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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023/10/04 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - Planning Commission - Study Session Planning commission study session October 4, 2023 6:00 p.m. If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call Sean Walther at 952.924.2574 or the administration department at 952.924.2525. Planning commission The St. Louis Park planning commission is meeting in person at St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd. Members of the public can attend the meeting in person. Visit bit.ly/slppcagendas to view the agenda and reports. Agenda 1.Discussion of zoning code update 2.Communications a.Arrive + Thrive project update b.2023 State of the Community is Wednesday, October 11, 4:30 – 6 p.m. at 10 West End office building, 1601 Utica Avenue South. RSVP at https://bit.ly/2023SLPSOC. Future scheduled meeting/event dates: October 18, 2023 – meeting CANCELED November 1, 2023 - planning commission regular meeting November 15, 2023 - planning commission regular meeting December 6, 2023 – planning commission regular meeting 1 2 Planning commission: Study session Meeting date: October 4, 2023 Agenda item: 1 1 Discussion of zoning code update Executive summary Recommended action: No action at this time. The purpose of the meeting is to continue our discussion of the zoning map. Background: At the September 20, 2023 planning commission meeting, staff presented two draft zoning map options for the planning commission to review. The two options were the four district corridor approach or the three district commercial node approach. At that meeting, the planning commission expressed preference for the four district corridor approach that shows low-rise housing (1-3 stories) along major transportation corridors. As a continuation of that discussion, staff would like to review in more detail areas that staff thought needed additional attention and planning commission input and direction. Staff will present some property characteristics that may influence zoning policy decisions. Four district, corridor approach: The four district corridor approach generally consolidates the current five residential zoning districts into four neighborhood districts as illustrated in the table below. Current zoning districts Proposed four districts: corridor approach R-1 single-family residence N-1 neighborhood low rise N-2 neighborhood low riseR-2 single-family residence R-3 two-family residence R-4 multiple-family residence N-3 neighborhood mid-rise R-C high-density multiple- family residence N-4 neighborhood high-rise A breakdown of the housing types, and which district they are proposed is attached. As previously discussed with the planning commission in past study sessions, each housing type will have dimensional and other standards that will further guide where within the district the housing type may locate. Those standards may include factors such as corner lots, alley access, minimum lot sizes, etc. Next steps: Staff has scheduled a study session with the city council on November 13, 2023 to discuss the draft housing types table and zoning map. Attachments: Draft housing type table Prepared by: Gary Morrison, zoning administrator Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning manager/deputy community development director 3 Study session of October 4, 2023 (Item No. 1) Title: Discussion of zoning code update Four district, corridor approach Housing type: N-1 N-2 N-3 N-4 House scale Single-unit X X Detached cottage/bungalows X X Two-unit X X Manufacture home park X X Low-rise scale: Three-unit X X X Four-unit X X Small townhouse (3 to 4 units) X X Low-rise apartment/condo (3 stories) X X Mid-rise scale Large townhouse (5 to 8 units) X X Mid-rise apartment/condo (4-6 stories) X X High-rise scale High-rise apartment/condo (7+ stories) X 4 Planning commission: Study session Meeting date: October 4, 2023 Agenda item: 2a 2a Arrive + Thrive project update Executive summary Recommended action: No action is required at this time. The purpose of this report is to provide the planning commission an update on the Arrive + Thrive project so far and what is ahead with the next round of engagement. Summary: The Arrive + Thrive project will create four small area plans for gateway areas within the community to guide decisions about development, investment, and how the areas are used. The process includes updates to the existing plans for the three METRO Green Line Extension light rail stations: Beltline Boulevard, Wooddale Avenue and Louisiana Avenue, and the creation of a new plan to guide investments along Excelsior Boulevard west of Highway 100. The resulting gateway plans will provide guidance and implementation actions to support investments that aligns with the community’s interests, the city’s strategic priorities and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. This report provides a summary of the first phase of community engagement for the project, conducted in late spring of 2023. The project team has also conducted a technical analysis of the existing conditions of each gateway area. The community’s experiences collected through engagement and the existing conditions then went into the creation of four “big ideas” for each gateway area. Testing these big ideas is the catalyst for phase 2 of community engagement, which will be held over the next month. Supporting documents: Discussion, phase 1 engagement summary, DRAFT current conditions summaries Prepared by: Laura Chamberlain, senior planner Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning manager/deputy community development director 5 Study session meeting of October 4, 2023 (Item No. 2a) Title: Arrive + Thrive project update Discussion Phase 1 engagement summary The first round of engagement for Arrive + Thrive was held in May and June of 2023. The purpose of this phase was to inform community members of the project and learn about individuals’ experiences in the gateway areas. There were two main engagement activities during this phase: an online interactive map and survey and an in-person open house event. In total, around 150 community members participated in phase 1 of engagement. A full summary of the engagement is available on the project website and as an attachment to this report. Below are the major takeaways and ideas from phase 1, broken down by study area: •Louisiana gateway o Provide a shuttle service from light rail stop to the hospital o Protect and highlight Minnehaha Creek as part of future development o Add neighborhood amenities on the north side of the new light rail stop such as pocket parks o Add greenways and improved tree canopy for pedestrians and cyclists •West Excelsior Boulevard gateway o This corridor should be more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly with improved crosswalks and separation from traffic o Parking should be considered in redevelopment o The intersection of Excelsior Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue is congested and “messy” o The new retail spaces should prioritize small, locally-owned businesses. •Wooddale gateway o Traffic is very congested in this area o Highway overpasses are not pedestrian friendly o The existing bike lanes are not separated enough o There is an opportunity here to improve the north side of the study area and create a destination for restaurants and shops •Beltline gateway o Bass Lake Park is popular within the area and the community would like greenways to connect to the regional parkway networks o There is an opportunity to add smaller-scale affordable housing options within this area o A lot of this study area is industrial and could be redeveloped in a unique way o Pedestrian routes need safer sidewalks and crosswalks Existing condition analysis Attached to this report are the draft current conditions summary for each gateway. The summaries provide context for each gateway by looking at demographics and land use changes in the areas. For each light rail station area, an additional analysis of the existing station area plans has been included within the summary. This analysis reviews the goals and objectives of each existing station area plan, highlights what has been accomplished from those plans, and what still needs to be implemented. The last page of each summary will be filled by the input and ideas provided by community members during phase 2 of engagement. 