HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020/03/16 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Regular
AGENDA
MARCH 16, 2020
5:15 p.m. COVID – 19 BRIEFING – Community room
(Verbal)
6:25 p.m. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY – Council chambers
1. Call to order
2. Roll call
3. Approval of minutes
3a. EDA meeting minutes March 2, 2020
5. Reports
5a. Structurally substandard building designations – 31st Street West (Parkway Residences)
Recommended action: Motion to adopt EDA Resolution designating certain buildings along
31st Street structurally substandard to a degree requiring removal.
7. New business -- None
6:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL MEETING – Council chambers
1. Call to order
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
2. Presentations
2a. Recognition of 2019 police officer of the year
2b. Recognition of donations
3. Approval of minutes
3a. Study session minutes of Jan. 27, 2020
3b. City council meeting minutes of Feb. 3, 2020
3c. Study session minutes of Feb. 10, 2020
4. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need no
discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a
member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion.
The items for the Consent Calendar are listed on the last page of the Agenda.
Recommended action: Motion to approve the Agenda as presented and items listed on the Consent
Calendar; and to waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances. (Alternatively: Motion to add or remove
items from the agenda, or move items from Consent Calendar to regular agenda for discussion.)
5. Boards and commissions -- None
6. Public hearings -- None
Meeting of March 16, 2020
City council agenda
7.Requests, petitions, and communications from the public – None
8.Resolutions, ordinances, motions and discussion items
8a. Texa-Tonka small area plan
Recommended action: Motion to accept the Texa-Tonka small area plan.
8b. Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project
no. 4019-2000
Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution approving final plans and specifications and
authorizing bidding documents for Dakota north bikeway and bridge project no. 4019-2000.
9. Communications – None
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make arrangements, please call
the administration department at 952/924-2525 (TDD 952/924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting.
Meeting of March 16, 2020
City council agenda
Consent calendar
4a. Designate GMH Asphalt Corporation the lowest responsible bidder and authorize execution of a
contract with the firm in the amount of $4,530,726.89 for the 2020 Pavement Management
Project No. 4020-1000.
4b. Adopt Resolution approving plans and specifications and authorizing advertisement for bids
(4018-1050).
4c. Approve the stipulation for award between the city, state of Minnesota and B&D Property
Holdings.
4d. Adopt Resolution approving final plans and specifications, and authorizing advertisement for
bids (4020-1500).
4e. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a monetary donation from the National Association of
Government Web Professionals in an amount not to exceed $1,500 for all related expenses for
Jason Huber, Information Technology Manager, to attend the 2020 National Association of
Government Web Professionals National Board Retreat in Little Rock, Arkansas.
4f. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a monetary donation from Endeavor Business
Media Company in an amount not to exceed $1,200 for all related expenses for Cindy Walsh,
Director of Operations and Recreation, to attend the 2020 Parks & Recreation Summit in
Scottsdale, Arizona on April 22-25, 2020.
4g. Adopt Resolution approving St. Louis Park Lions Club’s request for placing temporary signs in the
public right-of-way.
4h. Adopt Resolution approving the final plans and specifications and authorizing bidding
documents for Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1 – Project no. 4020-1101).
St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority and regular city council meetings are carried live on civic TV cable
channel 17 and replays are frequent; check www.parktv.org for the schedule. The meetings are also streamed live
on the internet at www.parktv.org, and saved for video on demand replays. The agenda is posted on Fridays on
the official city bulletin board in the lobby of city hall and on the text display on civic TV cable channel 17. The
agenda and full packet are available by noon on Friday on the city’s website.
Meeting: Economic development authority
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Minutes: 3a
Unofficial minutes
EDA meeting
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
March 2, 2020
1. Call to order
President Harris called the meeting to order at 6:20 p.m.
Commissioners present: President Harris, Tim Brausen, Larry Kraft, Anne Mavity, Nadia
Mohamed, Margaret Rog, and Jake Spano.
Commissioners absent: None.
Staff present: Executive Director (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Engineering
Director (Ms. Heiser), Deputy City Manager/Human Resources Director (Ms. Deno), Planning
and Zoning Supervisor (Mr. Walther), Communications Manager (Ms. Smith), Senior
Management Analyst (Ms. Solano), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
2. Roll call
3. Approval of minutes
3a. EDA meeting minutes of Feb. 3, 2020
It was moved by Commissioner Mavity, seconded by Commissioner Spano, to approve
the Feb. 3, 2020 meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
4. Approval of EDA disbursements
It was moved by Commissioner Brausen, seconded by Commissioner Mavity, to accept
the EDA disbursement claims for the period of Jan. 25 – Feb. 21, 2020.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Reports – none
6. Old business – none
7. New business – none
8. Communications – none
9. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, secretary Rachel Harris, president
Meeting: Economic development authority
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 5a
Executive summary
Title: Structurally substandard building designations – 31st Street West (Parkway Residences)
Recommended action: Motion to adopt EDA Resolution designating certain buildings along
31st Street structurally substandard to a degree requiring removal.
Policy consideration: Does the EDA find the specified six buildings located along the north side
of 31st Street West structurally substandard to a degree requiring removal?
Summary: Sela Investments (Developer) is proposing a multi-phase, multi-family redevelopment
along 31st Street West in the Triangle Neighborhood called Parkway Residences. The Developer
wishes to start building demolition and site clearance on the Building 1 site (encompassing six
vacant residential properties along the north side of 31st Street West) as soon as possible. The
Developer has requested to start these activities ahead of the formal establishment of the
proposed tax increment financing (TIF) district (to facilitate the project) scheduled later this
spring. The subject six parcels proposed to be included in the TIF district include:
•4000 W. 31st Street
•4008 W. 31st Street
•4012 W. 31st Street
•4020 W. 31st Street
•4100 W. 31st Street
•4108 W. 31st Street
The existence of structurally substandard buildings on the subject properties make it possible
for the EDA to establish a redevelopment TIF district at this location. However, the removal of
the substandard buildings prior to the establishment of such a district typically precludes that
opportunity. To accommodate the Developer’s schedule and yet to preserve the EDA’s ability to
include the subject six properties in the pending TIF district, the EDA is asked to adopt a
resolution: (1) finding the specified buildings located on the Designated Property structurally
substandard prior to their demolition and (2) declaring that the EDA may create a future TIF
district encompassing the Designated Property. This action will protect the EDA’s ability to
include the subject properties in the proposed redevelopment TIF district prior to its formal
establishment.
Upon approval of the proposed resolution, the Developer may begin to have the subject
buildings abated of hazardous materials, demolished and cleared.
Financial or budget considerations: See discussion
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Resolution
Prepared by: Greg Hunt, economic development coordinator
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, EDA executive director/city manager
Economic development authority meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 5a) Page 2
Title: Structurally substandard building designations – 31st Street West (Parkway Residences)
Discussion
Background: As indicated in the February 24, 2020 staff report, the EDA’s financial consultant,
Ehlers, reviewed the financial projections of the proposed multi-phase Parkway Residences
redevelopment and determined it has a financial gap to the extent that it is not economically
feasible but/for the provision of tax increment financing. To offset this gap, it is proposed that
the EDA consider reimbursing the Developer up to $3.35 million in pay-as-you-go tax increment
generated by Building 1. In order to capture and provide the Developer with the proposed tax
increment assistance, a new redevelopment TIF district needs to be established encompassing
the six parcels that constitute the Building 1 site.
Consulting firm LHB conducted a TIF district feasibility analysis to determine if the Building 1
site qualified as a redevelopment district under Minnesota Statutes, Section 469.174,
Subdivision 10. After inspecting the 6 subject properties, LHB evaluated each against current
statutory criteria and concluded in its report that the proposed TIF district qualifies as a
redevelopment district based on the following findings:
•The proposed TIF District has a coverage calculation of 100 percent which exceeds the
70 percent requirement.
•100 percent of the buildings are structurally substandard, which exceeds the 50 percent
requirement.
•The substandard buildings are reasonably distributed throughout the geographic area of
the proposed TIF District.
The proposed redevelopment TIF district would include the following six parcels:
•4000 W. 31st Street
•4008 W. 31st Street
•4012 W. 31st Street
•4020 W. 31st Street
•4100 W. 31st Street
•4108 W. 31st Street
Subject properties within proposed redevelopment TIF district
Economic development authority meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 5a) Page 3
Title: Structurally substandard building designations – 31st Street West (Parkway Residences)
EDA Resolution No. 20 - ____
Resolution designating certain buildings as Structurally Substandard
within Redevelopment Project No. 1
Whereas, under Minnesota Statutes, Section 469.174, subd. 10(d), the Authority is
authorized to deem parcels as occupied by structurally substandard buildings despite prior
demolition or removal of the buildings, subject to certain terms and conditions as described in this
resolution; and
Whereas, the Authority may allow demolition of the buildings located on the property
described in Exhibit A hereto (the “Designated Property”), and further intends to include the
Designated Property in a redevelopment tax increment financing district as defined in Minnesota
Statutes. Sections 469.174, Subd. 10.
Now therefore be it resolved that the Authority finds that the buildings on the
Designated Property as described in Exhibit A are structurally substandard to a degree requiring
substantial renovation or clearance, based upon the analysis of such buildings by LHB, presented
to the Authority on February 5, 2020 as “Parkway Residence Redevelopment TIF Analysis: Property
Condition Assessment Summary Sheet” as supplemented by a final Property Condition Assessment
to be delivered in spring 2020.
It is further resolved that after the date of approval of this resolution, the buildings on the
Designated Property may be demolished or removed by the Authority, or such demolition or
removal may be financed by the Authority, or may be undertaken by a developer under a
development agreement with the Authority.
It is further resolved that the Authority intends to include the Designated Property in a
redevelopment tax increment financing district, and to file the request for certification of such
district with the Hennepin County auditor within three years after the date of building demolition
on the Designated Property.
It is further resolved that upon filing the request for certification of the new tax increment
financing district, the Authority will notify the Hennepin County auditor that the original tax
capacity of the Designated Property must be adjusted to reflect the greater of (a) the current net
tax capacity of each parcel, or (b) the estimated market value of the parcels for the year in which
the building was demolished or removed, but applying class rates for the current year, all in
accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Section 469.174, subd. 10(d).
It is further resolved that Authority staff and consultants are authorized to take any
actions necessary to carry out the intent of this resolution.
Economic development authority meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 5a) Page 4
Title: Structurally substandard building designations – 31st Street West (Parkway Residences)
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the Economic Development
Authority, March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, executive director Rachel Harris, president
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Economic development authority meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 5a) Page 5
Title: Structurally substandard building designations – 31st Street West (Parkway Residences)
EXHIBIT A
Description of Designated Property
PID No. 0602824110022, 4108 31st Street W.
PID No. 0602824110021, 4100 31st Street W.
PID No. 0602824110020, 4020 31st Street W.
PID No. 0602824110019, 4012 31st Street W.
PID No. 0602824110018, 4008 31st Street W.
PID No. 0602824110017, 4000 31st Street W.
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Presentation: 2a
Executive summary
Title: Recognition of 2019 police officer of the year
Recommended action: Police Chief Mike Harcey will recognize Bruce London as the 2019
Robert Linnell police officer of the year.
Policy consideration: None
Summary: Since 1989, the St. Louis Park Police Department has presented the Robert Linnell
Officer of the Year award to the officer who has demonstrated consistent principles of integrity,
fairness and a commitment to service within our community. The Officer of the Year is an
example of what a police officer should be or strive to be by demonstrating his/her
commitment to the mission and values of the St. Louis Park Police Department and the City of
St. Louis Park. The award is held in high regard because officers are nominated by their peers.
At the police department annual meeting, officers select the Officer of the Year by voting on
the nominations. On Jan. 29, 2020 department members selected Officer Bruce London as the
2019 Officer of the Year recipient.
Background: In 2019, Officer London worked as a patrol officer on the middle shift during 2019.
The following are excerpts from the nominations received for Officer London:
• Bruce has shown himself to be a leader on his crew, a mentor to new officers, and a
reliable team-player who is always willing to help his partners.
• Officer London understands what the City of St. Louis Park asks of him and uses that as
his drive to do his job to the highest level.
• He treats every single person with the same respect as he treats his partners. He
understands the situations people may be going through and shows compassion in his
interactions. He is an advocate to the victims he interacts with as well.
• He works to build relationships with the people he interacts with in order to make
possible future contacts more positive.
• Officer London cares about the community and wants to make it a safe and a
comfortable place for its residents.
• Officer London is an outstanding representation of what a St. Louis Park Police Officer
should strive to be.
Financial or budget considerations: None at this time.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Mike Harcey, police chief
Approved by: Tom Harmening, manager
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Presentation: 2b
Executive summary
Title: Recognition of donations
Recommended action: Mayor to announce and express thanks and appreciation for the
following donations being accepted at the meeting and listed on the consent agenda:
From Donation For
National Association
of Government Web
Professionals (NAGW)
Up to
$1500
Expenses related to IT Manager Jason Huber’s
attendance at the 2020 NAGW Professionals National
Board Retreat in Little Rock, Arkansas
Endeavor Business
Media
Up to
$1200
Expenses related to Director of Operations &
Recreation Cindy Walsh’s attendance at the 2020
Parks & Recreation Summit in Scottsdale, Arizona
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, administrative services office assistant
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Minutes: 3a
Unofficial minutes
City council study session
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Jan. 27, 2020
The meeting convened at 6:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Rachel Harris, Larry Kraft, Anne
Mavity, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers absent: none.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Senior
Economic Development Coordinator (Mr. Hunt), Director of Community Development (Ms.
Barton), Senior Planner (Mr. Walther), Planner (Ms. Monson), Sr. Engineering Project Manager
(Mr. Sullivan), Traffic Engineer (Mr. Manibog), Senior Management Analyst (Ms. Solano), and
Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
Guests: Mike Sturdivant, Paster Development; Sheldon Berg, DJR Architects.
1. Development proposal for the northeast corner of Texas Avenue and Minnetonka
Boulevard
Ms. Monson stated Paster Development has an option for a purchase agreement for the vacant
commercial building and vacant parking lot on the northeast corner of Texas Avenue and
Minnetonka Boulevard. The developer proposes a rental apartment with 95 units in a
traditional 3-4 story multi-family residential building at the corner of the site, and 11 walk-up
style townhome units located in two, 2-story buildings on the northern half of the site. The
development would include a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units.
Councilmember Harris asked if DJR, the architectural firm has done other projects in St. Louis
Park previously. Mr. Berg stated yes, including Ellipse, E2, Parkway Residences, Parkway 25,
Elmwood, and Bridgewater Bank headquarters.
Councilmember Harris stated, having done so many developments in St. Louis Park, it would
seem that DJR has the city’s aesthetic sense. She asked if there have been updates to the
project since she last spoke with the development team. Mr. Berg stated yes, based on
feedback, there had been a few changes.
Councilmember Harris stated she is excited about the project, which will be a tremendous
change for the neighborhood, adding she wants to stay in close communication with the
developer to share resident feedback on the design.
Councilmember Mohamed agreed, and stated she is very happy with the development, which
uses the land efficiently. She asked if there would be elevators included in the project. Mr. Berg
stated yes and added that 20% of the units will be affordable at 50% AMI.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3a) Page 2
Title: Study session minutes of January 27, 2020
Councilmember Rog stated she is pleased with the plans, adding it will be a change for the
neighborhood, and a good place for density. She added it seems there could be more
affordable units and asked why the developer went from 6 to 4 stories. Mr. Sturdivant stated
he lives just north of the area, so reducing the height seems more fitting with the area, adding
his team felt higher density in the area was a good fit. He noted if the council wants to look at
adding more affordable units in a denser project, they will do so.
Councilmember Harris stated it would be helpful to have a staff report on neighborhood
feedback from the Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan, adding she is pleased residents were able to
provide feedback along the way.
Councilmember Kraft thanked Councilmember Harris for highlighting DJR’s experience and
appreciated also hearing neighborhood feedback. He is excited about the density and
affordability of this project, along with it being walkable, more environmentally friendly and
fitting in with the city’s Climate Action Plan goals. He asked if the development is being set up
for net zero emissions and solar readiness. Mr. Berg stated they are looking at national
benchmarks for this project related to green communities, and will find the best materials for
insulation, mechanicals, lighting, and solar readiness.
Councilmember Brausen stated he is excited to see development on that corner, which has
been empty for over 20 years. He noted he was hoping for senior affordable housing and would
like to see new housing target that demand, but he is supportive of the vision presented. He
asked if the renderings are preliminary and stated he assumes the developer will use materials
which fit in nicely with the surrounding area, as they have with past projects. He stated he is
supportive of this plan.
Councilmember Mohamed confirmed the buildings will be ADA friendly and compliant, with the
developer.
Councilmember Mavity stated she is generally supportive of this project and appreciates the
developer’s efforts in moving the city towards its affordable housing goals.
Councilmember Harris asked about the underground parking and how many parking spots will
be there. Mr. Berg stated half are underground and half are on grade.
Councilmember Harris stated she appreciates the developer’s commitment to adding walk-up
units in the buildings and asked if the city can negotiate TIF in order to add more parking below
grade.
Mr. Sturdivant stated there are constraints here, with remediation to be done and removal of a
contaminated plume from a nearby dry cleaner, as well as ground contamination from a former
gas station nearby, along with a potentially highwater table.
Mr. Walther added staff will look further into the constraints and also review council’s
feedback.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3a) Page 3
Title: Study session minutes of January 27, 2020
Councilmember Mavity asked if there have been any discussions related to reductions of
parking since the site has access to bike trails and bus transportation. She also asked about car
sharing as a possibility as well.
Ms. Monson stated if council is interested in exploring this, staff will look into it; however, the
development is not on the light rail, and the city typically does not grant parking reductions for
multi-family housing. She added there is a lot of on street parking, but staff will make sure the
numbers are correct for the parking that is needed at the development.
Councilmember Harris added utilizing transit-pass cards and offering them as an incentive,
might be another option to look into for residents.
Mayor Spano stated he is broadly supportive of the policy questions, and encouraged the
developer and architect to be deliberate, thoughtful and creative with the development, to
make it part of the neighborhood. He added this project will largely define this intersection, and
he encouraged the architect to take advantage of that.
2. Southeast area bikeway project
Mr. Sullivan provided an overview. He noted the project comprises 1.8 miles of bikeways and
stated staff has worked through an extensive community engagement process beginning in
December 2017. A public hearing is scheduled for February 18, and if approved the project
would be constructed beginning fall 2020 to spring 2021.
Councilmember Mavity appreciated the work of staff on this project and the community
engagement as well. She noted this is a critical link in the city, and helps connect to light rail,
midtown bike trail and the lakes area. She added to put this into context, the residents most
concerned about this project are focusing on one-third of a mile, within the total 1.8-mile
project.
Councilmember Mavity stated she has met with residents many times over the last two years
on this project, and clearly Wooddale is the right route for this. She stated the question is how
to manage the route, and make it more walkable and bikeable, and aligning with the active
living policy of the city.
Councilmember Mavity added safety is also an issue, and the city needs to think of pedestrians
first, then bikes, and finally cars. Additionally, she noted parking and trees are a concern as
well, and how to support the city’s policies, while mitigating impact directly on homeowners.
She stated she created the ESC, is a champion of green policies, and does not want to see trees
taken out, adding the city is not going to take out beautiful, large canopy trees that are so
distinctive of the community. She noted staff is trying to balance trees with parking.
Councilmember Mavity asked how many total trees are on the Wooddale corridor, and of the
ten trees proposed to be removed, what is their average size. Mr. Sullivan stated there are 90
trees in the public right of way from 42 ½ Street to 44th Street along Wooddale, and the city is
proposing to remove ten, in order to construct parking bays. He stated the impacted trees are
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3a) Page 4
Title: Study session minutes of January 27, 2020
existing green ash, lindens, elms, and smaller oaks – all under seven inches in diameter and few
approaching ten inches in diameter.
Councilmember Mavity noted the residents’ signs posted to trees, are on trees not slated to be
removed. She asked if there is a need for more parking, will there be an area available for that.
Mr. Sullivan stated yes, and that smaller trees would be removed if needed.
Councilmember Mavity stated she would not support removal of crosswalks in the area. Mr.
Sullivan stated all existing crosswalks will be retained and refreshed. He added the intersection
near Susan Lindgren will also be realigned better to the intersection, which will help with snow
removal and be better for pedestrians and bikers to get in and out of the area.
Councilmember Mavity stated the road width is not changing, nor is the road infrastructure,
except to add parking bays. She asked if adding bollards might help with designating clear bike
lanes. Mr. Manibog stated bollards would not fit within the width of the road on Wooddale.
Councilmember Mavity stated nothing the city is doing will drive additional car traffic to the
road, adding the goal is to make it safer with designated areas for bikers. She added she wants
to explore stop signs and slowing traffic there as well.
Councilmember Kraft thanked staff for their instruction on this issue and asked them to explain
who the city is targeting with bikeways. Mr. Manibog stated the city is encouraging the interest
by concerned groups of bikers, people of all ages and abilities, which is about 51-56%.
Councilmember Kraft stated then the council needs to think about this group the most. He
added he understands the concerns raised by the community, but some are based on
misunderstanding or misinterpretation, adding the city does not plan to add more traffic to the
area.
Councilmember Kraft stated in his view, the road is being widened here with the parking bays,
but not the whole of the road. Parking will be impacted, and some trees will come down, but
trees will be added, and staff works closely with the city forester on this, so there is minimal risk
and a good track record with trees. He pointed out not only bikes, but scooters need to be
included here, and asked also if there are any other options for Wooddale, such as making it a
one-way.
Councilmember Mohamed thanked staff and residents for their concerns. She asked staff why
some roads in the city are share the road, and others have dedicated bike lanes.
Mr. Sullivan stated vehicle speeds and volumes are the two factors to affect the safest bike
facility.
Councilmember Rog appreciated the hard work of staff on this as well as the community
engagement. She stated she agreed with many points made by Councilmember Mavity, and
that Wooddale is the best area for this. She has concerns for safety, but noted she is a highly
confident biker and is interested in the concerned biker group who will not ride in the bike
lanes that staff is suggesting. She stated if the council is serious on this, the policy should be for
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3a) Page 5
Title: Study session minutes of January 27, 2020
new mobility lanes, shared road, and separate lanes or multiuse trails, and then make it
feasible.
Councilmember Harris thanked staff and noted her goals, along with safety and the
environment, is to create a transportation and bikeway system to benefit the most people
possible. She asked staff what the most optimal way is to get more people biking in terms of
infrastructure. Mr. Manibog stated looking at the most separation overall for bikers from cars,
and then also bikers feel safe when there are many bikers – so safety in numbers.
Councilmember Harris stated she recently attended a conference on biking infrastructure and
found that lanes for bikers enhanced confidence and noted the addition of planters to create a
bike lane was used in one city, which seems to be a great alternative to painting stripes on the
road. She stated she would like to see separate bike routes going forward and noted in general
she supports this project with some tweaks.
Councilmember Brausen thanked the community for their emails to him and noted he does
travel up and down Wooddale. He added this project is similar to the one on Texas Ave from
Cedar Lake Road to Wayzata Boulevard and the trees there were saved, and new trees planted.
He stated the project in front of them is an important connectivity issue and he is supportive of
it.
Mayor Spano asked for clarification about share the road and asked about an alternative route
such as Browndale. Mayor Spano asked about the budget for this project. Mr. Sullivan stated it
is more cost effective to paint stripes and use signage, and this project is part of the CIP for
2020.
Mayor Spano stated he would agree to sacrifice some trees to bring additional parking to the
road and would agree to intersperse added parking there. He asked staff if there is any data on
traffic incidents with bikes and cars on Wooddale. Mr. Manibog stated staff works with police
on this, but to his knowledge there were not heightened increase in collisions of safety
breaches in this area.
Councilmember Harris asked about managing seams in the curb apron and also using bike
friendly storm drains. Mr. Manibog stated the details are not final yet, but staff will look into
this.
3. Draft legislative priorities
Ms. Solano presented the updated draft of legislative priorities. The main focus topics are:
• housing
• climate
• transportation
• general – such as maintain local control, opposed levy limits, and others noted in the
staff report
The council asked for several updates and additions/changes to the draft including:
• including tenant protection policies
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3a) Page 6
Title: Study session minutes of January 27, 2020
• affordable housing and climate action be moved to the top
• use climate change vs. climate action
• add state match for local housing trust funds
• add a lead in sentence that explains affordable housing and climate action are the top
concerns
• adding information about strategic priority of race equity
Ms. Solano stated the council will meet with the legislators at the Feb. 3, 2020 special study
session, to discuss the priorities.
4. Future Study session agenda planning and prioritization
Mr. Harmening referred to the Feb. 10, 2020 agenda for review. The councilmembers discussed
which topics might come off the agenda, to tighten up the timing of the meeting.
Ms. Solano noted she developed a year-long calendar for 2020 of items the council addresses
each month on an ongoing basis, as well as quarterly topics for discussion. The calendar will be
circulated among the council for input and feedback.
Mr. Harmening noted to the council that there are many topics to address this year, as well as
open times where the council can decide what topic to address.
The councilmembers agreed to move the ADU topic to another meeting.
Mayor Spano noted he’d like to have a discussion on the process of appointing board and
commission members.
Councilmember Mohamed stated there needs to be stricter timekeeping on agenda topics, in
order to respect council and staff’s time.
Councilmember Mavity added the discussions need to stay at the policy level.
Councilmember Mavity noted the Notice of Eviction written report and had concerns about
moving to a 7-day notice. She proposed there be either a 10- or 14-day notice. She added
communicating by electronic mail might not be the most effective way to reach this group of
residents and stressed the importance of hard copy delivery of eviction notices.
Councilmember Brausen stated moving to 14 days can cause issues for landlords, adding that 7
days seems to be a good compromise.
Councilmember Rog has concerns on unintended consequences, noting her preference is to see
what the state legislature does, adding this process feels rushed.
Mayor Spano agreed and stated he would also like more time to process this before a decision
is made.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3a) Page 7
Title: Study session minutes of January 27, 2020
Councilmember Mavity pointed out there has been a study session, a panel discussion and
much information presented on this, and the process has not been rushed.
Mr. Harmening stated the council can continue to review this item but at some point, the
ordinance will need to be finalized.
Both Councilmembers Kraft and Mohamed agreed they would like more time to study this and
need more background.
Mayor Spano encouraged the councilmembers to discuss any further questions related to this
item with staff.
Councilmember Kraft asked about the written Investment Report, and if the city invests in
green companies.
Mr. Harmening stated if the council wants to look further into the companies the city invests in
and that is a directive, staff will look into this and bring back information.
Communications/meeting check-in (verbal)
Councilmember Mohamed stated for the past 3 years, she and a city staff member have been
presenting at Iftar dinners. This year, the Mayor of Golden Valley has asked her to present at no
cost to her or the city. She noted the date is not yet set, but she would like to do it as a joint St.
Louis Park/Golden Valley event.
Mayor Spano noted the Bridges of Peace presentation by Safra Ali on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 4-
6:30 p.m. in Minnetonka at the Al-Aman Center on Smetana Road, and encouraged all to
attend.
The Empty Bowls event will be held on Feb. 13, at Westwood Lutheran Church, as a fundraiser
for STEP, and all are encouraged to attend.
The meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
Written Reports provided and documented for recording purposes only:
5. Fourth quarter investment report (Oct-Dec 2019)
6. Annual Health in the Park update
7. Notice of Eviction
8. Permit for phone art from Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)
9. Community survey update
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Minutes: 3b
Unofficial minutes
City council meeting
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Feb. 3, 2020
1. Call to order
Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Rachel Harris, Larry Kraft, Anne
Mavity, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers absent: None.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Planning/Zoning
Supervisor (Ms. McMonigal), Sr. Engineering Project Manager (Mr. Sullivan), Project Engineer
(Mr. Wiesen), Community Organizer (Mr. Gray), Senior Management Analyst (Ms. Solano), and
Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
Guests: Human Rights Commission Chair Amaya Fokuo and Vice Chair Emily Buchholz; Jim
Alexander, SWLRT Project Manager; Sam O’Connell, SWLRT Communication & Outreach Sr.
Manager.
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
2. Presentations
2a. Human Rights Award presentation
Ms. Fokuo and Ms. Buchholz presented a video titled Hope Speaks, about work the
school district is doing on racial equity and inclusion. The 2019 Human Rights Awards
were presented to: Hope Speaks project leaders Kristen Pehl, Meghan Malone, Vanessa
Buth, and Rachel Lebow.
Councilmember Mohamed thanked the commission and stated she is thrilled to see this
video. She added she is pleased to see these conversations happening in the schools
because it will build hope. She also noted parents of color have these same conversations
with their children all the time, so it is helpful for all to be having these conversations.
She added she grew up in a time when she was told not to speak her native language in
school - and then she forgot her native language, adding this program will help address
these types of issues in the schools.
Councilmember Brausen stated he was on the Human Rights Commission in the 1980’s
and at that time, they did not reach this level. He stated he is happy the commission is
now engaged in this work, and hopeful this program is happening in all the schools in St.
Louis Park.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3b) Page 2
Title: City council meeting minutes of February 3, 2020
Councilmember Rog thanked Mary Armstrong for her work and nomination of the
leaders of Hope Speaks for the award this year. She added she was happy to hear her 5-
year-old neighbor ask her if a situation in the neighborhood was related to race, noting
she feels hope because of this kind of awareness from children.
Councilmember Kraft stated he is a former Peter Hobart parent and realizes how special
St. Louis Park is and the school district.
