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Postal Customer I n s i d e Arden Hills, MN . 55112-5734 Lake Johanna Fire Station One to Close Summer Recycling Tips Parking at State Fair Time Mark Moser Joins Staff News from the Mayor Subscribe to these social media resources to learn about City events, recreation opportunities, and more. www.twitter.com/ardenhills/city www.facebook.com/CityofArdenHillsMN Find us on social media With Alatus now chosen as the de- veloper for Rice Creek Commons, the question I am asked often is, “What is next?” I would like to share with you some of the major efforts underway and some of the significant milestones that are to be accomplished by the end of this year. Two major items are now underway. First is the development of a new County Road H bridge with improved entry and exit ramps. Construction should be substan- tially completed later this year. County Road H will be the major entrance to Rice Creek Commons. The second item is a 90-day study being conducted by the developer to determine what the market demand is for various zoning types. For example, there are several zoning districts that will support single family homes. The market demand study will show what price points, amenities, and styles are in greatest demand. The town neighborhood is perhaps the most interesting area in the study. It has smaller lots, some apartments or condo units along with a variety of other possible housing types in addition to retail. The study will answer just what amenities will be supported in the town center neighbor- hood. A walkable area with shops, res- taurants, fountains, plazas, and gathering areas is one of the endless possibilities. The commercial district will also be part of the study to determine the demand for office and light manufacturing employers. The market study will also answer several key questions. How should the boulevard look? How should the water feature that runs through the development look and function (as well as be an amenity to the property)? Should Rice Creek Commons remain as the name of the development? The Rice Creek Commons name was developed for the purpose of marketing the property to developers. It was not intended to be the final name, but it could be. In the next six months there are two very important agreements that need ratification. The development agreement will specify various phases of development on the property. It is anticipated that the develop- er, along with other partners, will purchase sections of the property to start the devel- opment. As areas are developed, additional property will be purchased. The study will help determine which areas should go first and which areas will be developed in later phases. For example, perhaps the town neighbor- hood should go first with its variety of housing and shops. With this established, commercial developers will have some of the amenities they desire and companies will follow. Then again, perhaps the retail should go first, creating a variety of retail and restaurants, thereby driving housing. Maybe employers should go first, creat- ing a demand for housing and retail. The development agreement will document the phasing of the development. As such, it is a major item to be completed. The purchase agreement will specify the financial transaction. In some ways it is similar to other real estate purchase agreements. Where it differs is the amount of detail specified in the document. The amount of detail required increases the overall level of effort, time, and discus- sions necessary to complete the agreement. In this transaction, the County is the seller and Alatus is the purchaser. Naturally, the developer cannot develop the property until a purchase agreement is signed. It is another major item that must be completed. Hopefully, by the end of the year each item will be completed. It is a lot of work, but things are moving forward. I think we are taking the time to do things right. If you have suggestions, pass them along to the City Council and/or City staff. Have a great summer. David Grant, Mayor ECR-WSS PRST STD U.S. Postage Paid Twin Cities, MN Permit #1962