6 Study session meeting of October 4, 2023 (Item No. 2a) Title: Arrive + Thrive project update Phase 2 engagement approach The second phase of engagement will share “big ideas” identified for each gateway based on community input from phase 1 and the consultants’ technical analysis of existing conditions and the current station area plans. The intent of phase 2 is to present these ideas to the public through a variety of engagement activities to test these ideas and discover new ideas from community members. This phase will host a variety of events and activities for each sub area. Big ideas to test through engagement Below are the areas of focus for each big idea identified for each gateway. Phase 2 engagement events will present these ideas to community members to see how well they work and also spark new ideas. The intent is to confirm the big ideas and gather specific input to shape the implementation actions of each big idea. Louisiana gateway •Redevelopment opportunities •Affordable housing •Oxford Street activation •Circulation West Excelsior gateway •West Excelsior Boulevard design •Commercial redevelopment opportunities •Parking and access •Multimodal circulation Wooddale gateway •Redevelopment opportunities •Green corridors •Circulation •Highway 100 Beltline gateway •Redevelopment opportunities •CSAH 25 •Green corridors •Circulation 7 Study session meeting of October 4, 2023 (Item No. 2a) Title: Arrive + Thrive project update Phase 2 participation strategies Strategy Purpose Audience Community advisory group meeting #3 Review existing conditions and concept planning framework for the overall process and each specific study area. Community advisory group Events Community events and activities to share big ideas and gather feedback. Individual activities will be held specific to each study area. Public, Stakeholders Interactive map Share the big ideas via an online platform and collect feedback. Public, Stakeholders Website information Provide general project update Public, Stakeholders Gateway events Specific events have been identified for each gateway to cater to the surrounding community and big ideas. • Pop-up at fire station open house; September 19, 5-7 pm o All gateways, one big idea shared for each gateway • Fall Festival at Susan Lindgren Elementary; October 2, 5-7 pm o Wooddale Gateway • Pop-ups at parent teacher conferences; October 6, October 17-18, & November 17 o All gateways • Business survey for Excelsior Boulevard businesses Week of October 9 o West Excelsior Gateway • Pop-up at Music on the Patio event at Steele Toe Brewery; October 14, 6-8 pm o Beltline Gateway • Pop-up at Howl-o-ween event at Wolfe Park; October 15, 12-3 pm o Wooddale Gateway and Beltline Gateway • Business Focus Group for businesses near Louisiana Station; October 17, 12 pm o Louisiana Gateway • Walking tour of West Excelsior Boulevard; October 17, 4:30 pm o West Excelsior Boulevard • Pop-up at Goblins on Ice event at the ROC; October 27, 5:45-7 pm o Wooddale Gateway and Beltline Gateway • South Oak Hill neighborhood meeting; Schedule TBD o Louisiana Gateway Next steps: Planning commissioners are encouraged to attend and participate in any of the events for phase 2 of engagement. We also encourage you to share information about the events and online engagement with your friends, family and neighbors. 8 This report summarizes engagement events and community feedback collected from surveys and in-person events. The Arrive + Thrive Open House from June 27th, an online survey, and an online interactive map are included. Over 150 community members have participated. August 2023 PHASE 1 ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY Place a Pin! This needs attention I have an idea I have a concern I like this Legend: Green Line Extension Bike Routes & Trails Louisiana Gatew a y Louisiana Station Hwy 7 Lake St Walker St Cedar L a k e Tr ail CreeksidePark Methodist Hospital St. Louis Park High School Loffler Companies JorvigPark LouisianaOaks Park Oxford St Brunswick Ave L ouisia n a A v e M innehaha CreekPINK BLUE PURPLE GREEN 9 Arrive + Thrive Phase 1: Issues and Opportunities When: May 1 to July 14, 2023 Place a Pin! This needs attention I have an idea I have a concern I like this Legend: Green Line Extension Bike Routes & Trails Louisiana Gatew a y Louisiana Station Hwy 7 Lake St Walker St Cedar L a k e Tr ail CreeksidePark Methodist Hospital St. Louis Park High School Loffler Companies JorvigPark LouisianaOaks Park Oxford St Brunswick Ave L ouisia n a A v e M innehaha CreekCOLOR COLOR COLOR COLOR Goals of the Last Plan Developed in 2003, the Elmwood Area Land Use, Transit, and Transportation Study document provides a set of Elmwood Area (now Wooddale) planning principles, a range of recommendations, and land use guiding recommendations. Goals from that plan include: Redevelop opportunity sites for residential, office, and mixed-uses in line with future transit developments. Maintain or redevelop opportunity sites to support current and future job sectors. Redevelop opportunity sites for multimodal transit developments, such as park and rides. Improve pedestrian and bicycle accommodations to current and future amenities. Enhance the public realm by way of streetscape and open space improvements. Population Between 2010 and 2020, the population in census tracts in the Wooddale Station Gateway area grew by between -6.3 percent and 22.4 percent (10.5 percent citywide). Housing In census tracts in the Wooddale Station Gateway area, the percentage of renter-occupied housing is between 12.0 percent and 71.9 percent (41.9 percent citywide). Employment & Income Between 2010 and 2020, the median household income in census tracts in the Wooddale Station Gateway area grew between 16.6 percent and 63.0 percent (39.7 percent citywide). Mobility 63% 60% 56% Percentage of jobs in transportation, warehousing, and utilities Percentage of jobs in other services Percentage of jobs in public administration Wooddale Station 1 5 6 4 3 7 9 11 12 2 1 Highway 7 interchange and improvements, 2011 2 Wooddale Ave bikeway improvements, 2020 3 Via Sol apartments, 2022 4 Union Park Flats, 2024 5 Village in the Park condominiums and townhomes, 2006 6 36th Street reconstruction, 2022 7 OlyHi mixed-use development, 2025 8 Towerlight senior housing, 2012 9 Hoigaard Village mixed-use development, 2007 10 The Elmwood apartments, 2019 11 Firestation 1, 2011 12 Arbor House apartments, 2023 Wooddale Station Gateway 8% 47% 46% Percentage of households in the study area with two or more vehicles. Percentage of households in the study area with one vehicle. Percentage of households in the study area with no vehicles. Lake StWo o d d a l e A v e 36th St Hwy 100Hwy 7 Area Investments Environment The greater Minnehaha Creek Watershed is a critical natural resource in the Wooddale Gateway area. Future developments should use best practices to promote positive stewardship of the watershed. 8 10 The first phase of the Arrive + Thrive Gateway Planning process set out to inform the community of the project, share its purpose and process and learn about individuals’ experiences in the study area. Engagement activities were targeted at learning these experiences across each of the four gateways. Feedback will inform the refinement of goals for the four gateways and solidify the issues and opportunities analysis. A number of tactics were used to promote the open house and community survey, including: • City and neighborhood social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, NextDoor) • GovDelivery emails to existing subscribers • Yards signs placed in the study area • Attendance at community events • Flyers and postcards located throughout the community There were two primary methods for collecting input for the first phase of engagement. An open house on June 27th at the Municipal Service Center provided an opportunity to gather in- person with community members and gather feedback. The online engagement opportunities were available from May 1 to July 14, 2023, providing an opportunity for the community to learn about and engage with the project. Activities at the open house included the following. • Project overview and context • Push pin activity: locate the places that need attention, have something you like, or you have a concern about • Priorities activity: identify the priorities that are most important to you for each gateway • Create a headline: what will they be writing about after implementation The input gathered at the open house was included within the online survey summary in the following pages. Phase 1 purpose Phase 1 promotion Phase 1 events Join the conversation! What’s next for gateways into St. Louis Park? Help inform future investments and priorities at the three METRO Green Line light rail stations and West Excelsior Boulevard. bit.ly/slp-arrive-and-thrive THRIVE+ARRIVE ST. LOUIS PARK GATEWAY PLANNING 2Arrive + Thrive: St. Louis Park Gateway Planning Engagement Summary 10 Online community survey When: May 1 - July 14, 2023 20 Questions, open-ended and multiple choice 146 Participants The average household size represented is between 2-3 individuals.