Councilmember Harris noted Ms. Fokuo is the only high schooler who is a chairperson on
one of the city’s commissions, adding she is skilled and wise beyond her years. She stated
the winners have inspired her beyond measure and she is thrilled to see the program
that has been created in all of the city schools. She stated their creativity will bring the
community closer together and the city’s strategic plan is deeply rooted in what they are
doing. She encouraged the commissioners and award recipients to consider being on the
city council at some point and thanked them for their time and talents.
Mayor Spano added his wife is a teacher in the district, and she works on this every day
with her students. He stated he hopes this concept will spread to other areas, and that
the fears of white people talking about race will go away.
2b. SWLRT project overview and update
Mr. Alexander showed a video of the SWLRT line in St. Louis Park and gave a project
overview. He noted the biggest construction impact is coming to St. Louis Park with the
closure of Wooddale Avenue over Highway 7, to work on the Wooddale trail underpass.
He added there will also be work done on bridges over the Minnehaha Creek, Louisiana
Avenue, Highway 100 and Cedar Lake Trail Bridge over Beltline Avenue.
Mr. Alexander presented the map with the light rail stations at Louisiana Avenue,
Wooddale Avenue, and Beltline Avenue. He noted the project will be completed in
2023, and the light rail vehicles will all be ADA compliant.
Councilmember Mavity asked when the full funding agreement will be completed for
this project.
Mr. Alexander stated it is all very complex, and the FTA is finalizing the federal funding
package soon. After that, the Department of Transportation will review, and then it
must go for congressional review, so it will be a long process.
Councilmember Mavity asked if the train will be discontinued during construction and
asked about the timing on that. She noted she is interested in planning here, so as to
align timing for the city’s development projects. Mr. Alexander stated that will not
happen until 2021.
Councilmember Mavity also asked about north-south roads during construction and the
flow, and what will stay open, as well as timing and phasing in order to ensure access.
Mr. Alexander stated they will be working to understand this and have programmed it
so the roads will not be shut down all at once.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3b) Page 3
Title: City council meeting minutes of February 3, 2020
Councilmember Mavity asked about freight operations, and if they will be consistently
open during construction. Mr. Alexander stated yes, they will need to accommodate
freight operation 24/7 during all construction.
Councilmember Mavity asked at what point the dual tracks will be removed at
Wooddale Avenue and at Louisiana. Mr. Alexander stated he is not sure on that and
noted it will be tied into work on Highway 100. He stated Highway 100 will be closed for
three days when this work occurs, most likely during Memorial Day or Labor Day
weekend, 2020.
Councilmember Mohamed asked how many trains will go through the three stations
every day. Mr. Alexander stated trains would pass through each station every ten
minutes during the day and less during the evenings and overnight.
Councilmember Rog asked about replacement of habitat and landscaping in the
neighborhoods near the stations. Mr. Alexander stated funding is a problem, and while
some vegetation and landscaping will be done around the stations, there will not be
many trees replaced because of infrastructure replacement and drainage issues.
Councilmember Rog asked for signage to be added during construction of the stations to
inform the public about what is being built. Mr. Alexander agreed and stated he will
look into this further.
Councilmember Rog asked about secure bike facilities and if they will be included at the
stations. Mr. Alexander stated there will only be bike racks but noted train riders will be
able to take their bikes on the train.
Councilmember Mohamed asked if signage can be done in different languages also,
especially in languages most spoken in St. Louis Park. Mr. Alexander stated this could be
looked at as well.
Councilmember Harris asked how to get pedestrians and bikers to the last mile to the
station. Mr. Alexander stated there will be way finding, maps and signage, along with
education, and safety campaigns, to get folks acquainted with the system as well as bus
connections.
Councilmember Harris asked why bike and pedestrian trails go under some bridges and
over the top of others. Mr. Alexander stated it had to do with configuration and ground
water issues, along with safety issues.
Mayor Spano appreciated the presentation and updates, adding he appreciates the Met
Council’s de-criminalizing fare evasions.
Mayor Spano asked how many projects received letter of no prejudice and then did not
receive the funding. Mr. Alexander stated he was not aware of any projects that did not
receive the funding.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3b) Page 4
Title: City council meeting minutes of February 3, 2020
Ms. O’Connell presented on the communications plan and workforce. She stated the
Disadvantaged Business goal of 16% for minority and small business, and 20% goal for
women. She noted while the goals have not been met as yet, progress is being made.
Ms. O’Connell added that communication and outreach information coming from the
project office can be found at SWLRT.org, on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Flickr, as
well as weekly email updates for subscribers. She also noted that Nkongo Cigolo can be
reached at Nkongo.Cigolo@metrotransit.org and is the St. Louis Park contact.
Ms. O’Connell pointed out that construction information workgroups will also be
formed with membership from: residents, business owners, and community group
representatives, to provide feedback on how outreach and communications is
progressing.
Councilmember Mavity asked how often they are measuring the workforce goals. Ms.
O’Connell stated they measure monthly, and the most recent report – which is a two-
month lag – shows as of November 30, DBE was at 16.06%, people of color at 17% and
women at 8.5% - stating the numbers are on track at this time.
Mayor Spano stated if the Met Council needs help in identifying minority business
owners, the Secretary of State’s office has a database with this information.
2c. Recognition of donations
It was noted the donation of Minnesota American Water Works Association was up to
$1,500 for expenses incurred by Lead Plant Operator Austin Holm to attend the 2020
Ace Conference training in Orlando, FL.
3.Approval of minutes
3a. City council meeting minutes of Dec. 16, 2019
Councilmember Rog noted on pages 6-7, last paragraph, it should read, “…she has
concerns over renters and those on fixed incomes, and on a $298,000 home.
Councilmember Rog stated the city will need to be innovative to stay healthy and
robust…”
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen seconded by Councilmember Harris, to approve
the Dec. 16, 2019 meeting minutes as amended.
The motion passed 7-0.
4.Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar
4a. Accept for filing city disbursement claims for the period of Dec. 28 through Jan.
24, 2020.
4b. Approve second Reading and adopt Ordinance No. 2581-20 vacating the alley
between 31st Street West and the Hwy 7 Frontage Road between Glenhurst
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3b) Page 5
Title: City council meeting minutes of February 3, 2020
Avenue and Inglewood Avenue subject to conditions recommended by staff and
approve the summary ordinance for publication.
Approve second Reading and adopt Ordinance No. 2582-20 adding Section 36-
268-PUD 15 to the Zoning Code and amending the Zoning Map from C-2 General
Commercial and R-4 Multiple Family Residential to PUD 15 subject to conditions
recommended by staff and approve the summary ordinance for publication.
4c. Adopt Resolution No. 20-017 to submit the permit for phone art on the sound
wall at Toledo Avenue and the County Road 25 Service Drive.
4d. Adopt Resolution No. 20-018 approving application from St. Louis Park Hockey
Boosters to conduct off site gambling in conjunction with a one-day event at the
ROC.
4e. Adopt Resolution No. 20-019 approving acceptance of a monetary donation
from Minnesota American Water Works Association (MN AWWA) in an amount
not to exceed $1,500 for all related expenses for Austin Holm, Lead Plant
Operator, to attend and compete in the sponsored Annual Conference and
Exposition (ACE) training in Orlando, Florida.
4f. Approve Amendment No. 2 to City Agreement No. 68-99, between the city and
STC FIVE LLC for a communication antenna leased property at 7180 West Lake
Street.
4g. Accept the Historic Walker Lake small area revitalization plan.
4h. Approve submittal of a letter of support for the proposed listing of the Highway
100 and County Road 3 groundwater plume site on the National Priorities List to
allow for the polluters to be held responsible and for money to be obtained for
potential clean-up efforts.
4i. Approve the city’s 2020 legislative priorities.
4j. Adopt Resolution No. 20-020 approving renewal of liquor licenses for the license
term March 1, 2020 through March 1, 2021.
4k. Adopt Resolution No. 20-021 appointing election judges for the March 3, 2020
Presidential
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to
approve the agenda as presented and items listed on the consent calendar; and to waive
reading of all resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and commissions - none
6. Public hearings - none
7. Requests, petitions, and communications from the public – none
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions and discussion items - none
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3b) Page 6
Title: City council meeting minutes of February 3, 2020
8a. 2020 Pavement Management Project – Fern Hill 94020-1000 Resolution No. 20-
022
Mr. Wiesen presented the staff report.
Councilmember Brausen asked which sidewalk segments are changing or staying. Mr.
Wiesen stated Basswood Road, Kipling Avenue (north of 26th Street), Huntington
Avenue, Cedar Lake Avenue and 28th Street are all recommended by staff. The shorter
sidewalk segments are not recommended, including Joppa Avenue and Kipling Avenue
(south of 27th Street).
Councilmember Brausen confirmed that the current staff recommendation is the same
one as presented prior to the public hearing.
Councilmember Rog stated this project is in her ward. She stated there are eight
pavement management areas in this project, often in tandem with other projects, and
all happening for no extra cost to residents, which is different from other cities.
Councilmember Rog stated there are also improvements happening below the street,
which are equally important including water main replacement and/or sewer repair,
which are critical for drinking water and promoting water conservation. This, along with
extreme weather and aging pipes, cause more water main breaks. In cases when doing
these water main improvements, over the past few years, the streets have been
narrowed, with the goal of environment and safety, to reduce impervious surface,
create more green space, and protect water quality and wildlife. She continued, noting
that narrowing of streets is what she has heard most about with this project, and she
will be supporting all staff recommendations for narrowing streets.
Councilmember Rog thanked staff for all their work on this project and thanked
residents for their respectful engagement, encouraging all to stay involved.
Councilmember Mavity stated the council is here to represent all, and it can be difficult
for neighbors to work through this type of project, but it is a process, and multiple
voices are allowed to express freely. She stated she will support this motion.
Councilmember Brausen stated he also will support this motion, adding it is a good plan
and he understands why the sidewalk segment will be removed. He added hopefully
traffic will be calmer at France Avenue, and he is happy to hear about the SAFL baffle
and stormwater proposal, as well as staff providing access to the rainwater program.
Councilmember Harris appreciated the residents who spoke at the public hearing and
added the water quality here is of the upmost importance. She is pleased staff
recommended to reduce the road width, adding this will also help Twin Lakes as well.
She noted the city uses the living streets policy as a guideline and she appreciates the
safety features which will be added at Basswood and France Avenue. She indicated she
will support the motion.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3b) Page 7
Title: City council meeting minutes of February 3, 2020
Councilmember Mohamed added she will support the motion and is supportive in that
this addresses the Living Streets policy as well.
Councilmember Kraft stated he will also support this, adding narrowing the street will
be helpful as climate change continues and increased rain will be evident. He added the
rain gardens are helpful and he would love to see more of that. He noted also after a
neighborhood meeting with residents, he was able to see the safety concerns at France
and Basswood.
Mayor Spano stated he would like to see the public input process handled differently, as
so often an issue ends up being two opposing sides, and not much community building.
He added he would like to see a shift to community building, so neighbors are more
connected to one another, and there is better understanding between residents.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Kraft, to adopt
Resolution No. 20-022, accepting the project report, establishing the 2020 Pavement
Management Project (4020-1000), approving plans and specifications, and authorizing
advertisement for bids, while also removing sidewalk #7 (Basswood Road), and adding
an additional pedestrian landing area on Basswood Road and France Avenue.
The motion passed 7-0.
9. Communications
Mayor Spano noted the upcoming STEP Empty Bowls event on Feb. 13 at Westwood Lutheran
Church.
Councilmember Rog stated on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 6 p.m., there is a public input session on the
crime free/drug free ordinance at the MSC on Oxford Street. She also stated that public
comments can be made online at the city website.
Mr. Harmening noted the West Metro Home Remodeling Fair is Sunday, Feb. 9 from 10:30 a.m.
to 3 p.m. at Eisenhower Community Center in Hopkins.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Minutes: 3c
Unofficial minutes
City council study session
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Feb. 10, 2020
The meeting convened at 6:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Rachel Harris, Larry Kraft, Anne Mavity, Nadia
Mohamed, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers absent: Tim Brausen
Staff present: Deputy City Manager/Human Resources Director (Ms. Deno), Director of
Community Development (Ms. Barton), CIO (Mr. Pires), Building and Energy Director (Mr.
Hoffman), Planner (Ms. Monson), Senior Planner (Mr. Walther), Senior Management Analyst (Ms.
Solano), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
NOTE: The council met in council chambers from 6:30 – 7:00 p.m., for a safety and security
session led by Mr. Hoffman, Mr. Pires, and Sergeant Balvin. The study session began at 7:00 p.m.
1. Boards and commissions discussion
Ms. Solano presented the staff report which is to provide time for the council to discuss various
aspects of the city’s boards and commissions. She noted the discussion would provide
information on the following items:
• Annual recognition meeting – to be held Feb. 24 from 6-8 p.m. at Treehouse, 5757
Wayzata Blvd. The evening will feature Wat Promwachirayan dance group, and a
presentation focusing on goals, initiatives, and 2019-2020 highlights.
Councilmember Kraft asked if council ever sees work plans that are different than what council
asked for. Ms. Solano stated the new structure for work plans has a box to check showing
whether an item is either council-initiated or commission-initiated.
Councilmember Harris stated she understands the work plan is an opportunity to create
alignment and asked if staff could create a governance model so that work plans can be aligned
with the city’s strategic priorities. Ms. Solano stated yes, this does already occur with work plans.
Ms. Deno added staff works with the commission liaisons to ensure commissions align with
strategic priorities as well. Ms. Solano added that all boards and commissions are now doing race
equity training as well.
Ms. Solano explained the annual recruitment process noting the following:
• Application deadline for boards and commissions is Feb. 28
• Applications provided to council for review and scoring during the week of March 2
• Council scores due to Ms. Solano and selection of candidates to interview on March 23
• Notify candidates of application status and schedule interviews during week of March 23
• Candidate interviews at city hall on April 13 and May 11
• Formal approval of appointments on May 18
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3c) Page 2
Title: Study session minutes of February 10, 2020
Councilmember Mohamed asked where information about applications is posted. Ms. Solano
stated on the city’s social media pages, neighborhood organizations, block captains, Friends of
the Arts list group and every opportunity staff has to get the word out. She added staff welcomes
more ideas on where to post this information.
Councilmember Harris encouraged the councilmembers to post it on their own Facebook pages.
Councilmember Rog stated in the future, she feels the choice to invite people to apply to their
top choice, as well as 2nd and 3rd choices are not ideal and makes it a difficult process.
Mayor Spano agreed it has become a very complicated process, and it would be best to have
folks apply for one commission position, which makes it simpler.
Councilmember Mavity stated she likes the ranking option, so folks are able to rank which
commission they prefer to be on. She added she does not want to limit folks and encourages
them to include all their choices.
Councilmember Rog added if a person wants to apply for multiple commissions, then they should
do one application for each commission they want to be on.
Mayor Spano agreed with Councilmember Rog, adding the review process has become
unworkable.
Ms. Solano stated the application process has already begun, so it would be difficult to change
the process now, but this can be worked out for next year. She added incumbents on
commissions must also reapply to continue on their respective board or commission.
Mayor Spano stated he would like to also address the interview process, which was clumsy last
year as well. He stated it might be helpful to have a subcommittee of councilmembers and
commissioners interview the top candidates and make recommendations to the council.
Councilmember Mavity disagreed with interviewing everyone and noted on the 0-5 scoring
system, she votes a 5 for the person she wants on the commission, so that after scores are
compiled, a clear line is created, and those above the line can be appointed.
Councilmember Kraft stated he would like to not appoint anyone unless they are interviewed.
Councilmember Mohamed agreed. Councilmember Kraft added if a mid-year appointment is
needed, those folks should also be interviewed.
Ms. Solano stated she will work on the scoring and interviewing process and come back to the
council with further recommendations.
2. Redevelopment objectives for Wooddale Avenue Station Site RFP
Mr. Hunt stated staff is looking for feedback from council on redevelopment objectives for the
Wooddale Avenue Station site RFP. He noted current objectives are:
• Mixed use, multi family, neighborhood commercial
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3c) Page 3
Title: Study session minutes of February 10, 2020
• Mixed income, market rate and affordable
• Housing density to support transit ridership
• Attractive and creative architecture
• High quality site amenities
• Example for environmental sustainability
• Optimize redevelopment potential and integrate with neighborhood
During the brainstorming session the council was asked to each present five ideas. Mr. Walther
also had the council members include their preferences on inclusionary housing minimum
qualifications and requirements.
The councilmembers agreed they preferred the all affordable option, and their minimum would
be a higher percentage of affordable units and/or depth of affordability than the inclusionary
housing policy currently requires for most development projects.
Mayor Spano and Councilmember Mavity stated they would be flexible, and their minimum
would be the city’s policy.
Councilmember Mavity stated she would support the inclusion of market rate housing to help
make a project financially feasible.
On sustainability requirements, the council agreed on a net zero emission development as a
preferred choice, and inclusion of renewable energy sources in addition to the city’s green
building policy requirements at a minimum.
On development objectives that should be incorporated in the request for proposal, the following
were agreed upon by the councilmembers:
• Commercial – affordable commercial space, small business opportunities such as an
incubator market, restaurants and bicycle shop
• Placemaking – unique community landmark with unique look, bold architectural vision,
public plaza, active, creative space, water feature, 2% of project budget on public art
• Building Design – signature, tall, visible, net zero emissions building
• Housing – intergenerational housing, multifamily housing
• Mobility – car sharing hub, destination for bikers on trail
• Nature – connection to nature, living walls
Councilmember Rog stated she attended an urban land institute seminar last year, with eight
nationally recognized developers. She learned the developer’s preference is to tell them what
cities want right at the beginning, and be as specific as possible, so as to make the process easier.
Mayor Spano and Councilmember Mavity agreed the placemaking will be a key desire for this
area, and possibly a tall building placed such a way as to be a landmark of some kind.
Councilmember Mohamed added she would also prefer small local stores, where diverse
populations could sell and buy affordable food and clothes. She would like to see it be inclusive
and be affordable commercial.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 3c) Page 4
Title: Study session minutes of February 10, 2020
Councilmember Rog stated she would be interested in looking at multifamily housing here where
families with children live alongside seniors – not necessarily related families – and thereby
helping to address senior isolation issues. She pointed to a model of this in Norway.
Councilmember Harris agreed and pointed to similar models in Sweden and Hawaii as well.
3. Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
The council discussed this and reached consensus to keep the crime free workgroup item as a
presentation only – no discussion – on the March 9, 2020 agenda and then come back to discuss
the topic two weeks later. Additionally, the crisis communication discussion will be moved to
later in the spring as well.
Ms. Solano presented the study session topic prioritization results. She and Ms. Deno also
presented a yearly calendar to the council to be used for staff planning and for a big picture
overview.
Councilmember Mohamed addressed the ADU written report which discusses limited occupancy
on pages 20-21 related to “two people over the age of 18 and their children.” She stated this
raises concerns about other family relationships and family members living in the unit and also
how children are defined, as they could be adult children. Ms. Deno stated these issues will be
taken back to community development for further review.
Councilmember Mavity added on page 19 of the same report, it addresses the prohibition of
short-term rentals. She stated the city needs a full policy for short-term rentals that would
address both homes and ADU’s. She added street parking limits also do not seem to be
enforceable, on a person’s property. Ms. Deno stated these concerns will be taken back to
community development for further review.
The meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
Written Reports provided and documented for recording purposes only:
4. Accessory dwelling units
5. Proposed allocation of 2020 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds
6. Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) Use Guide-Amended
7. Cedar Place redevelopment
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Action agenda item: 4a
Executive summary
Title: Bid tabulation: 2020 Pavement Management Project (4020-1000)
Recommended action: Motion to designate GMH Asphalt Corporation the lowest responsible
bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of $4,530,726.89 for
the 2020 Pavement Management Project No. 4020-1000.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to pursue the pavement rehabilitation,
installation of sidewalks and reduce impervious surface as a part of our annual Pavement
Management Project?
Summary: A total of four (4) bids were received for this project. A summary of the bid results is
as follows:
CONTRACTOR BID AMOUNT
GMH Asphalt Corporation $4,530,726.89
Northwest Asphalt, Inc. $4,639,252.11
Bituminous Roadways, Inc. $4,875,404.80
Northdale Construction Company, Inc. $5,221,918.24
Engineer’s Estimate $4,293,845.59
A review of the bids indicates GMH Asphalt Corporation submitted the lowest bid. GMH Asphalt
Corporation is a reputable contractor. Staff recommends that a contract be awarded to the firm
in the amount of $4,530,726.89.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the city’s Capital Improvement
Plan (CIP) for 2020. Funding will be provided by the following sources: franchise fees, utility
funds, and general obligation bonds. Additional information on the breakdown of the funding
can be found later in this report.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Aaron Wiesen, project engineer
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4a) Page 2
Title: Bid tabulation: 2020 Pavement Management Project (4020-1000)
Discussion
Background: Bids were received on March 10, 2020 for the 2020 Pavement Management project.
The 2020 construction season will be the sixteenth year of implementing the city’s Pavement
Management Program. This year’s work, Project No. 4020-1000, will be performed in Area 8 of
the city’s eight pavement management areas. It includes work in the Fern Hill neighborhood.
Selection was based on street condition surveys and field evaluations to determine current
conditions of the pavement, curb and gutter, and the city’s underground utilities.
An advertisement for bids was published in the St. Louis Park Sun Sailor on Feb. 13, 2020 and Feb.
20, 2020, and in Finance and Commerce on Feb. 11, 2020. Email notification was provided to four
(4) minority associations, and final printed plans were available for viewing at Construct Connect
and at City Hall. In addition, plans and specifications were made available electronically via the
internet on the city’s eGram website. Forty-four (44) contractors/vendors purchased plan sets.
Funding Details: Staff has analyzed the bids and determined that GMH Asphalt Corporation is a
qualified contractor that can complete this work during the 2020 construction season. The low
bid does exceed the city’s 2020 CIP values for watermain utilities by three percent (3%). The
low bid came in lower than the CIP values on the other funding sources. Based on the low bid
received, the cost and funding details are as follows: CIP Low Bid
Construction Cost $4,924,416 $4,530,726.89
Engineering & Administration (10%-20%) $738,677 $598,277.94
Base Bid Total $5,663,193 $5,129,004.83
Funding Sources
Pavement Management $3,047,500 $3,003,798.86
Watermain $1,372,256 $1,412,724.26
Sanitary Sewer $287,500 $190,425.65
Stormwater Utility $575,000 $346,792.39
Sidewalks & Trails (GO Bonds) $380,937 $175,263.67
Base Bid Total $5,663,193 $5,129,004.83
Due to the nature of our construction projects, unexpected costs do come up. To address this,
past practice has been to show a contingency for all aspects of the project. What follows is a
table that shows this contingency and how this would affect the project costs.
Low Bid Contingency (5%) Engineering Total
Pavement Management $2,611,999.01 $130,599.95 $391,799.85 $3,134,398.81
Watermain $1,284,294.78 $64,214.74 $128,429.48 $1,476,939.00
Sanitary Sewer $173,114.23 $8,655.71 $17,311.42 $199,081.36
Storm Water Utility $315,265.81 $15,763.29 $31,526.58 $362,555.68
Sidewalk (GO Bonds) $146,053.06 $7,302.65 $29,210.61 $182,566.32
Total $4,530,726.89 $226,536.34 $598,277.94 $5,355,541.17
Next steps: Construction is anticipated to begin in April/May and should be completed by
November 2019.
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 4b
Executive summary
Title: Historic Walker/ Lake Street Improvements - Phase 2– approve plans and specifications
and authorized ad for bid – Project No. 4018-1050
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving plans and specifications and
authorizing advertisement for bids (4018-1050).
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to continue to pursue the infrastructure
improvements as identified in this report for the Walker Lake area?
Summary: On Jan. 7, 2019, city council approved the preliminary layout for the Historic Walker/
Lake Street improvement project. On Sept. 3, 2019, city council approved a contract with a
consultant to provide final plans and construction services. The final plans and specifications for
this project are complete. Please see the scope of the project below:
•Pavement replacement
•Pedestrian activated flasher for a safer crossing of Lake Street at Dakota Avenue
•Bike lane on Lake Street
•Sidewalk on Lake Street along Oriole Stadium
•ADA improvements
•Combination of two intersections into one at Lake Street, Walker Street and Brownlow
Avenue
•On-street parking for businesses
•LED street lighting
•Stormwater management
•Boulevard tree installation
•Watermain replacement
•The alley by “Rock Camp for Dads” and behind “The Nest” will be reconstructed
Construction will begin in May and will be complete by October 2020.
Financial or budget considerations: The engineer’s estimate for this project is $2,343,983. This
project is included in the capital improvement plan (CIP) for 2020. Funding will be provided by a
combination of pavement management, utility funds, and general obligation bonds (sidewalks
and bikeways).
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Resolution – advertise to bid
Layout map
Prepared by: Joseph Shamla, sr. engineering project manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4b) Page 2
Title: Historic Walker/Lake Street Improvements – Approve plans and specs, and order ad for bid – proj. 4018-1050
Discussion
Background: On Jan. 7, 2019, city council approved the preliminary layout for the project. On
Sept. 3, 2019, city council approved a contract with a consultant to provide final plans and
construction services.
The streets in the Historic Walker Lake District were reconstructed in 1980 and need
reconstruction. The following street segments are included with this project:
•Walker Street (Holiday Station to Lake Street)
•Lake Street (Walker Street to railroad tracks)
•Walker Street (Lake Street to American Legion)
The scope of the project includes:
•Pavement replacement
•Pedestrian activated flasher for a safer crossing of Lake Street at Dakota Avenue
•Bike lane on Lake Street
•Sidewalk on Lake Street along Oriole Stadium
•ADA improvements
•Combination of two intersections into one at Lake Street, Walker Street and Brownlow Avenue
•On-street parking for businesses
•LED street lighting
•Stormwater management
•Boulevard tree installation
•Watermain replacement
•The alley by “Rock Camp for Dads” and behind “The Nest” will be reconstructed
Parking: Currently, the city owns a parking lot at the intersection of Brownlow Avenue and Lake
Street. A significant portion of that parking lot is on railroad property. Also, the realignment of
the intersection of Lake Street and Walker Street shrinks the land available for a stand-alone
parking lot.
Staff reviewed the preliminary layout to see how on-street parking stalls could be added to the
area. The most efficient way to replace the stalls is to provide perpendicular parking adjacent to
the realigned Walker Street. This modification resulted in no decrease in available parking for
this area. Staff has met with business owners within the Historic Walker Lake area, and they are
supportive of the modification.
Business owners provided feedback about parking on Lake Street. They were concerned about
losing parking adjacent to Oriole Stadium with the addition of bike lanes on Lake Street. Plans
were revised to widen Lake Street 2 feet to accommodate parking on both sides of Lake Street
between Dakota Avenue and Library Lane.
Financial or budget considerations: During the development of final plans, the following items
were identified as being add-ons to this project. This has resulted in additional project cost.
A pedestrian flasher has been added at the intersection of Dakota Avenue and Lake Street. This
is directly adjacent to the Oriole stadium entrance. During the preliminary approval process,
the city council asked staff to determine the best location along the corridor for a pedestrian
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4b) Page 3
Title: Historic Walker/Lake Street Improvements – Approve plans and specs, and order ad for bid – proj. 4018-1050
flasher. The consultant completed a pedestrian survey along Lake Street, and it was clear that
most pedestrians were crossing at this location. GO Bonds will be used to fund this cost.
The railroad crossing at Walker Street is required to be replaced with this project. During the
permit process with the railroad, they identified that the crossing did not meet their current
requirements. In order to receive a permit to work in railroad property, the railroad crossing
needs to be reconstructed. The pavement management fund will be used to pay this cost.
Watermain was anticipated to be replaced with this project. What wasn’t anticipated was the
number of crossings of the railroad tracks. Each crossing of the tracks is a significant cost. Due
to the alignment of the Library Lane and Lake Street intersection and the proximity to the
tracks, the watermain needs to cross at three locations instead of the two, which were
anticipated in the CIP. This is funded using watermain utility.
Additional street lighting will be added along Walker Street and Lake Street. The additional
streetlights will provide lighting along the new sidewalk being constructed on the south side of
the road from “The Block” to “Big O Tire”, including at the new marked crosswalk at the
intersection of Walker Street and Gorham Avenue. Franchise fees will be used to fund this cost.
The following table outlines the estimated project cost and anticipated funding sources for this
project.
Description CIP Engineer's Estimate
Construction $1,608,171 $1,821,497
Railroad crossing $100,000
Pedestrian flasher $45,000
Light poles $18,000
Engineering and administration $402,043 $359,486
Total $2,010,214 $2,343,983
Funding sources CIP 2020 Funding
Sidewalk and bikeway (GO Bonds) $480,750 $529,256
Pavement management $1,192,510 $1,167,697
Sanitary sewer 0 $12,000
Stormwater $24,454 $215,280
Water $312,500 $419,750
Total $2,010,214 $2,343,983
GO bonds are expected to be used to fund the estimated $529,256 for the bikeway and
sidewalk. The debt service levy for this amount will be approximately $60,000, starting in 2020
for ten years.
Next steps: The proposed schedule for the project to facilitate construction completion in 2020
is as follows:
Private utility relocation April to May 2020
Council approves bid April 20, 2020
Construction May to October 2020
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4b) Page 4
Title: Historic Walker/Lake Street Improvements – Approve plans and specs, and order ad for bid – proj. 4018-1050
Resolution No. 20-____
Resolution approving final plans and specifications
and authorizing advertisement for bids for the
2020 Walker Lake Street Improvements
Project No. 4018-1050
Whereas, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park has received a report from the
Project Manager related to the 2020 Walker Lake Street Improvement Project - Project No.
4018-1050 on March 16, 2020.
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
that:
1.The final plans and specifications to construct these improvements, as prepared under the
direction of the Project Manager, or designee, are approved.
