Planning Commission Packet - 05-27-2025
Planning Commission
Regular Meeting
Agenda
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
6:30 PM
Elk River City Hall
▪ Regular meeting in Council Chambers
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. CONSIDER AGENDA
3. CONSIDER MINUTES
3.1 Draft Minutes - April 22, 2025
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
An opportunity for the public to express their opinions and raise questions pertaining to the agenda item. All comments
become part of the official public record. For this reason, all comments must be made at the podium so they can be heard
and recorded. Comments may also be provided in writing. There will not be deliberations, discussions, or answers to
questions until the hearing is closed. It is important to be courteous and allow each presenter to comment before adding
additional testimony.
4.1 Interim Use Permit: Residential Occupation, MJ and Carl Johnson, 19289 Upland Street NW
4.2 Conditional Use Permit: Commercial Recreational Facility, Pickle Paradise, 550 Freeport Ave. NW
4.3 Preliminary Plat and Ordinance Amendment (PUD): The Villas at Fillmore Third Addition, PID 75-
00931-0030, Riverside Development
4.4 Ordinance Amendment: PUD Amendment for Tall Pines P.U.D. Second Addition
4.5 Modification of Legal Nonconforming Advertising Signs (Billboards)
5. GENERAL BUSINESS
Items in which the information is presented by city staff or consultants, then deliberation and action occur. General Business
items are not opportunities to receive or provide public input. However, the presiding officer may, at its sole discretion,
solicit public feedback.
5.1 Downtown Master Plan
6. COUNCIL LIAISON UPDATES
7. MOTION TO ADJOURN REGULAR MEETING
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Planning Commission
Item Number
4.1
Meeting Date
May 27, 2025
Prepared By
Chris Leeseberg, Senior Planner
Item Description
Interim Use Permit: Residential Occupation, MJ and
Carl Johnson, 19289 Upland Street NW
Reviewed by
Zack Carlton
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, approval of the Interim Use Permit with the following conditions to satisfy the
standards set forth in Section 30-654:
1. No more than two non-resident employees may be present during business hours.
2. Hours of operation shall be limited to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
3. The applicant must maintain current professional licensure and liability insurance.
4. The interim Use Permit will terminate when the home is sold.
Background/Discussion
The property, approximately 5.5 acres in size, is zoned R3 (Townhouse/Multiple Family Residential) where
residential occupations are either permitted administratively or require an Interim Use Permit (IUP). This
request is subject to a review by the Planning Commission and City Council because the business will involve
the use of equipment not typically found in a house. By contrast, a home-based business such as a tax office,
which uses standard office equipment, would be permitted without the need for an IUP.
The applicant is requesting an IUP to operate a residential-based aesthetic and wellness business, Northern
Rose MedSpa, from the planned home located at 19289 Upland St. NW. The business will involve cosmetic
and wellness services such as injectables, facials, and skincare consultations. The proposed use qualifies as a
Residential Occupation under Section 30-801 of the Zoning Ordinance and the IUP is required to allow the
use within the house.
The applicant anticipates approximately five (5) clients per day and will be seen one at a time. Client parking
will occur in the driveway and not on the street. Prior to the property being rezoned to Residential, it was
zoned Commercial, where significantly more traffic would have been generated. The ordinance limits the
hours of operation to 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday with no operations on Sunday.
The city recognizes that introducing residential occupations in residential districts could be noticeable and
strives to include approval conditions aimed at mitigating possible impacts.
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Interim Use - Applicable Regulations
Before the city council may authorize an interim use, it must make the following findings:
1. The period of time for which the interim use permit is to be granted will terminate before any adverse impacts
are felt upon adjacent properties.
The ordinance (Section 30-801) states an approved IUP for a residential occupation shall terminate when the
property is sold or when a lease has expired. The applicant acknowledges the temporary nature of the IUP.
Although termination does not guarantee adverse effects will not affect nearby properties, the recommended
conditions strive to prevent this outcome.
2. There is adequate assurance that the property will be left in suitable condition after the use is terminated.
The proposed residential occupation will occur inside the house. Upon termination, the space will revert to a
standard residential use with no remediation needed.
3. The use is similar to uses allowed in the zoning district in which the property is located.
Residential occupations are allowed with an IUP in the R3 zoning district and remain secondary to the
residential use of the property.
4. The date or event that will terminate the use can be identified with certainty.
The ordinance states an approved IUP for a residential occupation shall terminate when the property is sold
or when a lease has expired, so the termination of the use can be identified with certainty.
5. Authorizing the use will not impose additional costs on the public if it is necessary for the public to take the
property in the future.
No public infrastructure or improvements are needed. If the public were to take over the property, no
additional costs would be imposed on the public, as the proposed residential occupation will occur in the
house and the site will be left in a suitable condition.
6. The applicant and user agree to all conditions that the city council deems appropriate for authorization of the
interim use.
This will be determined at the City Council meeting.
7. The applicant provides assurances deemed adequate by the city council that the use will terminate as provided
in the interim use permit. The city council may require the applicant to deposit a cash amount with the city, or
provide some other form of security, to ensure compliance with this criteria.
Again, the ordinance states an approved IUP for a residential occupation shall terminate when the property is
sold or when a lease has expired. Based on the scale of the use, a cash deposit does not appear to be
necessary to comply with the criteria.
8. Authorization of the interim use will not result in adverse effects on public health, safety, or welfare.
The proposed use will occur entirely within the house and, due to its low-impact nature, poses no known
health or safety risks while preserving neighborhood harmony. Although the current exhibit depicting the
house’s proposed location is subject to change, the final siting and intended use are not anticipated to create
any health or safety concerns.