(147 respondents) The community is drawn to the study area(s) because: The community is excited about: The community is concerned about: Race and Ethnicity Gender LGBTQ+ Community Most respondents (over 75%) live in a single unit detatched house. (144 respondents) Almost 10% of respondents identified as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. (136 respondents) • They live and/or work nearby • They enjoy outdoor activities and look forward to future trail connections • They are looking forward to using the new light rail line • They are interested in future development and improvements • Trails and connections to open space for pedestrians and cyclists; improved walkability • Connections to Downtown by light rail • New residential and mixed-use development, and overall neighborhood revitalization • Environmental restoration and improved biodiversity • Limited infrastructure and traffic from new development • Lack of neighborhood cohesiveness and connectivity • Pedestrian and cyclist safety • Lack of senior and affordable housing opportunities No(90.44%) Yes(9.56%)Other(2.24%) Female(58.210%) Non-Binary(1.49%) Male(38.06%) Other(4.3%)Black(0.75%) Hispanic or Latino(3.76%) White(93.98%) American Indian or Alaska Native (3.01%) 3Arrive + Thrive: St. Louis Park Gateway Planning Engagement Summary 11 The average household size represented is between 2-3 individuals.(147 respondents) Over half of the respondent’s households take home over 118,000 dollars annually. (121 respondents) Over 70% of respondents do not have any children in their household. (143 respondents) Most of the respondents are between 31 and 69 years old. (141 Respondents) What is your relationship to St. Louis Park? (Select all that apply) Household size Other key takeaways: Home type Homeowners Vs. renters Most respondents (over 75%) live in a single unit detatched house. (144 respondents) Over 95% of respondents own their home. (143 respondents) • Connections to the open spaces within the study area could be improved. 20% of respondents did not agree that these spaces were well-maintained and accessible. Over 30% were neutral. • Over 45% of respondents agreed/strongly agreed they could find housing within the study area that met their needs with access to services they wanted. Around 17% did not agree. 0 - 35,199 58,650 - 70,379 35,200 - 58,649 70,380 - 89,399 89,400 - 118,199 118,200 + Household income Household age 100500 150 I live here I go to school here I work here I visit friends and family here I shop and go to restaurants here Other 20%40%0%60% 25 500 75 0 - 5 11-14 6-10 15-17 18-30 31-49 50-69 70+ Own(96.5%) Rent(3.5%) Condo(21.8%) Single Unit Detached House(21.8%) Apartment (2.78%) Townhouse(6.25%) 4-6(21.1%) 1(21.8%) 2-3(57%) 4Arrive + Thrive: St. Louis Park Gateway Planning Engagement Summary 12 Interactive map When: 1 May - 14 July 2023 1 map with 4 location identifiers 57 participants, 152 contributions This map of St. Louis Park highlights the four Gateway study areas - Louisiana Station Gateway, Wooddale Station Gateway, Beltline Station Gateway, and Excelsior Boulevard Gateway. There were 58 ideas, 48 concerns, 17 likes, and 29 notices for attention added to the map. Overall, there are opportunities to create separate identities for each of the study areas while developing a cohesive plan. Improvements can be made to pedestrian and cyclist connections throughout the study areas - wayfinding, greenways, pocket parks, sidewalks and bike lanes, and crosswalks. There is also a need to connect the neighborhoods and amenities on the north and south sides of the new light rail tracks and Highway 7. 5Arrive + Thrive: St. Louis Park Gateway Planning Engagement Summary NNTS 13 Louisiana Station Gateway Wooddale Station Gateway Beltline Station Gateway West Excelsior Boulevard Gateway • A shuttle service from light rail stop to the Hospital • Ensuring protection of and highlighting the creek as part of future development • Additional neighborhood amenities on the north side of the new light rail stop such as pocket parks, • Additional greenways and improved tree canopy for pedestrians and cyclists • Traffic is very congested in this area • Highway overpasses are not pedestrian friendly • The existing bike lanes are not separated enough • There is an opportunity here to improve the north side of the study area and create a destination for restaurants and shops • Bass Lake Park is popular within the area and the community would like greenways to connect to the regional parkway networks • There is an opportunity to add smaller-scale affordable housing options within this area • A lot of this study area is industrial and could be redeveloped in a unique way • Pedestrian routes need safer sidewalks and crosswalks • This corridor should be more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly with improved crosswalks and separation from traffic • Parking should be considered in redevelopment • The intersection of West Excelsior Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue is congested and “messy” • The new retail spaces should prioritize small, locally-owned businesses Interactive Map Key Takeaways 6Arrive + Thrive: St. Louis Park Gateway Planning Engagement Summary 14 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Louisiana Gateway Current Conditions Summary DRAFT - Oct 2023 15 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Policy conditionsCurrent conditionsLouisiana Gateway: June 2023 Louisiana Gateway area, looking northwest Louisiana Gateway area, looking south Louisiana Gateway area, looking southeast Louisiana Gateway area showing Metro Green Line LRT construction, looking east Methodist Hospital Minnehaha Creek Highway 7 Louisiana Oaks Park Louisiana Ave Louisiana Ave Louisiana Ave Station Louisiana Ave Station Wooddale Ave Station Louisiana Ave Station Methodist Hospital Cedar Lake Trail DRAFT - Oct 2023 16 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPolicy conditionsLouisiana Station Area Framework + Design Guidelines Developed in 2013, the Louisiana Station Area Framework and Design Guidelines provided a set of planning principles, a range of recommendations, and land use guiding recommendations for the Louisiana Gateway. The following outlines specific goals of the plan and the recent investments within the gateway area. Plan goals Illustrative plan: 2013 Encourage transit-oriented development that supports transit use, increases the mix and density of land uses, strengthens nearby neighborhoods, and improves pedestrian environments. Promote investment, intensification, and redevelopment in the Louisiana Ave station area to support its growth as an employment center. Leverage healthcare demand to create a healthcare-oriented district that links services with housing and amenities. Manage parking to support multimodal transit, while lessening impacts to development potential and pedestrian environments. Create a connected system of parks and open spaces, pedestrian and bike network, and complete streets in the station area. OFFICE LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (REINVESTMENT) LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (REDEVELOPMENT) RETAIL OTHER COMMERCIAL PLAZA PARKS + OPEN SPACE PARKING RAMP PEDESTRIAN CONNECTIONS 58INTRODUCTIONPRECEDENT STUDIESEXISTING CONDITIONSVISION + PRINCIPLESFRAMEWORK PLANSDESIGN GUIDELINESPed/Bike Underpass New Stre et Structured Parking (5 Levels) Structured Parking (5 Levels) Structured Parking (3 Levels) Structured Parking (3 Levels)Structured Parking (3 Levels)Structured Parking (3 Levels) Surface Parking Surface Parking Surface Parking Surface Parking Surface Parking Surface Parking Surface Parking Park & Ri d e R a m p Structured Parking (3 Levels )LRT Platf or m Single StorySingle Story (2 Story) (2 Story) (2 Story) (5 Story) (4 Story) (3 Story) (5 Story) (3 Story) (5 Story) (5 Story) (3 Story) (3 Story) Hotel (3 Story) Existing Light Industrial (4 Story) (2 Story) Existing Light Industrial Single Story Transit Pl az a P e d e s t r i a n S t r e e t New Stre et N e w S t r e e t Proposed Ped/Bike Connection on Removed Switching Wye* Fig. 5-10. NORTH STATiON - iLLUSTRATiVE MASTER PLAN 0 200’100’ 400’N Open Water Stormwater Stormwater Stormwater Stormwater Wetland Wetland Wetland Proposed Open Water Amenity DRAFT - Oct 2023 17 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPolicy conditionsLouisiana Station Area Framework + Design Guidelines The current plan lists a number of recommendations and actions that will assist the community in achieving the established goals for the Louisiana Station area. While progress has been made, there is still work to do. Land use + development: The plan recognized the unique employment offerings within the gateway and identified opportunities to maintain those opportunities as they are not allowed elsewhere in the community. These uses have generally remained in the Louisiana Gateway. Redevelopment opportunities have been pursued included the Loeffler reuse to the north of the station and a variety of investment in the Historic Walker Lake district. Mobility + access: A number of transportation investments have improved mobility in the gateway: •Alignment of the Louisiana Station was solidified and construction way completed. •A rail and Cedar Lake Trail overpass of Louisiana Avenue was completed. •The Louisiana Avenue bridge over Minnehaha Creek was completed. •Construction of sidewalks to close gaps continues throughout the gateway. •Cycle tracks were constructed on each side of Louisiana Avenue. What has been completed? 