2.The City Clerk shall prepare and cause to be inserted at least two weeks in the official City
newspaper and in relevant industry publications an advertisement for bids for the making of
said improvements under said-approved plans and specifications. The advertisement shall
appear not less than 10 days prior to the date and time bids will be received electronically
by the Project Manager and accompanied by a bid bond payable to the City for five (5)
percent of the amount of the bid. The electronic bids will only be available to view after the
bids are closed and the City receives the passcode from the bidding host site.
3.The Project Manager, or designee, shall report the receipt of bids to the City Council shortly
after the opening date. The report shall include a tabulation of the bid results and a
recommendation to the City Council.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
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City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4b)
Title: Historic Walker/Lake Street Improvements – Approve plans and specs, and order ad for bid – proj. 4018-1050
Page 5
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 4c
Executive summary
Title: Approve stipulation for award – Highway 7/ Louisiana Avenue interchange – (2012-0100)
Recommended action: Motion to approve the stipulation for award between the city, state of
Minnesota and B&D Property Holdings.
Policy consideration: None
Summary: The Highway 7/ Louisiana Avenue interchange project began construction in 2012
and involved large-scale reconstruction of the intersection at Highway 7 and Louisiana Avenue
as well as adjacent intersections. The highway intersection was changed from an at-grade
intersection controlled by traffic lights to construction of an overpass bridge raising Highway 7
above the grade at Louisiana Avenue, installation of highway on-ramps and off-ramps, and
construction of multiple roundabouts connecting the ramps from Highway 7 to Louisiana
Avenue and Louisiana Avenue to Walker Street. Construction occurred in 2013 and 2014.
As part of the project, the city closed the intersection of Lake Street and Highway 7. B&D
Holdings LLC (B&D) is the owner of property located at 7001 West Lake Street (“Property”). At
the time of the project, a National Tire and Battery store was located on the Property. In 2016,
B&D brought an inverse condemnation action against the city, claiming that the intersection
closure denied the Property reasonably convenient and suitable access to and from Highway 7.
The city brought a Third-party Complaint against the Minnesota Department of Transportation
(“MnDOT”) because it is the road authority that controls access to Highway 7. The Hennepin
County District Court held that MnDOT and the city’s closure of the Lake Street and Highway 7
intersection deprived B&D of reasonably convenient and suitable access to and from Highway
7, and ordered MnDOT and the city to commence condemnation proceedings to compensate
B&D for the loss of access to and from Highway 7.
Financial or budget considerations: The stipulation for award agrees that the city and the state
of Minnesota will pay B&D Property Holdings, LLC $420,616.77, with the city and state each
being responsible for half of the award – $210,308.38. This will be paid for using G.O. bonds.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Stipulation for award
Prepared by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Reviewed by: Joe Shamla, senior engineering project manager
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4c) Page 2
Title: Approve stipulation for award – Highway 7/ Louisiana Avenue interchange – (2012-0100)
Discussion
Background: The Highway 7/ Louisiana Avenue interchange project began construction in 2012
and involved large-scale reconstruction of the intersection at Highway 7 and Louisiana Avenue
as well as adjacent intersections. The highway intersection was changed from an at-grade
intersection controlled by traffic lights to construction of an overpass bridge raising Highway 7
above the grade at Louisiana Avenue, installation of highway on-ramps and off-ramps, and
construction of multiple roundabouts connecting the ramps from Highway 7 to Louisiana
Avenue and Louisiana Avenue to Walker Street. Construction occurred in 2013 and 2014.
There were a number of reasons this project was undertaken, including insuring safe north-
south access for pedestrians and bicyclists to the anticipated the SWLRT station location, to
address congestion and traffic safety concerns at the at grade Highway 7 and Louisiana Ave
intersection, and to facilitate anticipated economic development and redevelopment coming to
the area.
As part of the project, the city closed the intersection of Lake Street and Highway 7. B&D
Holdings LLC (B&D) is the owner of property located at 7001 West Lake Street (“Property”). At
the time of the project, a National Tire and Battery store was located on the Property. B&D
brought an inverse condemnation action against the city in 2016, claiming that the intersection
closure denied the Property reasonably convenient and suitable access to and from Highway 7.
The city brought a Third-party Complaint against the Minnesota Department of Transportation
(“MnDOT”) because it is the road authority that controls access to Highway 7. The Hennepin
County District Court held that MnDOT and the city’s closure of the Lake Street and Highway 7
intersection deprived B&D of reasonably convenient and suitable access to and from Highway
7, and ordered MnDOT and the city to commence condemnation proceedings to compensate
B&D for the loss of access to and from Highway 7.
The city’s appraiser opined that the value of B&D’s Property was diminished by $75,000 due to
the loss of access to and from Highway 7. B&D’s appraiser opined that the value of the Property
was diminished by $515,000. Under Minnesota law in addition to paying for the damages to the
Property caused by the taking, the city is also required to pay all of the property owner’s
attorney fees, litigation expenses, expert appraisal fees, expert witness fees, and other costs
and expenses incurred in securing that award. Minn. Stat. § 117.031.
After extensive negotiation, B&D has agreed to stipulate to a condemnation award of $336,000,
plus statutory interest on that amount. Payment of this amount would be split evenly between
the city and MnDOT. There would be no additional payment of attorney fees, costs and
expenses, which through a condemnation commissioner’s hearing would be in excess of
$100,000.
This is the final unresolved right of way matter for this project.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Approve stipulation for award - Highway 7/Louisiana Avenue interchange - (2012-0100)Page 3
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 4d
Executive summary
Title: Alley Reconstruction – Approve plans and specs, and authorize ad for bids – project no.
4020-1500
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving final plans and specifications,
and authorizing advertisement for bids (4020-1500).
Policy consideration: Does the City Council wish to continue to implement our alley
reconstruction program?
Summary: On Aug. 1, 2016, the city council updated the city’s Assessment Policy. The updated
policy changed the assessment for reconstructing alleys from 100% assessed to benefiting
property owners, to 0% assessment, with the city fully funding the projects using the Pavement
Management Fund (franchise fees) and stormwater utility funds. Staff developed a 10-year plan
to reconstruct all gravel and bituminous alleyways to concrete pavement. Project No. 4020-
1500 is the fourth year of these projects and includes five alley segments approximately 2,200
feet in length in the Oak Hill and South Oak Hill neighborhoods. The project involves shaping
the alleys to improve drainage and the construction of 10-foot-wide concrete alleys.
Construction is anticipated to begin in May, with each alley taking between 2-3 weeks to
complete. All items are expected to be completed with final restoration by October of 2020.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the City’s capital improvement
plan (CIP) for 2020. Funding will be provided using pavement management (franchise fees) and
stormwater utility with no assessments to residents.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Resolution
Location map
Prepared by: Phillip Elkin, senior engineering project manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4d) Page 2
Title: Alley Reconstruction – Approve plans and specs, and authorize ad for bids – project no. 4020-1500
Discussion
Background: On Aug. 1, 2016, the City of St. Louis Park City Council adopted Resolution 16-094,
which updated the city’s assessment policy for infrastructure improvements. The updated
policy changed the assessment for reconstructing alleys from 100% assessed to benefiting
property owners, to 0% assessment, with the City fully funding the project. To proactively
address the unimproved alleys, staff developed a 10-year plan to reconstruct these alleys.
There are 21.2 miles of alleys throughout the city. At the time the resolution was passed 16
miles had a concrete surface and met the minimum standard for an improved alley. The
remaining 5.2 miles of alleys were constructed of either asphalt or gravel and considered
unimproved. Reconstructing the 5.2 miles of alleyways became the objective of the 10-year
improvement plan.
This is the fourth year of alley reconstruction projects. To date, 1.6 miles of alleys have been
reconstructed.
This year’s project will include five alley segments approximately 2,900 feet in length in the Oak
Hill and South Oak Hill neighborhoods. 115 properties abutting the alleys and will be impacted
by the project. Improvements to the alley include grading, storm sewer installation for better
drainage, and an 8-inch concrete pavement.
An informational meeting was held on Feb. 20, in which 15 people were in attendance
representing several homes in the project area. Overall, the project was received well by the
property owners.
Financial Consideration:
This project was included in the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for 2020. Below is a
summary of the estimated costs and funding sources.
Estimated Cost
Construction costs $567,000.00
Engineering and administration (15%) $85,000.00
Total $652,000.00
Funding Sources
Stormwater Utility fund $228,200.00
Pavement Management fund $423,800.00
Total $652,000.00
Proposed Schedule:
The following is the proposed schedule:
Open bids April 20, 2020
City council approves construction contract May 4, 2020
City contract to reconstruct alleys begins
Construction complete
May/June 2020
October 2020
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4d) Page 3
Title: Alley Reconstruction – Approve plans and specs, and authorize ad for bids – project no. 4020-1500
Resolution No. 20-____
Resolution approving
final plans and specifications,
and authorizing advertisement for bids
for improvement project no. 4020-1500
Whereas, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park accepted the report from the
Project Manager related to the 2020 Alley Reconstruction - Project No. 4020-1500 on March 16,
2020; and
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
that:
1.The final plans and specifications to construct these improvements, as prepared under
the direction of the Project Manager, or designee, are approved.
2.The City Clerk shall prepare and cause to be inserted at least two weeks in the official
City newspaper and in relevant industry publications and advertisement for bids for the
making of said improvements under said-approved plans and specifications. The
advertisement shall appear not less than ten (10) days prior to the date and time bids
will be received electronically by the Project Manager and accompanied by a bid bond
payable to the City for five (5) percent of the amount of the bid. The electronic bids will
only be available to view after the bids are closed and the City receives the passcode
from the bidding host site.
3.The Project Manager, or designee, shall report the receipt of bids to the City Council
shortly after the letting date. The report shall include a tabulation of the bid results and
a recommendation to the City Council.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
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City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4d)
Title: Alley Reconstruction – Approve plans and specs, and authorize ad for bids – project no. 4020-1500 Page 4
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 4e
Executive summary
Title: Accept donation from National Association of Government Web Professionals
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a monetary
donation from the National Association of Government Web Professionals in an amount not to
exceed $1,500 for all related expenses for Jason Huber, Information Technology Manager, to
attend the 2020 National Association of Government Web Professionals National Board Retreat
in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to accept the gift with restrictions on its use?
Summary: State statute requires the city council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is
necessary in order to make sure the city council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the
use of each donation prior to it being expended.
The City of St. Louis Park’s Information Technology Manager, Jason Huber, represents the
National Association of Government Web Professionals (NAGW) as their President.
As a result of Mr. Huber’s board member status, the National Association of Government Web
Professionals will compensate all related expenses to attend National Association of
Government Web Professionals Board Retreat, April 29 - May 1, 2020, in Little Rock, Arkansas in
an amount not to exceed $1,500.
The city attorney has reviewed this matter. His opinion is that state law permits the payment of
such expenses by this organization, regardless of whether the funds come from primary or
secondary sources. It is treated as a gift to the city and there needs to be a resolution adopted
by the city council determining that attendance at this event serves a public purpose and
accepting the gift. The resolution needs to be adopted before attendance at the conference.
Financial or budget considerations: This donation will be used toward the expenses incurred by
Jason Huber’s attendance to the National Association of Government Web Professionals
National Board Retreat in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Prepared by: Jason Huber, information technology manager
Reviewed by: Clint Pires, chief information officer
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4e) Page 2
Title: Accept donation from National Association of Government Web Professionals
Resolution No. 20-____
Resolution accepting donation from
National Association of Government Web Professionals for expenses for Jason
Huber to attend the 2020 National Association of Government Web
Professionals National Conference
Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is required by state statute to authorize acceptance of
any donations; and
Whereas, the city council must also ratify any restrictions placed on the donation by the
donor; and
Whereas, the National Association of Government Web Professionals will compensate all
related costs, in an amount not to exceed $1,500, for the city’s Information Technology
Manager, Jason Huber, to attend the National Association of Government Web Professionals
Board Retreat, April 29 – May 1, 2020, in Little Rock, Arkansas;
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park that the gift
is hereby accepted with thanks to the National Association of Government Web Professionals
with the understanding that it must be used for expenses incurred by Jason Huber to attend the
2020 National Association of Government Web Professionals National Board Retreat held in
Little Rock, Arkansas.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 4f
Executive summary
Title: Accept donation from Endeavor Business Media for Cindy Walsh to attend the Parks and
Recreation Summit
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a monetary
donation from Endeavor Business Media Company in an amount not to exceed $1,200 for all
related expenses for Cindy Walsh, Director of Operations and Recreation, to attend the 2020
Parks & Recreation Summit in Scottsdale, Arizona on April 22-25, 2020.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to accept the gift with restrictions on its use?
Summary: State statute requires city council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is
necessary in order to make sure the city council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the
use of each donation prior to it being expended.
The City of St. Louis Park’s Director of Operations and Recreation, Cindy Walsh, will attend the
Parks & Recreation Summit. Endeavor Business Media Company is an organization that
provides training and research for a variety of municipalities, counties and other non-profits.
They provide grants for all related summit expenses. No industry supplier is sponsoring any
specific person and there is no commitment to purchase products or services. The goal of the
summit is to share ideas about emerging trends. It is two days of structured case studies and
interactive roundtable sessions. Attendees are nominated and are then accepted to the
program. Ms. Walsh will be introduced to dozens of others responsible for their operations in
other cities around the country. Presenters will share their TED-talk like case studies on how
they’re approaching parks, recreation and maintenance issues in the United States, Canada and
around the world. Other local staff attending include the cities of Bloomington and St. Paul.
State law permits the payment of such expenses by this organization, regardless of whether the
funds come from primary or secondary sources. It is treated as a gift to the city and needs to be
a resolution adopted by the city council determining that attendance at this event serves a
public purpose and accepting the gift. The City of St. Louis Park will pay for expenses up front
and submit receipts to Endeavor Business Media for reimbursement.
Financial or budget considerations: This donation will be used toward the expenses incurred by
Cindy Walsh’s attendance to The Parks & Recreation Summit.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Prepared by: Stacy Voelker, senior office assistant
Reviewed by: Cynthia S. Walsh, director of operations and recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4f) Page 2
Title: Accept donation from Endeavor Business Media for Cindy Walsh to attend the Parks and Recreation Summit
Resolution No. 20-____
Resolution accepting donation from Endeavor Business Media Company for
expenses for
Cindy Walsh to attend the 2020 Parks & Recreation Summit
Whereas, The City of St. Louis Park is required by State Statute to authorize acceptance
of any donations; and
Whereas, the city council must also ratify any restrictions placed on the donation by the
donor; and
Whereas, Endeavor Business Media Company will compensate all related costs, in an
amount not to exceed $1,200, for the city’s Director of Operations and Recreation, Cindy Walsh,
to attend the Parks & Recreation Summit, April 22 – 25, 2020 in Scottsdale, Arizona; and
Now therefore be it resolved, by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park that the gift
is hereby accepted with thanks to Endeavor Business Media Company with the understanding
that it must be used for expenses incurred by Cindy Walsh to attend the Parks & Recreation
Summit held in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 4g
Executive summary
Title: St. Louis Park Lions Club temporary signs in the public right-of-way
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving St. Louis Park Lions Club’s request
for placing temporary signs in the public right-of-way.
Policy consideration: The request is allowed by city code.
Summary: The St. Louis Park Lions Club has requested permission to install temporary signs in
the public right-of-way for their annual pancake and sausage breakfast event. The council has
been granting a similar request for the Lion’s pancake breakfast event every year since 2005.
Section 36-362(e)(2) of the zoning code states that prohibited signs include, “Signs on or over
the public right-of-way unless the council grants permission for a temporary sign on or over the
public right-of-way for a period not to exceed ten days.”
The Lions Club is a non-profit community-based organization that provides services and
resources to the people of St. Louis Park. The requested signs advertise the Lions Club’s Annual
Pancake and Sausage Breakfast to be held on Sunday, April 5, 2020. This activity is a fund raiser
for services and resources provided to the residents of St. Louis Park. The request is to install 20
sandwich board style signs as early as March 27, 2020. Up to 28 smaller signs will be installed at
local places of worship on the day of the event. All signs will be removed on the day of the
event.
Financial or budget considerations: None.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Sign plan
Letter from Lions Club
Prepared by: Gary Morrison, assistant zoning administrator
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning and zoning supervisor
Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4g) Page 2
Title: St. Louis Park Lions Club temporary signs in the public right-of-way
Resolution No. 20-____
Resolution approving the St. Louis Park Lions Club’s
application for the placement of temporary signs
within the public right-of-way
Whereas, The St. Louis Park Lions Club made application for the placement of 20
temporary sandwich board type signs for eight days beginning March 27, 2020, and up to 28
“stick in the ground” type signs within the public right-of-way on April 5, 2020 only; and
Whereas, pursuant to Section 36-362(e)(2) of the St. Louis Park Zoning Ordinance, the
City Council may approve the placement of temporary signs within the public right-of-way for a
period not to exceed 10 days;
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park,
Minnesota, that the City Council approves the St. Louis Park Lions Club's application for the
placement of 20 sandwich board type temporary signs within the public right-of-way beginning
March 27, 2020, and up to 28 smaller signs to be displayed on April 5, 2020 only. All signs are to
be removed by the end of the day on April 5, 2020.
Be it further resolved that the size and placement of the 20 sandwich board temporary
signs and 25 push in the ground type temporary signs are approved as shown on the attached
sign plan (Exhibit A).
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4g) Page 3
Title: St. Louis Park Lions Club temporary signs in the public right-of-way
Page 4 City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4g) Title: St. Louis Park Lions Club temporary signs in the public right-of-way
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4g) Page 5
Title: St. Louis Park Lions Club temporary signs in the public right-of-way
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Consent agenda item: 4h
Executive summary
Title: Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1) - approve plans, specs and authorize ad for bid -
proj. no. 4020-1101
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving the final plans and specifications
and authorizing bidding documents for Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1 – Project no.
4020-1101).
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish staff to continue to pursue the bikeway, trail
and roadway improvements identified in this report?
Summary: On Oct. 21, 2019, the city council approved the staff recommended layout for the
following distinct roadway segments. They were addressed through one public engagement
initiative because of the connected system they create:
•Monterey Drive (project no. 4020-1101)
o Phase 1 – from Excelsior Boulevard to just north of Park Commons Drive -
construction in 2020
o Phase 2 – from Park Commons Drive through the intersection of Beltline
Boulevard/36th Street – construction in 2021
•Beltline Boulevard from 36th Street to Park Glen Road (project no. 4021-2000) –
construction in 2021
•36th Street from Beltline Boulevard to Wooddale Avenue (project no. 4022-6000) –
construction in 2022
This report focuses on the Monterey Drive from Excelsior Boulevard to just north of Park
Commons Drive (Phase 1), scheduled for construction in 2020.
This project includes access modifications and restrictions to the intersection of Monterey Drive
and Park Commons Drive, dedicated space for on-street bike lanes, and additional width for the
sidewalk along the east side of Monterey Drive. Along with the geometric improvements, there
will be some underground utility work and new asphalt pavement as part of the project.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the city’s capital improvement
plan (CIP) for 2020. The cost for phase 1 of this project is estimated at $736,736. Details on the
project cost and funding are discussed later in this report.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Resolution
Project overview map
Oct. 21, 2019 council action (pages 112-126)
Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, senior engineering project manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4h) Page 2
Title: Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1) - approve plans, specs and authorize ad for bid - proj. no. 4020-1101
Discussion
Background: The Monterey Drive improvements are part of the city's Connect the Park plan.
Connect the Park is designed to create a system that provides sidewalks approximately every
1/4-mile and bikeways every 1/2-mile in order to improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity
throughout the community.
Throughout the public engagement and preliminary design process, Monterey Drive was
discussed concurrently with a larger initiative that included all of Monterey Drive, Beltline
Boulevard to Park Glen Road and 36th Street from the REC Center to Wooddale Avenue.
Information regarding this project was shared with the city council at the Sept. 23, 2019 study
session, at the Oct. 7, 2019 public hearing and during the Oct. 21, 2019 council action to
approve the preliminary layout.
Project scope: The limits of the project on Monterey Drive (phase 1) are from Excelsior
Boulevard to just north of Park Commons Drive. The project was initiated as a project to
enhance biking along Monterey Drive to connect it to the larger existing and proposed bike
network in the city. There are numerous related infrastructure projects that have been added
to the scope of this project. An overview of the aspects of the project can be found below:
•In order to provide safe access to Park Commons Drive and the primary entrance to
Bridgewater Bank, the intersection will be restricted to a 3/4 access. This will allow for
all turning movements except for left out from Park Commons Drive or Bridgewater
Bank. These changes were approved as part of the Bridgewater Bank redevelopment on
June 4, 2018. This project is expected to be completed after the anticipated opening of
Bridgewater Bank.
•The roadway will be reduced from 4 lanes of traffic to 3 lanes. This reduction in travel
lanes will allow for additional room for on-street buffered bike lanes. The intersection of
Monterey Drive and Excelsior Boulevard will have minor reconfiguration to
accommodate the bike lanes as well as potential U-turn maneuvers from the adjacent
3/4 access modification. The Bridgewater Bank development has been designed to
accommodate the road widening and signal pole relocation necessary to facilitate this
work. Due to the short segment of reconstruction in phase 1, the bike lanes lines will be
installed, but bike symbols and bike signage will be installed as part of Phase 2 in 2021.
Intersection operations from a vehicle level of service perspective are not expected to
change as a result of the proposed improvement.
•The current sidewalk along the east side of Monterey Drive is narrow and directly
adjacent vehicle traffic. The new roadway configuration and the planned improvements
at the Bridgewater Bank site will provide additional width to the sidewalk and add
separation from traveling vehicles.
•The existing sanitary sewer forcemain that connects near the intersection of Monterey
Drive and 36 ½ Street at lift station #11 and pumps up to Excelsior and Grand has
incurred service issues and been recommended for replacement. The new forcemain
will run along the east side of Monterey Drive. Segments of the forcemain will be built in
this phase of the project. The remainder of the main will be built and connected to the
lift station during phase 2 of the project.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4h) Page 3
Title: Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1) - approve plans, specs and authorize ad for bid - proj. no. 4020-1101
•The existing roadway pavement will be replaced as part of this project.
•During the preliminary plan approval, there was discussion related to the signal
operations at the intersection of Excelsior Boulevard and Monterey Drive. This signal is
owned and operated by Hennepin County. We’ve requested that the signal prioritize the
safety of all users of the intersection with emphasis on pedestrians and bicyclists.
o Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) push buttons will be installed at the
northeast and the southeast corners of the intersection. The other two corners
already have APS as part of a previous Hennepin County-led project.
o Leading pedestrian intervals (LPIs) will be programmed into the traffic signal at
this intersection. A LPI typically gives pedestrians a 3-7 second head start when
entering an intersection with a corresponding green signal in the same direction
of travel. LPIs enhance the visibility of pedestrians in the intersection and
reinforce their right of way over that of turning vehicles, especially in locations
where vehicle conflicts are present.
o Hennepin County, who owns and manages the signal, has requested the “right
on green arrow only” signage be removed from eastbound Excelsior Boulevard
to eastbound 38th Street. They’ve indicated that this is an unusual prohibition
and has low compliance with the stated restriction.
A traffic review at this location indicates that almost 50% of the vehicles do not
comply with the current restriction. During the study, approximately 320 cars
made this movement between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. Of those, 153 violated the turn
restriction.
Low compliance creates a less safe pedestrian crossing at this location due to the
false sense of pedestrian right of way. Removal of this turn restriction was
presented throughout the public engagement process with little feedback from
the community. Staff concurs with the request made by Hennepin County and
recommends removal of signage and signal head as part of the project.
o No right on red signage was suggested at all four corners of the intersection
during the preliminary design process. The county and the city believe the
pedestrian leading intervals (LPIs) is a more effective approach to safely
managing the pedestrians crossing the intersection and doesn’t create
unnecessary delay for vehicles during off-peak pedestrian times of day.
Therefore, no right on red signage is not recommended to be included as part of
this project.
•Currently, on-street parking is not allowed along this segment of roadway. Our
recommended design keeps the parking restriction in place.
Financial considerations: A combination of development funds, municipal state aid, general
obligation (GO) bonds, sanitary sewer, storm sewer and watermain funds are expected to be
utilized to fund this phase.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4h) Page 4
Title: Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1) - approve plans, specs and authorize ad for bid - proj. no. 4020-1101
There are some savings present in the current design when compared to the CIP shown below.
During the plan development, the condition and location of the existing westerly curb line,
storm sewer or multiuse trail adjacent to the curb did not need to be removed and replaced as
part of the project. Leaving this infrastructure in place results in considerable savings to certain
funding sources. The updated engineer’s estimate for phase 1 is shown below.
CIP Engineer's estimate
Construction cost $1,000,000 $640,640
Engineering and administration (15%) $250,000 $96,096
Total $1,250,000 $736,736
Funding sources
Development fund $75,000 $75,000
Sidewalks and bikeways (GO bonds) $250,000 $241,489
Municipal state aid $581,250 $325,358
Sanitary sewer $131,250 $72,485
Stormwater utility $187,500 $18,343
Watermain $25,000 $8,349
Total $1,250,000 $736,736
GO bonds are expected to be used to fund the estimated $241,500 for sidewalks and bikeways.
The debt service levy for this project will be $28,000 starting in 2021 for ten years.
Operation and maintenance costs: This project enhances the existing roadway and sidewalk
infrastructure, including bikeways, sidewalks, trails, and enhanced pedestrian crossings.
However, the infrastructure and the maintenance associated with this infrastructure are
currently in place; therefore, there is no appreciable increase in annual operational efforts
include snow removal, pavement sweeping, and general upkeep.
The bike lane pavement markings (long lines and symbols) and bikeway signage for phase 1
represent approximately $1,400 per year to maintain the markings.
Schedule and next steps: Monterey Drive near Excelsior Boulevard is an active area with
limited room for a contractor to work. There are expected to be numerous lane shifts necessary
to facilitate safely completing the work. These site constraints are expected to increase the
duration of the work. The intersection of Park Commons Drive and Monterey Drive is expected
to be closed for approximately two weeks to safely complete the work at this location.
However, Park Commons Drive will be passable for the parade floats during the Parktacular
Grand Day Parade.
Monterey Drive (phase 1) - project no. 4020-1101
Approve final plans and order ad for bid March 16, 2020
Approve construction bids May 2020
Phase 1 construction - Monterey Drive
(Excelsior Blvd to Park Commons Dr)
Mid-June –
August 2020
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4h) Page 5
Title: Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1) - approve plans, specs and authorize ad for bid - proj. no. 4020-1101
Resolution No. 20-___
Resolution
approving the final plans and authorizing bidding documents for
Monterey Drive (Phase 1) Bikeway improvements; project no. 4020-1101
Whereas, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park has received a report from the
Project Manager related to the Monterey Drive Bikeway Improvements No. 4020-1101 on
October 21, 2019 and
Whereas, at the same meeting, the preliminary layout was approved, and final plans were
ordered to be developed.
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
that:
1.The final plans and specifications to construct these improvements, as prepared under
the direction of the Project Manager, or designee, are approved.
2.The City Clerk shall prepare and cause to be inserted at least two weeks in the official
City newspaper and in relevant industry publications an advertisement for bids for the
making of said improvements under said-approved plans and specifications. The
advertisement shall appear not less than ten (10) days prior to the date and time bids
will be received electronically by the Project Manager and accompanied by a bid bond
payable to the City for five (5) percent of the amount of the bid. The electronic bids will
only be available to view after the bids are closed and the City receives the passcode
from the bidding host site.
3.The Project Manager, or designee, shall report the receipt of bids to the City Council
shortly after the opening date. The report shall include a tabulation of the bid results
and a recommendation to the City Council.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
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City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 4h)
Title: Monterey Drive improvements (Phase 1) - approve plans, specs and authorize ad for bid - proj. no. 4020-1101 Page 6
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Action agenda item: 8a
Executive summary
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan
Recommended action: Motion to accept the Texa-Tonka small area plan.
Policy consideration: Is city council supportive of the recommendations in the draft Texa-Tonka
small area plan?
Summary: In May 2019, the city began working on a small area plan for the commercial
properties near the intersection of Texas Avenue and Minnetonka Boulevard, also known as
Texa-Tonka. The city contracted with SEH and a team of planners, architects, engineers,
outreach and market specialists to create the Texa-Tonka small area plan.
Many of the commercial properties located near the intersection of Texas Avenue and
Minnetonka Boulevard, also known as Texa-Tonka, have been owned by the same property
group for many decades. This ownership group has decided they would like to divest many of
the commercially zoned properties in Texa-Tonka in the coming years.
In anticipation of new ownership and reinvestment in the commercial properties, the city
undertook a small area plan to conduct a market overview, concept site and building plans,
design guidelines, a traffic capacity analysis and a parking study.
The plan recommendations are heavily influenced by input from residents and commercial
property owners collected through a project committee, pop-up events, community surveys,
neighborhood workshops and an open house. Input was received from more than 2,800
people! Summaries of responses to these efforts are posted on the city’s website and are
included as attachments to the plan.
An executive summary is included at the front of the plan highlighting the major themes and
plan recommendations. Consultants and staff will present a summary of the plan during the city
council meeting.
Financial or budget considerations: None at this time. Funding for the small area plan was
included in the 2019 budget.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Texa-Tonka small area plan and attachments
Prepared by: Jennifer Monson, planner
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning and zoning supervisor
Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a) Page 2
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan
Discussion
Background: Many of the commercial properties located near the intersection of Texas Avenue
and Minnetonka Boulevard, also known as Texa-Tonka, have been owned by the same property
group for many decades. This ownership group has decided they would like to divest many of
the commercially zoned properties in Texa-Tonka in the coming years.