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9. The proposed interim use is consistent with the City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan and conforms to the city's
zoning regulations.
The use is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan which guides the property as Mixed Residential. Single-
family uses, with residential occupations, are allowed in the zoning district.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Ethical, efficient, and responsible.
Attachments
1. Location Map
2. Narrative
3. Site Plan - Draft Project Plan
4. Floor Plan
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IU 25-04 Narrative
Project Title: Residential MedSpa Clinic Addition
Project Overview:
This project involves incorporating a professional MedSpa clinic into the new home that is to be
under construction soon. The clinic will feature one treatment room and potentially a variety of
specialized equipment, creating a luxurious, therapeutic environment for aesthetic and wellness
services. Designed to harmonize with the home’s aesthetic, the MedSpa will offer both comfort and
clinical functionality.
Project Goals:
1. Functional Integration: Design a MedSpa that operates as a dedicated clinic while
blending with the residential architecture.
2. Ambiance and Comfort: Establish a sophisticated, serene atmosphere to enhance
client experience.
3. Compliance and Safety: Construct the clinic to meet medical standards for sanitation,
ventilation, and accessibility.
4. Efficiency and Flexibility: Design functional spaces to streamline workflow for staff,
with a layout flexible for future service additions.
Key Features and Spaces:
• Reception Area: A small, yet welcoming reception with comfortable seating and a
calm, modern aesthetic. (This feature has not yet been decided on.)
• One Treatment Room: Private, soundproofed treatment room equipped with
necessary equipment for a range of aesthetic services.
• Sterilization and Storage: Dedicated area for equipment sterilization and storage,
maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
• Client Amenities: High-end finishes, adjustable lighting, soundproofing, and climate
control for an enhanced client experience.
Common MedSpa Equipment:
• Adjustable Treatment Tables: Ergonomic, height-adjustable tables for client comfort
during treatments.
• Potential for FUTURE Laser Machines: For hair removal, skin resurfacing, and
various skin treatments.
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• Microdermabrasion Devices: For exfoliating and rejuvenating skin.
• LED Light Therapy Machines: Used for skin rejuvenation and acne treatment.
• Ultrasound and Radiofrequency Devices: Non-invasive options for skin tightening
and contouring.
• Injectable Coolers and Storage: Temperature-controlled storage for injectables.
• Autoclave or Sterilization Equipment: For safe sterilization of reusable instruments.
• Medical-Grade Lighting: Adjustable lighting for precise treatments.
• Possible FUTURE Oxygen Therapy/ProNox Machines.
Timeline:
• Design Phase: Complete architectural and equipment planning within 2-3 months.
• Construction Phase: Coordinate MedSpa build-out with overall house construction,
aiming to complete within 6-8 months.
Applicant will send final design and site plans as they are completed. All attached documents are
PRELIMINARY drafts. Please let me know if there are any questions or concerns.
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City of Elk River – Home Occupation Compliance Statement
Prepared for: Northern Rose MedSpa
Prepared by: MJ Johnson Aesthetic RN, BSN, PHN
Date: April 29, 2025
I. Business Overview
Business Name: Northern Rose MedSpa
Business Address: 19289 Upland St. NW, Elk River, MN 55330
Zoning District: R3? Please confirm with Planning Department.
Business Type: Aesthetic and wellness services (e.g., cosmetic injectables, facials, skincare
consultations)
Owner/Operator: MJ Johnson
Contact Information: 320-292-0866 (mj@northernrosemedspa.com)
II. Purpose
This document is provided to demonstrate that Northern Rose MedSpa, operating from a
residential property, meets all City of Elk River requirements for a home occupation under
Zoning Ordinance Section 30-1033 (Home Occupations).
III. Home Occupation Compliance Checklist
Requirement Description Compliance
Business conducted
entirely within the dwelling
All business activities (consultations and treatments)
are conducted in a dedicated room inside the home.
No detached structures are used.
�� Yes
Residential character
preserved
No external alterations have been or will be made
that alter the residential appearance of the home. �� Yes
No exterior evidence of
business
There will not be excessive business signage,
product display, or obnoxious lighting on the
exterior of the home.
�� Yes
Limited traffic
Clients are seen by appointment only, with sufficient
time between clients to avoid traffic or parking
issues.
�� Yes
Parking accommodated
on-site
The property has a driveway with adequate parking
for client vehicles. No street parking will be used. �� Yes
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Requirement Description Compliance
No more than two non-
resident employee
Only the resident operator and the potential for 1-2
licensed &/or unlicensed assistants may be present
in the future during business hours.
�� Yes
No sale of goods on
premises
Retail sales (e.g., skincare products) are conducted
mainly only. Only products relevant to services
rendered will be available for purchase on site.
�� Yes
No noise, odor, vibration,
glare, or electrical
interference
All equipment used (e.g., medical-grade facial
equipment) operates quietly and does not emit odors
or disruptive sounds.
�� Yes
Licensing and certification
The business owner holds all required professional
certifications (e.g., RN or NP license), and a
Minnesota Tax ID is maintained.
�� Yes
Building safety and
accessibility
The treatment area meets local building and safety
codes. Clients can access the treatment space
without navigating hazardous or steep steps.