1.Redevelopment opportunity 2.Historic Walker Lake district, rezoned for mixed-use development, 2021 3.Stormwater facility and pumphouse 4.Loeffler, rezoned for adaptive reuse commercial and residential developments 5.Stormwater opportunity 6.Louisiana Avenue reconstruction 7.Minnehaha Creek restoration and water quality improvements Policy conditionsLouisiana Station 1 3 2 2 4 5 Hwy 7 Lake St Oxford St 7 6 Louisiana AveDRAFT - Oct 2023 18 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY 1.Introduce street level commercial opportunities 2.Pedestrian pathway connecting the station to the medical campus 3.Conversion of the south rail spur 4.Meadowbrook Lane extension over Minnehaha CreekPolicy conditionsLouisiana Station Area Framework + Design Guidelines Land use + development: Limited redevelopment opportunities were identified in the plan. The following policy or guidance recommendations have yet to be completed: •Transition of larger surface parking due to a struggle with soil contamination and required mediation. •Introduction of street level commercial, which could be considered with potential Oxford Street redevelopment. •Maintaining access and viability to Highway 7. Mobility + access: While many improvements were made, the following recommendations have yet to be implemented: •Pedestrian pathway to connect the Louisiana Station to the hospital campus. •Construct loop streets for both east and west of Louisiana. •Convert the south rail spur into a trail connect. The south spur is currently active, serving businesses within the gateway. •Continue to improve street connectivity for all modes. •Coordinate bus connections to SWLRT with Metro Transit. •Construct a Meadowbrook Lane bridge over Minnehaha Creek. What is left to accomplish? 2 Louisiana Station Hwy 7 Lake St Oxford St Louisiana Ave1 3 1 2 4 DRAFT - Oct 2023 19 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYSocial conditionsPopulation Between 2010 and 2020, the population in census tracts in the Louisiana Gateway area grew by between 3.7 percent and 13.0 percent (10.5 percent citywide). Age The median age for the Louisiana Gateway ranged from 32.4 to 35.3 years in 2021, representing a similar age demographic to the city as a whole. Housing In census tracts in the Louisiana Gateway area, the percentage of renter-occupied housing is between 12.0 percent and 52.0 percent (41.9 percent citywide). Employment & Income Between 2010 and 2020, the median household income in census tracts in the Louisiana Gateway area grew between 46.2 percent and 63.0 percent (39.7 percent citywide). Mobility 63% 60% 56% Percentage of jobs in transportation, warehousing, and utilities Percentage of jobs in other services Percentage of jobs in public administration 8% 47% 46% Percentage of households in the study area have access to two or more vehicles. Percentage of households in the study area have access to one vehicle. Percentage of households in the study area with no access to vehicles. Physical conditionsArrive + Thrive study area conditions Louisiana gateway conditions 10.4% 49% $1,923 $1,427 population growth from 2010 of all jobs in St. Louis Park are located in the study area median monthly mortgage cost median monthly rent cost The city as a whole grew by 10.5 percent. The educational services and health care industry is the largest sector.$$ DRAFT - Oct 2023 20 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPhysical conditionsLand use + development Businesses + neighborhoods Mobility + access Parks + natural systems Current land uses: The primary land uses include Industrial, Institutional, and Retail, with surrounding single family and multi- family residential to the east and west. Future land use: The 2040 Comprehensive Plan guides a transition of industrial uses to business park, while maintaining some industrial areas. Retail areas near the station are identified as Transit Oriented Development. Mixed use opportunities are presented in the Historic Walker Lake area. Recent development: Recent development in the Louisiana Gateway has been limited to the Loeffler building and larger investments within Historic Walker Lake. Infrastructure: The existing street network is not well connected, with limited opportunities to move throughout the gateway by personal vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian. The south rail spur still remains active through the gateway serving at least one business. There is limited sidewalk connectivity. Bike and pedestrian mobility: The western edge of Louisiana is the most used for walkers and bikers in the study. However, volumes are the lowest for this gateway compare to others. The Cedar Lake Trail, however, carries at least 150 trips per day. Between 75 and 150 walkers and bikers cross Highway 7 on either side of Louisiana Avenue. Access: Individual property access does not generally present concerns within the study area. Neighborhoods: The Louisiana Gateway includes portions of the South Oak Hill, Brooklawns and Meadow Brook neighborhoods. Employment centers: The industrial uses within the gateway are identified as an employment area. Methodist Hospital is a major employer in this gateway, and the city has a whole. Parcel utilization: There are a number of parcels identified as under utilize near the station. Very few industrial or commercial properties are identified as well utilized (where the land value is 25 percent or less than the total property value). Areas of recent development in Historic Walker Lake are well utilized. Parks: Meadowbrook Manor Park and Louisiana Oaks Park are located within the gateway. Meadowbrook Golf Course is also located to the south of the study area. All areas are located within a half mile walk-shed to a park. Natural systems: The Louisiana Gateway study area consists of primarily impervious surfaces (pavement and buildings). The surrounding neighborhoods have a larger tree canopy and neighborhood streets include boulevard trees. Wetlands: Minnehaha Creek is located within the southwest quadrant of the study area, which is supported by green infrastructure. The creek continues to experience improvements and enhancements. DRAFT - Oct 2023 21 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYKey themesLouisiana Gateway Focus areas to explore: Big ideas to test: Redevelopment opportunities in industrial areas and older multifamily Preservation efforts of existing small businesses Balance/compatibility between uses Avoiding/mitigating displacement of current residents and preserving affordability Connections to and potential expansion of open spaces and public amenities, especially in flood prone areas •Introduction of street level commercial uses that provide employee based amenities that encourage movement throughout the gateway. •Continued support of existing industrial uses, with opportunities for reinvestment if the opportunity arises. •Preserve affordable housing options currently available within the gateway. •Enhance connections and experiences with natural resources the study area. •Improve trail and sidewalk connectivity. •How to connect light rail area to Methodist Hospital (new streets, shuttle, bike/ped connections?) •General approach to parking lot conversion to development or green space •Regional stormwater facility that also acts as green space/public space •Connectivity to Historic Walker Lake •Connection between existing parks and green spaces (including future MCWD connections to Blake Rd Station development) •Preserving NOAH within Meadowbrook/Era •Redevelopment approach for industrial areas Of the four gateway areas, the Louisiana Gateway has seen the least amount of private redevelopment in the last 20 years, but it has been transformed by public investment in infrastructure and Minnehaha Creek corridor. Future redevelopment of this commercial and industrial area will need to take a balanced approach to appreciate and improve nearby amenities. Redevelopment can provide safe and convenient connections between public transit, Methodist Hospital, nearby neighborhoods, and parks and natural areas. Redevelopments can also foster positive relationships with nearby amenities, such as Minnehaha Creek, to sustain those resources for future generations. What is next?DRAFT - Oct 2023 22 LOUISIANA GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Big ideas to test:Ideas that will not be carried forward:The following ideas were either presented in the current study or identified during this process and will no long be considered for the Louisiana Gateway. The following graphic will be updated to reflect the ideas and