parcel, it's been there like that for a long time and nothing seems to have been happening?

What's going on with the empty lot along Lake St next to the Calhoun Square mall
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2828+Emerson+Ave.+S&hl=en&ll=44.948124,-93.296357&spn=0.001137,0.002064&sll=44.950719,-93.292809&sspn=0.004548,0.008256&t=k&hnear=2828+Emerson+Ave+S,+Minneapolis,+Minnesota+55408&z=20

For such a prime parcel, it's been there like that for a long time and nothing seems to have been happening?

I've been curious about that lot for a long time as well.

I believe it's owned by RMF Group. They're behind the proposed Track 29 development in Uptown.

What's up with Minnescraper website? Haven't seen an update since April 23rd and now I can't get on it at all.

^^I'm glad I'm not the only one having trouble with Minnescraper — I thought maybe it was just me...

What's up with Minnescraper website? Haven't seen an update since April 23rd and now I can't get on it at all.
I've been trying to figure out the same thing . I wonder if its closed or just down temporarily for maintenance?

Yeah, it's a bummer Minnescraper is down. But their aware of it and hope to have it back up soon.

FYI, here is their Facebook page. "Like" it. :)

https://www.facebook.com/Minnescraper


Also, "The Vue" in Loring Park is getting its crane.

edit

About time for 'Trees in Parking Lots'
http://www.minnpost.com/cityscape/2012/05/needed-fix-parking-blight-lots-trees

Yeah, it's a bummer Minnescraper is down. But their aware of it and hope to have it back up soon.

FYI, here is their Facebook page. "Like" it. :)

https://www.facebook.com/Minnescraper


Also, "The Vue" in Loring Park is getting its crane.

If one day SSC permanently went down, what would you do? You'd start a new forum the day after!

About time for 'Trees in Parking Lots'
http://www.minnpost.com/cityscape/2012/05/needed-fix-parking-blight-lots-trees

I saw this. I definitely like the idea. Though I doubt many parking lot owners would like the idea of losing a few precious spaces for trees.

Unless the city passes 'Parking Lot Shade' ordinance requiring them to plant...

City of St. Paul just released this press release,

"Saint Paul secures final financing for the Penfield project

HUD mortgage insurance commitment was key financial hurdle

SAINT PAUL—Today, the City of Saint Paul finalized financing for the Penfield project including a commitment from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide mortgage insurance for the Penfield. Closing on the financing is expected within the next 30 days, with construction beginning shortly thereafter.

“The Penfield project is catalytic, not just for downtown but for all of Saint Paul. It will drive business along the Central Corridor and provide the quality, full-service grocery store our downtown residents having been seeking for many years. I am thrilled we have received this critical HUD commitment, and I look forward to breaking ground in the very near future,” Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman said.

The Penfield, located just one block from the Central Corridor light rail transit line, is a LEED Silver, new construction, mixed-use development with 254 market-rate apartments, and a 27,000 square foot full-service Lunds grocery store..."


:banana:

Stadium Village is getting denser and denser!


Student housing development coming to U of M neighborhood near Central Corridor (http://www.thelinemedia.com/devnews/studenthousing050912.aspx?utm_source=VerticalResponse&utm_medium=Email&utm_term=Student+housing+development+coming+to+U+of+M+neighborhood+near+Central+Corridor&utm_content=%7bEmail_Address%7d&utm_campaign=New+Improv+Comedy%2c+Heels+and+Coffins%2c+Biking+at+Last)

Wednesday, May 09, 2012

"CPM Property Management in Minneapolis has a student-housing complex in the works for the Stadium Village area near the University of Minnesota campus.

Although design plans are still coming together, part of the project involves a 12-story tower, according to Daniel Oberpriller of CPM.

About two-thirds of the building runs six stories, he says. The development will also have 36,000 square feet of retail space..."

"...The existing Arby’s restaurant, CSL Plasma location, and commercial space on the property would be torn down to make way for the building..."

The U of M skyline is growing!


p.s. : I hope they are going to keep all the 2-story brick buildings on that block.