�� Yes
IV. Supporting Documents (Available Upon Request)
• Floor plan showing business area (within residence)
• Proof of professional licensure
• Liability insurance certificate
• Property ownership or lease agreement
• Proposed hours of operation
• Client intake and scheduling policies
• Product MSDS sheets (if applicable)
V. Conclusion
Northern Rose MedSpa fully complies with the City of Elk River's ordinances governing home
occupations. All operations are designed to maintain the quiet, residential character of the
neighborhood, prioritize client safety, and adhere to all local and state regulations.
This statement is submitted in support of any necessary approvals or applications related to a
Home Occupation Permit or Conditional/Interim Use Permit.
Prepared by:
MJ Johnson Aesthetic RN, BSN, PHN
Owner, Northern Rose MedSpa
320-292-0866 | northernrose.aesthetics@gmail.com
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Planning Commission
Item Number
4.2
Meeting Date
May 27, 2025
Prepared By
Chris Leeseberg, Senior Planner
Item Description
Conditional Use Permit: Commercial Recreational
Facility, Pickle Paradise, 550 Freeport Ave. NW
Reviewed by
Zack Carlton
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, approval of the Conditional Use Permit as the standards set forth in Section 30-654
have been met.
Background/Discussion
The 5.69 acre parcel is zoned Mixed Use – Elk River Plaza (MU-ERP) where commercial recreational facilities
require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to operate. The applicant has requested approval of a CUP to allow
construction of an indoor pickleball club within 21,750 sq.ft. of the existing 40,000 sq.ft. structure at 570
Freeport Ave.
Pickle Paradise will feature seven indoor pickleball courts, a small pro shop, a snack bar, lounge, elevated
mezzanine viewing area, and a flexible-use event space.
The applicant anticipates approximately 700-900 visitors per week, with hours of operation from 6 a.m. to 10
p.m., seven days a week, with limited closures on major holidays. The facility will typically be staffed by 2-3
employees during regular hours and up to 6 during peak periods and events.
Applicable Regulations
The issuance of a Conditional Use Permit can be ordered only if the use at the proposed location:
1. Will not endanger, injure or detrimentally affect the use and enjoyment of other property in the
immediate vicinity or the public health, safety, morals, comfort, convenience or general welfare of the
neighborhood or the city.
Commercial Recreational Facilities are allowed with a CUP in the subject property zoning district and because
the use is entirely contained within a building and there is ample parking, the use will not endanger, injure or
detrimentally affect the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity or the public health,
safety, morals, comfort, convenience or general welfare of the neighborhood or the city.
Staff do not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard.
2. Will be consistent with the comprehensive plan.
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The property is guided for Highway Business uses. The highway business category primarily consists of a mix
of auto-oriented retail and service businesses, restaurants, and community and regional-scale shopping
centers. Highway business uses are located along Highway 169 and Highway 10 and have high visibility from
these corridors. The use is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
Staff do not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard.
3. Will not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding vacant property.
The area is fully developed and, as there are no vacant lots, the proposed use will not affect the development
of the surrounding area.
Staff do not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard.
4. Will be served adequately by and will not adversely affect essential public facilities and services
including streets, police and fire protection, drainage, refuse disposal, water and sewer systems, parks and
schools; and will not, in particular, create traffic congestion or interference with traffic on adjacent and
neighboring public thoroughfares.
The use will be served adequately by and will not adversely affect essential public facilities and services,
including streets, police and fire protection, drainage, refuse disposal, water and sewer systems, parks and
schools; and will not, in particular, create traffic congestion or interference with traffic on adjacent and
neighboring public thoroughfares.
The subject parcel and the adjacent parcel previously operated as a movie theater complex, which generated
significantly more traffic and patron activity than the proposed use is expected to. With seven courts and four
players per court, approximately 28 vehicles will be on-site during play, with an additional 28 vehicles likely
waiting for the next time slot. Therefore, an estimated 56 vehicles per hour may be present on the site.
Staff do not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard.
5. Will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment and conditions of operation that will
be detrimental to any persons or property because of excessive traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, odors, dust
or vibrations.
The activities and equipment associated with a commercial recreational facility should not detrimentally affect
nearby properties. The use will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment and conditions of
operation that will be detrimental to any persons or property because of excessive traffic, noise, smoke,
fumes, glare, odors, dust or vibrations.
Staff do not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard.
6. Will not result in the destruction, loss or damage of a natural, scenic or historic feature of major importance.
There are no natural, scenic or historic features of major importance on the subject parcel.
Staff do not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard.
7. Will fully comply with all other requirements of this Code, including any applicable requirements and Standards
for the issuance of a license or permit to establish and operate the proposed use in the city.
The use will fully comply with all other requirements of this Code, including any applicable requirements and
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standards for the issuance of a license or permit to establish and operate the proposed use in the city.
All applicable commercial building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical permits shall be obtained from the city
and state.
Staff do not see a need to impose specific conditions to satisfy this standard.
If denial of such a permit should occur, it shall accompany recommendations or determinations by findings or
a report stating how the proposed use does not comply with the standards set forth in Section 30-654.
In the review of the standards for CUP as outlined, it appears that the request is consistent with all of these
standards.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Meet changing needs - agile.
Attachments
1. Location Map
2. Applicant's Narrative
3. Site Survey
4. Floor Plan
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CU 25-04 Narrative
This application is for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for “Pickle Paradise,” an indoor pickleball
club in Elk River, MN. We are planning to lease 21,750 square feet of space at 570 Freeport Ave
NW, Elk River, MN 55330, the former Marcus Cinema building, from Price Homes (owner: Adam
Price). The property is zoned “mixed-use” and is well-suited for adaptive reuse as an indoor
commercial recreational facility.