In anticipation of new ownership and reinvestment in the commercial properties, the city
created a small area plan which is intended to help the public and private sectors anticipate and
effectively manage future changes within Texa-Tonka today and into the future. Specifically, the
plan:
• describes existing demographic, market and physical conditions
• identifies community concerns and preferences
• provides illustrative plans, images and descriptions for redevelopment and building and
site renovation
• provides design guidelines for preserving and strengthening Texa-Tonka’s distinct mid-
century modern design aesthetic
• provides an understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with potential
intersection improvements
• recommends enhancing and enlivening sidewalks, parking lots and building sites
Present considerations: This small area plan was created using an inclusive, interactive
program of community engagement over an eight-month period with assistance from an 11
member citizens committee, online community surveys, public workshops, pop-up meetings, a
project web site, and guidance from City staff. Results of these efforts are posted on the city’s
website.
Community concerns revolved around 4 key themes: existing buildings and parking areas; new
buildings and parking areas; variety of uses; and sidewalks, streets, and gathering.
The plan organizes the recommendations for revitalization and enhancement into three areas:
revitalization and redevelopment, greening and gathering, and movement and circulation.
Revitalization and redevelopment: Community members made it clear throughout the process
that redevelopment should be incremental, gradual, and focused on creating a place that
serves the local community. Therefore, the plan recommends respecting the existing parcel and
platting pattern. Doing so will allow smaller buildings and smaller spaces to enhance Texa-
Tonka area as it evolves. Instead of a single master plan that creates uniformity, consistency
and larger gathering places, the plan recommends parcels develop on their own or aggregated
in a limited manner, each with its own opportunities for landscaped, semi-public space.
Greening and gathering: A range of community-led greening and gathering enhancement
opportunities are described in the plan.
Movement and circulation: As redevelopment and revitalization proceed, site access can be
consolidated, improving wayfinding and safety. Discussions with business owners and
community members indicated there is an adequate supply of parking within Texa-Tonka and
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a) Page 3
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan
that additional parking is currently not required. Therefore, the plan recommends maintaining a
similar balance between commercial development and parking supply into the future
Next steps: City council has already acted on some of the plan recommendations including
rezoning several parcels from general commercial (C-2) to neighborhood commercial (C-1).
Once accepted by city council the plan will be used as a guiding document for future land use
decisions and revitalization efforts.
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 4
i│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 5
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│ii
acknowledgements
01
INTRODUCTION
02 Why Prepare a Small Area
Plan?
04 Influential Plan, Studies, and
Regulations
00
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
iii Small Area Plan Summary
02
YESTERDAY AND TODAY
06 1950’s-60’s Commercial
Development
07 Existing Conditions: Social
Economic, and Physical
Characteristics
03
EXPLORING AND ESTABLISHING THE VISION
20 Engagement Activities and
Key Themes
22 Vision Statement
23 Planning Principles
04
DESCRIBING THE VISION
26 Planning Framework
Approach
28 Redevelopment Options
36 Design Guidelines
43 Greening and Gathering
05
ACHIEVING THE VISION
48 Implementation
50 Partnerships
06
APPENDIX
i. Community Survey
ii. Traffic Data
iii. Market Overview
iv. Zoning Study
v. Draft Frameworks Survey
vi. Community Workshop
Summaries
Project Steering Committee
Abdi Ali
Michael Corbett
Jodi Dezale
Jacquelyn Eckholm
Shannon Mantante
Greg Meland
Linda Rich-Meland
Amy Mellinger
Scott Kosloski
Mike Sturdivant
Lindsey Thompson
City of St. Louis Park
Rachel Harris, City of St. Louis Park
Council Member
Jennifer Monson, Planner
Small Area Plan Project Manager
Sean Walther, Planning and Zoning
Supervisor
contents
Consultant Team
Bob Kost, AICP, PLA, LEED AP
Project Manager, Lead Urban Designer
Short Elliot Hendrickson Inc
Anna Springer, PLA
Landscape Architect
Short Elliot Hendrickson Inc
Adrian Diaz
Planner
Short Elliot Hendrickson Inc
Andrew Dresdner, AICP
Urban Designer
Cuningham Group Architects
Plan completed January 24, 2020
Jena Stanton
Urban Designer
Cuningham Group Architects
Cole Dorius
ZAN
Mary Bujod
President
Maxfield Research
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 6
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
iii│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
SMALL AREA PLAN SUMMARY
The Texa-Tonka neighborhood commercial node has served the
surrounding neighborhood for many years. Past vacancies and
general disinvestment over the past few decades have led to greater
interest in how this node may improve in the future, serving local
residents and others that come to the area for specific reasons. This
Small Area Plan is intended to help the public and private sectors
anticipate and effectively manage future changes within Texa-Tonka
today and into the future. Specifically, the plan:
•describes existing demographic, market and physical conditions
•identifies community concerns and preferences
•provides illustrated plans, images and descriptions for
redevelopment and building and site renovation
•provides design guidelines for preserving and strengthening Texa-
Tonka’s distinct mid-century modern design aesthetic
•an understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated
with potential intersection improvements
•recommendations for enhancing and enlivening sidewalks, parking
lots, and building sites
This Small Area Plan was prepared using an inclusive, interactive
program of community engagement over an eight-month period with
assistance from an 11 member citizens committee, online community
surveys, public workshops, pop-up meetings, a project web site, and
guidance from City staff. Community concerns revolved around 4
key themes: existing buildings and parking areas, new buildings and
parking areas, variety of uses, and sidewalks, streets, and gathering.
ENGAGING THE PUBLIC
5
In-person events allowed
the public to share their
experiences and ideas for
improving the Texa-Tonka area
3
Project Advisory Committee
Meetings were hosted to help
guide the Small Area Plan
process
OVER2,800
Online survey participants
provided their ideas on future
development
Theme Summary
Existing Buildings
and Parking Areas
Numerous vacancies - empty spaces
Lack of landscaping
New Building and
Parking Areas
Preference for 1-3 stories
Appreciation and preference for mid-century modern architectural style
Variety of Uses
Preference for locally owned, operated businesses
Additional cafes, restaurants, coffee shop
Sidewalks, Streets,
+ Gathering
Minnetonka Blvd crosswalks should be improved / enhanced
Desire for streetscape enhancement: trees, furnishings and lighting
Key Themes from Engagement
P
P
Samples of key comments provided by the public
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 7
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│iv
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A comprehensive vision statement describing Texa-Tonka’s successful
revitalization was prepared using input from the first community
survey and interactive workshop.
The Texa-Tonka community members
developed a vision for a more vibrant
commercial node with useful, locally-
owned shops and restaurants accessible
from a network of landscaped sidewalks
and safe roadway crossings.
The Plan organizes recommendations for revitalization and
enhancement into THREE KEY AREAS:
Revitalization and Redevelopment, which focuses
on the massing and siting of new buildings and the
renovation and reuse of existing buildings, vacant and
or underutilized sites, and design.
Greening and Gathering, which describes locations and
designs concepts for informal enhancement and activation of
sidewalks, bus stops, cross walks and parking areas.
Movement and Circulation, which includes an analysis of
future traffic operations, consolidation of multimodal site
access and relocation of parking resources.
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM OPTION 2 FOR PARCEL 7
Plan View 2-story commercial/3-story residential and surface
parking
Frontage View Relationship of 2-story commercial/3-story residential to
existing residential
Backage View Relationship of 3-story residential and surface parking to
neighboring residential and park
C-2 General Commercial Option 2 potential for Parcel 7,
northeast corner of Texas Ave and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
2-story commercial
3,000 SF
COMMERCIAL
12
PARKING
SPACESTEXAS AVETEXA
S
A
V
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XA
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AV
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MINNETONKA BLVD
RAINBOW
PARK
MINNETO
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RAINBOW
PARK
34
UNDERGROUND
PARKING
SPACES
34
RESIDENTIAL
UNITS
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM OPTION 2 FOR PARCEL 7
Plan View 2-story commercial/3-story residential and surface
parking
Frontage View Relationship of 2-story commercial/3-story residential to
existing residential
Backage View Relationship of 3-story residential and surface parking to
neighboring residential and park
C-2 General Commercial Option 2 potential for Parcel 7,
northeast corner of Texas Ave and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
2-story commercial
3,000 SF
COMMERCIAL
12
PARKING
SPACESTEXAS AVETEXA
S
A
V
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T
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XAS
AV
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MINNETONKA BLVD
RAINBOW
PARK
MINNETON
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L
V
D
MINNETONKA B
L
V
D
RAINBOW
PARK
34
UNDERGROUND
PARKING
SPACES
34
RESIDENTIAL
UNITS
Revitalization + Redevelopment
Community members made it clear throughout the process of this Plan that redevelopment should be incremental, gradual, and focused
on creating a place that serves the local community. Therefore, this Plan recommends respecting the existing parcel and platting
pattern. Doing so will allow smaller buildings and smaller spaces to enhance Texa-Tonka area as it evolves. Instead of a single master
plan that creates uniformity, consistency and larger gathering places, this Plan recommends parcels develop on their own or aggregated
in a limited manner, each with its own opportunities for landscaped, semi-public space.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 8
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
v│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
REVITALIZATION + REDEVELOPMENT - DESIGN GUIDELINES
The Plan provides illustrative design options for redeveloping parcels
balancing community preferences with current zoning and market
research.
Snapshots of design guidelines shown on the following pages
Guidelines
BUILDING FORM & CHARACTER
Intent
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should vary in scale and character while maintaining a
contemporary and modern approach that creates an overall human scaled and
pedestrian friendly environment – both on site and in the public realm.
Building Character
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should complement, but
not mimic, mid-century modern design traditions
in terms of building and roof forms, materials,
clean lines, and minimal ornamentation. Stan-
dardized “franchise” style architecture is discour-
aged; instead design and materials that provide
a unique identity and a sense of authenticity
is encouraged. Unique architectural features
should be used in conjunction with signage to
convey the unique personality and character of
building tenants.
Transitions
Buildings and sites in Texa-Tonka should
carefully address their transition to nearby
residen-tial buildings or other sensitive edges.
Building should position taller portions of a
structure away from neighboring buildings of
lower scale, step back to align building setbacks
of neighbor-ing buildings, and provide
appropriate buffering.
Massing
Building massing in Texa-Tonka should vary
across the district with each block supporting
architectural variety. Typical buildings should be
simple volumes, or interlocking volumes if they
exceed 80’ in length to reduce the overall scale
of the building mass from the street.
Scale
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should establish a sense
of human scale. Vertical and horizontal
articulation can be used to reduce the apparent
scale of larger buildings and create visual
interest. Adjacent buildings of varying heights
and styles should align design features to
express a scale relationship between the two
buildings.
1
2
3
4
1
1 3
1
2
4
1 1 1
2
Building Form + Character
Street Frontage Site Design
Building Facade DesignGuidelines
BUILDING FORM & CHARACTER
Intent
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should vary in scale and character while maintaining a
contemporary and modern approach that creates an overall human scaled and
pedestrian friendly environment – both on site and in the public realm.
Building Character
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should complement, but
not mimic, mid-century modern design traditions
in terms of building and roof forms, materials,
clean lines, and minimal ornamentation. Stan-
dardized “franchise” style architecture is discour-
aged; instead design and materials that provide
a unique identity and a sense of authenticity
is encouraged. Unique architectural features
should be used in conjunction with signage to
convey the unique personality and character of
building tenants.
Transitions
Buildings and sites in Texa-Tonka should
carefully address their transition to nearby
residen-tial buildings or other sensitive edges.
Building should position taller portions of a
structure away from neighboring buildings of
lower scale, step back to align building setbacks
of neighbor-ing buildings, and provide
appropriate buffering.
Massing
Building massing in Texa-Tonka should vary
across the district with each block supporting
architectural variety. Typical buildings should be
simple volumes, or interlocking volumes if they
exceed 80’ in length to reduce the overall scale
of the building mass from the street.
Scale
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should establish a sense
of human scale. Vertical and horizontal
articulation can be used to reduce the apparent
scale of larger buildings and create visual
interest. Adjacent buildings of varying heights
and styles should align design features to
express a scale relationship between the two
buildings.
1
2
3
4
BUILDING FACADE DESIGN
Intent
Building façade design in the district should define a unique character for the Texa-Tonka neighborhood. Buildings
should incorporate changes in plane, materials, texture, and color to create visual interest and contribute to a sense
of liveliness on the street.
Guidelines
Composition
Building facades should be symmetrical or
balanced. They may consist of repeated bays
which are common in traditional buildings, or
a balanced composition which are common in
many modern buildings. Large expanses of solid
facades are discouraged on the ground floor.
Horizontality
As is common with many modern buildings,
horizontal proportioning and expression is
encouraged. Overall massing, deep overhangs,
fins, ribbon windows and corner windows are
some techniques that can be used to emphasize
the horizontality of a building. Use horizontal
expressions, a change in material, or an offset in
the wall plane at lower floor heights to establish
a sense of scale.
Materials
Building materials and detailing should be used
to brand building tenants. Historically, the
palette of building materials was rater limited in
Texa-Tonka, with brick being the predominant
material. Materials in their natural form should be
highlighted, imitation materials are discouraged.
Patterning and ornamentation through the use of
re peated materials, clean lines and simple
design features is encouraged. Use of applied
ornamen-tation should be kept to a minimum.
Awnings and Canopies
Sheltering elements such as a canopy, awning,
arcade or portico should be used to shelter
walkways, outdoor spaces and to shade
windows. They should be in character with the
building design, and can be used as horizontal
expressions and to signify the primary entrance
to a building.
1
2
3
4
STREET FRONTAGE
Intent
The manner in which buildings address the sidewalk and street edge has a strong bearing on the comfort of the public
realm. Buildings close to the edge of the sidewalk help create a well-defined public realm. Therefore, buildings within
Texa-Tonka are encouraged to relate closely to the sidewalk while also making room on their site for usable
pedestrian areas.
Guidelines
Ground Floor Transparency
Generally, the ground floor of buildings should
relate both visually and physically to the
sidewalk through generous use of transparency
and frequent openings. Views both into and out
of buildings enrich the urban experience for
pedes-trians and building occupants alike, while
also improving safety through natural
surveillance. To help accomplish this, semi-
public uses such as building lobbies, exercise
rooms, etc, should be located on the ground
floor with generous windows.
Building Placement & Setbacks
All new buildings are encouraged to provide an
“enhanced setback” that offers public amenities
and semi private space for residential units.
They can range in size from modest setbacks for
pedestrian movement to larger areas with
outdoor seating, landscaping or other amenities.
Enhanced setbacks can also be used to mitigate
the impact of exceedingly long buildings.
Entry Location and Types
Public building entrances should be clearly
identifiable, and directly accessible from the
adjacent sidewalks. Commercial entrances
should be level with the adjacent sidewalk;
locate residential entrances no more than a
couple of feet above the level of the adjacent
sidewalk.
Open Space
Building placement should create outdoor spac-
es that serve a variety of public, private, pas-sive
and active uses. Open spaces on site are
encouraged near primary building entrances,
between the building and the sidewalk. Open
Spaces may consist of an enhanced setback, a
small courtyard, side or entry plaza that
enhances the entry sequence to the building.
1
2
3
4
Enhanced Setback Sidewalk Clear Zone Amenity Zone
Sidewalk Clear Zone
Enhanced Setback
Min Setback
Amenity Zone
Max Setback
STREET FRONTAGE
Intent
The manner in which buildings address the sidewalk and street edge has a strong bearing on the comfort of the public
realm. Buildings close to the edge of the sidewalk help create a well-defined public realm. Therefore, buildings within
Texa-Tonka are encouraged to relate closely to the sidewalk while also making room on their site for usable
pedestrian areas.
Guidelines
Ground Floor Transparency
Generally, the ground floor of buildings should
relate both visually and physically to the
sidewalk through generous use of transparency
and frequent openings. Views both into and out
of buildings enrich the urban experience for
pedes-trians and building occupants alike, while
also improving safety through natural
surveillance. To help accomplish this, semi-
public uses such as building lobbies, exercise
rooms, etc, should be located on the ground
floor with generous windows.
Building Placement & Setbacks
All new buildings are encouraged to provide an
“enhanced setback” that offers public amenities
and semi private space for residential units.
They can range in size from modest setbacks for
pedestrian movement to larger areas with
outdoor seating, landscaping or other amenities.
Enhanced setbacks can also be used to mitigate
the impact of exceedingly long buildings.
Entry Location and Types
Public building entrances should be clearly
identifiable, and directly accessible from the
adjacent sidewalks. Commercial entrances
should be level with the adjacent sidewalk;
locate residential entrances no more than a
couple of feet above the level of the adjacent
sidewalk.
Open Space
Building placement should create outdoor spac-
es that serve a variety of public, private, pas-sive
and active uses. Open spaces on site are
encouraged near primary building entrances,
between the building and the sidewalk. Open
Spaces may consist of an enhanced setback, a
small courtyard, side or entry plaza that
enhances the entry sequence to the building.
1
2
3
4
2 3
1 4
2
3
Enhanced Setback Sidewalk Clear Zone Amenity Zone
Sidewalk Clear Zone
Enhanced Setback
Min Setback
Amenity Zone
1
Max Setback
SITE DESIGN
Intent
Landscaping, orientation, and access to outdoor spaces is fundamental to improving the character and quality of the
public realm within the Texa-Tonka district. Therefore, landscaping and outdoor amenities should be designed to
enhance the comfort, safety, walkability, and human scale within Texa-Tonka to create an enjoyable environment.
Guidelines
Access
Safe and convenient pedestrian access should
be provided to all building entrances. Provide a
continuous, level and clearly delineated
pedestrian walkway across driveways to
encourage drivers to yield to pedestrians by
applying the same materials across these
vehicle access points as the sidewalk.
Pedestrian connectivity and shared vehicular
access between adjacent properties should be
encouraged.
Parking
To minimize the visual impacts of parking within
Texa-Tonka, surface parking lots should be
located to the side or behind buildings with the
buildings fronting the primary streets and
sidewalks. Locating Parking within yard setbacks
should be discouraged. Existing buildings that
have park-ing in front of them are encouraged to
improve their relationship to the sidewalk by
reclaiming parking spaces for usable outdoor
space, and creating safer and clear connections
between sidewalks and the front door.
Structured parking on the ground floor should
be lined with active uses. Provide trees and plant
materials in interior parking lot islands to reduce
the visual impacts of parking lots and to reduce
the heat island effect.
Landscaping
Trees and landscape areas play an important
role in breaking down a space to the human-
scale, by contributing to a sense of enclosure,
providing shade, and adding needed softness in
an urban environment. Due to the urban nature
of Texa-Tonka and limited space available for
plantings within the Minnetonka Boulevard right-
of-way, plant species that are columnar in shape
and adaptable to urban environments should be
used in the district.
1
2
3
Plant Species
Boulevards are tough sites known for dry,
poor soil and salt from the winter. The
following plants have the abiltiy to live and
flourish in these difficult urban conditions:
• Yarrow (Achillea)
• Aster
• Milkweed (Asclepias) *
• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Daylily (Hemerocallis)
• Hosta
• Bearded Iris
• Blazing Star (Liatris)
• Bee Balm / Bergamot (Monarda) *
• Catmint (Nepeta)
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
• Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacae)
• Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) *
• Daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida)
• Salvia
• Sedum
• Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
• Speedwell (Veronica)
SITE DESIGN
Intent
Landscaping, orientation, and access to outdoor spaces is fundamental to improving the character and quality of the
public realm within the Texa-Tonka district. Therefore, landscaping and outdoor amenities should be designed to
enhance the comfort, safety, walkability, and human scale within Texa-Tonka to create an enjoyable environment.
Guidelines
Access
Safe and convenient pedestrian access should
be provided to all building entrances. Provide a
continuous, level and clearly delineated
pedestrian walkway across driveways to
encourage drivers to yield to pedestrians by
applying the same materials across these
vehicle access points as the sidewalk.
Pedestrian connectivity and shared vehicular
access between adjacent properties should be
encouraged.
Parking
To minimize the visual impacts of parking within
Texa-Tonka, surface parking lots should be
located to the side or behind buildings with the
buildings fronting the primary streets and
sidewalks. Locating Parking within yard setbacks
should be discouraged. Existing buildings that
have park-ing in front of them are encouraged to
improve their relationship to the sidewalk by
reclaiming parking spaces for usable outdoor
space, and creating safer and clear connections
between sidewalks and the front door.
Structured parking on the ground floor should
be lined with active uses. Provide trees and plant
materials in interior parking lot islands to reduce
the visual impacts of parking lots and to reduce
the heat island effect.
Landscaping
Trees and landscape areas play an important
role in breaking down a space to the human-
scale, by contributing to a sense of enclosure,
providing shade, and adding needed softness in
an urban environment. Due to the urban nature
of Texa-Tonka and limited space available for
plantings within the Minnetonka Boulevard right-
of-way, plant species that are columnar in shape
and adaptable to urban environments should be
used in the district.
1
2
3
2
2
3Plant Species
Boulevards are tough sites known for dry,
poor soil and salt from the winter. The
following plants have the abiltiy to live and
flourish in these difficult urban conditions:
• Yarrow (Achillea)
• Aster
• Milkweed (Asclepias) *
• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Daylily (Hemerocallis)
• Hosta
• Bearded Iris
• Blazing Star (Liatris)
• Bee Balm / Bergamot (Monarda) *
• Catmint (Nepeta)
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
• Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacae)
• Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) *
• Daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida)
• Salvia
• Sedum
• Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
• Speedwell (Veronica)
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 9
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│vi
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
GREENING AND GATHERING
A range of community-led greening and gathering enhancement opportunities
are described in the Plan.
MOVEMENT AND CIRCULATION
As redevelopment and revitalization proceed, site access can be consolidated, improving wayfinding and safety.
Discussions with business owners and community members indicated there is an adequate supply of parking
within Texa-Tonka and that additional parking is currently not required. Therefore this Plan recommends
maintaining a similar balance between commercial development and parking supply into the future.
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa-tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa-tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa-tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa-tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa-tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
GETTING AROUND VEHICLE CIRCULATION & ACCESS
Existing
Reduction in curb cuts along Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave S can
improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Existing Curb Line
Parcels
Proposed Circulation
Existing Circulation
Curb Cut
Removed Curb Cut
Proposed Option 1
Proposed Option 2
MINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEReduction in curb cuts along Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave S
can improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Legend
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
GETTING AROUND VEHICLE CIRCULATION & ACCESS
Existing
Reduction in curb cuts along Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave S can
improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Existing Curb Line
Parcels
Proposed Circulation
Existing Circulation
Curb Cut
Removed Curb Cut
Proposed Option 1
Proposed Option 2
MINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVESUMTER AVE S
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
GETTING AROUND VEHICLE CIRCULATION & ACCESS
Existing
Reduction in curb cuts along Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave S can
improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Existing Curb Line
Parcels
Proposed Circulation
Existing Circulation
Curb Cut
Removed Curb Cut
Proposed Option 1
Proposed Option 2
MINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVESUMTER AVE S
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 10
vii│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
This page is intentionally left blank.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 11
CHAPTER 1INTRODUCTION
WHY PREPARE A SMALL AREA PLAN?
INFLUENTIAL PLANS, STUDIES, + REGULATIONS
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 12
32 1/2
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Rainbow
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Willow
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Ainsworth
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Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
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Knollwood
Green
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Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
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Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
2│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
INTRODUCTION
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan Project Area
INTRODUCTION
The Texa-Tonka neighborhood commercial node is centrally located
within the city along Minnetonka Boulevard / County Road 5 between
Texas Avenue and Xylon Avenue. While attributed to the city’s Texa-
Tonka neighborhood, the node sits at the northern edge of the Aquila
and Oak Hill Neighborhoods and routinely serves residents within
those and other adjacent neighborhoods.
St. Louis Park
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 13
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│3
why prepare a small area plan? INTRODUCTION
WHY PREPARE A SMALL AREA PLAN?
This Small Area Plan is intended to help the public
and private sectors anticipate and effectively manage
future changes within the Texa-Tonka neighborhood
commercial node. Specifically, the plan:
• describes existing demographic, market, and
physical conditions
• identifies community concerns and preferences
• provides illustrated plans, images and descriptions
for redevelopment and building and site renovation
• provides design guidelines for preserving and
strengthening Texa-Tonka’s distinct mid-century
modern design aesthetic
• establishes an understanding of the challenges and
opportunities associated with potential intersection
improvements
• recommendations for enhancing and enlivening
sidewalks, parking lots, and building sites
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 14
4│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
INTRODUCTION influential plans
INFLUENTIAL PLANS, STUDIES, AND REGULATIONS
This plan is informed and underpinned by several existing plans,
studies and regulations including:
• 2040 Comprehensive Plan and Plans by Neighborhood, 2018
• St. Louis Park Vision 3.0, 2017
• Connect the Park Sidewalks, Trails and Bikeways, 2018
• Minnetonka Blvd / County Road 5 Design Plan, 2008
• St. Louis Park Zoning Code, 2019
8/7/18 DRAFT
Plan By
Neighborhood
Minnetonka Boulevard (County Road 5) Design Plan
Submitted to: Hennepin County
City of Minnetonka
City of St. Louis Park
City of Hopkins
December 30, 2008
A Place for All People
2040 Comprehensive Plan
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
August 2019
Vision 3.0
This project focused on
engaging local stakeholders
to identify community needs
and aspirations. Key themes
from engagement included:
diverse and affordable housing,
transportation and mobility,
environmental stewardship, and
inclusion and equity.
Plan by Neighborhood
This Project provides
recommendations for
development and growth in
each city neighborhood. The
Plan highlights the prioritization
of mixed-use development in
the Texa-Tonka area.
Minnetonka Blvd / County
Road 5 Design Plan
This Design Plan evaluated
amenities, streetscaping,
and traffic conditions along
Minnetonka Blvd. The Plan
outlines recommendations to
improve walking and biking
mobility, streetscaping, and
traffic safety.
2040 Comprehensive Plan
The Plan establishes the City’s
goals and guidelines for future
development. It also sets
expectations for neighborhood
redevelopment to become
more attractive for residents,
investors, and business and
property owners.
City Zoning Ordinances
Zoning ordinances guide the way
neighborhoods can redevelop
and invest. Zoning ordinances
define specific types of housing
and commercial uses that
are allowed and dictate how
buildings are built on site.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 15
CHAPTER 2YESTERDAY AND TODAY
1950’S-60’S COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
EXISTING CONDITIONS
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 16
YESTERDAY AND TODAY 1950's commercial development
6│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
1950’s-60’s COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
The Texa-Tonka neighborhood commercial node derives its name from
Texa-Tonka Shopping Center which was built by St. Louis Park resident
Adolph “Bob” Fine. According to information posted to the St. Louis
Park Historical Society’s web site, the first of two sections of the
shopping center opened in 1951 and was expanded to its present size
(approx.. 56,000 SF) in 1959. The wide of variety of shops including
Penny’s Grocery, Ben Franklin 5 and 10 and Our Own Hardware along
with ample free parking made the center a success with shoppers
from Minneapolis to Minnetonka. Additional commercial properties
were built along Minnetonka Boulevard and Texas Avenue through the
1960’s which make up the buildings under consideration of this Small
Area Plan. As was common for the time period, buildings were set
back from the street to allow for surface parking, while loading was
located to the back along a service alley.
Today, Texa-Tonka continues serve an important neighborhood
commercial function offering a variety of goods, services and
entertainment options. Additionally, features such as the Cedar Lake
Regional Trail, Aquila Park, Aquila Elementary School and Minnetonka
Boulevard bike lanes strengthen the area’s accessibility and quality
of life. As a part of this Small Area Plan, a targeted assessment of the
Texa-Tonka area’s social, economic, and physical characteristics was
conducted.
Historic photographs of Texa-Tonka’s commerce. Photos by Emory Anderson
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 17
Figure 3.1. Map showing the Primary Map Area (PMA)
Mr. Bob Kost, AICP July 23, 2019
SEH Inc. Page 3
MAXFIELD RESEARCH AND CONSULTING, LLC
Primary Market Area and Texa‐Tonka Location
Access and Traffic Volumes
According to 2017 data from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the major roadways
in the Texa‐Tonka District (i.e. Minnetonka Boulevard and Texas Avenue) had an average of
14,100 vehicle trips per day (2016) on Minnetonka Boulevard and 8,200 vehicle trips per day
(2013) on Texas Avenue, south of the Boulevard and 4,900 trips per day north (2013). The
much smaller number of trips per day north of the intersection reflect an interrupted street
pattern. We note that it is likely that these counts have increased over time as traffic has
increased and more vehicles are shifting over to less traveled streets during peak travel periods.
Population and Household Growth Trends
Population and household growth trends and projections are analyzed in this section because
these are key indicators of the potential demand for housing and retail space. Data is also
analyzed on household income and household tenure. This information is helpful in assessing
demand for various housing product types and the amount of retail space supportable in the
District. The following are key points from the analysis of demographic indicators for the
Market Area.
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│7
existing conditions YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Future Growth
The Texa-Tonka commercial node has served the surrounding
neighborhood for many years. Past vacancies and general
disinvestment over the past few decades have led to greater interest
in how this node may improve in the future, serving local residents
and others that come to the area for specific reasons. Texa-Tonka’s
current mix of specialty and neighborhood-oriented businesses reflects
the ability of local businesses to maintain a niche in a rapidly changing
retail environment. New ownership of the shopping center with a
long-term focus on retail is anticipated to reduce turnover and support
targeted reinvestment.