Here’s a rendering of the Stadium Village small area plan, which CPED has put together, showing the student housing parcel being developed by CPM Property Management. From what I've heard, CPM is taking the CPED concept into consideration for it's development.

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/3553/stadiumvillage.jpg

CPED's entire Stadium Village small area plan can be read here.
http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/www/groups/public/@cped/documents/webcontent/wcms1p-091864.pdf

That particular intersection looks like a slum right now, so any TOD like that is more than welcome

Here is the Pioneer Press' annual development run down of projects in St. Paul.

St. Paul development: The list -- what's going up, what's up in the air (http://www.twincities.com/stpaul/ci_20589305/st-paul-development-list-whats-going-up-whats?source=pkg)

I'm starting to worry that Minnescraper won't be coming back online anytime soon. This message was posted on their Twitter account April 27th, and hasn't been updated since:

Hey everyone sorry about the problems with the forum right now. We're working on it and hope to get it up again over the weekend.

I guess we're all going to have to slum it on SSC for the time being...

It does sucks, especially right now. There are lots of projects about to get underway. The Vikings stadium about to be approved. The PP rundown revealed some nice news about Wellington's project at 2700 the Avenue and the Old Dutch site (I'd heard it was going to be torn down and turned into a CVS) on Univ. becoming apartments. The first render of the Univ/Hamline TOD.

A lot is happening. :banana:

Meanwhile, here's a Flickr Minniescraper group http://www.flickr.com/groups/minnescraper/

Here's a render of a new apartment project planned at 1101 University Ave near the UofM. Another project from Doran Companies, they are becoming quite prolific.

http://img806.imageshack.us/img806/9961/1101university.jpg

1101 University places it directly AT the U of M campus. Will they be demolishing several fraternity houses to build this?

1101 University places it directly AT the U of M campus. Will they be demolishing several fraternity houses to build this?

nope, just an ugly 60's-ish church

More plans for more apartments (http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/print-edition/2012/05/11/proposals-for-more-apartments-popping-up.html?ana=twt)

Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal by Sam Black, Senior reporter
Date: Friday, May 11, 2012, 5:00am CDT - Last Modified: Thursday, May 10, 2012

The hot apartment-development market in Minneapolis is showing no sign of cooling as two new projects cropped up this week in and around downtown.
Both are in a similar pre-development stage looking for financing partners before submitting plans for city approvals.
• Chip Johnson of the Turnstone Group is considering the construction of a nine-story, 130-unit apartment near the Pence Building on Hawthorn and First Avenue North. He’s dubbed it The Venue, playing to the proximity to the First Avenue nightclub. Turnstone redeveloped and owns the Pence Building at 800 Hennepin Ave. Johnson, who has a main office in Atlanta, ..."

http://assets.bizjournals.com/twincities/print-edition/051112map.png?v=1

* I don't have a subscription, so if anyone can post some details about the Trammell Crow site, that'd be great!

It's exciting to see all this development in downtown Minneapolis, and I'm thrilled The Penfield will be built in St Paul with a grocery store! I'm having a little concern that 1368 Lasalle is stalled due to difficulty with financing the project. Nevertheless, I think The Nicollet Residences is still a go and that will be great for Nicollet Mall.The architecture of this high rise apartment building works beautifully with the site and in particular the street level and corner of Nicollet and 5th. One very cool thing about The Penfield and Nicollet residences is their proximity to LRT. I love the Hawthorne and 8th Street development as it brings new housing into the very core of the entertainment district downtown. Fantastico!

So it looks like the Minnescraper website is back up, but I'm still not able to make any posts. This is promising, but still frustrating.

So....wow...not even a mention lately that the Vikings are finally getting their new billion-dollar stadium??? That's easily worth six to ten Nicollet Residences... :)

OK, so I'll post a link to the Washington Post article here. (http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/column-vikings-stadium-deal-gets-done-and-what-a-deal-it-turns-out-to-be/2012/05/12/gIQA9fe2KU_story.html)

How sad. Meanwhile at the state assembly, the $865 million - $1.4 billion Southwest corridor is being actively blocked by our politicians. Talk about misplaced priorities.

..

