Discussion:
Owner: City of Shakopee EDA
Lot Area: 3.66 acres
Current Zoning: B-1, Highway Business
Proposed Zoning: R-4, High Density Residential
Comp. Plan: Mixed Use Center (2040)
The City of Shakopee has initiated the proposed rezoning of a 3.66 acre property owned by the Shakopee Economic Development Authority from B-1, Highway Business to R-4, High Density Residential. The property is located in the West Shakopee Gateway plat at the intersection of Vierling Drive West and Lincoln Street. Surrounding properties to the east of this site, Taylor Ridge, and Arlington Ridge are zoned R-3, Multiple-Family Residential. The Shakopee City Council has approved the sale of this property to MWF Properties, the developer of Sarazin Flats near Target in Shakopee. The applicant has provided a conceptual site plan for development of a total of 102 units in two buildings on the site (attached), which would have access from Lincoln Street. The number of vehicle trips generated at the site would be less than a retail user.
The City has been working with Opus Group to market the Business Park properties across Vierling Drive from this property. The B-1, Highway Business zone allows for strictly office or retail and service type uses, or vertical mixed use development. From discussions with real estate brokers and potential land users, this area is not seen as a strong commercial / retail and service area, and is looked at as a suitable site for business park type or multi-family residential uses, not a mixed use retail / housing area.
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan guides this area for Mixed Use Center, which allows for multi-family residential dwellings. The intent of the rezoning is to allow for the highest and best use for the property and to create a location for the development of workforce housing to support the growing commercial and industrial base of Shakopee and meet the goals of providing segments of housing for all people that work in Shakopee and Scott County.