For this Small Area Planning effort Maxfield Research was engaged to
provide insights into the current market and growth potential over the
coming decade. As a part of this work a Primary Market Area (PMA)
was established to provide relevant data. The PMA was identified as
an aggregation of census tracts which includes all of St. Louis Park
in addition to portions of the adjacent communities of Minnetonka,
Golden Valley and Hopkins, and includes data evaluated from within
the identified geographic boundaries (Figure 3.1).
Texa-Tonka’s capture rates of projected growth within the PMA were
calculated for four market sectors:
• residential ownership at 5%,
• residential rental at 10%,
• commercial at 3%
• office at 2%
This translates into future market demand over the coming decade for:
• new, additional retail space: 11,000 and 18,000 square feet
• new, additional office space: 7,000 square feet
• new, additional rental apartments: 278 dwelling
• new, additional single family, for sale housing: 93 dwellings
• new, additional multi-family, for sale housing: 173 dwellings
It’s most likely that medium to high-density multifamily, ownership
and rental products would be developed in the node as the area lacks
suitable space for single-family housing. This new housing would
be mixed with other commercial uses to create a more pedestrian-
oriented environment while increasing the potential customer base to
area businesses. Some businesses may decide to upgrade or relocate
and depending on redevelopment opportunities, new businesses may
enter to capture additional demand. (A complete summary of the
market assessment is provided in the Appendix).
In assessing population characteristics and growth potential for
Texa-Tonka the market study looked closely at households within the
PMA. Households represent occupied housing units and household
growth trends are a good indicator of housing demand as households
represent occupied dwelling units. Retail demand is also, to a
degree, predicated on the spending patterns of households versus
individuals. 2030 projections indicate that population and households
will continue to grow in the Primary Market Area and that growth will
occur at an accelerating rate from the previous decade:
• 10.1% growth for households
• 10.4% growth for population
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 18
POPULATION AGE
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
1,854
48,124
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
5-19
years old
15%14%
0-4
years old
7%
5%
85+
years old
4%3%
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
Texa-Tonka has roughly 4% more dependent populations
than the City as a whole
POPULATION AGE
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
1,854
48,124
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
5-19
years old
15%14%
0-4
years old
7%
5%
85+
years old
4%3%
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
Texa-Tonka has roughly 4% more dependent populations
than the City as a whole
Figure 3.3. Texa-Tonka’s age, population, and household income distribution compared to the
City of St. Louis Park. Texa-Tonka information is in dark blue and St. Louis Park information is in
light green
Figure 3.2. Image shows how Census tracts within the Texa-Tonka project area
were used to extrapolate demographic data
Texa-Tonka
St. Louis Park
224
1225
223.02
222
223.01
221.02
TRACTS
Tract 022302
Block Group 1
Tract 022400
Block Group 4
Tract 122500
Block Group 3
BLOCK GROUPS
YESTERDAY AND TODAY existing conditions
8│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
Over the next five years, the number of people age 65 to 74 and 75
to 84 are projected to exhibit the highest increases, growing by 15.1%
and 31.7%, respectively.
Medium and high-density housing development activity in the PMA
has the ability to attract more households in the young to mid-age
years, ages 25 to 44, as well as the age groups 55 to 74, which would
also bolster retail demand.
In addition to growth projections within the PMA, population, age and
household income characteristics were extracted from aggregating
census tracts specifically for the Texa-Tonka project area (Figure
3.2). This information was compared with characteristics for Saint
Louis Park as a whole to provide a snapshot of current project area
demographics (Figure 3.3).
T-T
SLP
HOUSEHOLD INCOME
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
$0-$35K $35-50K $50-75K $75-100K $100K+
27%
22%
12%
13%
16%
17%
14%
15%
31%
33%
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
Texa-Tonka has a higher percentage of low income households (0-$35,000) and lower percentage of
high earners ($100,000+)
HOUSEHOLD INCOME
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
$0-$35K $35-50K $50-75K $75-100K $100K+
27%
22%
12%
13%
16%
17%
14%
15%
31%
33%
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
Texa-Tonka has a higher percentage of low income households (0-$35,000) and lower percentage of
high earners ($100,000+)
HOUSEHOLD INCOME
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
$0-$35K $35-50K $50-75K $75-100K $100K+
27%
22%
12%
13%
16%
17%
14%
15%
31%
33%
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
Texa-Tonka has a higher percentage of low income households (0-$35,000) and lower percentage of
high earners ($100,000+)
T-T SLP
POPULATION AGE
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
1,854
48,124
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
5-19
years old
15%14%
0-4
years old
7%
5%
85+
years old
4%3%
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
Texa-Tonka has roughly 4% more dependent populations
than the City as a whole
HOUSEHOLD INCOME
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
$0-$35K $35-50K $50-75K $75-100K $100K+
27%
22%
12%
13%
16%
17%
14%
15%
31%
33%
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
Texa-Tonka has a higher percentage of low income households (0-$35,000) and lower percentage of
high earners ($100,000+)
POPULATION AGE
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
1,854
48,124
TEXA-TONKA
SLP
5-19
years old
15%14%
0-4
years old
7%
5%
85+
years old
4%3%
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
0 20 40 60 80
Years Old
Texa-Tonka has roughly 4% more dependent populations
than the City as a whole
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 19
WALKING AROUND
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
!
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Texa Tonka
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Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
5 Min Walk
1/4 Mile
10 Min Walk
1/2 Mile
Access to 6
local parks
!
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Cedar
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Victoria
Rainbow
Park
WillowPark
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/FreedomPark
Parkview
Park
KnollwoodGreen
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
EliePark
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/CarlsonField
Louisiana
Oaks
OakHill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
Figure 3.4
WALKING AROUND
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
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ManorPark/Lake
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Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
5 Min Walk
1/4 Mile
10 Min Walk
1/2 Mile
Access to 6
local parks
!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND
32ND
VICTORIA
34TH VI
RGI
NIA
34TH 34TH
MINNEHAHA
26THCEDARLAKE
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ParkviewPark
KnollwoodGreen
AquilaPark
SunsetPark
EliePark
BronxPark
Cedar Knoll/CarlsonField
LouisianaOaks
OakHillPark
OregonPark
!
WALKING AROUND
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
!
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Texa Tonka
Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
5 Min Walk
1/4 Mile
10 Min Walk
1/2 Mile
Access to 6
local parks
!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND
32ND
VICTORI
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34TH VI
RGI
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MINNEHAHA
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WillowPark
AinsworthPark
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ParkviewPark
KnollwoodGreen
AquilaPark
SunsetPark
EliePark
BronxPark
Cedar Knoll/CarlsonField
LouisianaOaks
OakHillPark
OregonPark
!
WALKING AROUND
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND
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28TH
STANLEN
X Y L O N
OAK P A R K V I LL A G E
Cedar
ManorPark/Lake
Texa Tonka
Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
5 Min Walk
1/4 Mile
10 Min Walk
1/2 Mile
Access to 6
local parks
!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND
32ND
VICTORI
A
34TH VI
RGI
NI
A
34TH 34TH
MINNEHAHA
26THCEDARLAKE
BOONECAVEL L
IDAHOBOONEVIRGINIAGORHAMVICTOR
IA
BOONE33RD
32ND
31ST
HI
LL
SBOROMINNETONKA
OAKLEAF
29TH
B O ONE28TH
27THZINRAN
1STCOBBLECRESTFLAGLOUISIANALIBR
A
R
YVIRGINIAFLAG 33RD
31ST
32ND
31ST
34TH
RH O DE
ISL AND
33RD
SUNSETRIDGEENSIGNYUKON30 1/2
VI
R
G
I
N
I
A
BOONE31STENSIGN
ZINRANSUMTERVIRGINIAXYLONRHODEISLANDQUEBECQ UEBE C
VIRGINIAGETTYSBURGUTAH34 1/2 KENTUCKYA Q UILABOONE
31ST QUEBECCAV
ELL NEVADAOREGONJERSEYPENNSYLVANIAMARYLANDIDAHOQUEBECHAMPSHIRESUMTER
TEXASGEORGIAQUEBECLOUISIANA
XYLONAQ
UILA
WYOMINGUTAHVIRGINIA28TH
DECATURWYOMINGFLAG25TH
YU KO NGETTYSBURGDEC ATURTEXATONKA
A Q U IL A SUMTERCAVELLVICTORIA
29TH
C
A
V
E
L
L
BURD
25TH
VICTORIA
BNSF
CORRID
O
R
BOONE
28TH
STANLEN
X YL O N
OA K P A RKVILLAGE
CedarManorPark/Lake
Texa TonkaPark/LakeVictoria
RainbowPark
WillowPark
AinsworthPark
Paul FrankField/FreedomPark
ParkviewPark
KnollwoodGreen
AquilaPark
SunsetPark
EliePark
BronxPark
Cedar Knoll/CarlsonField
LouisianaOaks
OakHillPark
OregonPark
!
N
Shoppes at
Knollwood located
1/4 mile south
WALKING AROUND
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│9
existing conditions YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Movement and Parking
The project area is well served by a network of streets, sidewalks, and
trails.
A walkshed map (Figure 3.4) illustrates the variety of parks accessible
within a 5 and 10 minute walk. Additionally, the Shoppes at
Knollwood regional shopping mall, which includes a large Cub Foods
grocery store, are less than 20 minute walk or 10 minute bike trip
from the Texa-Tonka neighborhood commercial node.
Photo of resident running on Minnetonka Boulevard
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 20
STEEP SLOPE
DESIRED PEDESTRIAN
MOVEMENT
MISSING SIDEWALK
EXISTING SIDEWALK
BUSY ROADWAY
CURB CUT / DRIVE WAY
WALLS / FENCE
EXISTING CROSSWALK
FUTURE CROSSWALK
OVERHEAD UTILILITY POLE
PEDESTRIAN CONNECTIVITY + BARRIERS
STEEP SLOPES
+ FENCEFENCEASPHALT
EMBANKMENT
DESIRED
PEDESTRIAN
MOVEMENT
GAP - MISSING
SIDEWALK
PATCH WORK
OF PEDESTRIAN
PAVEMENT IN POOR
CONDITION
DESIRED
ACCESS
OVERHEAD POWER/
COMMUNICATION
UTILITIES
BITUMINOUS
PATH
ADJACENT
TO
ROADWAY
LARGE, UNUSED,
PRIVATE HARD
SPACE
N
STEEP SLOPE
DESIRED PEDESTRIAN
MOVEMENT
MISSING SIDEWALK
EXISTING SIDEWALK
BUSY ROADWAY
CURB CUT / DRIVE WAY
WALLS / FENCE
EXISTING CROSSWALK
FUTURE CROSSWALK
OVERHEAD UTILILITY POLE
PEDESTRIAN CONNECTIVITY + BARRIERS
STEEP SLOPES
+ FENCEFENCEASPHALT
EMBANKMENT
DESIRED
PEDESTRIAN
MOVEMENT
GAP - MISSING
SIDEWALK
PATCH WORK
OF PEDESTRIAN
PAVEMENT IN POOR
CONDITION
DESIRED
ACCESS
OVERHEAD POWER/
COMMUNICATION
UTILITIES
BITUMINOUS
PATH
ADJACENT
TO
ROADWAY
LARGE, UNUSED,
PRIVATE HARD
SPACE
N
STEEP SLOPE
DESIRED PEDESTRIAN
MOVEMENT
MISSING SIDEWALK
EXISTING SIDEWALK
BUSY ROADWAY
CURB CUT / DRIVE WAY
WALLS / FENCE
EXISTING CROSSWALK
FUTURE CROSSWALK
OVERHEAD UTILILITY POLE
PEDESTRIAN CONNECTIVITY + BARRIERS
STEEP SLOPES
+ FENCEFENCEASPHALT
EMBANKMENT
DESIRED
PEDESTRIAN
MOVEMENT
GAP - MISSING
SIDEWALK
PATCH WORK
OF PEDESTRIAN
PAVEMENT IN POOR
CONDITION
DESIRED
ACCESS
OVERHEAD POWER/
COMMUNICATION
UTILITIES
BITUMINOUS
PATH
ADJACENT
TO
ROADWAY
LARGE, UNUSED,
PRIVATE HARD
SPACE
N
Figure 3.5
NNorth Cedar Lake Regional Trail2015 Aerial Imagery by Hennepin County
Minnetonka Blvd Minnetonka Blvd Texas AveTexas AveUtah AveXylon AveWyoming AveVirginia AveYESTERDAY AND TODAY existing conditions
10│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
While the City continues to fill gaps in the sidewalk system along
local streets in the project area, the east side of Xylon Avenue South
remains unserved. Walkabilty and connectivity within the project
area (Figure 3.5) is compromised due to the prevalence of driveways,
surface parking lots, limited crosswalks, lack of amenities and
embankments / steep slopes.
Photo of asphalt walkway along Minnetonka Blvd that needs
maintenance and updating to be more welcoming
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 21
Figure 3.7
Figure 3.6
OPPORTUNITIES
1.
Long crossing distances create
stressful environments for
pedestrians and increase risk
of accidents
2.
Unmarked crossing areas
reduce awareness of
pedestrians for drivers
ISSUES - Challenging Pedestrian Crossing Environment
1 2
OPPORTUNITIES
Overhead utility lines and
poles are visually unapealing
and restrict tree planting
Bituminous walkway is
unattractive, looks like roadway,
is hot in summer. The coarse
texture and uneven surface is
difficult for seniors and people
with disabilities
1.
2.
3.
Open, unscreened parking
lots are unattractive and
detract from district
character and experience
4.
Lack of plantings creates a
harsh environment, contributes
to rain water runoff and
detracts from urban character
and experience
ISSUES - Utilitarian Public Realm and Off-Street Parking
1
2
3
4
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│11
existing conditions YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Existing sidewalks within Texa-Tonka provide basic services but lack pedestrian amenities such as
benches or street trees. Many of the areas’ sidewalks interface with private parking lots many of
which lack landscaping as currently required for new commercial facilities. (Figures 3.6 and 3.7)
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 22
Future Green Line Extension
Approx. 1.75 miles to
Louisiana Ave & Blake
Rd Stations
Existing access to
Louisiana Station via
on-street bike lanes
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
PUBLIC TRANSIT
!
!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!
!!!!
!
!
!!!!!!
!
!
!!
!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND32ND
VICTORI
A
34TH VIRGI
NI
A34TH 34TH
MINNEHAHA
26THCEDARLAKE
BOONECAVE L L
ID
A
H
OBOONEVIRGINIAGORHAMVICTOR
IA
BOONE33RD
32NDHILLSBOR
O31ST
MINNETONKA
O A K
L E AF
29TH
B O ONE28TH
27THZINRAN
1STCOBBLECRESTFLAGLOUISIANAL IBR
A
R
Y
VIRGINIAFLAG
33RD
31ST
32ND
31ST
34TH RH O D E
ISLA N D
33RD
SUNSETRIDGEENSIGNYUKON30 1/2
VI
R
G
I
N
I
A
BOONE31STENSIGN
ZINRANSUMTERVIRGINIAXYLONRHODEISLANDQUEBECQ U E B E C
VIRGINIAGETTYSBURGUTAH34 1/2 KENTUCKYA Q UILABOONE
31ST QUEBECCA
V
ELL NEVADAOREGONJERSEYPENNSYLVANIAMARYLANDIDAHOQUEBECHAMPSHIRESUMTER
TEXASGEORGIAQUEBECLOUISIANA
XYLONAQUILA
WYOMINGUTAHVIRGINIA28TH
DECATURWYOMINGFLAG25TH
Y U KONGETTYSBURGDECATURT EX A
TON K A
A Q U ILA SUMTERCAVELLVICTORI
A
29TH
C
A
V
E
L
L
BUR D
2 5 T H
VICTORIA
BNSF
CORRI
D
O
R
BOONE
28TH
STANLEN
X Y L O N
OAK P A R K V I L L A G E
Cedar
Manor
Park/Lake
Texa Tonka
Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
Future Green Line
Future Green Line Stations
Off-street Bikeway
On-street Bikeway
Louisiana Ave
Blake Rd
Texa-Tonka
Future Green Line Extension Approx. 1.75 miles to Louisiana Ave & Blake Rd Stations
Existing access to
Louisiana Station via
on-street bike lanes
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
PUBLIC TRANSIT
!
!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!
!!!!
!
!
!!!!!!
!
!
!!
!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND32ND
VICTORI
A
34TH VI
RGI
NI
A34TH 34TH
MINNEHAHA
26THCEDARLAKE
BOONECAV E L L
ID
A
H
OBOONEVIRGINIAGORHAMVICTOR
IA
BOONE33RD
32NDHILLSBOR
O31ST
MINNETONKA
O A K
L E A F
29TH
B O ONE28TH
27THZINRAN
1STCOBBLECRESTFLAGLOUISIANAL IBR
A
R
Y
VIRGINIAFLAG
33RD
31ST
32ND
31ST
34TH RH O DE
ISLA N D
33RD
SUNSETRIDGEENSIGNYUKON30 1/2
VI
R
G
I
N
I
A
BOONE31STENSIGN
ZINRANSUMTERVIRGINIAXYLONRHODEISLANDQUEBECQ U E B E C
VIRGINIAGETTYSBURGUTAH34 1/2 KENTUCKYA Q UILABOONE
31ST QUEBECCA
V
ELL NEVADAOREGONJERSEYPENNSYLVANIAMARYLANDIDAHOQUEBECHAMPSHIRESUMTER
TEXASGEORGIAQUEBECLOUISIANA
XYLONAQUIL A
WYOMINGUTAHVIRGINIA28TH
DECATURWYOMINGFLAG25TH
Y U KONGETTYSBURGDECATURT EX A
TON K A
A Q U ILA SUMTERCAVELLVICTORI
A
29THCA
V
E
L
L
BUR D
2 5 T H
VICTORIA
BNSF
CORRI
D
O
R
BOONE
28TH
STANLEN
X Y L O N
OA K P A R K V I L L A G E
Cedar
Manor
Park/Lake
Texa Tonka
Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
Future Green Line
Future Green Line Stations
Off-street Bikeway
On-street Bikeway
Louisiana Ave
Blake Rd
Texa-Tonka
Future Green Line Extension
Approx. 1.75 miles to
Louisiana Ave & Blake
Rd Stations
Existing access to
Louisiana Station via
on-street bike lanes
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
PUBLIC TRANSIT
!
!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!
!!!!
!
!
!!!!!!
!
!
!!
!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND32ND
VICTORI
A
34TH VI
RGI
NI
A34TH 34TH
MINNEHAHA
26THCEDARLAKE
BOONECAV E L L
ID
A
H
OBOONEVIRGINIAGORHAMVICTOR
IA
BOONE33RD
32NDHILLSBOR
O31ST
MINNETONKA
O A K
L E A F
29TH
B O ONE28TH
27THZINRAN
1STCOBBLECRESTFLAGLOUISIANAL IBR
AR
Y
VIRGINIAFLAG
33RD
31ST
32ND
31ST
34TH RH O DE
ISLA N D
33RD
SUNSETRIDGEENSIGNYUKON30 1/2
VI
R
G
I
N
I
A
BOONE31STENSIGN
ZINRANSUMTERVIRGINIAXYLONRHODEISLANDQUEBECQ U E B E C
VIRGINIAGETTYSBURGUTAH34 1/2 KENTUCKYA Q UILABOONE
31ST QUEBECCA
V
ELL NEVADAOREGONJERSEYPENNSYLVANIAMARYLANDIDAHOQUEBECHAMPSHIRESUMTER
TEXASGEORGIAQUEBECLOUISIANA
XYLONAQUIL A
WYOMINGUTAHVIRGINIA28TH
DECATURWYOMINGFLAG25TH
Y U KONGETTYSBURGDECATURT EX A
TON K A
A Q U ILA SUMTERCAVELLVICTORI
A
29THCA
V
E
L
L
BUR D
2 5 T H
VICTORIA
BNSF
CORRI
D
O
R
BOONE
28TH
STANLEN
X Y L O N
OA K P A R K V I L L A G E
Cedar
Manor
Park/Lake
Texa Tonka
Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
Future Green Line
Future Green Line Stations
Off-street Bikeway
On-street Bikeway
Louisiana Ave
Blake Rd
Texa-Tonka
Figure 3.8 Figure 3.9.
Photo of transit stop along Minnetonka Boulevard
Express Route 667
Serving Minnetonka,
Saint Louis Park and
Minneapolis
Eastbound service in the
AM and Westbound
service in the PM
15 min Frequency
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
PUBLIC TRANSIT
!
!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!
!!!!
!
!
!!!!!!
!
!
!!
!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND32ND
VICTORI
A
34TH VIRGI
NI
A34TH 34TH
MINNEHAHA
26THCEDARLAKE
BOONECAVE L L
ID
A
H
OBOONEVIRGINIAGORHAMVICTOR
IA
BOONE33RD
32NDHILLSBOR
O31ST
MINNETONKA
O A K
L E AF
29TH
B O ONE28TH
27THZINRAN
1STCOBBLECRESTFLAGLOUISIANAL IBR
A
R
Y
VIRGINIAFLAG
33RD
31ST
32ND
31ST
34TH RH O D E
ISLA N D
SUNSETRIDGEENSIGNYUKON30 1/2
VI
R
G
I
N
I
A
BOONE31STENSIGN
ZINRANSUMTERVIRGINIAXYLONRHODEISLANDQUEBECQ U E B E C
VIRGINIAGETTYSBURGUTAH34 1/2 KENTUCKYA Q UILABOONE
31ST QUEBECCA
V
ELL NEVADAOREGONJERSEYPENNSYLVANIAMARYLANDIDAHOQUEBECHAMPSHIRESUMTER
TEXASGEORGIAQUEBECLOUISIANA
XYLONAQUIL A
WYOMINGUTAHVIRGINIA28TH
DECATURWYOMINGFLAG25TH
Y U KONGETTYSBURGDECATURT EX A
TO N K A
A Q U ILA SUMTERCAVELLVICTORI
A
29THCA
V
E
L
L
BUR D
2 5 T H
VICTORIA
BNSF
CORRI
D
O
R
BOONE
28TH
STANLEN
X Y L O N
OA K P A R K V I L L A G E
Cedar
Manor
Park/Lake
Texa Tonka
Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!!!!!!!
!!
5 Min Walk Boundary
Fixed Transit Routes
Fixed Transit Stops
Express Route 667
Serving Minnetonka,
Saint Louis Park and
Minneapolis
Eastbound service in the
AM and Westbound
service in the PM
15 min Frequency
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
PUBLIC TRANSIT
!
!!!!!!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!!
!!
!
!!
!!
!
!!!!
!
!
!!!!!!
!
!
!!
!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!
!
!
!!
!!
!!
32 1/2
AQUILA32ND2ND32ND
VICTORI
A
34TH VI
RGI
NI
A34TH 34TH
MINNEHAHA
26THCEDARLAKE
BOONECAVE L L
ID
A
H
OBOONEVIRGINIAGORHAMVICTOR
IA
BOONE33RD
32NDHILLSBOR
O31ST
MINNETONKA
O AK
L E A F
29TH
B O ONE28TH
27THZINRAN
1STCOBBLECRESTFLAGLOUISIANAL IBR
A
R
Y
VIRGINIAFLAG
33RD
31ST
32ND
31ST
34TH RH O DE
ISLA N D
SUNSETRIDGEENSIGNYUKON30 1/2
VI
R
G
I
N
I
A
BOONE31STENSIGN
ZINRANSUMTERVIRGINIAXYLONRHODEISLANDQUEBECQ U E B E C
VIRGINIAGETTYSBURGUTAH34 1/2 KENTUCKYA Q UILABOONE
31ST QUEBECCA
V
ELL NEVADAOREGONJERSEYPENNSYLVANIAMARYLANDIDAHOQUEBECHAMPSHIRESUMTER
TEXASGEORGIAQUEBECLOUISIANA
XYLONAQUIL A
WYOMINGUTAHVIRGINIA28TH
DECATURWYOMINGFLAG25TH
Y U KONGETTYSBURGDECATURT EX A
TON K A
A Q U ILA SUMTERCAVELLVICTORI
A
29TH
C
A
V
E
L
L
BU R D
2 5 T H
VICTORIA
BNSF
CORRI
D
O
R
BOONE
28TH
STANLEN
X Y L O N
OAK P A R K V I L L A G E
Cedar
Manor
Park/Lake
Texa Tonka
Park/Lake
Victoria
Rainbow
Park
Willow
Park
Ainsworth
Park
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Parkview
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
Cedar Knoll/Carlson
Field
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
!!!!!!!
!!
5 Min Walk Boundary
Fixed Transit Routes
Fixed Transit Stops
Route
667
Route
667
Route
667
Route
17
Route
17
North Cedar Lake Regional TrailBIKES + LRT PUBLIC TRANSIT
North Ced
a
r
L
a
k
e
R
e
gi
o
nal Trail
YESTERDAY AND TODAY existing conditions
12│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
Striped bike lanes are provided through the project area along Minnetonka Boulevard and Texas Avenue.
The North Cedar Lake Regional Trail provides recreational and commuter biking facilities with connections to
Minneapolis and to the north east and connections to multiple regional trails to the south west (Figure 3.8).
According to 2017 data from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the major roadways in the Texa-Tonka
District (i.e. Minnetonka Boulevard and Texas Avenue) had an average of 14,100 vehicle trips per day (2016)
on Minnetonka Boulevard and 8,200 vehicle trips per day (2013) on Texas Avenue, south of the Boulevard and
4,900 trips per day north (2013). The much smaller number of trips per day north of the intersection reflect an
interrupted street pattern.
Current transit service is provided by Express Route 667 and Route 17. The area will be within 2 miles of the Green
Line LRT’s new Louisiana Avenue and Blake Road stations by around 2023 (Figure 3.9).
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 23
Bike volumes are generally low, but most of the bikes use the
roadway shoulder rather than the sidewalk
Pedestrian volumes are also generally low
It was observed that pedestrians cross Minnetonka Blvd
all along the project corridor, not necessarily at marked
crosswalk locations
Between 2013 and 2015 there were two pedestrian crashes in
the project area, both at the intersection of Minnetonka Blvd/
Texas Ave
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
AM Turning Volumes
PM Turning Volumes
PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
BlvdMinnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Texas Ave29th St
Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave0
0
3
1
4
1
5
10
1
21
1
10
2
222 4333
3
3
Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
3
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\AM Peak Hour Pedestrian & Bike Volumes.mxdExisting - AM Pedestrian & Bike Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Pedestrian Crossing Volume
Bike Volume
3
3
Note: No Bikes were observed using
the marked crosswalks
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka BlvdMinnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Texas Ave29th St Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave1
0
0
1
0
6
1
33
2
90
6
50
1
03 0
1
1
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
211
Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
3
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\PM Peak Hour Pedestrian & Bike Volumes.mxdExisting - PM Pedestrian & Bike Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Pedestrian Crossing Volume
Bike Volume
3
3
Note: No Bikes were observed using
the marked crosswalks
Bike volumes are generally low, but most of the bikes use the
roadway shoulder rather than the sidewalk
Pedestrian volumes are also generally low
It was observed that pedestrians cross Minnetonka Blvd
all along the project corridor, not necessarily at marked
crosswalk locations
Between 2013 and 2015 there were two pedestrian crashes in
the project area, both at the intersection of Minnetonka Blvd/
Texas Ave
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
AM Turning Volumes
PM Turning Volumes
PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka BlvdMinnetonka BlvdMinnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Texas Ave29th St Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave0
0
3
1
4
1
5
10
1
21
1
10
2
222 4333
3
3
Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
3
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\AM Peak Hour Pedestrian & Bike Volumes.mxdExisting - AM Pedestrian & Bike Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Pedestrian Crossing Volume
Bike Volume
3
3
Note: No Bikes were observed using the marked crosswalks
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka BlvdMinnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Texas Ave29th St Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave1
0
0
1
0
6
1
33
2
90
6
50
1
03 0
1
1
2
2
1
2
1
2
1
211
Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
3
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\PM Peak Hour Pedestrian & Bike Volumes.mxdExisting - PM Pedestrian & Bike Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Pedestrian Crossing Volume
Bike Volume
3
3
Note: No Bikes were observed using
the marked crosswalks
Figure 3.10
Everything is operating very well today with LOS of A or B.
Some movements are at LOS C, but there seems to be plenty
of capacity for added trips.
During peak times, taking a left turn onto Minnetonka Blvd
may have higher delays, but these delays are still reasonable
(LOS C)
Between 2013 and 2015 (most recent crash data easily
available) there were 14 crashes at the intersection of
Minnetonka Blvd/Texas Ave. However, the crash rate is only
about half of the critical rate, so there is no sustained crash
issue at this intersection
Of the 14 crashes, 5 were rear end crashes and 3 were left
turn crashes
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
AM Turning Volumes
PM Turning Volumes
VEHICLE TRAFFIC
28
366484943326
284773626050435
21
4661
11421474
1
46134421
43
44119
503414464
1
445173 161512313
11
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
BlvdMinnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Texas Ave29th St
Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon AveProject: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
1
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\AM Peak Hour Turning Movements.mxdExisting - AM Turning Movement Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Existing Geometry
Unofficial Right Turn Lane
4
601
64972444950
557
45
314825102831459
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka BlvdMinnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Texas Ave29th St Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave814229377
48541
40139127871165748663
563
24
104023582
11485185
Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
2
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\PM Peak Hour Turning Movements.mxdExisting - PM Turning Movement Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Existing Geometry
Unofficial Right Turn Lane
Everything is operating very well today with LOS of A or B.
Some movements are at LOS C, but there seems to be plenty
of capacity for added trips.
