The AUAR study area is approximately 2,889 acres located to the west and south of the existing city of Shakopee limits.  The AUAR study area includes a range of existing uses from underdeveloped open space, recreational uses, farmland to commercial uses.

The Shakopee AUAR was undertaken at the suggestion of the Metropolitan Council (and partially supported by a grant from the Scott County CDA) after its initial review on Envision Shakopee - the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.  The Plan calls for substantial expansion in the westerly portion of the city, including future annexation of large portions of the current Jackson Township.  The city entered into an Orderly Annexation Agreement in 2018 that allows for annexation of much of the Township except for several existing subdivisions that would wait until after 2050.  The AUAR was prepared to provide a complete understanding of the cumulative impacts of the planned development in seven growth areas.

The AUAR reviewed two growth scenarios in compliance with the AUAR process.  The first scenario evaluated the impacts under the previous 2030 Comprehensive Plan and the second scenario includes a full build scenario of the future land uses proposed in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update.  The AUAR assumed full build of each scenario.  The overall impact numbers are higher than those shown in the 2030 or 2040 Plans since they anticipate a full build, whenever that might occur.

The timing for any scenario is driven by the private sector development that is driven by the market and developer/property owner interest.  A full build out of the area is anticipated to occur after 2040.

The AUAR evaluated the ability to deliver potable water and sewer service to the area since many of the existing parcels are served by private wells and septic systems.  Shakopee Public Utilities has already begun construction on future infrastructure necessary to deliver water to this area with construction of a large water tank adjacent to Windermere.  The city of Shakopee is currently completing a design study to deliver the first portion of sanitary sewer to the area through Windermere and potential lift station locations. 

The AUAR also evaluated traffic conditions under a full build scenario and compared what would be needed under the 2040 Plan versus full build.  A number of improvements were noted to already be under consideration by the city.  Also, many of the infrastructure improvements would be completed as development occurs in cooperation with the private development.

Stormwater was also evaluated since there would be inevitable impacts to stormwater runoff and volumes resulting from increased impervious surface within the AUAR study area.  There will need to be new ponds and storage in the area along with conveyances to the regional systems.  Engineering is currently evaluating the first area of stormwater impacts.

Many agencies including Scott County and Jackson Township were provided opportunities for input during the draft period.  During the final ten day comment period, the only response was from the attorney for Jackson Township.  The Township is largely objecting to the AUAR since they are under the impression that densities should be lower than required in Met Council and city-adopted 2040 Comprehensive Plan.