I completely agree. If this metro area can afford a billion-dollar stadium, it can certainly afford a billion-dollar improvement to it's infrastructure.

I just wanted to share this phone picture of the U of M campus I took today. Love that the place is a hotbed of construction activity this summer.

http://i50.tinypic.com/x3bdjn.jpg

:banana:!!! :)

I completely agree. If this metro area can afford a billion-dollar stadium, it can certainly afford a billion-dollar improvement to it's infrastructure.

I agree; but what is most logical and most helpful to the entire metro?

A ++bilion dollar rail line that will lose in the high millions yearly? How vbout more rapid transit and more lanes to serve the entire metro?

LRT makes no sense in a sprawl. We're dying for more lanes and bus stops.

I agree; but what is most logical and most helpful to the entire metro?

A ++bilion dollar rail line that will lose in the high millions yearly? How vbout more rapid transit and more lanes to serve the entire metro?

LRT makes no sense in a sprawl. We're dying for more lanes and bus stops.

I have seen very little proof that more highway lanes reduce traffic. Also, more lanes would not serve the whole metro, just the people who live farther out and drive cars.

I have seen very little proof that more highway lanes reduce traffic. Also, more lanes would not serve the whole metro, just the people who live farther out and drive cars.

99% of us drive cars Uptown. Logically more lanes would ease traffic. More traffic, no new lanes...that would lead to slower commutes. I never get the

I have seen very little proof that more highway lanes reduce traffic.


line. It's stunning IMO.

LRT makes no sense in a sprawl. We're dying for more lanes and bus stops.

There will be 24,000 to 30,000 rides per day by year 2030, which is comparable to current ridership on the Hiawatha LRT line.
50% is funded by FTA.
Car ownership will only be getting more expensive.
Roads will be perpetually congested (regardless of # of lanes you add)
BRT only runs a few times a day, is only convenient for 9-5 downtown workers and is more expensive to operate


Makes sense to me.

I have seen very little proof that more highway lanes reduce traffic.


line. It's stunning IMO.

Actually, he isn't wrong. Google it.

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/Traffic/story?id=469096&page=1#.T7E09p9Ytyc

Induced demand doesn’t just fill up new highway lanes; it pushes suburban growth further out—leading to even worse congestion as people move away from metropolitan cores. It leads to higher fuel costs and more accidents. Adding capacity to an existing highway can even make traffic worse on non-highway streets (so-called surface roads) because of an obscure game-theory principle known as Braess’s Paradox.

I don't think LRT is the panacea for all our transportation issues in the Twin Cities, however, there were 3000 businesses and numerous suburban chamber of commerces (along the proposed Southwest LRT line corridor) that supported continued planning for its construction (according to The StarTribune). This is not a partisan issue, but part of a strategic plan to enhance economic activity and growth of our metro area. Now , I remember a time when the Republican Party was pro-growth and pro-business as part of its philosophy for working for the common good of our community. What's happened???

I don't think LRT is the panacea for all our transportation issues in the Twin Cities, however, there were 3000 businesses and numerous suburban chamber of commerces (along the proposed Southwest LRT line corridor) that supported continued planning for its construction (according to The StarTribune). This is not a partisan issue, but part of a strategic plan to enhance economic activity and growth of our metro area. Now , I remember a time when the Republican Party was pro-growth and pro-business as part of its philosophy for working for the common good of our community. What's happened???

This isn't a party position, I don't care for the Republican positions on bonding bills and the infrastructure issues that are constantly ignored. Expanding a highway or building (currently) at the U creates instant jobs now and in the future.

We DO NOT HAVE THE density to make rail work. We reqiuire more freeway miles, that's an established fact. Rapid transit makes way more sense, costs WAY less money and takes up WAY LESS LAND.

The stadium project is a financial win, win. LRT is a finacial ruin for the tax payer. They need to charge way more a ticket. There are going to extra taxes and fees on a viking's ticket, they should do the same for LRT, then I'll support it.