concepts identified by the Community Advisory Group and staff charrettes. What is next?2 Louisiana Station Hwy 7 Lake St Oxford StLouisiana AveDRAFT - Oct 2023 23 WEST EXCELSIOR GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY West Excelsior Gateway Current Conditions Summary DRAFT - Oct 2023 24 WEST EXCELSIOR GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Policy conditionsCurrent conditionsWest Excelsior Gateway: June 2023 Excelsior Gateway area, looking northeast Excelsior Gateway area showing Meadowbrook Park, looking north Excelsior Gateway area showing Minnehaha Creek and Louisiana Gateway area, looking north Excelsior Gateway area showing Minnehaha Creek and Methodist Hospital, looking northeast Excelsior Blvd Excelsior Blvd Methodist Hospital Meadowbrook Park Minnehaha Creek Minnehaha Creek Louisiana Ave Louisiana Ave Louisiana Ave Station Excelsior Blvd Excelsior Blvd DRAFT - Oct 2023 25 WEST EXCELSIOR GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPolicy conditionsDesign Guidelines for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard West Excelsior Blvd is a unique corridor without a dedicated guiding document in place, but The Design Guidelines for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard (2015) serves as a valuable resource for East Excelsior Boulevard. Guidelines from that plan and other gateway plans include: Plan goals Area investments Capture the value of high quality transit-oriented developments at nearby LRT station areas. Encourage and preserve neighborhood-scaled, mixed uses in the corridor that are stylistically harmonious, but not uniform. Promote engaged site and building frontages that bring life and energy to streets and sidewalks. Encourage and preserve smaller, affordable, neighborhood-oriented business spaces. Prioritize people in developments by orienting site designs and building architecture to human- scaled experiences and a range of uses over time. Ensure that vehicular traffic, access, and parking does not negatively impact human activities, such as walking, biking, and dining. Investments and opportunities have presented for the West Excelsior Gateway even with a lack of dedicated plan. A key investment was the roadway improvements constructed through the area. Additionally, there are multiple redevelopment opportunities to be considered and studied along the corridor. 1.Redevelopment opportunitu at Jessen Press 2.Excelsior Boulevard improvements 3.Redevelopment opportunity at Party City site Excelsior Blvd 1 2 3 Excelsior Bl v dAlabama AveYosemite AveBrunswick AveCambridge St Hwy 100DRAFT - Oct 2023 26 WEST EXCELSIOR GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYSocial conditionsPopulation Between 2010 and 2020, the population in census tracts in the West Excelsior Gateway area grew by 10.3 percent (10.5 percent citywide). Age The median age for the West Excelsior Gateway is 32.4 years in 2021, nearly 3 years younger that the median age for the city. Housing In census tracts in the West Excelsior Gateway area, the percentage of renter-occupied housing is between 52.0 percent (41.9 percent citywide). Employment & Income Between 2010 and 2020, the median household income in census tracts in the West Excelsior Gateway area grew between 46.2 percent and 63.0 percent (39.7 percent citywide). Mobility 63% 60% 56% Percentage of jobs in transportation, warehousing, and utilities Percentage of jobs in other services Percentage of jobs in public administration 8% 47% 46% Percentage of households in the study area have access to two or more vehicles. Percentage of households in the study area have access to one vehicle. Percentage of households in the study area with no access to vehicles. Physical conditionsArrive + Thrive study area conditions West Excelsior gateway conditions 10.4% 49% $1,923 $1,427 population growth from 2010 of all jobs in St. Louis Park are located in the study area median monthly mortgage cost median monthly rent cost The city as a whole grew by 10.5 percent. The educational services and health care industry is the largest sector.$$ DRAFT - Oct 2023 27 WEST EXCELSIOR GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPhysical conditionsLand use + development Businesses + neighborhoods Mobility + access Parks + natural systems Current land uses: Retail and other commercial land uses are located between Colorado Avenue and Highway 100 with frontage on Excelsior Boulevard. These uses are surrounded by single family neighborhoods. Multifamily residential and office uses anchor the study area on the western end. Future land use: The 2040 Comprehensive Plan maintains commercial uses along Excelsior Boulevard for the majority of the gateway. A transition to High Density Residential between Dakota Avenue and Brunswick Avenue has been guided. Recent development: No major redevelopment has occurred recently within the gateway, though there are multiple sites (e.g., Party City) that have redevelopment potential. Infrastructure: The existing street network is well connected, with system of roadways and sidewalks. There are no dedicated bike facilities in the gateway. There are a total of four 4-legged intersections and six 3-legged intersections with Excelsior Boulevard. Bike and pedestrian mobility: Between 76-150 walkers and bikers travel along either side of Excelsior Boulevard each day. Pedestrian volumes are highest on Wooddale Avenue, Yosemite Avenue, Colorado Avenue, and Brunswick Avenue to connect to Excelsior Boulevard. Bicycle volumes are highest on Alabama Avenue and Xenwood Avenue. Access: There are a number of individual access points along Excelsior Boulevard, and they are generally spaced with one or two access points per block. Neighborhoods: The West Excelsior Gateway includes portions of the Elmwood, Brooklawns, Creekside, and Brookside neighborhoods. Employment centers: The hospital and office buildings in the northeast corner of Louisiana and Excelsior are identified as an employment center. Parcel utilization: There are a few commercial uses along the Excelsior Boulevard corridor that are well utilized where the improvement value is at least 75% of the property value. The initial redevelopment opportunities identified were identified as underutilized. Parks: Meadowbrook Park and the Golf Course are located on the western edge of the gateway. There are two areas to the south of the Highway 100 interchange that do not have access to a park within a reasonable walkshed. Natural systems: Areas directly adjacent to Excelsior Boulevard are primarily impervious surfaces (pavement and buildings). The surrounding neighborhoods have a larger tree canopy and neighborhood streets include boulevard trees. Wetlands: Minnehaha Creek is located on the western edge of the gateway, which is supported by green infrastructure. The creek continues to experience improvements and enhancements. DRAFT - Oct 2023 28 WEST EXCELSIOR GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYKey themesWest Excelsior Gateway Focus areas to explore: Big ideas to test: Commercial redevelopment along the corridor Compatibility with residential communities Reimaging Excelsior Boulevard (what is the identity) •Commercial redevelopment opportunity areas - what are the next opportunities. •Commercial development guidance that supports corridor destinations that also support the surrounding communities. •West Excelsior Boulevard - how does the roadway change. •Construction bicycle infrastructure and create connections to the northern station areas. •Redevelopment potential of Party City site •Redevelopment potential of Jessen Press site •Crossing Excelsior Blvd •N/S bike trails/transportation corridor •Sense of identity for commercial corridor The West Excelsior Gateway is an existing commercial corridor, where redevelopment can sustain small businesses and bring positive changes to the area. The community recognizes the appeal of smaller, community-oriented, and neighborhood-scale developments in the corridor. Redevelopment can prioritize people over cars to ensure that vehicular traffic, access, and parking are efficient without negatively impacting visitors and nearby residents. Redevelopments can respond to local needs by providing new housing, amenities, and services that bring life to the corridor and complement nearby neighborhoods. What is next?DRAFT - Oct 2023 29 WEST EXCELSIOR GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Big ideas to test:Ideas that will not be carried forward:The following ideas were either presented in the current study or identified during this process and will no long be considered for the West Excelsior Gateway. The following graphic will be updated to reflect the ideas and concepts identified by the Community Advisory Group and staff charrettes. What is next?Excelsior Blvd Excelsior Bl v dAlabama AveYosemite AveBrunswick AveCambridge St Hwy 100DRAFT - Oct 2023 30 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Wooddale