Pickle Paradise will feature seven indoor pickleball courts, a small pro shop, a snack bar, lounge,
elevated mezzanine viewing area (public or private event space), and a flexible-use event space. Our
goal is to provide a welcoming, active space for all ages and skill levels, while contributing positively
to the character and economic vitality of the surrounding community.
With the growing popularity of pickleball and Minnesota’s long winters, this facility addresses a year-
round need for indoor recreational opportunities. We anticipate approximately 700-900 visitors per
week, with those visitors spread out across the hours of operation. Pickle Paradise will operate from
6 AM to 10 PM, seven days a week, with limited closures on major holidays. The facility will
typically be staffed by 2–3 employees during regular hours and up to 6 during peak periods and
events.
The site offers ample parking and existing infrastructure that can comfortably support our projected
traffic. We expect staggered traffic flow with minimal congestion due to the nature of the sport
(typically only 4 players per court, per hour), court reservation and management systems, and event
scheduling. All activities are indoors, minimizing any external noise or disruption to neighboring
businesses or residential areas.
The building will be ADA compliant and outfitted with appropriate life-safety measures including
emergency exits, security cameras, and clear signage, in coordination with the building owner, Price
Homes.. Any exterior lighting or signage will meet Elk River’s ordinances and maintain
neighborhood compatibility. Pickle Paradise will bring health, wellness, and benefits to the
community, offering programs for leagues, youth, seniors, and private groups.. We look forward to
creating a positive and active destination that contributes to the commerce and vitality of Elk River.
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Planning Commission
Item Number
4.3
Meeting Date
May 27, 2025
Prepared By
Zack Carlton, Community Development Director
Item Description
Preliminary Plat and Ordinance Amendment (PUD):
The Villas at Fillmore Third Addition, PID 75-00931-
0030, Riverside Development
Reviewed by
Chris Leeseberg
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, approval of an ordinance amendment codifying and updating the PUD for The Villas
at Fillmore.
Recommend, by motion, approval of the preliminary plat for The Villas at Fillmore Third Addition, with the
following conditions:
1. Council approval of the ordinance amendment approving the PUD changes.
2. A Water Availability Charge for each lot must be paid before connection to the municipal water
system.
3. Compliance with the City of Elk River Engineering Design Standards is mandatory for all planning and
construction activities.
4. The development agreement must include a prorated cost share for the water main extension that
was installed along Fillmore Street in 2022 and was paid for by Elk River Municipal Utilities (ERMU) in
the amount of $44,590.
5. The sanitary sewer will be privately owned/maintained.
6. The storm pipe will be privately owned/maintained as it captures only storm water from the private
street.
7. Electrical service for the lift station is considered commercial. The developer will need to provide a
secondary electric service.
Background/Discussion
The applicant is proposing to update the previous approval for the third addition and complete the final phase
of The Villas at Fillmore. The proposal includes six single-family lots located on a private drive. The site has
limited development potential due to existing wetlands, storm water features, sanitary sewer limitations, and
large overhead powerlines. These factors contributed to the developers' decision to construct the project on
a private street.
Site Plan
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The project includes a private drive that provides access to all six parcels, which are generally 60-feet wide.
Additional parking, beyond the driveway areas, is provided on one side of the private drive. The homes will be
a minimum of 10-feet apart and maintenance will be addressed with a Homeowners Association (HOA).
Public Utilities
All six homes will be connected to city sewer and water. However, the sewer service requires a private lift
station to convey the effluent to the city's system. The city will not maintain this lift station, and the
development will connect to the public system near the intersection of 177th Ave and Fillmore Street.
The water main is located beneath the trail on the west side of Fillmore Street and the developer is proposing
a new service line for each home, which connects directly to the main.
The water main providing service to this phase was installed by the developer with the first phase of this
subdivision, but ERMU reimbursed the developer as the extension was for a looped service at the time.
ERMU has requested reimbursement for this cost as the extension is now providing service for this phase.
These types of utility services are generally installed at the developer's expense.
Ordinance Amendment
The proposed ordinance amendment will take the place of a PUD agreement. The standards of the previous
PUD agreement will be codified into city ordinances, providing more clarity and transparency for the public.
The only changes proposed are for the inclusion of the third phase and memorializing the private street and
utility items.
Preliminary Plat
City ordinance section 30-375 outlines the required findings for approval of a Preliminary Plat.
1. The proposed subdivision is consistent with the zoning regulations (article VI of this chapter) and conforms in all
respects with all requirements of this Code, including the zoning regulations and this article.
The property was rezoned to Planned Unit Development with the first phases of this subdivision. With the
PUD designation, the development will follow its own development standards, as approved in the ordinance
amendment for the PUD.
2. The proposed subdivision is consistent with all applicable general and specialized city, county, and regional plans,
including, but not limited to, the city's comprehensive development plan.
As the property was rezoned to PUD and is guided for residential uses by the Comprehensive Plan, the
subdivision is consistent with all applicable plans.
3. The physical characteristics of the site, including but not limited to topography, soils, vegetation, susceptibility to
erosion and siltation, susceptibility to flooding, and drainage, are suitable for the type and density of development and
uses contemplated.
The physical characteristics of the site are suitable for the type and density of development and uses
contemplated.
4. The proposed subdivision makes adequate provision for water supply, storm drainage, sewage transportation,
erosion control and all other services, facilities and improvements otherwise required in this article.