Walk Score Launches Bike Score
http://www.theatlanticcities.com/commute/2012/05/walk-score-launches-bike-score/1994/

http://i48.tinypic.com/wl3s5j.jpg


Here’s the initial Top 10 Most Bikeable Cities:

1. Minneapolis (Bike Score: 79)
2. Portland (Bike Score: 70)
3. San Francisco (Bike Score: 70)
4. Boston (Bike Score: 68)
5. Madison (Bike Score: 67)
6. Washington, D.C. (Bike Score: 65)
7. Seattle (Bike Score: 64)
8. Tucson (Bike Score: 64)
9. New York (Bike Score: 62)
10. Chicago (Bike Score: 62)

I agree that its important to fund and maintain highway infrastructure. But why are 3000 businesses and all suburban chamber of commerces along the SW corridor in support of the project? To create financial ruin for the taxpayer? I doubt it. Its an economic growth strategy that will create a stronger tax base. Its pro-growth and pro-business. The paradigm for economic growth is shifting more towards transit oriented development. This change is going to accelerate as fossil fuel becomes more and more expensive. The Twin Cities is very behind other urban areas in this respect. To block funding for the SW LRT is like committing economic suicide.

This isn't a party position, I don't care for the Republican positions on bonding bills and the infrastructure issues that are constantly ignored. Expanding a highway or building (currently) at the U creates instant jobs now and in the future.

We DO NOT HAVE THE density to make rail work. We reqiuire more freeway miles, that's an established fact. Rapid transit makes way more sense, costs WAY less money and takes up WAY LESS LAND.

The stadium project is a financial win, win. LRT is a finacial ruin for the tax payer. They need to charge way more a ticket. There are going to extra taxes and fees on a viking's ticket, they should do the same for LRT, then I'll support it.

This is really the crux of the matter on why I respectfully disagree with you. I may be wrong, but I think we both can agree that low-density, sprawling cities are a waste of resources and expensive to operate, yes?

If we - as a people - want to reduce the urban sprawl, then we have to invest in a system that encourages people to stick closer to the urban center. Subways and LRT systems INCREASE density with TOD's (are you going to deny that there has been a boom in the number of housing projects near the Hiawatha LRT stations? Look at the developments planned in Minneapolis and St. Paul proper. Most of them are on the Central Corridor or Hiawatha lines - and I DARE to predict that there will be many more like them along the SW route), while expanding freeways merely allows people to move ever outwards to cheaper and cheaper land, thus increasing sprawl and encouraging lower densities. I'm GLAD that it's a nightmare on 694/494 sometimes.

If you want to encourage efficiencies, nasa, then I hope you consider that opening the "pipelines" so people can move ever farther out (and increasing the burden of our infrastructure) is not the way to go. Instead, we can encourage more efficiencies with high-capacity public transportation systems, and higher-density urban neighborhoods that follow them. This is neither a liberal nor conservative idea. It's just smart. No, it's not cheap. But we simply can't always go with the cheapest crap. Because all we end up with is cheap crap.

And freeways are not free! Do a search on the real costs of Lane-Miles. A 3-mile extension of Highway 509 in Seattle is expected to cost $1.3 Billion. Sure, that's an extreme example. But I'd rather spend money to keep people closer to the urban core than spend money to allow people to flee it.

To put this into perspective, a simple chart shows the burden on all of us to subsidize outward growth of the Twin Cities metro.

In the most general sense, for every 10-mile increase in the radius of metro expansion, we are paying for an additional 628 square miles of sewage, electrical and gas connections to service the area.

This has just got to stop. Nasa35, you ask for efficiency. Surely you see that we cannot justify continued growth by simply expanding the freeway system, which allows people to just easily move outwards, thus burdening us all with increased taxes to pay for vast expansion of the infrastructure? I know you tend toward Conservatism. And in this regard I totally agree with you. So let's really conserve and limit the currently unbridled expansion of a metro area that is increasingly unable to pay for this out-of-control growth. That's why I say this is not a Liberal vs. Conservative debate. It's about the long-term health of of our home city.