Gateway Current Conditions Summary DRAFT - Oct 2023 31 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Policy conditionsWooddale Gateway area, looking north Wooddale Gateway area, looking northwest Wooddale Gateway area with 36th Street reconstruction, looking east Wooddale Gateway area, looking southeast Wooddale Ave Wooddale Ave Wooddale AveWooddale Ave Station Wooddale Ave Station PLACE Via Sol Village in the Park Alabama Ave Oxford St 36th St 36th St Cedar Lake TrailCurrent conditionsWooddale Gateway: June 2023 DRAFT - Oct 2023 32 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPolicy conditionsElmwood Area Land Use Transit, and Transportation Study Developed in 2003, the Elmwood Area Land Use, Transit, and Transportation Study provided a set of planning principles, a range of recommendations, and land use guiding recommendations for the Wooddale Gateway. The following outlines specific goals of the plan and the recent investments within the gateway area. Plan goals Illustrative plan: 2003 Redevelop opportunity sites for residential, office, and mixed-uses in line with future transit developments. Maintain or redevelop opportunity sites to support current and future job sectors. Redevelop opportunity sites for multimodal transit developments, such as park and rides. Improve pedestrian and bicycle accommodations to current and future amenities. Enhance the public realm by way of streetscaping and open space improvements. 4434 Executive SummarySTUDYAREA ILLUSTRATIVE PLAN Elmwood Area Land Use, Transit and Transportation Study Hennepin County Department of Housing, Community Works, and Transit City of St. Louis Park TH 7 TH 100W. 36th Street 37th Street W o o d d a l e A v e n u e Oxford Street Alabama AvenueXenwood AvenueLight R ail DRAFT - Oct 2023 33 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPolicy conditionsElmwood Area Land Use Transit, and Transportation Study The current plan lists a number of recommendations and actions that will assist the community in achieving the established goals for the Wooddale Station area. While progress has been made, there is still work to do. Land use + development: Multiple properties were redeveloped within the study area. Some sites were redeveloped in alignment with the future land use guidance of the plan (e.g., former McGarvey Coffee to PLACE Via Sol (217 units), while other areas redeveloped into thriving destinations, with slight variations from the land use guidance (e.g., Pechiney Plastics was guided for medium-density residential, but was redeveloped with an industrial use, the Johnny Pops site). Transit + Transit Oriented Development (TOD): Specific transit and transit oriented development recommendations were identified and completed within the study area: •Freight rail and Light Rail will be co-located on the existing rail line. •Mixed-use development is underway near the station with 315 units and 12,000 sf of commercial space proposed. •The station will be accessible by walking and biking, with no dedicated parking at the station. However, will be available with a parking structure at the Beltline station and surface parking at the Louisiana station. Mobility + access: A number of transportation investments have improved mobility in the gateway: •Reconstruction of Wooddale Avenue in 2022 with off-street trails and lane configuration improvements. •Interchange at TH 7 and Wooddale Avenue with frontage road improvements. •Cedar Lake Trail underpass of Wooddale Avenue (to open with light rail) •Cycle track construction on south side of 36th Street in 2022. •West 36th Street streetscape standards established with implementation of some improvements. What has been completed? 1.Highway 7 interchange and improvements, 2011 2.Wooddale Ave bikeway improvements, 2020 3.Via Sol apartments, 2022 4.Union Park Flats, 2024 5.Village in the Park condominiums and townhomes, 2006 6.36th Street reconstruction, 2022 7.OlyHi mixed-use development, 2025 8.Towerlight senior housing, 2012 9.Hoigaard Village mixed-use development, 2007 10.The Elmwood apartments, 2019 11.Firestation 1, 2011 12.Arbor House apartments, 2023 Wooddale Station 1 5 6 4 3 7 9 11 12 2Lake StWo o d d a l e A v e 36th St Hwy 100Hwy 78 10 Policy conditionsDRAFT - Oct 2023 34 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY 1.Redevelopment Opportunity: Burlighton Coat Factory and Micro Center 2.Redevelopment Opportunity: Industrial and Commercial development between Xenwood Avenue and Yosemite Avenue 3.Extension of Wooddale Avenue with crossing over Highway 100 4.Inclusion of a median along Wooddale Avenue. 5.Oxford, Xenwood and Wooddale intersection 6.Xenwood Avenue underpassPolicy conditionsElmwood Area Land Use Transit, and Transportation Study Land use + development: All areas identified as opportunity sites have seen construction of new developments or have current proposals for redevelopment. A few additional sites may be considered for redevelopment based on current conditions include: •The Burlington Coat Factory and Micro Center site •Areas between Xenwood and Yosemite Avenues (north of 36th Street) Transit + Transit Oriented Development (TOD): No specific transit recommendations remain to be accomplished. Mobility + access: Although major changes occurred, a couple of recommendations were not completed as identified: •Extension of Wooddale to overpass Highway 100 was not completed and is unlikely due to development. A pedestrian/bicycle connection may still be possible. •A median was not included in the design for the reconstruction of Wooddale Avenue. •The Oxford, Xenwood, and Wooddale intersection has not been pursued until the redevelopment of the Micro Center site. •An Xenwood Avenue underpass of the rail line is not planned. What is left to accomplish? Wooddale Station 1 3 2 2Lake St36th St Hwy 100Hwy 76Wo o d d a l e A v e 4 5 DRAFT - Oct 2023 35 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYSocial conditionsPopulation Between 2010 and 2020, the population in census tracts in the Wooddale Gateway area changed between -6.3 percent and 22.4 percent (10.5 percent citywide). Age The median age for the Wooddale Gateway ranged from 32.4 to 34.4 years in 2021, representing a population that is an average of 1 year younger than the city as a whole. Housing In census tracts in the Wooddale Gateway area, the percentage of renter-occupied housing is between 12.0 percent and 71.9 percent (41.9 percent citywide). Employment & Income Between 2010 and 2020, the median household income in census tracts in the Wooddale Gateway area grew between 16.6 percent and 63.0 percent (39.7 percent citywide). Mobility 63%60% 56% Percentage of jobs in transportation, warehousing, and utilities Percentage of jobs in other services Percentage of jobs in public administration 8%47% 46% Percentage of households in the study area have access to two or more vehicles. Percentage of households in the study area have access to one vehicle. Percentage of households in the study area with no access to vehicles. Physical conditionsArrive + Thrive study area conditions Wooddale gateway conditions 10.4% 49% $1,923 $1,427 population growth from 2010 of all jobs in St. Louis Park are located in the study area median monthly mortgage cost median monthly rent cost The city as a whole grew by 10.5 percent. The educational services and health care industry is the largest sector.$$ DRAFT - Oct 2023 36 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPhysical conditionsLand use + development Businesses + neighborhoods Mobility + access Parks + natural systems Current land uses: There are a wide mix of current uses south of Highway 7 including industrial, retail, mixed-use and multifamily. Uses north of Highway 7 consist of primarily single family residential Future land use: The 2040 Comprehensive Plan includes a shift in land uses, including the designation of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) within the core study area, in addition to high and medium intensity residential. Land uses north of Highway 7 are maintained. Recent development: The Wooddale Gateway has experienced the largest areas of redevelopment and investment in the last 10 years, including residential and mixed use developments. Infrastructure: The existing street network is well connected with Wooddale serving as the single crossing of Highway 7 and 36th Street as the single Highway 100 crossing. A majority of the local streets have sidewalks on either side, with limited trails within the gateway. Bike and pedestrian mobility: Wooddale Avenue and 36th Street experience over 150 daily users individually. Wooddale Avenue experiences high volumes south of 36th Street to Oxford Street, consisting of mostly pedestrian movement (80% of travelers). Brunswick Avenue is highly utilized as a north/south route. Access: The street network is well connected, providing access to destinations within the gateway. Individual property access is managed