The subdivision will include infrastructure to meet city requirements. The sanitary service and required lift
station will be privately owned and maintained, but will become public after making the connection to existing
services. The water service also requires reimbursement for previous work paid for by ERMU, but that now
serves the current development phase. Finally, additional permits required to comply with erosion control
standards are required and will be secured prior to building permit issuance. These concerns have been
included as conditions of approval.
5. The proposed subdivision will not cause substantial environmental damage.
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Although there will be site grading, the subdivision will not cause substantial environmental damage.
6. The proposed subdivision will not conflict with easements of record or with easements established by judgment of a
court.
The proposed subdivision will not conflict with easements of record or with easements established by
judgment of a court.
7. The proposed subdivision will not have an undue and adverse impact on the reasonable development of neighboring
land.
The only undeveloped property is one similarly sized and shaped directly to the west of the subject parcel.
The proposed subdivision will not impact reasonable development of neighboring land.
8. The proposed subdivision is not premature. A subdivision is premature if any of the following exists:
a. Lack of adequate stormwater drainage.
b. Lack of adequate roads.
c. Lack of adequate sanitary sewer systems.
d. Lack of adequate off-site public improvements or support systems.
The subdivision is not premature as the above conditions have been provided for.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Support the growth and development of the community.
Responsibly grow.
Attachments
1. Location Map
2. Preliminary Plat
3. Civil Plans dated April 23, 2025
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Preliminar y Plat (P 25-10)
Final Plat (P 25-11)
Riverside Development
SITE
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Planning Commission
Item Number
4.4
Meeting Date
May 27, 2025
Prepared By
Zack Carlton, Community Development Director
Item Description
Ordinance Amendment: PUD Amendment for Tall
Pines P.U.D. Second Addition
Reviewed by
Ryan Sandhoefner
Chris Leeseberg
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, approval of an ordinance amending the PUD agreement for Tall Pines, subject to the
following conditions:
1. Staff approval of all civil plans identifying infrastructure improvements required to meet post-construction
stormwater requirements.
2. All improvements must be completed by July 31, 2025.
3. The ordinance amending the PUD will not be recorded until the improvements have been completed, and
the city has verified that the pond meets post-construction stormwater requirements.
Background/Discussion
The Tall Pines Planned Unit Development (PUD) was approved in phases between 2017 and 2020 and
included a number of deviations from city ordinances, including reduced setbacks from stormwater ponds.
During the construction process, city engineering staff noted that a proposed pond was not functioning as
designed. The pond was holding water, although it was designed as a dry pond. This change in functionality
impacts the required pond setbacks for multiple homes within the PUD. These encroachments were not
approved as part of the original PUD reviews.
In order for the property to come into compliance with city processes, the pond needs to be updated to
function as intended, or the developer must receive approval for additional structures within the required
setback. The developer has requested approval of additional encroachments into the required pond setbacks.
This change also requires modifications to the existing pond to ensure compliance with state stormwater
standards. Staff included a number of conditions of approval requiring the pond improvements prior to the
PUD amendment being recorded.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Support the growth and development of the community.
Ethical, efficient, and responsible.
Page 52 of 157
Attachments
1. Location Map
2. Applicant's Narrative
3. Stormwater Pond Modifications
Page 53 of 157
Page 54 of 157
Page 55 of 157
SOG12SOG13SOG14G=914.8SLABLL/OPN=915.1G=915.0SLABLL/OPN=915.3G=915.2SLABLL/OPN=915.51011121415POND111213VVVV||||||||S6+006+32.38LL/OPN=917.1G=916.9LL/OPN=917.2G=917.0G=916.9LL/OPN=917.3LL/OPN=917.22.0%
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44.4%
25.7%
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37.7%
32.7%16.2%17.6%
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22.7%
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37.6%5.0%2.6%3.0%3.0%900
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0
F
G916.12 FL916.45 TC915.55 FL915.80 FL915.88 TC916.13 TC915.44 DC915.44 FL916.24
FG908.21 TP909.99 EX908.16 EX908.07 EX913.13 TP913.33 TP914.17 TP914.37 TP914.86 TP914.66 TP915.79 TP915.61 TP915.62 DC915.62 FL915.51 DC915.51 FL915.40 FL915.65 FL915.98 TC915.73 TC915.74 FL916.07 TC914.86