During peak times, taking a left turn onto Minnetonka Blvd
may have higher delays, but these delays are still reasonable
(LOS C)
Between 2013 and 2015 (most recent crash data easily
available) there were 14 crashes at the intersection of
Minnetonka Blvd/Texas Ave. However, the crash rate is only
about half of the critical rate, so there is no sustained crash
issue at this intersection
Of the 14 crashes, 5 were rear end crashes and 3 were left
turn crashes
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
AM Turning Volumes
PM Turning Volumes
VEHICLE TRAFFIC
28366484943326
28477362605043521
4661
11421474
14613442143
44119
503414464
1445173 16151231311
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka BlvdMinnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Texas Ave29th St Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon AveProject: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
1
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\AM Peak Hour Turning Movements.mxdExisting - AM Turning Movement Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Existing Geometry
Unofficial Right Turn Lane
4601
64972444950
55745
314825102831459
Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka BlvdMinnetonka BlvdMinnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka Blvd
Texas Ave29th St Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave81422937748541
40139127871165748663
56324
104023582
11485185
Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: jdanibas
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
2
Print Date: 6/4/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\GIS\PM Peak Hour Turning Movements.mxdExisting - PM Turning Movement Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
Existing Geometry
Unofficial Right Turn Lane
Figure 3.11
PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC VEHICLE TRAFFIC
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│13
existing conditions YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Existing traffic activity for walkers, bikers and motorists was collected
in May 2019 and reviewed to establish a baseline for comparing
growth and redevelopment (Figures 3.10 and 3.11).
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 24
920910930
920930
9
3
0
910910910
910 Viriginia Avenue South Texa Tonka AvenueAquila Avenue SouthMinnetonka Boulevard Minnetonka Boulevard
29th Street West
Sumter Avenue South31st Street WestTexas Avenue SouthSumter Avenue SouthTexas Avenue SouthTexas Avenue SouthUtah Avenue SouthVirginia Avenue SouthXylon Avenue South30 1/2 Street West
128
17625 18
21 8
10
63
74
13
13
6
1,300 sf 5,340sf
20,000sf
56,000sf
4,400sf
4,100sf
21,000sf4,700sf
1,750sf
6,300sf
TEXA TONKA
Small Area Plan
0 ft. 60 ft. 120 ft.
#
#Existing number of
parking spaces
LEGEND
Parking lot
boundary
There are a total of 551 off-street
parking spaces within area
reviewed
Building footprint
square footage920910 930
920930
9
3
0
910910910
910 Viriginia Avenue South Texa Tonka AvenueAquila Avenue SouthMinnetonka Boulevard Minnetonka Boulevard
29th Street West
Sumter Avenue South31st Street WestTexas Avenue SouthSumter Avenue SouthTexas Avenue SouthTexas Avenue SouthUtah Avenue SouthVirginia Avenue SouthXylon Avenue South30 1/2 Street West
128
17625 18
21 8
10
63
74
13
13
6
1,300 sf 5,340sf
20,000sf
56,000sf
4,400sf
4,100sf
21,000sf4,700sf
1,750sf
6,300sf
TEXA TONKA
Small Area Plan
0 ft. 60 ft. 120 ft.
#
#Existing number of
parking spaces
LEGEND
Parking lot
boundary
There are a total of 551 off-street
parking spaces within area
reviewed
Building footprint
square footage
Figure 3.12. Map highlights off-street parking lot capacities and commercial building
square footage along Minnetonka Boulevard and Texas Avenue
Photo of commercial parking lot that is shared by multiple
businesses in the Texa-Tonka area
YESTERDAY AND TODAY existing conditions
14│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
There are numerous parking facilities located throughout the Texa-Tonka
neighborhood commercial node as illustrated in Figure 3.12. The project
area currently provides parking for 523 vehicles in 9 surface lots. With an
approximate total building area of 123,000 square feet, the parking ratio for
the project area is approximately 4.3 spaces per 1,000 square feet.
Discussions with business owners and community members indicated there
is an adequate supply of parking within Texa-Tonka with the occasional
exception of parcel 13 which includes the popular restaurant Wok in the
Park. This parking lot includes 42 spaces that are shared between four
businesses. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and serves sit-down
and carry-out patrons which results in significant parking activity by vehicles
as well as pedestrians. Utah Avenue provides some relief parking during
times of high demand.
Vehicular access is prohibited to the 63 space parking lot located along
the east side of Texas Avenue, north of Minnetonka Boulevard (parcels 6
and 7) and the lot has been in disuse for several decades. There is strong
community support for redeveloping these parcels within the parameters of
current residential and commercial zoning.
Observations and business owners, and community member discussions
indicate that parking resources are informally shared between businesses
without significant inconvenience or incident and that additional parking
is currently not required. Additionally, there has been strong community
interest expressed for improving Texa-Tonka’s walking and biking
infrastructure as a means to promote healthy living and reduce auto
dependence.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 25
Saint Louis Park, Minnesota
Texa Tonka Small Area Plan July 22 2019
Zoning Study
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Existing Parcels Figure 3.13. Map displays property parcels numbered for the purpose of this project
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│15
existing conditions YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Land Use and Zoning
Existing land uses established in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code include
Commercial, Mixed-Use and Low-Density Residential. The most prevalent land use in the project
area is surface parking.
For purposes of this Small Area Plan properties within the project area were numbered 1-15
(Figure 3.13). Zoning designations for the fifteen parcels include thirteen parcels as C-2 General
Commercial, 1 parcel (shopping center) as MX Mixed-Use and one parcel (parking lot) as R-3 Two-
Family Residence (Figure 3.14).
C-2 MX R-3
Allowable Uses Retail less than 20,000
SF, office, service
Commercial on ground
level, residential above
Single family and twin
homes
Conditional Uses Residential on upper
levels
Liquor store,
entertainment, others 4-plex and row house
Maximum Floor
Area Ratio 2.0 1.5 .25
Maximum Building
Height 6 levels / 75 ft. max 60 ft. or 30 ft. when
adjacent to residential 3 levels / 35 ft. max
Housing Density 50 units/acre
50 units/acre (up to 75
units/acre by providing
extra features
11 units/acre
General Parking
Requirements 4 spaces / 1,000 SF 4 spaces / 1,000 SF 1 space / bedroom
Zoning Comparison at a Glance
A more detailed review of the impact of current zoning regulations on parcel
redevelopment potential is provided in the appendix.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 26
32 1/2
1
6
9
VI
CT
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I
A
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O A K PA R K
V I LL A G E
CedarManorPark/Lake
Aquila Elementary School
RainbowPark
Texa-Tonka Park
WillowPark
Ainsworth
Park
Walker
Field
Paul Frank
Field/Freedom
Park
Knollwood
Green
Aquila
Park
Sunset
Park
Elie
Park
Bronx
Park
CedarKnoll/CarlsonField
Louisiana
Oaks
Oak
Hill
Park
Oregon
Park
HurdPark
N Cedar Lake Regional TrailFigure 3.14. Map shows existing zones and planned changes to
zoning within the project area
ZONING
Parks and Open Space
R-4 Multiple-Family Residence
R-2 Single Family Residence
R-C High-Density Multiple-Family Residence
R-3 Two-Family Residence
M-X Mixed Use
C-2 General Commercial
N
YESTERDAY AND TODAY existing conditions
16│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 27
Figure 3.17
1955
1955
1963
MODERN BUILDINGS
Mid 50’s to 60’ In Texa Tonka Expressive Modern Simple TexaTonka Modern
Functionality; form follows function
Uncluttered and sleek lines
Both organic and geometric forms
Minimal ornamentation
An exploration of materials
Clear and celebrated entry sequence
Designed spaces between building
and street
Juxtaposition of different, and
sometimes contrasting materials
Unique materiality
1955
1955
1963
MODERN BUILDINGS
Mid 50’s to 60’ In Texa Tonka Expressive Modern Simple TexaTonka Modern
Functionality; form follows function
Uncluttered and sleek lines
Both organic and geometric forms
Minimal ornamentation
An exploration of materials
Clear and celebrated entry sequence
Designed spaces between building
and street
Juxtaposition of different, and
sometimes contrasting materials
Unique materiality
Figure 3.18Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
QUALITIES OF GOOD TOWN / URBAN BUILDINGS
text
text
Durable lasting materials
High ground floor transparency
Framed openings
Tall ground floors
Personalization
Protection from weather & glare
Not too long
Space for socializing
1955
1955
1963
MODERN BUILDINGS
Mid 50’s to 60’ In Texa Tonka Expressive Modern Simple TexaTonka Modern
Functionality; form follows function
Uncluttered and sleek lines
Both organic and geometric forms
Minimal ornamentation
An exploration of materials
Clear and celebrated entry sequence
Designed spaces between building
and street
Juxtaposition of different, and
sometimes contrasting materials
Unique materiality
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│17
existing conditions YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Buildings and Urban Design
As an area that was developed between the mid 1950’s and mid 1960’s Texa-Tonka has several buildings that
embody a modern aesthetic and approach to design – which in recent years has been redefined as timeless.
While not high-style or overly expressive, many of the buildings are simple, unadorned, modern buildings
that express honesty and function. The massing tends to be simple rectilinear forms, not highly articulated
shapes. The materials tend to be human scaled and commonly used commercial components such as masonry,
metal and glass, not wood or custom fabricated. The proportions tend to be horizontal, not vertical. Roofs
are predominantly flat and entries are often protected by horizontally projecting canopies and located within
horizontal runs of display windows. (Figures 3.17 and 3.18)
MODERN BUILDINGS QUALITIES OF GOOD TOWN / URBAN BUILDINGS
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 28
18│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
This page is intentionally left blank.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 29
CHAPTER 3EXPLORING AND ESTABLISHING THE VISION
ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES AND KEY THEMES
VISION STATEMENT
PLANNING PRINCIPLES
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 30
Workshop participants discussing visions for the Texa-Tonka area
Workshop participants identifying areas for
activation and greening
EXPLORING AND ESTABLISHING THE VISION engagement activities and key themes
20│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
Children participating at a pop-up workshop hosted at
apartment buildings within the project area
ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES AND KEY THEMES
Development of this Small Area Plan was built upon an inclusive,
interactive program of community engagement including:
• A Project Web Page
• 4 Project Advisory Committee Meetings with 11 members
• Project Area Walking Tour with Project Committee and Elected
Official
• 3 Targeted Interviews of business, property owners and elected
official
• 2 Community-wide Online Surveys with over 2,800 participants
• 2 Interactive Community Workshops with over 70 participants
• 2 Pop-Up Meetings with over 50 participants
• 1 Community Open House with online review opportunities
ENGAGING THE PUBLIC
5
In-person events allowed
the public to share their
experiences and ideas for
improving the Texa-Tonka area
3
Project Advisory Committee
Meetings were hosted to help
guide the Small Area Plan
process
OVER2,800
Online survey participants
provided their ideas on future
development
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 31
8. What would you like to see more of in the Texa-Tonka area?PercentVariety of restaurantsEntertainmentJobsGreening (trees, plantings, landscaping)Public gathering spaces/plazasHousing optionsIncreased shopping optionsService businessesGrocery optionsEnhanced bike facilities and bike parkingPublic artEvents / festivalsOther:0
100
25
50
75
53
11. Do you support the ideas pictured here? (Option 2 for Parcel 7)
58% Yes58% Yes
33% No33% No
9% If no, please tell us why?9% If no, please tell us why?
11. Do you support the ideas pictured here? (Option 2 for Parcel 7)
58% Yes58% Yes
33% No33% No
9% If no, please tell us why?9% If no, please tell us why?
11. Do you support the ideas pictured here? (Option 2 for Parcel 7)
58% Yes58% Yes
33% No33% No
9% If no, please tell us why?9% If no, please tell us why?
11. Do you support the ideas pictured here? (Option 2 for Parcel 7)
58% Yes58% Yes
33% No33% No
9% If no, please tell us why?9% If no, please tell us why?
11. Do you support the ideas pictured here? (Option 2 for Parcel 7)
58% Yes58% Yes
33% No33% No
9% If no, please tell us why?9% If no, please tell us why?
Figure 3.1. Screenshot showing summary of online survey #2
question regarding residential housing development
Figure 3.2. Screenshot showing summary of online survey #1 question to
identify amenities the public would like to see more in the Texa-Tonka area
Table 3.1
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│21
engagement activities and key themes EXPLORING AND ESTABLISHING THE VISION
Engagement activities provided key information to community
members and project planners during the planning process and
helped establish project goals, vision, guiding principles, identify
issues and opportunities, and guide recommendations.
Additionally, city staff helped guide the plan-making process and
provide insights and information on city governance procedures,
development and growth policies, and zoning regulations.
Input expressed by community members during engagement activities
was categorized into 4 key themes: existing buildings and parking areas,
new buildings and parking areas, variety of uses, sidewalks and streets
(Table 3.1).
Theme Summary
Existing
Buildings and
Parking Areas
Numerous vacancies - empty spaces
Run down, poor appearance
Out of date and unattractive signs
Lack of landscaping
Poor condition of plantings, fences, planter walls, etc.
Outdated, inefficient lighting
New Building
and Parking
Areas
Preference for 1-3 stories
Preference for multiple, smaller buildings
Acceptance for parking in multiple locations: back, side and limited amount in front
Balance parking requirements and development intensity - avoid over parking
Desire eco-friendly, well maintained site and parking lot landscaping
Appreciation and preference for mid-century modern architectural style
Variety of Uses
Preference for locally-owned, operated businesses
Additional cafes, restaurants, coffee shop
Neighborhood-scale grocery / market
Community gardens - local food growing and market
Services: barber shop, nail salon, pet grooming, day care
Moderate interest in mixed use and residential
Sidewalks,
Streets, +
Gathering
Minnetonka Blvd. acts as a barrier for walkers
Minnetonka Blvd crosswalks should be improved / enhanced
Need sidewalk improvements: fill gaps, widen, replace
Desire for streetscape enhancement: trees, furnishings and lighting
Key Themes from Engagement
P
P
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 32
EXPLORING AND ESTABLISHING THE VISION vision statement
22│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
VISION STATEMENT
Texa-Tonka’s vision statement was developed through an interactive
exercise during the second community workshop. Together with the
guiding principles, the vision statement is intended to serve residents,
property and business owners, and City staff and elected officials in
evaluating the applicability of future revitalization and enhancement
proposals.
VISION
The Texa-Tonka commercial node
is a vibrant, welcoming place that
offers a mix of small, local, useful
shops, restaurants, services and
housing options. Its attractive
places and spaces are connected
by a safe, accessible network of
landscaped streets, sidewalks and
plazas where people of all ages and
abilities can meet their daily needs
by foot, bicycle, transit and auto.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 33
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│23
planning principles EXPLORING AND ESTABLISHING THE VISION
Input and guidance from the local community and City staff helped craft guiding
principles that will help shape future revitalization and redevelopment of the Texa-
Tonka neighborhood commercial node.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 34
24│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
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City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 35
CHAPTER 4DESCRIBING THE VISION
PLANNING FRAMEWORK APPROACH
REDEVELOPMENT OPTIONS
DESIGN GUIDELINES
GREENING AND GATHERING
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 36
DESCRIBING THE VISION planning framework approach
26│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
DESCRIBING THE VISION
The overall framework for the Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan is built
upon the recognition that the function and role of the neighborhood
commercial node is centered on serving the daily needs of area
residents. While many of the area’s existing buildings continue to
adapt to shifting trends in commerce, such as Erik’s Bike and Board
Shop occupying the former Penny’s Grocery, trends for stacking
uses such as housing over businesses require removing existing
single story buildings and full scale redevelopment. A multitude of
factors from real estate economics to community preference to city
policies and regulations influence if and in what manner a particular
property will be renovated or redeveloped. Based upon an analysis of
current conditions and discussions with area business and property
owners, it’s most likely that Texa-Tonka will include a combination of
renovations and redevelopments and that these activities will occur at
measured pace over the coming ten to twenty years.
This Small Area Plan organizes recommendations for
revitalization and enhancement into THREE KEY AREAS:
Revitalization and Redevelopment, which focuses
on the massing and siting of new buildings and the
renovation and reuse of existing buildings, vacant
and or underutilized sites, and design.
Greening and Gathering, which describes locations
and designs concepts for informal enhancement and
activation of sidewalks, bus stops, cross walks and parking
areas.
Movement and Circulation, which includes an analysis of
future traffic operations, consolidation of multimodal site
access and relocation of parking resources.
REDEVELOPMENT OPTIONS
As Texa-Tonka continues to evolve, it should do so with its own type
of urbanism and design consisting of simple modern buildings (1-4
stories), compact spaces that encourage social interactions, parking
along-side, behind and occasionally in front of buildings, and a
pedestrian and bike friendly environment (Figure 4.1).
The purpose of guiding the area this way is to ensure it continues to
reflect community preferences and is compatible with surrounding
context. Texa-Tonka has its own discernible qualities that should
continue to influence its evolution as a unique, distinct, and
contextually responsive place.
In addition to guiding the individual style of buildings the community
expressed a desire for the area to evolve in such a way that the
development patterns (not just the buildings) reflect the unique
qualities of the neighborhood. The Texa-Tonka community made
it clear throughout the process of this Plan that redevelopment
should be incremental, gradual, and focused on creating a place that
serves the local community. Therefore, unlike many redevelopment
projects, this Plan recommends maintaining (or even disaggregating
or subdividing) the existing platting pattern.
Doing so will allow smaller buildings and smaller spaces to redefine
the area as it evolves. Instead of a single master plan that creates
uniformity, consistency and larger gathering places, this Plan
recommends each lot develop on its own, each with its own
opportunity for semi-public space. Instead of district systems to
manage parking, stormwater, and open spaces, the Plan encourages
the continued evolution of a unique pattern resulting from organic
and opportunistic interventions.
This approach is novel in that it does not focus on maximizing
development in terms of square footage and density. It embraces
the underlying patterns and aesthetic of the community, and seeks to
maximize the community and social value of the area by emphasizing
pedestrian-scaled design, small social spaces, and contextual design.
The community recognizes and appreciates the uniqueness of the
area, and wants it to remain unique, while still evolving in an organic
and gradual manner.
Examples of commercial development with landscaped outdoor gathering
spaces and front yard areas
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 37
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│27
planning framework approach DESCRIBING THE VISION
TEXA TONKA URBANISM
Neither Suburban nor Urban. Hybrid, Both / And
Standard Urban Redevelopment
Texa Tonka Urbanism
NO
YES
Standard Suburban
Standard Suburban
• Single story buildings set back from
roads to allow for generous parking
Standard Urban Redevelopment
• West End / Excelsior and Grand
• Multistory buildings (4-6 stories) set up
to the sidewalk with parking behind and
beneath.
Texa Tonka Urbanism
• Series of small/medium buildings ranging
from 1-4 Stories
• Parking behind and along side of building,
but also infront in modest amounts.
• Series of small open spaces for informal
socializing, closely related to buildings.
As Texa Tonka continues to evolve, it can develop it’s own unique pattern of
urbanism. By combining the best qualities of both suburban development and
standard urban development, Texa Tonka can become a unique place in Saint
Louis Park.
Figure 4.1
TEXA-TONKA URBANISM
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 38
DESCRIBING THE VISION redevelopment options
28│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCEL 1
Plan View Single-story commercial with surface parking
Frontage View Relationship of single-story commercial to existing residential
Backage View Relationship of single-story commercial and surface parking
to neighboring multi-family residential
C-2 General Commercial Redevelopment Option 2 for Parcel 1,
northwest corner of Wyoming Ave S and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
891110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
Single-story commercialWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD WYOMING AVEW
Y
O
M
I
N
G
A
V
E
MIN
N
E
T
O
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
MINNETONKA BLVD
14 PARKING
SPACES
2,200 SF
COMMERCIAL
Figure 4.2
The Plan identifies various concept plans for the sites within the study
area. The built form, density, massing, scale, and layout illustrated
in the 10 options are informed by existing zoning and community
input. Inclusion of upper story residential uses on C-2 zoned parcels
would require a conditional use permit. For simplicity’s sake,
parking provisions were calculated using simplified ratios of 4 spaces
minimum per 1,000 sq. ft of commercial space and 1 space per
residential dwelling unit rather than the more complex provisions set
forth in each of the specific zoning districts.
The redevelopment concept for parcel 1 (Figure 4.2) looks at replacing
the existing 1,300 sq. ft. hair salon and parking lot with a 2,000 sq.
ft. modern single-story commercial building that holds the corner
of Minnetonka Boulevard and Wyoming Avenue rather than sitting
toward the back of the parcel. This allows direct pedestrian access
from adjacent sidewalks. Parking is situated to the west side of the
building.
BUILT FORM PARCEL 1
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 39
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│29
redevelopment options DESCRIBING THE VISION
The redevelopment concept for parcels 2 and 3 (Figure 4.3) looks
at the opportunity to replace Texa-Tonka Liquors and Texa-Tonka
Lanes with a 4-story mixed use commercial building that features
72 residential units atop 21,600 sq. ft. of ground floor commercial
uses. The new building fronts Minnetonka Boulevard and its top story
steps back along the frontage to provide an upper level terrace while
also reducing visual impact along Minnetonka. Residential parking is
provided in the lower level and commercial and visitor parking are
sited to the back of the site.
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCELS 2 + 3
Plan View 4-story mixed-use building (1 story of commercial with 3
stories of residential)
Frontage View Relationship of 1-story commercial with 3 stories of
residential above (4th story step-back)
Backage View Relationship of 4-story mixed commercial/residential and
surface parking adjacent to existing residential
C-2 General Commercial Redevelopment option for Parcels
2 and 3, between Wyoming Ave S and Virginia Ave S and
Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
4-story building with
commercial on first floor and
step-back on fourth floorWYOMING AVE SWYOMING AVE
S
WYOMING AVE
S
VIRGINIA AVE SVIRGINIA AVE SVIR
G
I
N
I
A
A
V
E
S
MINNETONKA BLVD
MI
N
N
E
T
O
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
MINNETONKA BLVD
92 PARKING
SPACES
21,600 SF COMMERCIAL
72 RESIDENTIAL UNITS
72 UNDERGROUND PARKING SPACES
Figure 4.3
BUILT FORM PARCEL 2+3
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 40
DESCRIBING THE VISION redevelopment options
30│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
Figure 4.4 texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCEL 4
Plan View 3 and 4 story mixed-use and surface parking
Frontage View Relationship of 3 and 4 story mixed-use to existing
commercial and residential behind
Backage View Relationship of 3 and 4 story mixed-use and surface
parking to existing neighborhood residential
MX Mixed-Use Proposed for Parcel 4, current site of the Texa-
Tonka Mall
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
3 story mixed-use building with
top story setback TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S TEXAS AVE SMI
N
N
E
T
O
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
MINNETONKA BLVDVIRGINIA AVE SVIRGINIA AVE SMINNETONKA BLVD
106 PARKING
SPACES
26,000 SF COMMERCIAL
60 RESIDENTIAL UNITS
60 UNDERGROUND PARKING SPACES
17,400 SF COMMERCIAL
74 RESIDENTIAL UNITS
75 UNDERGROUND PARKING SPACES
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCEL 6
Plan View 2 Townhouse buildings with 5 units in each building
Frontage View Relationship of 2 1/2 story townhomes to existing residential
Backage View Relationship of 2 1/2 story townhomes to existing residential
R3 2 Family Residence Proposed for Parcel 6, current site of the
unutilized parking lot
Precedent Image
2 1/2 story townhomes with
balcony and front porch
space
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
W 29TH STW 29TH
S
T
W 2
9
T
H
S
T
TEXAS AVE
TEXA
S
A
V
ETEXAS AVE
MINNETONKA BLVD
Figure 4.5
At 3.4 acres and approximately 660 feet of frontage, parcel 4 (Figure 4.4) is the largest property in Texa-
Tonka and is home to the Texa-Tonka Shopping Center. It is the only parcel zoned MX Mixed-Use and the
redevelopment concept illustrated for the site adheres to this zoning while also reflecting community
preference for multiple, smaller buildings with heights no taller than 4-stories. The design includes 134
residential units above 43,400 sq. ft. of commercial space. 106 commercial and visitor parking spaces are
provided to the back of the site and 135 residential parking spaces are located in the lower levels.
Access from Minnetonka Boulevard has been relocated to align with Utah Avenue which should improve
overall traffic flow for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
The redevelopment option for Parcel 6 (Figure 4.5) illustrates sets of row-houses, each with five dwelling
units. Row houses or town-homes would require a conditional use permit as compared to single and two-
family homes which are permitted by right.
BUILT FORM PARCEL 4 BUILT FORM PARCEL 6
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 41
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│31
redevelopment options DESCRIBING THE VISION
Two redevelopment options are illustrated for parcel 7 (Figure 4.6,
4.7, and 4.8); a 1–story commercial building with parking to the
side and back and a multi-story, mixed-use building consisting of a
2,000 sq. ft. 2-story commercial facility at the corner of Minnetonka
Boulevard and Texas Avenue and a 34 unit, 3-story residential facility
to the north along Texas Avenue Commercial parking is provided to
the side with access off of Minnetonka Boulevard and residential
parking in the lower level.
Figure 4.6 texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM OPTION 1 FOR PARCEL 7
Plan View Single-story commercial and surface parking
Frontage View Relationship of single-story commercial to existing residential
Backage View Relationship of single-story commercial and surface parking
to adjacent residential and park
C-2 General Commercial Option 1 potential for Parcel 7,
northeast corner of Texas Ave and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
Single-story commercialTEXAS AVETEXAS AVE
RAINBOW
PARK
RAINBOW
PARK
T
E
X
A
S
A
V
E
MINNETONKA BLVD
MINNE
T
O
N
K
A
BL
V
D
MINNETONKA BLVD
34 PARKING
SPACES
22 PARKING
SPACES
6,400 SF
COMMERCIAL
BUILT FORM OPTION 1 FOR PARCEL 7
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 42
DESCRIBING THE VISION redevelopment options
32│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM OPTION 2 FOR PARCEL 7
Plan View 2-story commercial/3-story residential and surface
parking
Frontage View Relationship of 2-story commercial/3-story residential to
existing residential
Backage View Relationship of 3-story residential and surface parking to
neighboring residential and park
C-2 General Commercial Option 2 potential for Parcel 7,
northeast corner of Texas Ave and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
2-story commercial
3,000 SF
COMMERCIAL
12
PARKING
SPACESTEXAS AVETEXAS
A
V
E
T
E
XA
S
A
V
E
MINNETONKA BLVD
RAINBOW
PARK
MINNETON
K
A
B
L
V
D
MINNETONKA B
L
V
D
RAINBOW
PARK
34
UNDERGROUND
PARKING
SPACES
34
RESIDENTIAL
UNITS
Figure 4.7 Figure 4.8
BUILT FORM OPTION 2 FOR PARCEL 7
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 43
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│33
redevelopment options DESCRIBING THE VISION
Figure 4.9
The redevelopment option for the southeast corner of Texas Avenue
and Minnetonka Boulevard combines parcels 8 and 9 (Figure 4.9) to
replace 2 small buildings with one 4,500 sq. ft. 1-story commercial
building placed near the corner allowing people direct access to the
building without walking through parking. An 18 car parking lot is
located to the east and the existing western access along Minnetonka
Boulevard has been removed and replaced with a new parking lot
driveway approximately 100 feet from the intersection.
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCELS 8 + 9
Plan View Single-story commercial and surface parking
Frontage View Relationship of single-story commercial to existing residential
Backage View Relationship of single-story commercial and surface parking
to neighboring residential
C-2 General Commercial Potential for Parcels 8 and 9, southeast
corner of Texas Ave and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
Single-story commercial
18
PARKING
SPACES
4,500 SF
COMMERCIAL
TEXAS AVETEXAS AVE
T
E
XA
S
A
V
E
MINNETONKA BLVD
MINNETONKA BLV
D
MINNETON
K
A
B
L
V
D
BUILT FORM PARCEL 8+9
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 44
DESCRIBING THE VISION redevelopment options
34│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCELS 10, 11, AND 12
Plan View Single-story commercial and surface parking
Frontage View Relationship of single-story commercial to existing residential
Backage View Relationship of single-story commercial and surface parking
to neighboring residential
C-2 General Commercial Potential for Parcels 10, 11 and 12,
southwest corner of Texas Ave and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
Single-story commercial
PARCEL 10, 11+12
28
PARKING
SPACES
6,600 SF
COMMERCIAL
TEXAS AVET
E
X
A
S
A
V
E
TEXAS AVE
MINNETO
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
MINNET
O
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
MINNETONKA BLVD
Figure 4.10 texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCELS 10, 11, 12, AND 13
Plan View Single-story commercial and surface parking
Frontage View Relationship of single-story commercial to existing residential
Backage View Relationship of single-story commercial and surface parking
to neighboring residential
C-2 General Commercial Potential for Parcels 10, 11, 12 and 13,
south of Minnetonka Boulevard between Texas Ave and Utah Ave
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
Single-story commercial
PARCEL 10 -13
77 PARKING
SPACES
13,200 SF COMMERCIAL MINN
E
TON
K
A
B
L
V
D
MIN
N
E
T
O
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
UTAH A
V
E
S
UTAH AVE S
TEXAS AVE
TEXAS A
V
E
TEXAS AVEUTAH AVEMINNETONKA BLVD
Figure 4.11
Two redevelopment options are illustrated for parcels 10, 11, and 12 (Figure 4.10 and 4.11).The first
illustrates replacing the assemblage of existing mixed commercial buildings with a 6,000 sq. ft. 1-story
commercial building located to the corner allowing people direct access without walking through parking.
28 parking spaces are provided to the side and back with driveways off of Minnetonka Boulevard and Texas
Avenue. Existing driveways within 50 to 70 feet of the intersection have been removed.
The second option combines all four parcels and illustrates a 13,200 sq. ft. 1-story commercial building
fronting Minnetonka Boulevard with up to 72 parking spaces accessible from Utah Avenue and Texas Avenue.
This parking lot could be managed to serve the existing commercial building that currently houses Dreamers
Cards and Games on parcel 14.