And to put this into even further perspective, the Twin Cities already cover more than 6,000 square miles.


http://img855.imageshack.us/img855/2695/metroareas.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/855/metroareas.jpg/)

George Lucas proposes building affordable housing on property - an unexpected announcement from the legendary filmmaker and producer may win him accolades with the public, if not his wealthy neighbors. (http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/george-lucas-proposes-building-affording-housing-property-192338945.html;_ylt=A2KLOzJtuLNPERgAcYjQtDMD)

I think George Lucas has found the best way to deal with NIMBY neighbors

Just found out there's a webcam for the 222 Hennepin project! :cheers:

http://www.222hennepin.com/stream.html

right now that webcam's boring, but once they get to the stick-built part it will be worth checking every day.

Bloomington attempts to re-invent itself as urban community:

http://www.minnpost.com/cityscape/2012/05/vision-make-bloomington-more-giant-parking-lot

http://i49.tinypic.com/2pq3qj6.jpg


If they pull off something similar to Sydney's Chatswood (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chatswood,_New_South_Wales) (dense, reasonably priced hosing, expanded amenities), I can see it becoming a viable alternative to crowded urban living of Minneapolis or Saint Paul. It would be very attractive to young families and commuting professionals...

^^ That area definitely needs some infill. Sometimes I like to take in the view from the parking ramp on the east side of the MoA. There's been some nice projects built up around the LRT stations. But still needs a lot more.

Just want to let everybody know that Google maps has updated their sattelite images (not the 45 degree ones, those are a year old), so you can see all the new construction.

Here's a small rendering of a proposed new apartment building along University Ave in St. Paul. The site is the long vacant 2700 the Ave. project. It'll be 222 apartments and 5 stories tall.

http://finance-commerce.com/files/2012/05/2700U-view-1_042712.jpg
http://finance-commerce.com/2012/05/wellington-doran-pitch-apartments-near-lrt/


In other CCLRT dev news, Episcopal Homes is seeking rezoning of the Porky's site to TN3 zoning at the next zoning committee meeting. That'll permit a 7-story 80 feet tall building at that site.

something interesting I learned today: Apparently they have no idea how they are going to get the money to build a new Peavey Plaza but they still want to demolish it right away. That seems a little strange, doesn't it? Also, is there any way to confirm this?

something interesting I learned today: Apparently they have no idea how they are going to get the money to build a new Peavey Plaza but they still want to demolish it right away. That seems a little strange, doesn't it? Also, is there any way to confirm this?

Ugh, for f*ck's sake. The way things are done in this city is thoroughly exasperating.

Why can't we just leave the plaza the way it is (one of the very few examples of quality urban design from the 70s), restore it to its former grandeur, and be done with it? How this city can make so many reckless planning mistakes over the years and not learn from them is an enigma.

something interesting I learned today: Apparently they have no idea how they are going to get the money to build a new Peavey Plaza but they still want to demolish it right away. That seems a little strange, doesn't it? Also, is there any way to confirm this?

By demolishing it now they're taking past the point of no return (so to speak). There are many opposed to changing it or have different ideas about the final look of the project. If they leave it as is until they secure the money it could take years. Meanwhile it could lose its priority, change plans yet again, face a new council, and new committees. By demolishing it now, they're forcing the project through. No one will want to just leave it as a gaping hole for too long. This way it won't lose its ranking as a priority.

By demolishing it now they're taking past the point of no return (so to speak). There are many opposed to changing it or have different ideas about the final look of the project. If they leave it as is until they secure the money it could take years. Meanwhile it could lose its priority, change plans yet again, face a new council, and new committees. By demolishing it now, they're forcing the project through. No one will want to just leave it as a gaping hole for too long. This way it won't lose its ranking as a priority.

wow, has this city learned nothing from their "urban renewal" attempts? much of downtown remains empty today because they wanted shiny new buildings and demolished all the historic old ones without any sort of a plan. this could end badly.

I recall the 90s, when one could see Peavey Plaza featured in every tourist brochure, every coffee table book about Minneapolis St. Paul. It has been a source of much civic pride, but now they want to demolish it altogether only to replace with something ... so ordinary.

Our barbarism even made the NY Times:http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/17/arts/design/minneapolis-tussles-over-peavey-plaza.html