FG913.20 FG919.50 BW923.00 TW925.50 TW922.00 BW918.00 TW915.00 BW917.00 TW916.00 BW915.80 FL916.13 TCEOF=913.05927.61 EX923.00 TW919.50 BW915.65 TC912.73 TP912.86 TP927.53 EX926.59 EXEOF=908.50100' X 10' FLEXAMAT20' X 10' FLEXAMAT2 - 45° BENDS THEN EXTENDNORTH 130 LF TO CONNECTWITH MAIN WATER LINE FROMTALL PINES SECOND ADDITION40' X 8' FLEXAMATCONNECTION SHOULD NOT BE MADEUNTIL TESTING IS COMPLETED OR AVALVE SHOULD BE ADDEDREPLACE STRUCTURE(PER 18-0096.00 DETAIL)RIM = 908.00T.O.W = 907.006"X6" OPENING = 904.504" ORIFICE = 903.00BOTTOM = 900.35REPLACE 15" FESINV. = 901.35REMOVE 8" DIP PLUG ANDCONNECT INTO EXISTING WM STUBMINIMUM 20' SETBACK FROM 25' WETLAND BUFFER OF OHWL.NO PRINCIPLE OR ACCESSORY STRUCTURES, PATIOS,PAVING OR OTHER IMPERVIOUS SURFACES SHALL BELOCATED WITHIN SETBACK (PER CITY CODE)TRAIL IS NOT WITHIN ORDINANCE.DEVELOPER WOULD NEED AVARIANCE FOR BITUMINOUS TRAIL.RETAINING WALL IS IMPERVIOUSSURFACE NOT ALLOWED WITHINORDINANCE OF WETLAND SETBACKEXISTING BITUMINOUS ANDCONCRETE TRAILS FALL WITHIN 20'SETBACK. THIS IS AN ISSUE WITHWETLAND SETBACK/BUFFERORDINANCE.EXISTING HOME FROM PHASE1 LOT 13 CREATES ISSUEWITHIN SETBACK ZONEPROPOSED HOME LOT 14CREATES ISSUE WITHINSETBACK ZONEWET POND (1P)BOTTOM: 900.00NWL: 903.00OHWL: 906.46EOF: 908.50DEVELOPER WILL NEED TO OBTAIN AVARIANCE FOR CONFLICTING AREASWITHIN WETLAND SETBACK/BUFFER ZONE10' X 10'FLEXAMAT (EOF)ADJUST INV OF 15" RCP FES20.0'25.0'SCALE: 1" = 30'030'WET POND
8:44 AM N:\Projects Current\21-0092.07 Stormwater Pond ReDesign\FILTRATION STORM WATER POND\HydroCAD - Wet Pond\Grading & Utility - Wet Pond 3.18.2024.dwg3/27/2024 LEGEND:GENERAL NOTES:Sec. 30-1852. - Performance standards.a.Wetland buffer strip. A minimum 25-foot buffer strip from the delineated boundary of awetland or ordinary highwater level of a stormwater pond is hereby established. Wetlandbuffer strips shall meet the following standards:1.No principle or accessory structures, patios, paving, or other impervious surfacesshall be permitted within the wetland buffer strip.2.Alterations are prohibited within the wetland and wetland buffer strip, unless avegetation management plan or other approval is granted by the city.3.The applicant shall establish and maintain wetland and wetland buffer stripvegetation in accordance with the requirements found in section 30-1853.4.The applicant shall maintain the required wetland buffer strip monuments at each lotline where it crosses a wetland buffer strip and at 200-foot intervals along the edgeof the wetland buffer strip. Each monument shall state "Wetland Buffer: Under theCity Code, no mowing, clearing or removal of vegetation in the buffer area isallowed. Call the City of Elk River for more information." The city reserves the rightto eliminate this requirement if it deems it impractical.5.The city, at its sole discretion, following the city's master park trail plan, may allownature trails comprised of natural materials, to be located within the wetland bufferstrip.6.Leisure activities such as hiking, nature studies, canoeing, boating and horsebackriding,including facilities such as nature trails and docks which allow for suchactivities are permitted in the wetland buffer strip.7.Final plats for all subdivisions shall provide an easement over all wetlands andwetland buffer strips for the purposes of identification and protection.8.Properties platted prior to June 19, 2006, shall be exempt from the vegetationmanagement requirements described in subsections ii—iv above.b.Wetland buffer strip setback. A minimum 20-foot setback from wetland buffer strips ishereby established by the city.1.No principle or accessory structures, patios, paving, or other impervious surfaceshall be located within this setback.2.Nature trails, at the city's approval, may be located within the wetland buffer stripsetback.3.On property that was platted prior to June 19, 2006, uncovered decks andpermeable pavement can be located within this setback.c.Exceptions. Properties platted prior to adoption of the wetland buffer strip and wetlandbuffer strip setback performance standards set forth in this section may not be configuredto accommodate the required performance standards. For this reason, exceptions to theperformance standards for properties platted prior to June 19, 2006, may be approved bythe planning manager pursuant to the site plan review process. Applicants for site planreview shall pay the fee specified in the city's fee schedule. Site plan approvals andrequired conditions shall be made by the planning manager on a case by case basis, withthe goal of maintaining consistency with the performance standards to the maximum extentreasonably possible. Appeals from staff determinations and conditions may be madepursuant to the appeal procedures set forth in section 30-634.d.Fences. Fences may encroach into the wetland buffer strip setback, but at no time shallthey be allowed within the wetland buffer strip or in delineated wetlands. Properties plattedprior to June 19, 2006, shall be exempt from this requirement.(Ord. No. 06-07, § 2, 6-19-2006; Ord. No. 16-24, § 1, 11-21-2016; Ord. No.17-07, § 1,4-17-2017; Ord. No. 18-12,§ 1, 7-16-2018)WET POND REDESIGN OPTIONOPTION3 DESCRIPTIONDATENO.
REV
FILE NO.:
DWG FILE:
CHECKED BY:
DRAWN BY:
DESIGN BY:
DATE: SHEET NO.LAND SURVEYING
CIVIL ENGINEERING
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
13076 FIRST STREET, BECKER, MN 55308-9322
TEL: 763-262-8822 FAX: 763-262-8844
BOGART, PEDERSON
& ASSOCIATES, INC.
STORMWATER POND REDESIGN
City of ELK RIVER, Sherburne County, MN
1/18/2024
21-0092.07
CJD
DML
MJM, DML
I hereby certify that this plan, specification, or
report was prepared by me or under my direct
supervision and that I am a duly Licensed
Professional Engineer under the laws of the
State of Minnesota.
Signed:
Date: Lic. No.