BUILT FORM PARCEL 10, 11, + 12 BUILT FORM PARCEL 10, 11, 12, + 13
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 45
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│35
redevelopment options DESCRIBING THE VISION
Figure 4.12 texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
BUILT FORM PARCEL 15
Plan View 2-story commercial and surface parking
Frontage View Relationship of 1-story commercial to existing multi-family
residential
Backage View Relationship of single-story (two-story walk out) commercial
and surface parking to neighboring residential
C-2 General Commercial Potential for Parcel 15, southwest corner
of Utah Ave and Minnetonka Blvd
PARCEL 4
PARCEL 3
PARCEL 5
PARCEL 6
PARCEL 7
8 91110
PARCEL 2PARCEL 1
PARCEL 15 PARCEL 13
PARCEL 14
PARCEL 12
Precedent Image
Single-story commercial
PARCEL 15
24
PARKING
SPACES
1,600 SF COMMERCIAL
UTAH AVEUTAH AVE
UTAH AVE
MINNETONKA BLVD
MINNE
T
O
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
MIN
N
E
T
O
N
K
A
B
L
V
D
TEXAS AVE
The redevelopment option for parcel 15 (Figure 4.12) illustrates a
3,600 sq. ft. multi-level commercial building that responds to site
topography with 1-story along Minnetonka Boulevard and a 2-story
walk-out configuration to the back and side along Utah Avenue. A 24
space parking lot is located to the back of the building with access
from Utah Avenue.
Note: For purposes of this Small Area Plan redevelopment options
were not explored for parcels 5 and 14. The dental office on parcel 5
is zoned residential and cannot be commercially redeveloped without
a change in zoning. The building on parcel 14 has attractive, mid-
century modern qualities and can be adapted and or renovated to
support a variety of commercial uses.
BUILT FORM PARCEL 15
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 46
DESCRIBING THE VISION design guidelines
36│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
DESIGN GUIDELINES
Design guidelines for renovations and new development in Texa-
Tonka are intended to supplement the city-wide zoning code and
other policy documents that inform the city’s built environment. As
guidelines, they are recommendations, not requirements. These
guidelines together with those regulations and policies, will ensure
the area develops in a unique and contextual way.
Though none of its buildings are masterpieces of modern design,
together they represent a collection of buildings that are unique to
the city and the region. This Plan recommends that future buildings
in Texa-Tonka should consider the qualities of modern timeless design
that is prevalent in Texa-Tonka and employ them in contemporary
ways.
The guidelines focus on four areas – building form and character,
building facade design, street frontage, and site design.
Building Form and Character (Figure 4.13) contains recommendations
for guiding building scale and massing.
Building Facade (Figure 4.14) guidelines offer direction for building
materials and elements, proportioning, and overall image of the
buildings.
Street Frontage (Figure 4.15) focuses on how buildings should
interface with the public realm – specifically how the space between
buildings and the sidewalk should be designed.
Site Design (Figure 4.16) offers guidance for ways in which
landscaping, parking, and other site elements can contribute to the
overall vision of the area as it evolves.
Snapshots of design guidelines shown on the following pages
Guidelines
BUILDING FORM & CHARACTER
Intent
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should vary in scale and character while maintaining a
contemporary and modern approach that creates an overall human scaled and
pedestrian friendly environment – both on site and in the public realm.
Building Character
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should complement, but
not mimic, mid-century modern design traditions
in terms of building and roof forms, materials,
clean lines, and minimal ornamentation. Stan-
dardized “franchise” style architecture is discour-
aged; instead design and materials that provide
a unique identity and a sense of authenticity
is encouraged. Unique architectural features
should be used in conjunction with signage to
convey the unique personality and character of
building tenants.
Transitions
Buildings and sites in Texa-Tonka should
carefully address their transition to nearby
residen-tial buildings or other sensitive edges.
Building should position taller portions of a
structure away from neighboring buildings of
lower scale, step back to align building setbacks
of neighbor-ing buildings, and provide
appropriate buffering.
Massing
Building massing in Texa-Tonka should vary
across the district with each block supporting
architectural variety. Typical buildings should be
simple volumes, or interlocking volumes if they
exceed 80’ in length to reduce the overall scale
of the building mass from the street.
Scale
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should establish a sense
of human scale. Vertical and horizontal
articulation can be used to reduce the apparent
scale of larger buildings and create visual
interest. Adjacent buildings of varying heights
and styles should align design features to
express a scale relationship between the two
buildings.
1
2
3
4
1
1 3
1
2
4
1 1 1
2
Building Form + Character
Street Frontage Site Design
Building Facade DesignGuidelines
BUILDING FORM & CHARACTER
Intent
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should vary in scale and character while maintaining a
contemporary and modern approach that creates an overall human scaled and
pedestrian friendly environment – both on site and in the public realm.
Building Character
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should complement, but
not mimic, mid-century modern design traditions
in terms of building and roof forms, materials,
clean lines, and minimal ornamentation. Stan-
dardized “franchise” style architecture is discour-
aged; instead design and materials that provide
a unique identity and a sense of authenticity
is encouraged. Unique architectural features
should be used in conjunction with signage to
convey the unique personality and character of
building tenants.
Transitions
Buildings and sites in Texa-Tonka should
carefully address their transition to nearby
residen-tial buildings or other sensitive edges.
Building should position taller portions of a
structure away from neighboring buildings of
lower scale, step back to align building setbacks
of neighbor-ing buildings, and provide
appropriate buffering.
Massing
Building massing in Texa-Tonka should vary
across the district with each block supporting
architectural variety. Typical buildings should be
simple volumes, or interlocking volumes if they
exceed 80’ in length to reduce the overall scale
of the building mass from the street.
Scale
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should establish a sense
of human scale. Vertical and horizontal
articulation can be used to reduce the apparent
scale of larger buildings and create visual
interest. Adjacent buildings of varying heights
and styles should align design features to
express a scale relationship between the two
buildings.
1
2
3
4
BUILDING FACADE DESIGN
Intent
Building façade design in the district should define a unique character for the Texa-Tonka neighborhood. Buildings
should incorporate changes in plane, materials, texture, and color to create visual interest and contribute to a sense
of liveliness on the street.
Guidelines
Composition
Building facades should be symmetrical or
balanced. They may consist of repeated bays
which are common in traditional buildings, or
a balanced composition which are common in
many modern buildings. Large expanses of solid
facades are discouraged on the ground floor.
Horizontality
As is common with many modern buildings,
horizontal proportioning and expression is
encouraged. Overall massing, deep overhangs,
fins, ribbon windows and corner windows are
some techniques that can be used to emphasize
the horizontality of a building. Use horizontal
expressions, a change in material, or an offset in
the wall plane at lower floor heights to establish
a sense of scale.
Materials
Building materials and detailing should be used
to brand building tenants. Historically, the
palette of building materials was rater limited in
Texa-Tonka, with brick being the predominant
material. Materials in their natural form should be
highlighted, imitation materials are discouraged.
Patterning and ornamentation through the use of
re peated materials, clean lines and simple
design features is encouraged. Use of applied
ornamen-tation should be kept to a minimum.
Awnings and Canopies
Sheltering elements such as a canopy, awning,
arcade or portico should be used to shelter
walkways, outdoor spaces and to shade
windows. They should be in character with the
building design, and can be used as horizontal
expressions and to signify the primary entrance
to a building.
1
2
3
4
STREET FRONTAGE
Intent
The manner in which buildings address the sidewalk and street edge has a strong bearing on the comfort of the public
realm. Buildings close to the edge of the sidewalk help create a well-defined public realm. Therefore, buildings within
Texa-Tonka are encouraged to relate closely to the sidewalk while also making room on their site for usable
pedestrian areas.
Guidelines
Ground Floor Transparency
Generally, the ground floor of buildings should
relate both visually and physically to the
sidewalk through generous use of transparency
and frequent openings. Views both into and out
of buildings enrich the urban experience for
pedes-trians and building occupants alike, while
also improving safety through natural
surveillance. To help accomplish this, semi-
public uses such as building lobbies, exercise
rooms, etc, should be located on the ground
floor with generous windows.
Building Placement & Setbacks
All new buildings are encouraged to provide an
“enhanced setback” that offers public amenities
and semi private space for residential units.
They can range in size from modest setbacks for
pedestrian movement to larger areas with
outdoor seating, landscaping or other amenities.
Enhanced setbacks can also be used to mitigate
the impact of exceedingly long buildings.
Entry Location and Types
Public building entrances should be clearly
identifiable, and directly accessible from the
adjacent sidewalks. Commercial entrances
should be level with the adjacent sidewalk;
locate residential entrances no more than a
couple of feet above the level of the adjacent
sidewalk.
Open Space
Building placement should create outdoor spac-
es that serve a variety of public, private, pas-sive
and active uses. Open spaces on site are
encouraged near primary building entrances,
between the building and the sidewalk. Open
Spaces may consist of an enhanced setback, a
small courtyard, side or entry plaza that
enhances the entry sequence to the building.
1
2
3
4
Enhanced Setback Sidewalk Clear Zone Amenity Zone
Sidewalk Clear Zone
Enhanced Setback
Min Setback
Amenity Zone
Max Setback
STREET FRONTAGE
Intent
The manner in which buildings address the sidewalk and street edge has a strong bearing on the comfort of the public
realm. Buildings close to the edge of the sidewalk help create a well-defined public realm. Therefore, buildings within
Texa-Tonka are encouraged to relate closely to the sidewalk while also making room on their site for usable
pedestrian areas.
Guidelines
Ground Floor Transparency
Generally, the ground floor of buildings should
relate both visually and physically to the
sidewalk through generous use of transparency
and frequent openings. Views both into and out
of buildings enrich the urban experience for
pedes-trians and building occupants alike, while
also improving safety through natural
surveillance. To help accomplish this, semi-
public uses such as building lobbies, exercise
rooms, etc, should be located on the ground
floor with generous windows.
Building Placement & Setbacks
All new buildings are encouraged to provide an
“enhanced setback” that offers public amenities
and semi private space for residential units.
They can range in size from modest setbacks for
pedestrian movement to larger areas with
outdoor seating, landscaping or other amenities.
Enhanced setbacks can also be used to mitigate
the impact of exceedingly long buildings.
Entry Location and Types
Public building entrances should be clearly
identifiable, and directly accessible from the
adjacent sidewalks. Commercial entrances
should be level with the adjacent sidewalk;
locate residential entrances no more than a
couple of feet above the level of the adjacent
sidewalk.
Open Space
Building placement should create outdoor spac-
es that serve a variety of public, private, pas-sive
and active uses. Open spaces on site are
encouraged near primary building entrances,
between the building and the sidewalk. Open
Spaces may consist of an enhanced setback, a
small courtyard, side or entry plaza that
enhances the entry sequence to the building.
1
2
3
4
2 3
1 4
2
3
Enhanced Setback Sidewalk Clear Zone Amenity Zone
Sidewalk Clear Zone
Enhanced Setback
Min Setback
Amenity Zone
1
Max Setback
SITE DESIGN
Intent
Landscaping, orientation, and access to outdoor spaces is fundamental to improving the character and quality of the
public realm within the Texa-Tonka district. Therefore, landscaping and outdoor amenities should be designed to
enhance the comfort, safety, walkability, and human scale within Texa-Tonka to create an enjoyable environment.
Guidelines
Access
Safe and convenient pedestrian access should
be provided to all building entrances. Provide a
continuous, level and clearly delineated
pedestrian walkway across driveways to
encourage drivers to yield to pedestrians by
applying the same materials across these
vehicle access points as the sidewalk.
Pedestrian connectivity and shared vehicular
access between adjacent properties should be
encouraged.
Parking
To minimize the visual impacts of parking within
Texa-Tonka, surface parking lots should be
located to the side or behind buildings with the
buildings fronting the primary streets and
sidewalks. Locating Parking within yard setbacks
should be discouraged. Existing buildings that
have park-ing in front of them are encouraged to
improve their relationship to the sidewalk by
reclaiming parking spaces for usable outdoor
space, and creating safer and clear connections
between sidewalks and the front door.
Structured parking on the ground floor should
be lined with active uses. Provide trees and plant
materials in interior parking lot islands to reduce
the visual impacts of parking lots and to reduce
the heat island effect.
Landscaping
Trees and landscape areas play an important
role in breaking down a space to the human-
scale, by contributing to a sense of enclosure,
providing shade, and adding needed softness in
an urban environment. Due to the urban nature
of Texa-Tonka and limited space available for
plantings within the Minnetonka Boulevard right-
of-way, plant species that are columnar in shape
and adaptable to urban environments should be
used in the district.
1
2
3
Plant Species
Boulevards are tough sites known for dry,
poor soil and salt from the winter. The
following plants have the abiltiy to live and
flourish in these difficult urban conditions:
• Yarrow (Achillea)
• Aster
• Milkweed (Asclepias) *
• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Daylily (Hemerocallis)
• Hosta
• Bearded Iris
• Blazing Star (Liatris)
• Bee Balm / Bergamot (Monarda) *
• Catmint (Nepeta)
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
• Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacae)
• Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) *
• Daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida)
• Salvia
• Sedum
• Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
• Speedwell (Veronica)
SITE DESIGN
Intent
Landscaping, orientation, and access to outdoor spaces is fundamental to improving the character and quality of the
public realm within the Texa-Tonka district. Therefore, landscaping and outdoor amenities should be designed to
enhance the comfort, safety, walkability, and human scale within Texa-Tonka to create an enjoyable environment.
Guidelines
Access
Safe and convenient pedestrian access should
be provided to all building entrances. Provide a
continuous, level and clearly delineated
pedestrian walkway across driveways to
encourage drivers to yield to pedestrians by
applying the same materials across these
vehicle access points as the sidewalk.
Pedestrian connectivity and shared vehicular
access between adjacent properties should be
encouraged.
Parking
To minimize the visual impacts of parking within
Texa-Tonka, surface parking lots should be
located to the side or behind buildings with the
buildings fronting the primary streets and
sidewalks. Locating Parking within yard setbacks
should be discouraged. Existing buildings that
have park-ing in front of them are encouraged to
improve their relationship to the sidewalk by
reclaiming parking spaces for usable outdoor
space, and creating safer and clear connections
between sidewalks and the front door.
Structured parking on the ground floor should
be lined with active uses. Provide trees and plant
materials in interior parking lot islands to reduce
the visual impacts of parking lots and to reduce
the heat island effect.
Landscaping
Trees and landscape areas play an important
role in breaking down a space to the human-
scale, by contributing to a sense of enclosure,
providing shade, and adding needed softness in
an urban environment. Due to the urban nature
of Texa-Tonka and limited space available for
plantings within the Minnetonka Boulevard right-
of-way, plant species that are columnar in shape
and adaptable to urban environments should be
used in the district.
1
2
3
2
2
3Plant Species
Boulevards are tough sites known for dry,
poor soil and salt from the winter. The
following plants have the abiltiy to live and
flourish in these difficult urban conditions:
• Yarrow (Achillea)
• Aster
• Milkweed (Asclepias) *
• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Daylily (Hemerocallis)
• Hosta
• Bearded Iris
• Blazing Star (Liatris)
• Bee Balm / Bergamot (Monarda) *
• Catmint (Nepeta)
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
• Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacae)
• Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) *
• Daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida)
• Salvia
• Sedum
• Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
• Speedwell (Veronica)
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 47
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│37
design guidelines DESCRIBING THE VISION
Figure 4.13
Guidelines
BUILDING FORM & CHARACTER
Intent
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should vary in scale and character while maintaining a
contemporary and modern approach that creates an overall human scaled and
pedestrian friendly environment – both on site and in the public realm.
Building Character
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should complement, but
not mimic, mid-century modern design traditions
in terms of building and roof forms, materials,
clean lines, and minimal ornamentation. Stan-
dardized “franchise” style architecture is discour-
aged; instead design and materials that provide
a unique identity and a sense of authenticity
is encouraged. Unique architectural features
should be used in conjunction with signage to
convey the unique personality and character of
building tenants.
Transitions
Buildings and sites in Texa-Tonka should
carefully address their transition to nearby
residen-tial buildings or other sensitive edges.
Building should position taller portions of a
structure away from neighboring buildings of
lower scale, step back to align building setbacks
of neighbor-ing buildings, and provide
appropriate buffering.
Massing
Building massing in Texa-Tonka should vary
across the district with each block supporting
architectural variety. Typical buildings should be
simple volumes, or interlocking volumes if they
exceed 80’ in length to reduce the overall scale
of the building mass from the street.
Scale
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should establish a sense
of human scale. Vertical and horizontal
articulation can be used to reduce the apparent
scale of larger buildings and create visual
interest. Adjacent buildings of varying heights
and styles should align design features to
express a scale relationship between the two
buildings.
1
2
3
4
1
1 3
1
2
4
1 1 1
2
Guidelines
BUILDING FORM & CHARACTER
Intent
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should vary in scale and character while maintaining a
contemporary and modern approach that creates an overall human scaled and
pedestrian friendly environment – both on site and in the public realm.
Building Character
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should complement, but
not mimic, mid-century modern design traditions
in terms of building and roof forms, materials,
clean lines, and minimal ornamentation. Stan-
dardized “franchise” style architecture is discour-
aged; instead design and materials that provide
a unique identity and a sense of authenticity
is encouraged. Unique architectural features
should be used in conjunction with signage to
convey the unique personality and character of
building tenants.
Transitions
Buildings and sites in Texa-Tonka should
carefully address their transition to nearby
residen-tial buildings or other sensitive edges.
Building should position taller portions of a
structure away from neighboring buildings of
lower scale, step back to align building setbacks
of neighbor-ing buildings, and provide
appropriate buffering.
Massing
Building massing in Texa-Tonka should vary
across the district with each block supporting
architectural variety. Typical buildings should be
simple volumes, or interlocking volumes if they
exceed 80’ in length to reduce the overall scale
of the building mass from the street.
Scale
Buildings in Texa-Tonka should establish a sense
of human scale. Vertical and horizontal
articulation can be used to reduce the apparent
scale of larger buildings and create visual
interest. Adjacent buildings of varying heights
and styles should align design features to
express a scale relationship between the two
buildings.
1
2
3
4
1
1 3
1
2
4
1 1 1
2
BUILDING FORM & CHARACTER
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 48
DESCRIBING THE VISION design guidelines
38│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
Figure 4.14
BUILDING FACADE DESIGN
Intent
Building façade design in the district should define a unique character for the Texa-Tonka neighborhood. Buildings
should incorporate changes in plane, materials, texture, and color to create visual interest and contribute to a sense
of liveliness on the street.
Guidelines
Composition
Building facades should be symmetrical or
balanced. They may consist of repeated bays
which are common in traditional buildings, or
a balanced composition which are common in
many modern buildings. Large expanses of solid
facades are discouraged on the ground floor.
Horizontality
As is common with many modern buildings,
horizontal proportioning and expression is
encouraged. Overall massing, deep overhangs,
fins, ribbon windows and corner windows are
some techniques that can be used to emphasize
the horizontality of a building. Use horizontal
expressions, a change in material, or an offset in
the wall plane at lower floor heights to establish
a sense of scale.
Materials
Building materials and detailing should be used
to brand building tenants. Historically, the
palette of building materials was rater limited in
Texa-Tonka, with brick being the predominant
material. Materials in their natural form should be
highlighted, imitation materials are discouraged.
Patterning and ornamentation through the use of
re peated materials, clean lines and simple
design features is encouraged. Use of applied
ornamen-tation should be kept to a minimum.
Awnings and Canopies
Sheltering elements such as a canopy, awning,
arcade or portico should be used to shelter
walkways, outdoor spaces and to shade
windows. They should be in character with the
building design, and can be used as horizontal
expressions and to signify the primary entrance
to a building.
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
3
2
4
BUILDING FACADE DESIGN
Intent
Building façade design in the district should define a unique character for the Texa-Tonka neighborhood. Buildings
should incorporate changes in plane, materials, texture, and color to create visual interest and contribute to a sense
of liveliness on the street.
Guidelines
Composition
Building facades should be symmetrical or
balanced. They may consist of repeated bays
which are common in traditional buildings, or
a balanced composition which are common in
many modern buildings. Large expanses of solid
facades are discouraged on the ground floor.
Horizontality
As is common with many modern buildings,
horizontal proportioning and expression is
encouraged. Overall massing, deep overhangs,
fins, ribbon windows and corner windows are
some techniques that can be used to emphasize
the horizontality of a building. Use horizontal
expressions, a change in material, or an offset in
the wall plane at lower floor heights to establish
a sense of scale.
Materials
Building materials and detailing should be used
to brand building tenants. Historically, the
palette of building materials was rater limited in
Texa-Tonka, with brick being the predominant
material. Materials in their natural form should be
highlighted, imitation materials are discouraged.
Patterning and ornamentation through the use of
re peated materials, clean lines and simple
design features is encouraged. Use of applied
ornamen-tation should be kept to a minimum.
Awnings and Canopies
Sheltering elements such as a canopy, awning,
arcade or portico should be used to shelter
walkways, outdoor spaces and to shade
windows. They should be in character with the
building design, and can be used as horizontal
expressions and to signify the primary entrance
to a building.
1
2
3
4
4
3
2
1
3
2
4
BUILDING FACADE DESIGN
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 49
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│39
design guidelines DESCRIBING THE VISION
Figure 4.15
STREET FRONTAGE
Intent
The manner in which buildings address the sidewalk and street edge has a strong bearing on the comfort of the public
realm. Buildings close to the edge of the sidewalk help create a well-defined public realm. Therefore, buildings within
Texa-Tonka are encouraged to relate closely to the sidewalk while also making room on their site for usable
pedestrian areas.
Guidelines
Ground Floor Transparency
Generally, the ground floor of buildings should
relate both visually and physically to the
sidewalk through generous use of transparency
and frequent openings. Views both into and out
of buildings enrich the urban experience for
pedes-trians and building occupants alike, while
also improving safety through natural
surveillance. To help accomplish this, semi-
public uses such as building lobbies, exercise
rooms, etc, should be located on the ground
floor with generous windows.
Building Placement & Setbacks
All new buildings are encouraged to provide an
“enhanced setback” that offers public amenities
and semi private space for residential units.
They can range in size from modest setbacks for
pedestrian movement to larger areas with
outdoor seating, landscaping or other amenities.
Enhanced setbacks can also be used to mitigate
the impact of exceedingly long buildings.
Entry Location and Types
Public building entrances should be clearly
identifiable, and directly accessible from the
adjacent sidewalks. Commercial entrances
should be level with the adjacent sidewalk;
locate residential entrances no more than a
couple of feet above the level of the adjacent
sidewalk.
Open Space
Building placement should create outdoor spac-
es that serve a variety of public, private, pas-sive
and active uses. Open spaces on site are
encouraged near primary building entrances,
between the building and the sidewalk. Open
Spaces may consist of an enhanced setback, a
small courtyard, side or entry plaza that
enhances the entry sequence to the building.
1
2
3
4
2 3
1 4
2
3
Enhanced Setback Sidewalk Clear Zone Amenity Zone
Sidewalk Clear Zone
Enhanced Setback
Min Setback
Amenity Zone
1
Max Setback
STREET FRONTAGE
Intent
The manner in which buildings address the sidewalk and street edge has a strong bearing on the comfort of the public
realm. Buildings close to the edge of the sidewalk help create a well-defined public realm. Therefore, buildings within
Texa-Tonka are encouraged to relate closely to the sidewalk while also making room on their site for usable
pedestrian areas.
Guidelines
Ground Floor Transparency
Generally, the ground floor of buildings should
relate both visually and physically to the
sidewalk through generous use of transparency
and frequent openings. Views both into and out
of buildings enrich the urban experience for
pedes-trians and building occupants alike, while
also improving safety through natural
surveillance. To help accomplish this, semi-
public uses such as building lobbies, exercise
rooms, etc, should be located on the ground
floor with generous windows.
Building Placement & Setbacks
All new buildings are encouraged to provide an
“enhanced setback” that offers public amenities
and semi private space for residential units.
They can range in size from modest setbacks for
pedestrian movement to larger areas with
outdoor seating, landscaping or other amenities.
Enhanced setbacks can also be used to mitigate
the impact of exceedingly long buildings.
Entry Location and Types
Public building entrances should be clearly
identifiable, and directly accessible from the
adjacent sidewalks. Commercial entrances
should be level with the adjacent sidewalk;
locate residential entrances no more than a
couple of feet above the level of the adjacent
sidewalk.
Open Space
Building placement should create outdoor spac-
es that serve a variety of public, private, pas-sive
and active uses. Open spaces on site are
encouraged near primary building entrances,
between the building and the sidewalk. Open
Spaces may consist of an enhanced setback, a
small courtyard, side or entry plaza that
enhances the entry sequence to the building.
1
2
3
4
2 3
1 4
2
3
Enhanced Setback Sidewalk Clear Zone Amenity Zone
Sidewalk Clear Zone
Enhanced Setback
Min Setback
Amenity Zone
1
Max Setback
STREET FRONTAGE
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 50
DESCRIBING THE VISION design guidelines
40│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
Figure 4.16
SITE DESIGN
Intent
Landscaping, orientation, and access to outdoor spaces is fundamental to improving the character and quality of the
public realm within the Texa-Tonka district. Therefore, landscaping and outdoor amenities should be designed to
enhance the comfort, safety, walkability, and human scale within Texa-Tonka to create an enjoyable environment.
Guidelines
Access
Safe and convenient pedestrian access should
be provided to all building entrances. Provide a
continuous, level and clearly delineated
pedestrian walkway across driveways to
encourage drivers to yield to pedestrians by
applying the same materials across these
vehicle access points as the sidewalk.
Pedestrian connectivity and shared vehicular
access between adjacent properties should be
encouraged.
Parking
To minimize the visual impacts of parking within
Texa-Tonka, surface parking lots should be
located to the side or behind buildings with the
buildings fronting the primary streets and
sidewalks. Locating Parking within yard setbacks
should be discouraged. Existing buildings that
have park-ing in front of them are encouraged to
improve their relationship to the sidewalk by
reclaiming parking spaces for usable outdoor
space, and creating safer and clear connections
between sidewalks and the front door.
Structured parking on the ground floor should
be lined with active uses. Provide trees and plant
materials in interior parking lot islands to reduce
the visual impacts of parking lots and to reduce
the heat island effect.
Landscaping
Trees and landscape areas play an important
role in breaking down a space to the human-
scale, by contributing to a sense of enclosure,
providing shade, and adding needed softness in
an urban environment. Due to the urban nature
of Texa-Tonka and limited space available for
plantings within the Minnetonka Boulevard right-
of-way, plant species that are columnar in shape
and adaptable to urban environments should be
used in the district.
1
2
3
2
2
3Plant Species
Boulevards are tough sites known for dry,
poor soil and salt from the winter. The
following plants have the abiltiy to live and
flourish in these difficult urban conditions:
• Yarrow (Achillea)
• Aster
• Milkweed (Asclepias) *
• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Daylily (Hemerocallis)
• Hosta
• Bearded Iris
• Blazing Star (Liatris)
• Bee Balm / Bergamot (Monarda) *
• Catmint (Nepeta)
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
• Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacae)
• Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) *
• Daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida)
• Salvia
• Sedum
• Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
• Speedwell (Veronica)
SITE D ESIGN
Intent
Landscaping, orientation, and access to outdoor spaces is fundamental to improving the character and quality of the
public realm within the Texa-Tonka district. Therefore, landscaping and outdoor amenities should be designed to
enhance the comfort, safety, walkability, and human scale within Texa-Tonka to create an enjoyable environment.
Guidelines
Access
Safe and convenient pedestrian access should
be provided to all building entrances. Provide a
continuous, level and clearly delineated
pedestrian walkway across driveways to
encourage drivers to yield to pedestrians by
applying the same materials across these
vehicle access points as the sidewalk.
Pedestrian connectivity and shared vehicular
access between adjacent properties should be
encouraged.
Parking
To minimize the visual impacts of parking within
Texa-Tonka, surface parking lots should be
located to the side or behind buildings with the
buildings fronting the primary streets and
sidewalks. Locating Parking within yard setbacks
should be discouraged. Existing buildings that
have park-ing in front of them are encouraged to
improve their relationship to the sidewalk by
reclaiming parking spaces for usable outdoor
space, and creating safer and clear connections
between sidewalks and the front door.
Structured parking on the ground floor should
be lined with active uses. Provide trees and plant
materials in interior parking lot islands to reduce
the visual impacts of parking lots and to reduce
the heat island effect.
Landscaping
Trees and landscape areas play an important
role in breaking down a space to the human-
scale, by contributing to a sense of enclosure,
providing shade, and adding needed softness in
an urban environment. Due to the urban nature
of Texa-Tonka and limited space available for
plantings within the Minnetonka Boulevard right-
of-way, plant species that are columnar in shape
and adaptable to urban environments should be
used in the district.
1
2
3
2
2
3Plant Species
Boulevards are tough sites known for dry,
poor soil and salt from the winter. The
following plants have the abiltiy to live and
flourish in these difficult urban conditions:
• Yarrow (Achillea)
• Aster
• Milkweed (Asclepias) *
• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Daylily (Hemerocallis)
• Hosta
• Bearded Iris
• Blazing Star (Liatris)
• Bee Balm / Bergamot (Monarda) *
• Catmint (Nepeta)
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
• Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacae)
• Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) *
• Daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida)
• Salvia
• Sedum
• Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina)
• Speedwell (Veronica)
SITE DESIGN
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 51
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│41
design guidelines DESCRIBING THE VISION
Building Rehabilitation and Exterior Improvements
The Texa-Tonka Liquor Building, located on parcel 2 (Figure 4.3), is a
typical early 1960’s commercial building with many of the qualities
common in well-designed buildings of that era, such as corner
windows, horizontal proportions, roman bricks, portico, and minimal
ornamentation. Over time, however, changes to the building have
resulted in deviations and some disrepair. Figure 4.17 illustrates how
this building and site can be improved through applying the guidelines
to restore / enhance the modern qualities of the building while
improving the pedestrian relationship to the site.
