06-29-15-R - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mayor David Grant June 29, 2015 Page 2 in the JPA. In our discussions with developers, and in the City Council's discussions, we heard a similar theme—flexibility is essential. We ask that you allow a maximum build- out scenario of up to 1,700 units to take full advantage of the opportunities in today's market, and future opportunities that may be presented through a master developer. Transit From the start of the master planning process, we have heard the City Council express the need for higher-frequency bus service and support of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). We concur. We also understand that high-frequency transit demands density in housing and employment to support it. The current density planned for housing falls short of meeting the Met Council's 2040 Systems Statement goal of 10-15 units per acre within mile of a high-frequency or BRT line. While we view transit as important, residents, employers and workers are also increasingly demanding high quality transit options when choosing where to live, work and invest. Doug Baker, CEO of Ecolab and Chair of Greater MSP's taskforce on talent retention and attraction, recently noted that "highly prized talent have options for mobility. If they don't connect here, they will move on." Let us not miss the opportunity to position the site now for high quality transit. We know from the experience of Metro area suburban communities that high-frequency transit service to provide for workforce penetration into a community is essential for continued economic growth and business retention. In particular, we draw your attention to Shakopee's experience in which its successful bid for Amazon has been stymied by an inability to attract employees due to a lack of a lack of transit service to that suburb. We want to make sure we do not set ourselves up for a similar outcome. "Uniqueness" Time and again, we heard at public open houses, from residents and business owners, and from real estate and development professionals, that the redevelopment of TCAAP calls for "uniqueness". This has been described in terms of amenities (trails, parks, gathering spaces, entrances to the site), as well as destinations (grocery, restaurants, retail). We believe the Master Plan and TRC has the makings of a unique community, but density of housing and commercial development will drive this uniqueness. We believe that the current planned density falls short of providing an adequate economic return for developers who would seek to incorporate unique features and amenities into their development plans. These amenities include bike and pedestrian facilities, passive and active parks, a civic amenity in the Town Square, and a high-level finish in