well on higher volume roadways. Neighborhoods: The Wooddale Gateway includes portions of the Elmwood and Sorenson neighborhoods. Employment centers: The commercial area in the southeast quadrant of the 36th Street and Highway 100 interchange is identified as a commercial center. Parcel utilization: Parcels within the study area are generally highly utilized, likely as a result of recent development. The Micro Center site is the largest underutilized parcel. Neighborhoods are generally utilized well, with scattered underutilized parcels. Parks: Jorvig Park is the only city park located within the gateway, though Webster Park is located just to the northeast. All areas are located within a half mile walk-shed to a park. Natural systems: The Wooddale Gateway study area consists of primarily impervious surfaces (pavement and buildings). The surrounding neighborhoods have a larger tree canopy and neighborhood streets include boulevard trees. Wetlands: There are limited wetlands within the gateway. DRAFT - Oct 2023 37 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYKey themesWooddale Gateway Focus areas to explore: Big ideas to test: Housing redevelopment and the missing middle Optimization of roadways and public realm infrastructure Travel demand management for new and existing multifamily “Getting over” Highway 7 •Designation of housing opportunity areas north of Highway 7 in the Sorenson Neighborhood. •Parking and amenity offerings at multifamily to encourage transit usage. •Land bridge over Highway 7. •Pedestrian crossing of Highway 100 at 36th Street. •Greening of commercial and employment area with boulevard and site landscaping. •Connectivity to Historic Walker Lake and neighborhoods to the north •Overcoming the gap between highway 100 and the Rec Center on 36th Street •Redevelopment potential of Burlington/MicroCenter site •Redevelopment potential of former Johnny Pops site The Wooddale Gateway has seen the greatest amount of recent development, with reported successes, ideas for improvement, and signs of emerging redevelopment opportunities. Housing within the area includes a variety of densities and the community recognizes services included in recent apartment developments and has ideas for modest improvements that would create better experiences for all modes of travel and ideas for new parks and green spaces. The community also recognizes a need to build connections across Highway 7, where conditions suggest new opportunities for residential redevelopment in the Sorenson Neighborhood. What is next?DRAFT - Oct 2023 38 WOODDALE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Big ideas to test:Ideas that will not be carried forward:The following ideas were either presented in the current study or identified during this process and will no long be considered for the Wooddale Gateway. The following graphic will be updated to reflect the ideas and concepts identified by the Community Advisory Group and staff charrettes. What is next?Wooddale StationLake St36th St Hwy 100Hwy 7Wo o d d a l e A v e DRAFT - Oct 2023 39 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Beltline Gateway Current Conditions Summary DRAFT - Oct 2023 40 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Policy conditionsCurrent conditionsBeltline Gateway: June 2023 Beltline Gateway area, looking southwest Beltline Gateway area, looking south Beltline Gateway area, looking northwest Beltline Gateway area, looking southwest Beltline Ave Station Beltline Ave Station Beltline Ave Station Beltline Ave Beltline Ave Beltline Ave St. Louis Park Rec Center Beltline Ave Cedar Lake Trail Cedar Lake Trail Bass Lake Bass Lake Bass Lake DRAFT - Oct 2023 41 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPolicy conditionsBeltline Area Framework + Design Guidelines Developed in 2012, the Beltline Area Framework and Design Guidelines provided a set of planning principles, a range of recommendations, and land use guiding recommendations for the Beltline Gateway. The following outlines specific goals of the plan and the recent investments within the gateway area. Plan goals Potential Connectivity & Access Diagram: 2012 Create a unique sense of identity by weaving together the distinct Beltline districts. Increase street connectivity and mobility and prioritize pedestrian and bike accessibility. Foster the Beltline area as a growing regional employment center. Capture the value of high quality public transit by optimizing transit oriented development, economic development, and neighborhood- scaled amenities around a convenient, safe, and pleasant transit center. Create a connected network of great public parks and spaces. Manage parking effectively to include park and rides, drop- off zones, on-street parking, and user-friendly bike parking facilities. FramEwork - viSion PAGE 17 City of St. LouiS Park - BeLtLine area DeSign guiDeLineS Figure 2.4: Potential Connectivity & Access Diagram The Beltline area has a wealth of recreational and green space amenities, including Bass Lake Preserve, Cedar Lake Regional Trail, Wolfe Park, Carpenter Park/Skippy Field, and Lilac Park. Future development patterns are guided to improve the creation of a linked “Chain of Parks” system of green spaces and recreational destinations. Establishing a unique identity for the Beltline Area is an important element of the future land use and development pattern. Four street gateway areas are envisioned for the Beltline area at Beltline Blvd/TH 7 (west), Minnetonka Blvd/CSAH 25 (east), Beltline Blvd/36th Street (south), and Ottawa/Minnetonka Blvd (north). The most important locations for creating the Beltline area’s unique identity are along Beltline Boulevard, CSAH 25, around the future Beltline Transit Station, and at the four gateway areas. Connectivity & Access PatternsOne of the major challenges of the Beltline Area is its poor connectivity and access. Barriers to connectivity include the existing rail line, CSAH 25’s layout as a divided highway and frontage roads, limited north-south streets, extremely large “blocks”, and Bass Lake Preserve. In general, it is very challenging to travel north-south within the Beltline area with only one option available – Beltline Boulevard. Although east-west travel is better, it is also limited especially south of the rail line/Cedar Lake Regional Trail. Park Glen Road dead-ends both east and west of Beltline Boulevard. In general, the Beltline area should evolve into a walk/ bike-friendly area that makes it very convenient and safe to get to the future Beltline Transit Station as well as Beltline’s many other destinations. A significantly expanded pedestrian and bicycle network will be needed including sidewalks, bike lanes, and multi-use trails. The function and convenience of the Cedar Lake Trail for non-motorized recreation and transportation should be preserved and enhanced, if possible, as part of the Southwest LRT project. Thinking about Bass Lake Preserve Rec Center / Wolfe Park Fern Hill Park Carpenter Park/Skippy Field Minikahda Vista Park LILAC PARK Webster Park Bass Lake Park Sunshine Park Town Green Park 28TH FRANCEHIGHW A Y 7 EXCEL SI O R 29TH 35T H 38TH MINNETONKA KIPLINGOTTAWABELT L INE 36TH 37THUTICA36 1/2 HIGHWAY 100PARK GL E N LYNNGLENHURST31STJOPPA WEBSTERSALEM40THTOLEDO NATCHEZSUNSETVERNONQUENTIN VALLAC H E R M O N T E R E Y 39THRALEIGH INGLEWOOD34TH WOLFEPRINCETON HUNTINGTON33RD RANDAL L PARK CENTERPARK C O M M O N S GRANDLAKEMINIKAHDAWOODDALEPARK NICOLLETAUTO CLUB SERVICE MERID IANUTICA AVE S TO SB HWY100 SPRIVATEJOPPAINGLEWOODSALEMRALEIGHGLENHURSTPRINCETON FRANCEHIGHWAY 100HUNTINGTONOTTAWAHIGHWA Y 7 MONTEREYLYNNWEBSTER39THMONTEREY28THGLENHURSTSALEM NATCHEZHIGHW A Y 7 WEBSTERJOPPAQUENTINTOLEDOUTICAHUNTINGTONLYNNHIGHW A Y 7 31ST NATCHEZPRINCETONLYNNGLENHURSTMONTEREY 31ST RALEIGH36TH INGLEWOODBass Lake Preserve Rec Center / Wolfe Park Fern Hill Park Carpenter Park/Skippy Field Minikahda Vista Park LILAC PARK Webster Park Bass Lake Park Sunshine Park Town Green Park 28TH FRANCEHIGHW A Y 7 EXCEL SI O R 29TH 35T H 38TH MINNETONKA KIPLINGOTTAWABELT L INE 36TH 37THUTICA36 1/2 HIGHWAY 100PARK GL E N LYNNGLENHURST31STJOPPA WEBSTERSALEM40THTOLEDO NATCHEZSUNSETVERNONQUENTIN VALLAC H E R M O N T E R E Y 39THRALEIGH INGLEWOOD34TH WOLFEPRINCETON HUNTINGTON33RD RANDAL L PARK CENTER PARK C O M M O N S GRANDLAKEMINIKAHDAWOODDALEPARK NICOLLETAUTO C L U B SERVICE MERID IANUTICA AVE S TO SB HWY100 SPRIVATEJOPPAINGLEWOODSALEMRALEIGHGLENHURSTPRINCETON FRANCEHIGHWAY 100HUNTINGTONOTTAWAHIGHWA Y 7 MONTEREYLYNNWEBSTER39THMONTEREY28THGLENHURSTSALEM NATCHEZHIGHW A Y 7 WEBSTERJOPPAQUENTINTOLEDOUTICAHUNTINGTONLYNNHIGHW A Y 7 31ST NATCHEZPRINCETONLYNNGLENHURSTMONTEREY 31ST RALEIGH36TH INGLEWOODSTATION AREA PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL MINOR ARTERIAL COLLECTOR POTENTIAL STREET CONNECITON TRAIL SIDEWALKS POTENTIAL BUS SHUTTLE Cedar L a k e Tr ail SW LR T Li n e DRAFT - Oct 2023 42 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPolicy conditionsBeltline Station Area Framework + Design Guidelines The current plan lists a number of recommendations and actions that will assist the community in achieving the established goals for the Beltline Station area. While progress has been made, there is still work to do. Land use + development: A few key actions have been completed to support the plan’s land use recommendations: •Employment oriented areas between Highway 7 and 36th Street have been rezoned to support development needs •The City of St. Louis Park support the design of the Beltline Station. •Individual sites along County Highway 25 have been redeveloped. Mobility + access: A number of transportation investments have improved mobility in the gateway: •Bike facilities were constructed on Beltline Boulevard from 26th to CSAH 25. •A conceptual roadway design layout was completed for CSAH 25 with Hennepin County. •The Beltline and CSAH 25 intersection and the LRT intersection are under construction. What has been completed? 