Christopher J. Dahn
58628
EVERGREEN TOWNHOMES, LLC.20' SETBACK TO BUFFER(PER CITY ORDINANCE)25' BUFFER FROM STORMWATER POND HIGHWATER LEVEL(PER CITY ORDINANCE)03/27/2024
Page 56 of 157
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Planning Commission
Item Number
4.5
Meeting Date
May 27, 2025
Prepared By
Zack Carlton, Community Development Director
Item Description
Modification of Legal Nonconforming Advertising
Signs (Billboards)
Reviewed by
Chris Leeseberg
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, approval of the request to reduce, relocate, and modify legal nonconforming
advertising signs (billboards) subject to the following conditions:
1. The city does not require the demolitions or relocation of a billboard until the land beneath the structure is
included in a final plat.
2. Billboards must be removed from land included in a final plat for Oakwater Ridge and slated for dedication
as a frontage road prior to releasing the plat for recording.
3. Billboards relocated and constructed on the north side of Highway 10 must be done in accordance with the
even spacing exhibit to improve compliance under the current city codes.
4. At no time shall there be an increase in the total number of billboard structures, faces, or sign area on the
subject properties.
Background/Discussion
The subject property is in the same location as the proposed Oakwater Ridge/Specht Farm subdivision
proposed by Capstone homes. This request seeks approval from the city to move existing billboards on the
land slated for residential development. The proposal will support the residential subdivision by removing the
billboards from the area proposed for a future frontage road as the property is developed.
The subject properties currently have 21 billboard structures along Highway 10, 14 of which are located on
the south side of Highway 10 and seven are located on the north side of Highway 10. The existing billboards
vary in size, height, and spacing and are considered legal nonconforming structures as they were in place prior
to the current ordinance. The current ordinance prohibits all billboards on residentially zoned properties, and
limits billboards to commercial and industrial lots of at least 1-acre, with each billboard requiring their own
lot.
The proposal removes all 14 billboards from the south side of Highway 10 to support the Oakwater Ridge
subdivision and replaces the seven structures on the north side of the highway with four new double-sided
billboards. The new billboards would be spaced further apart to improve compliance with city codes, which
require 1,200 feet between billboard structures.
City ordinance Sec. 30-854(d) states:
(d) Relocation or alteration. The city council may, upon application of a property owner, permit the alteration or
Page 57 of 157
relocation of a legal nonconforming sign if, after a public hearing by the planning commission and city council, the
council determines that total compliance with the current sign regulations is not reasonable but the alteration or
relocation of the nonconforming signs is in greater conformity with the existing sign regulations and is in the best
interest of the community.
While the proposal does not bring the property into full compliance with city codes, it does move the
property significantly closer to compliance. Additionally, it will improve the visual appearance of the Highway
10 corridor by reducing sign clutter and supporting the proposed Oakwater Ridge subdivision.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Support the growth and development of the community.
Appropriately govern in an ever-changing environment.
Attachments
1. Location Map
2. Applicant's Narrative
3. Application Exhibits
Page 58 of 157
Page 59 of 157
April 28, 2025
Zack Carlton, Community Development Director
City of Elk River
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
Via Email and Online
zcarlton@ElkRiverMN.gov
Re: Change of Nonconforming Use – 16723 US-10
Dear Mr. Carlton:
We represent Security Bank and Trust, Trustee of the Doris Specht and the Erwin T. Specht
Trust (the “Applicant”), the owner of the parcel at 16723 US-10 (“Property”). On behalf of the
Applicant, we are seeking City Council approval to alter and relocate certain legal
nonconforming signs on the Property located along Highway 10 near Specht Lane in Elk River,
Minnesota (“Project”).
The billboards are currently legally nonconforming due to their proximity to one another, which
does not comply with the current sign regulations. The Project seeks to substantially reduce the
number of signs on and around the Property and reconstruct a smaller number of modern,
uniform signs in greater conformity with the City Code and community standards.
Proposed Project
There are currently 21 billboard structures around the Property along Highway 10, 14 of which
are located on the south side of Highway 10 and seven are located on the north side of Highway
10 on the Property. The billboards vary in size, height, and spacing, creating a cluttered and
inconsistent visual appearance along the highway corridor.
The Project proposes to remove all 14 sign structures on the south side of the highway and
replace the seven sign structures on the north side with four new back-to-back billboards on the
Property, evenly spaced. The new signs would have a smaller footprint and a more streamlined
design. The Project would result in a net reduction of 17 sign structures, 20 sign faces, and
4,291 square feet of signage. The new sign structures would be spaced approximately 350 feet
from one another, instead of the current spacing which ranges from 219 to 227 feet on the north
side of Highway 10.
The Project brings the nonconforming use of the billboards to greater conformity with the City’s
sign regulations and promotes the intent of the ordinance to reduce visual clutter, enhance
safety and aesthetics, and support the character of the highway corridor.
Applicable Standards and Considerations
The City Code under Section 30-854(d) allows the City Council, following a public hearing, to
approve the alteration or relocation of a legal nonconforming sign if total compliance is not
reasonable and the proposed change brings the signs into greater conformity and serves the
Page 60 of 157
Zack Carlton, Community
Development Director
April 28, 2025
Page 2
community’s best interest. The following factors support approval of the Project under the City
Code:
Total compliance is not reasonable due to the long-standing legal nonconforming status
of the signs and physical limitations of the Property.
The proposed signs are fewer in number, more uniform in appearance, better spaced,
and significantly reduce overall signage, supporting the City’s goals for sign regulation.