Figure 4.17
De-cluttered windows highlights horizontal
mullions and activity inside the building
Clear and simple, pedestrian scaled san serif
signage
Ornamental railing and panel door with repeated
pattern
Integrated trash enclosure
Clear entry sequence with walkways to both
sidewalks
1
1
2
2
3
3
4
4
5
5
5
3
POTENTIAL REMODEL OF TEXA TONKA LIQUORS
Contextual approach to renovation
Many of the buildings and sites in Texa-Tonka are in need of investment and design attention. Without wholesale
redevelopment, smaller investments can have a big impact. Attention should be paid to modernizing the buildings and
sites so they highlight the Texa-Tonka modernism” while also becoming more pedestrian-friendly.
POTENTIAL REMODEL OF TEXA-TONKA LIQUORS
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 52
Interlocking or distinct volumes to break down the scale of longer buildings
Celebrated entrance experience with plaza and portico
Ribbon and corner windows to express horizontality
Simple and few materials
A modest setback that is enhanced with features such as planter walls, landscaping, and plaza.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A TEXA-TONKA BUILDING
“Texa Tonka Modern”
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
5
Figure 4.18
CHARACTERISTICS OF A TEXA-TONKA BUILDING
DESCRIBING THE VISION design guidelines
42│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
Potential Redevelopment Concept
Figure 4.18 illustrates characteristics of a new Texa-Tonka building
by applying the design guidelines, zoning parameters and design
preferences gleaned from community input during the small area
planning process:
• The corner building is articulated as several simple masses of
separate heights and materials
• The building matches the height of adjacent buildings at the edges
of the property
• The setback gradually increases from 5’ at the corner to 15’ at the
north property edge
• The commercial portion of the property uses an “enhanced
setback” to create a space that is semi-public: a patio for dining.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 53
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenity
Event/activity
Sidewalk amenity
Street amenityPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk
Outdoor eating space
Planters
Community gardenOutdoor seating
Painted crosswalk
Farmers market
Parklet
Farmers MarketOpen streets
Planters
Temporary playground
Figure 4.19
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│43
greening and gathering DESCRIBING THE VISION
GREENING AND GATHERING
During the planning process participants expressed strong interest in
improving the function, quality and character of Texa-Tonka’s sidewalks,
streets and parking areas with plantings, furnishing, public art, and other
amenities. Typically these types of enhancements are undertaken and
maintained through the establishment of a SSD (Special Service District)
such as in the city’s Excelsior and Grand or West End business areas.
Unfortunately, the small size of the Texa-Tonka Neighborhood Commercial
Node doesn’t provide a sufficient number of business to establish a viable
SSD.
A second, less formal option for improving the public realm is to support
volunteer activities and partnership efforts from residents, non-profit
organizations, businesses, and the city. Often referred to as tactical urbanism,
these efforts could include low-cost, do-it-yourself (DIY) initiatives for creating
new public amenities, such as creating wooden platforms/boxes that can be
arranged to form seating areas, repurposing storage containers as planters
or painting colorful crosswalk designs. Planning and hosting neighborhood
activities within these newly enhanced locations would also help strengthen
neighborhood cohesion and foster greater resident-business relations.
Additionally, as building renovations and redevelopment occurs, city
requirements for parking lot and site landscaping will come into play.
Together these efforts can improve visual appearance, and quality of life, as
well as contribute to economic vitality.
Community workshop participants worked with consultants to identify
enhancement and activation or programming ideas that could be
implemented by Texa-Tonka area residents and business or property owners
(Figure 4.19). Figure 4.20 illustrates places identified within Texa-Tonka for
applying enhancement and activation ideas.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 54
N
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
This map documents ideas generated by workshop participants for actiavting and enhancing outdoor
areas with community and business owner generated / supported events and arrangments of plantings,
furnishings and public art for residents and visitors to gather, socialize, relax, and play. texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenityEvent/activity Sidewalk amenity Street amenity
Minnetonka Blvd
Te
x
a
s
A
v
eUtah
Ave
S
Te
x
a
s
A
v
e
Minnetonka Blvd
Xylon AveWyoming Ave SVirginia Ave SPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk Outdoor eating space
PlantersPlanters
Community garden
Painted crosswalk Farmers market
Bicycle racks Parklet Farmers Market
Painted crosswalk
Painted crosswalkTemporary playgroundOpen streets
N
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
This map documents ideas generated by workshop participants for actiavting and enhancing outdoor
areas with community and business owner generated / supported events and arrangments of plantings,
furnishings and public art for residents and visitors to gather, socialize, relax, and play. texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenityEvent/activity Sidewalk amenity Street amenity
Minnetonka Blvd
Te
x
a
s
A
v
eUtah
Ave
S
Te
x
a
s
A
v
e
Minnetonka Blvd
Xylon AveWyoming Ave SVirginia Ave SPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk Outdoor eating space
PlantersPlanters
Community garden
Painted crosswalk Farmers market
Bicycle racks Parklet Farmers Market
Painted crosswalk
Painted crosswalkTemporary playgroundOpen streets
N
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
This map documents ideas generated by workshop participants for actiavting and enhancing outdoor
areas with community and business owner generated / supported events and arrangments of plantings,
furnishings and public art for residents and visitors to gather, socialize, relax, and play. texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
Parking lot amenityEvent/activity Sidewalk amenity Street amenity
Minnetonka Blvd
Te
x
a
s
A
v
eUtah
Ave
S
Te
x
a
s
A
v
e
Minnetonka Blvd
Xylon AveWyoming Ave SVirginia Ave SPainted crosswalkPainted crosswalk Outdoor eating space
PlantersPlanters
Community garden
Painted crosswalk Farmers market
Bicycle racks Parklet Farmers Market
Painted crosswalk
Painted crosswalkTemporary playgroundOpen streets
Figure 4.20
ACTIVATION & INFORMAL ENHANCEMENTS
DESCRIBING THE VISION greening and gathering
44│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 55
Aerial image of intersection at Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave. Driveways
are highlighted in red
Figure 4.21
2
482
147934=>OP44244447
20
5135=>OP16751241311=>OP
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
BlvdMinnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Texas Ave29th St
Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave29
376
49³=>50
44527 ³=>29487564625145322
471
2
1143=>OP14
474
3
462173=>OPP>P>Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: ljohnson
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
2
Print Date: 11/8/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\For Report\2030 No Build_AM Peak Hour Turning Movements.mxd2030 No Build - AM Turning Movement Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
OP>Existing GeometryUnofficial Left Turn Lane
4
617
6
51324=>OP458
51
567
46
3249=>OP2620296145
9=>OP
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
BlvdMinnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Minnetonka
Blvd
Texas Ave29th St
Texas AveUtah AveVirginia AveWyoming AveXylon Ave83
432
95³=>79
497
42 ³=>411431308911958490
65
558
24
1041=>OP24
591
11
503185=>OPP>P>Project: XXXXX 00000
Map by: ljohnson
Projection:
Source:
This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey map and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information, and data gathered from various sources listed on this map and is to be used for reference purposes only. SEH does not warrant that the Geographic Information System (GIS) Data used to prepare this map are error free, and SEH does not represent that
the GIS Data can be used for navigational, tracking, or any other purpose requiring exacting measurement of distance or direction or precision in the depiction of geographic features. The user of this map acknowledges that SEH shall not be liable for any damages which arise out of the user's access or use of data provided.
Figure
2
Print Date: 11/8/2019Path: P:\PT\S\Stlou\150778\Traffic\GIS\For Report\2030 No Build_PM Peak Hour Turning Movements.mxd2030 No Build - PM Turning Movement Volumes
Texa Tonka Development Traffic Impact Study
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
3535 VADNAIS CENTER DR.
ST. PAUL, MN 55110
PHONE: (651) 490-2000
FAX: (651) 490-2150
WATTS: 800-325-2055
www.sehinc.com
OP
>
Existing Geometry
Unofficial Left Turn Lane
2030 EXPECTED VEHICLE TRAFFIC
Intersection of Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave
Minnetonka BlvdTex
a
s
A
v
e
AM Turning Volumes
PM Turning Volumes
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│45
greening and gathering DESCRIBING THE VISION
Movement and Circulation
This Small Area Plan seeks to address the needs of pedestrians, bike
riders, transit patrons, and motorists in and around Texa-Tonka. The
plan is inspired by the vision of a more attractive, safe, accessible and
connected neighborhood commercial node. Recognizing Texa-Tonka’s
auto-oriented history the plan looks to Connect the Park (Complete
+ Living Streets policies), Capital Improvements Plans and land
development regulations for strengthening walkability within a city-
wide multi-modal transportation system.
A traffic study (modeling, analyzing) related to the full redevelopment
(all illustrated options) of Texa-Tonka was undertaken to understand
potential impacts on the existing street network and identify if future
modifications may be needed. Key findings include:
• Intersections are expected to operate acceptably without any
geometric changes to study area roadways (Figure 4.21 shows
expected vehicle traffic at the intersection of Minnetonka Blvd and
Texas Ave).
• Redevelopment plans propose numerous site access reductions
(closures) along Minnetonka Boulevard which result in an increase
in vehicles turning onto/off of minor streets to access relocated
parking facilities. If Minnetonka Blvd remains as a 2-lane roadway
the increases in left hand turns associated with this increased
activity may create a safety issue (potential rear end collisions)
as vehicles turning left do not have their own turn lane. Traffic
operations modeled for the total redevelopment of the project
area would be best supported by the 3-lane cross section for
Minnetonka Boulevard suggested in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan
as this would provide the safety benefits of a center turn lane.”
See appendix for complete traffic study.
Minnetonka Blvd. and Texas Ave. Intersection
Hennepin County and St. Louis Park have discussed reconstructing the
intersection of Minnetonka Boulevard and Texas Avenue at a lower
elevation (approx. 4 ft.) due to concerns with sight lines and traffic
safety. The Texa-Tonka consultant team performed a concept-level
review of potential impacts that lowering the intersection elevation
by four feet would have on adjacent properties. The review was
conducted using available aerial photography superimposed with 2
foot contour interval topographic data. Given the change in elevation,
existing driveways closest to the intersection as well as four mature
shade trees would need to be removed. Additionally, if existing
facilities remain as they are today (no redevelopment), several
modest height retaining walls (2-3 ft.) would be required in areas
closest to the reconstructed intersection on the northeast, southeast
and southwest properties. Existing raised planters in the parking lot
of the Texa-Tonka Shopping Center (northwest of the intersection)
currently provide elevation transition so it’s unlikely there would be
discernible impacts to these associated parking facilities.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 56
texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
GETTING AROUND VEHICLE CIRCULATION & ACCESS
Existing
Reduction in curb cuts along Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave S can
improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Existing Curb Line
Parcels
Proposed Circulation
Existing Circulation
Curb Cut
Removed Curb Cut
Proposed Option 1
Proposed Option 2
MINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVE texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
GETTING AROUND VEHICLE CIRCULATION & ACCESS
Existing
Reduction in curb cuts along Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave S can
improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Existing Curb Line
Parcels
Proposed Circulation
Existing Circulation
Curb Cut
Removed Curb Cut
Proposed Option 1
Proposed Option 2
MINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVE texa -tonka
SMALL AREA PLAN
GETTING AROUND VEHICLE CIRCULATION & ACCESS
Existing
Reduction in curb cuts along Minnetonka Blvd and Texas Ave S can
improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Existing Curb Line
Parcels
Proposed Circulation
Existing Circulation
Curb Cut
Removed Curb Cut
Proposed Option 1
Proposed Option 2
MINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEMINNETONKA BLVD TEXAS AVE STEXAS AVE S SUMMIT AVE SUTAH AVE SXYLON AVE S VIRGINIA AVE SWYOMING AVEFigure 4.22
SUMTER AVE SSUMTER AVE S
SUMTER AVE S
DESCRIBING THE VISION greening and gathering
46│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
As of the writing of this Plan, the
intersection reconstruction project
is not included in the County’s
5-year Capital Improvement
Program (CIP). If the improvement
were included in the County’s
2025 CIP it’s possible they could be
implemented around 2026-27.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 57
ACHIEVING THE VISION
CHAPTER 5ACHIEVING THE VISION
IMPLEMENTATION
PARTNERSHIPS
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 58
ACHIEVING THE VISION implementation
48│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
IMPLEMENTATION
The Texa-Tonka neighborhood commercial node has the potential
to accommodate new residential, commercial, and office uses, as
well as revitalization and expansion of existing facilities. This new
investment and growth can increase patronage and prosperity for
existing and future local businesses, as well as support enhancement
and activation of the area’s public realm. While the city does not
officially adopt Small Area Plans, it does rely upon them for guidance
in matters of land use, zoning and redevelopment. To that end this
Plan was crafted to support St. Louis Park’s existing community
development goals, policies, strategies and regulations.
The implementation of the ideas and options described in this Plan
takes both public and private sector interests into consideration
as well as an understanding of strategies necessary to overcome
potential barriers, and capitalize on identified opportunities.
This plan’s success depends on THREE KEY FACTORS:
Development of comfortable and
welcoming people-centered spaces
Improvement of the local walkways, streets
and parking lots
Sustained public and private partnerships
over the coming decade
Public financial support for realizing many of the ideas described in
this Plan may be secured through grant programs offered by the city,
Hennepin County, and others:
Neighborhood Revitalization Program
https://www.stlouispark.org/home/showdocument?id=12992
St. Louis Park Family Services Collaborative Grant
https://slpfamilyservices.org/grants
St. Louis Park Arts & Culture Grants
https://www.slpfota.org/artsandculture
St. Louis Park Community and Youth Development Fund
http://www.slpcf.org/
Healthy Living Grant Program
https://www.stlouispark.org/our-city/tings-to-do/health-in-the-park/
healthy-living-grant
Arts & Culture Grant
https://www.stlouispark.org/our-city/arts-and-culture-grant-
application
Hennepin County Environmental Education Grants
https://www.hennepin.us/business/work-with-henn-co/green-
partners-enviro-ed-prog
Community Development Block Grant Program
https://www.hennepin.us/business/work-with-henn-co/federal-
housing-programs
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 59
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│49
implementation ACHIEVING THE VISION
Interim design
strategies are tools
and tactics that
communities can
use to improve
their roadways and
public spaces in the
near term. They
include low-cost,
interim materials,
new public
amenities, and
creative
partnerships with
local stakeholders,
which together
enable faster
project delivery
and more exible
and responsive
design.
TEXA TONKA Small Area Plan
Celebrate! And make plans to use the space on a regular basis so it becomes part of the community.
Talk to agencies or local business that will be involved.
Got an idea?
Fundraise and gather materials.
Who is your team?
Throw a block party to
get people to come
help build the project.
Plan out your project.! Idea worksheet! Let’s start planning:
DIY Greening and Gathering
As described in Chapter 4, Greening and Gathering there are a
range of do-it-yourself (DIY) style projects or events that could be
undertaken at modest costs (as compared to permanent public
improvement projects} by groups of motivated and organized
volunteers.
Basic steps to follow when undertaking informal, do-it-yourself public
realm enchantments are described in Figure 5.1.
Figure 5.1. Informational poster to help residents brainstorm and launch informal DIY
projects for public realm enhancements
Examples of DIY community-based projects
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 60
ACHIEVING THE VISION partnerships
50│Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan
REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES
While the Small Area Plan will serve as a guide for Texa-Tonka’s
future revitalization, enhancement, and redevelopment, it is a
policy document. As such, it cannot require that the vision will be
maintained and realized over the long-term or that community needs
will remain the same. Those assurances are only available with the
application of regulating documents such as zoning and building
codes with special considerations to future mixed-use development.
Specifically, the appropriateness of the existing C-2 General
Commercial zoning designation was explored and debated during
the planning process due to its allowance of 6-story buildings and
inclusion of residential as a conditional use. This plan recommends
rezoning the existing C-2 General Commercial parcels to C-1
Neighborhood Commercial in order better align regulations with
community preferences.
In addition to a change in zoning, the Texa-Tonka-specific design
guidelines for commercial and mixed use renovations and new
developments recommended in this Plan are intended to serve
as an implementation tool for the public and private sectors. The
experience of many communities involved in similar initiatives has
shown that establishing clear expectations for the quality and design
of new development is essential in areas targeted for reinvestment in
order to support desired uses and reflect intended outcomes. This will
also direct future development towards creating attractive, people-
centered spaces.
Figure 5.2. Rendering of renovation of the Texa-Tonka Shopping Center. Courtesy of Paster Properties
Private and Public Investment
Comprehensive and area-specific planning initiatives such as this one
come at a time when demands on local government are high and
resources are limited. Regardless, they are essential for sustained
growth and economic equality. As a fully-developed community,
St. Louis Park has a long history of successfully planning for and
encouraging redevelopment at a range of scales using a variety of
programs and structures. For the purposes of this Small Area Plan,
the private sector is expected to take the lead role in renovating,
revitalizing, and redeveloping existing commercial facilities in Texa-
Tonka. This is already beginning to occur as evidenced by recently
proposed expansion plans for Best Cleaners and changes in ownership
and renovation plans for the Texa-Tonka Shopping Center (Figure 5.2).
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 61
This page is intentionally left blank.
Texa-Tonka Small Area Plan│51
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 62
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8a)
Title: Texa-Tonka small area plan Page 63
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: March 16, 2020
Action agenda item: 8b
Executive summary
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project
no. 4019-2000
Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution approving final plans and specifications and
authorizing bidding documents for Dakota north bikeway and bridge project no. 4019-2000.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish staff to continue to pursue the installation of
the bikeway, bridge, and trail segments identified in the Connect the Park Capital Improvement
Program?
Summary: Connect the Park is the city's 10-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to add
bikeways, sidewalks, and trails throughout the community. The primary goal of Connect the
Park is to develop a comprehensive, city-wide network of bikeways, sidewalks, and trails that
provide local and regional connectivity, improve safety and accessibility, and enhance overall
community livability.
This project is included in the Connect the Park plan and includes the following segments:
•0.20 miles of enhancements to the pedestrian and bicycle trails in Dakota Park from
26th Street to the North Cedar Lake Trail.
•0.30 miles of pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the BNSF Railroad connecting Dakota
Park to Edgewood Avenue.
•0.35 miles of multi-use trail along the east side of Edgewood Avenue between the BNSF
railroad right of way and Cedar Lake Road.
Dakota Avenue from 26th Street to Lake Street is not discussed in this report. It is a separate
project, and final design will be brought to council later this year.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the city’s capital improvement
plan (CIP) for 2019, with an estimated cost of $8,306,000. The current engineer’s estimate for
the project is $9,142,207. The project will be paid for using G.O. bonds and $2,918,400 in
federal funds. Note that the use of G.O. bonding authority under the Charter requires at least 6
affirmative votes of the council.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion; Project map; Illustrations
April 8, 2019 study session report (pp. 219-227)
April 15, 2019 public hearing report (pp. 136-152)
May 6, 2019 council meeting (pp. 132-136)
March 9, 2020 study session report (pp. 50-64)
Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, senior engineering project manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b) Page 2
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000
Discussion
Background: The Dakota Avenue bikeway and bridge corridor was first identified as a part of
the Active Living: Sidewalk and Trails Plan in 2007 and was then integrated into the Connect the
Park capital improvement plan (CIP) in 2012. The Dakota Avenue corridor is centrally located
and is key to enhancing walking and biking in the city by connecting destinations such as parks,
schools, businesses, regional trails, and the future Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT).
Information regarding this project was shared with the city council at the April 8, 2019 study
session. The public hearing was held on April 15, 2019. The council passed a resolution on May
6, 2019 to approve the staff recommended layout for the corridor. At that time, the estimated
cost estimate for the entire project was $8,237,500. The costs estimate for this project has
increased to $9,142,207. This is an increase of approximately $52,000 from the March 9, 2020
study session report due to the project elements recommended by council.
Study session discussion and modified recommendation: A staff report was presented on
March 9, 2020 to update council on project status, including cost increases to the project,
revisions to the construction schedule, staff recommended staircase locations, and review of
the art components associated with the bridge.
The consensus from the discussion that evening was to amend the following items from the
March 9, 2020 council study session recommendation.
1.Extend the construction schedule to start construction later this year and commence
most of the bridge construction in summer of 2021 to seek a more competitive bidding
climate.
2.Add in the north staircase to the base project to provide additional pedestrian mobility
and route options.
3.Include the student art and the decorative concrete as part of the base project.
However, remove the southside gateway art (figure 3), remove the northside gateway
art (figure 6) and remove the “art ready” concrete bridge piers as currently designed.
4.Explore additional art opportunities in and around the bridge with Friends of the Art in
the coming year.
Study session questions: During the study session council asked for additional information
regarding the cost increases due to unsuitable soils. Most of the project cost increases are
attributed to the structurally deficient and contaminated soils in the area. During concept
development it was anticipated that there was a moderate to moderately high level of
unsuitable soils based on the location of the proposed project. Local knowledge of the area and
adjacent past projects help to inform the anticipated level of mitigation that may be necessary.
During preliminary design there were over 20 different bridge alignments under consideration.
Completing extensive soil investigation on all of these alignments would have been challenging
and expensive. As a result, staff waited until after preliminary design approval to complete
extensive soil investigation to ensure soil analysis occurred on the approved alignment. Only
after this additional geotechnical and environmental work was completed as part of the final
design was the full extent of the unsuitable soils understood. The soils beneath the bridge are
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b) Page 3
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000
anticipated to settle over two feet with the increased weight of the bridge. To prevent this
settlement, the bridge foundations were enhanced using steel piles instead of shallow spread
footings.
In addition to the structurally deficient soils, most of the soils expected to be disturbed during
construction operations are contaminated. The Phase 1 and Phase 2 environmental review
completed after preliminary approval indicated most of any soil excavated on the site would
need to be hauled off site and properly disposed of. The inability to reuse the existing soils on
site is requiring clean fill material to be trucked in.
Finally, some of the contaminated soil removal is on private property, where the city is actively
negotiating easements. The property owners denied access to complete soil investigation. In
these areas, we are assuming all the soil is contaminated, based on the findings of other soil
investigation.
Estimated project costs: The CIP estimate is based on 30-percent preliminary plans. Since that
time, there has been considerable design work completed to refine the project scope and
understand the project liabilities. The updated cost of the project is now estimated at
$9,142,207. The anticipated increase in overall project costs is directly attributed to the items
detailed in the March 9, 2020 study session report. The following table outlines the current
construction estimates for the primary elements of the project.
Description Estimated construction costs
Edgewood multi-use trail $719,154
Bridge over BNSF $5,259,265
Dakota Park trails and access $454,837
North staircase $200,000
Student art and decorative concrete $20,000
Construction Total $6,653,256
The city was successful at securing $2,918,400 of federal funds from the Transportation
Advisory Board of the Metropolitan Council to help fund portions of the project.
The project budget includes construction costs and ancillary costs to deliver the project. These
additional project costs and funding sources for the project are shown in the table below.
Description 2020 CIP Engineer’s
estimate
Project
estimate delta
Construction cost $5,395,000 $6,653,256 $1,258,256
Engineering and administration (25%) $1,686,000 $1,674,126 $25,725
Project contingency (5%) $0 $334,825 $334,825
Land acquisition/ right of way $1,000,000 $275,000 ($725,000)
Utility relocation $225,000 $70,000 ($155,000)
Tree replacement $0 $135,000 $135,000
Project Total $8,306,000 $9,142,207 $836,207
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b) Page 4
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000
Funding sources
Bridge and bikeways (GO Bonds) $5,387,600 $6,223,807 $836,207
Federal Aid $2,918,400 $2,918,400 0
Total $8,306,000 $9,142,207 $836,207
GO bonds are expected to be used to fund the bikeway and bridge construction. The CIP
estimate included $5,387,600 of GO bonds. The debt service levy for this amount was
approximately $630,000/yr. over a ten-year period.
The updated engineer’s estimate identifies $6,223,807 of GO bonds to fund the bikeway and
bridge construction. The debt service levy for this amount will be approximately $733,000,
starting in 2021 for ten years, or $103,000 more per year than the original assumption. Staff is
examining the pros and cons of issuing these bonds over a 15-year period and will report back
to the council.
Note: the use of G.O. bonding authority under the Charter requires at least 6 affirmative votes
of the council.
Operation and maintenance costs: This project creates new city infrastructure, including
the bridge, trails, and art. With new infrastructure, there will be operation and maintenance
costs. Annual operational efforts include snow removal, trail sweeping, and general upkeep of
the bridge. In addition, there are long term costs associated with keeping the bridge in good
standing.
The addition of 0.65 miles of multi-use trail on the bridge and along Edgewood Avenue will
require approximately $1,000 in snow removal and general maintenance per year. This project
is in an area that is already plowed by city forces (Dakota Park, Cedar Lake Road, and the North
Cedar Lake Regional Trail), making it straightforward to add to an existing plow route. The city is
not expecting to remove snow on the proposed bridge staircases. This is consistent with the
bridge over CSAH 25 near Skippy Field and Nordicware.
The bridge itself has minimal yearly maintenance costs. However, there are long term
maintenance costs when a large structure such as this bridge is constructed. Most likely, any
needs associated with repairs would be 20 years or longer after construction. Historically costs
associated with these repairs would be identified and scoped during regular bridge inspections.
We are working with our partner agencies such as Three Rivers Park District who currently
owns and maintains many of these types of bridges around the metro area to understand the
future maintenance costs such as repainting railings or repair of the bridge surface. Since many
of the bridges are relatively new, there is not available data for comparison. It is expected that
these types of repairs would be more significant in cost and that the project should consider
budgeting approximately $10,000 a year for long term repairs.
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b) Page 5
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000
Proposed schedule: In order to avoid conflicts with the nesting birds, bats, and bees to meet
our federal grant obligations, the trees identified for removal as part of the bridge construction
must be removed prior to March 31 or after Oct. 31. The project schedule to facilitate meeting
federal project deadlines are shown below.
City council - Approve final plans March 16, 2020
Bids awarded June/July 2020
Early utility relocation work Fall 2020
Edgewood Ave. Trail and Dakota Park Trail Fall 2020 or Spring 2021
Tree removal Winter 2020
Bridge construction Summer 2021
Construction completion Late fall 2021
Art installation Late fall 2021
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b) Page 6
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000
Resolution No. 20-____
Resolution
approving the final plans and authorizing bidding documents for
Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge project no. 4019-2000
Whereas, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park has received a report from the
Project Manager related to the Dakota North bikeway and bridge project no. 4019-2000 on
March 16, 2020 and
Whereas, at the same meeting, the preliminary layout was approved, and final plans
were ordered to be developed.
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
that:
1.The final plans and specifications to construct these improvements, as prepared under
the direction of the Project Manager, or designee, are approved.
2.The City Clerk shall prepare and cause to be inserted at least two weeks in the official
City newspaper and in relevant industry publications an advertisement for bids for the
making of said improvements under said-approved plans and specifications. The
advertisement shall appear not less than ten (10) days prior to the date and time bids
will be received electronically by the Project Manager and accompanied by a bid bond
payable to the City for five (5) percent of the amount of the bid. The electronic bids will
only be available to view after the bids are closed and the City receives the passcode
from the bidding host site.
3.The Project Manager, or designee, shall report the receipt of bids to the City Council
shortly after the opening date. The report shall include a tabulation of the bid results
and a recommendation to the City Council.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council March 16, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
LEGEND
PAVED TRAIL (NEW)
PAVED TRAIL (RECONSTRUCT)
PAVED REGIONAL TRAIL (EXISTING)
(BRIDGE & RETAINING WALLS)
APPROACH RAMP
BRIDGE (MAIN SPAN OVER BNSF)0 100 200
FEETSCALE
pw:\\srf-pw.bentley.com:srf-pw\Documents\Projects\11523\03_Design\Z_Working\Struc\CBlack\11523_Fig_Misc.dgn1 of 1
Figure ALT-1Recommended Alternative - Pedestrian Bridge Alternative 1 (60% Design)
for City of St. Louis Park
in St. Louis Park, MN
11/19/2019
Job #11523
DAKOTA PARK
NELSON PARK
W 26TH ST
EDGEWOOD AVE SFLORIDA AVE SGEORGIA AVE SDAKOT
A AVE
S
W 23RD STFLORIDA AVE SFLORIDA AVE SELIOT VIEW RD
EDGEWOOD AVE SBNSF RAILWAY CO
N CEDAR LAKE REGIONAL TRAIL CANADI
AN PACI
F
I
C RAI
LROADCEDAR LAKE RD
2400 Edgewood Ave S
PARCEL 1
2401 Edgewood Ave S
PARCEL 2
2231 Edgewood Ave S
PARCEL 4
2219 Edgewood Ave S
PARCEL 5
2211 Edgewood Ave S
PARCEL 6
2201 Edgewood Ave S
PARCEL 7
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
PETER HOBART
PARCEL 3
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 7
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 8
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 9
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 10
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 11
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 12
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 13
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Job t 11/B/2019 in SL Louis Park, MN
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FIGURE 7: North
staircase looking west
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 14
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Job #
Sheet 3 of 3
Figure SN2Dakota-Edgewood Trail Bridge Projects - Concept Stairs, North Stair Alternative 2
For the City of St. Louis Park
in St. Louis Park, MN
Figure 8: North
staircase looking east
City council meeting of March 16, 2020 (Item No. 8b)
Title: Dakota North Bikeway and Bridge – approve plan, specs and authorize ad for bid –project no. 4019-2000 Page 15