1.Beltline Boulevard and Ottowa Ave bikeway and intersection improvements 2.Nordic Ware manufacturing expansions, 2022 3.Sherman mixed-use transit-oriented development, 2023 construction start 4.General Office Products lease ending, presenting an opportunity for new mixed-use transit-oriented development 5.Corsa mixed-use development, 2023 6.Risor mixed-use development, 2023 7.Self-storage facility rezoned for residential development, redevelopment and/or future connection opportunity.Policy conditionsBeltline Station 2 1 1 3 5 7 6 4 Beltline BlvdCSAH 25 Bass Lake DRAFT - Oct 2023 43 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY 1.Transit Overlay 2.CSAH 25 Improvements 3.Park Glen Road cul-de-sac connections to the street netowrkPolicy conditionsBeltline Station Area Framework + Design Guidelines Land use + development: Limited redevelopment opportunities were identified in the plan. The following policy or guidance recommendations have yet to be completed: •Create a transit station area overlay. •Consider a detailed redevelopment study for CSAH 25. •Continue rezoning employment-oriented development to align with their needs. Mobility + access: While many improvements were made, the following recommendations have yet to be implemented: •Implementation of the CSAH z25 Conceptual Roadway Layout. •Street connections and transportation improvements identified in the plan. What is left to accomplish? 1 1 3 3 1 1 2 1 Beltline BlvdCSAH 25 Bass Lake Beltline Station DRAFT - Oct 2023 44 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYSocial conditionsPopulation Between 2010 and 2020, the population in census tracts in the Beltline Gateway area grew by between -6.5 percent and 22.4 percent (10.5 percent citywide). Age The median age for the Beltline Gateway ranged from 32.7 to 39.2 years in 2021, representing the youngest and oldest census tracts for the study area. Housing In census tracts in the Beltline Gateway area, the percentage of renter-occupied housing is between 43.0 percent and 71.9 percent (41.9 percent citywide). Employment & Income Between 2010 and 2020, the median household income in census tracts in the Beltline Gateway area grew between 16.6 percent and 49.0 percent (39.7 percent citywide). Mobility 63% 60% 56% Percentage of jobs in transportation, warehousing, and utilities Percentage of jobs in other services Percentage of jobs in public administration 8% 47% 46% Percentage of households in the study area have access to two or more vehicles. Percentage of households in the study area have access to one vehicle. Percentage of households in the study area with no access to vehicles. Physical conditionsArrive + Thrive study area conditions Beltline gateway conditions 10.4% 49% $1,923 $1,427 population growth from 2010 of all jobs in St. Louis Park are located in the study area median monthly mortgage cost median monthly rent cost The city as a whole grew by 10.5 percent. The educational services and health care industry is the largest sector.$$ DRAFT - Oct 2023 45 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYPhysical conditionsLand use + development Businesses + neighborhoods Mobility + access Parks + natural systems Current land uses: The primary land uses include Industrial and multifamily. Areas north of CSAH 25 include a range of commercial and mixed residential. Future land use: The 2040 Comprehensive Plan guides Transit Oriented development north of the Beltline Boulevard station and business park in other locations. Many of the residential uses remain unchanged. Recent development: Recent development has been centered on the Beltline Boulevard corridor. Infrastructure: The existing street network is not well connected, with limited opportunities to move throughout the gateway by personal vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian. CSAH 25,the LRT corridor, and Bass Lake create barriers for moving within the gateway, along with a lack of connections with Park Glen Road. Bike and pedestrian mobility: Trails are a highly utilized feature within the Beltline Gateway. Other than the facilities along Beltline Boulevard, walkers and bikers utilize trails or features more frequently. The highest pedestrian volumes are on Beltline Boulevard from CSAH 25 to Park Glen on the eastern edge, with the presence of the regional trail detour in place when data was collected. Access: Individual property access does not generally present concerns within the study area. Neighborhoods: The Beltline Gateway includes portions of the Wolfe Park and Triangle neighborhoods. Employment centers: The Beltline Gateway is identified an employment area and nodes of neighborhood commercial are present north of CSAH 25. Parcel utilization: Areas west of Beltline Boulevard were identified as poorly utilized, but are active uses with recent investment. The Park Glen Apartments are among the most highly utilized. Parks: Carpenter Park is located within the gateway. The Recreation Center and the ROC are also located in this gateway, providing a range of year-round recreational offerings and events. All areas are located within a half mile walk-shed to a park. Natural systems: The Beltline Gateway study area consists of primarily impervious surfaces (pavement and buildings). The surrounding neighborhoods have a larger tree canopy and neighborhood streets include boulevard trees. Wetlands: Bass Lake is located within the southwest quadrant of the study area, which is supported by green infrastructure. This area is also prone to overland flooding and must be monitored in heavy rainfall events. DRAFT - Oct 2023 46 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARYKey themesBeltline Gateway Focus areas to explore: Big ideas to test: 35th Street and Raleigh Avenue commercial district strategy and placemaking Travel demand management for new and existing multi family Optimization of roadways and public realm infrastructure Connections to open spaces and community amenities and create a central organizing feature •Introduction of street level commercial uses that provide employee based amenities that encourage movement throughout the gateway. •Continued support of existing industrial uses, with opportunities for reinvestment if the opportunity arises. •Preserve affordable housing options currently available within the gateway. •Enhance connections and experiences with natural resources the study area. •Improve trail and sidewalk connectivity. •Establishing a green corridor from Bass Lake to the west •Street connections for the two Park Glen Road cul-de-sacs •Connecting across CSAH 25 / realizing the “urban blvd” goal for the road •Redevelopment potential of the mini-storage site •Redevelopment direction of business park/commercial/ industrial area around 35th street Of the four gateway areas, the Beltline Gateway has seen the least amount of private redevelopment in the last 20 years, but it has been transformed by public investment in infrastructure and Minnehaha Creek corridor. Future redevelopment of this commercial and industrial area will need to take a balanced approach to appreciate and improve nearby amenities. Redevelopment can provide safe and convenient connections between public transit, Methodist Hospital, nearby neighborhoods, and parks and natural areas. Redevelopments can also foster positive relationships with nearby amenities, such as Minnehaha Creek, to sustain those resources for future generations. What is next?DRAFT - Oct 2023 47 BELTLINE GATEWAY CURRENT CONDITIONS SUMMARY Big ideas to test:Ideas that will not be carried forward:The following ideas were either presented in the current study or identified during this process and will no long be considered for the Beltline Gateway. The following graphic will be updated to reflect the ideas and concepts identified by the Community Advisory Group and staff charrettes. What is next?Beltline Station Beltline BlvdCSAH 2 5 Bass Lake DRAFT - Oct 2023 48