The proposed changes improve the visual landscape, reduce visual clutter for highway
users, and promote compatibility with adjacent land uses (which include agricultural,
commercial, and industrial uses).
Further, under Section 30-697, legally nonconforming uses may continue through repair,
replacement, maintenance, or improvement, and Section 30-698 permits limited expansion
provided that the cost does not exceed 25 percent of the assessed value of the improvements
and that the expansion does not reduce compatibility with surrounding properties. The Project
complies with these provisions by modernizing the signage design, reducing the number and
size of signs, and improving compatibility with adjacent land uses.
Conclusion
Based on the above analysis, the Project meets the criteria set forth in Section 30-854(d) of the
City Code for the alteration and relocation of legal nonconforming signs, as full compliance with
current sign regulations is not reasonable, and the proposed changes bring the signage into
greater conformity with those regulations. The Project is also consistent with the purpose and
intent of the City’s sign ordinance and comprehensive plan, and supports community goals
related to visual quality, safety, and land use compatibility. The Project is also consistent with
Sections 30-697 and 30-698 of the City Code, as it involves the improvement of a longstanding
legal nonconforming use, remains within the allowable limits for modifications, and does not
reduce compatibility with adjacent uses.
We respectfully request City Council approval of the proposed modifications. Please do not
hesitate to reach out with any questions. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jacob W. Steen, for
Larkin Hoffman
Direct Dial: 952-896-3239
Direct Fax: 952-842-1738
Email: jsteen@larkinhoffman.com
Enclosure
4922-3226-4239, v. 2
Page 61 of 157
Sherburne County, MN
Developed by
Disclaimer: Every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained on this web site is valid at the time of publication. Sherburne County reserves the right to make additions,
changes, or corrections at any time and without notice. Additionally, Sherburne County disclaims any and all liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly as a result of errors, omissions or
discrepancies and is not responsible for misuse or misinterpretation. Data is updated periodically. For the most current information contact the appropriate county department.
Disclaimer for St Cloud Parcels: Sherburne County information about St Cloud properties are limited to classi cation and value. Any questions regarding additional information please contact the
City of St Cloud's assessor of ce.
Date created: 1/13/2025
Last Data Uploaded: 1/13/2025 9:12:24 AM
360 ft
Overview
Legend
Public Water Inventory
Not Classi ed
General
Development
Natural
Environment
Recreational
Development
Parcels
Streams
2004 Prior to Rebuild
Page 62 of 157
Sherburne County, MN
Developed by
Disclaimer: Every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained on this web site is valid at the time of publication. Sherburne County reserves the right to make additions,
changes, or corrections at any time and without notice. Additionally, Sherburne County disclaims any and all liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly as a result of errors, omissions or
discrepancies and is not responsible for misuse or misinterpretation. Data is updated periodically. For the most current information contact the appropriate county department.
Disclaimer for St Cloud Parcels: Sherburne County information about St Cloud properties are limited to classi cation and value. Any questions regarding additional information please contact the
City of St Cloud's assessor of ce.
Date created: 1/13/2025
Last Data Uploaded: 1/13/2025 9:12:24 AM
360 ft
Overview
Legend
Public Water Inventory
Not Classi ed
General
Development
Natural
Environment
Recreational
Development
Parcels
Streams
Existing Rebuilds
Page 63 of 157
Sherburne County, MN
Developed by
Disclaimer: Every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained on this web site is valid at the time of publication. Sherburne County reserves the right to make additions,
changes, or corrections at any time and without notice. Additionally, Sherburne County disclaims any and all liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly as a result of errors, omissions or
discrepancies and is not responsible for misuse or misinterpretation. Data is updated periodically. For the most current information contact the appropriate county department.
Disclaimer for St Cloud Parcels: Sherburne County information about St Cloud properties are limited to classi cation and value. Any questions regarding additional information please contact the
City of St Cloud's assessor of ce.
Date created: 1/13/2025
Last Data Uploaded: 1/13/2025 9:12:24 AM
721 ft
Overview
Legend
Public Water Inventory
Not Classi ed
General
Development
Natural
Environment
Recreational
Development
Parcels
Streams
All Current Signs
Page 64 of 157
Sherburne County, MN
Developed by
Disclaimer: Every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained on this web site is valid at the time of publication. Sherburne County reserves the right to make additions,
changes, or corrections at any time and without notice. Additionally, Sherburne County disclaims any and all liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly as a result of errors, omissions or
discrepancies and is not responsible for misuse or misinterpretation. Data is updated periodically. For the most current information contact the appropriate county department.
Disclaimer for St Cloud Parcels: Sherburne County information about St Cloud properties are limited to classi cation and value. Any questions regarding additional information please contact the
City of St Cloud's assessor of ce.
Date created: 1/13/2025
Last Data Uploaded: 1/13/2025 9:12:24 AM
360 ft
Overview
Legend
Public Water Inventory
Not Classi ed
General
Development
Natural
Environment
Recreational
Development
Parcels
Streams
Rebuild Using Even Spacing
Page 65 of 157
Sherburne County, MN
Developed by
Disclaimer: Every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained on this web site is valid at the time of publication. Sherburne County reserves the right to make additions,
changes, or corrections at any time and without notice. Additionally, Sherburne County disclaims any and all liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly as a result of errors, omissions or
discrepancies and is not responsible for misuse or misinterpretation. Data is updated periodically. For the most current information contact the appropriate county department.
Disclaimer for St Cloud Parcels: Sherburne County information about St Cloud properties are limited to classi cation and value. Any questions regarding additional information please contact the
City of St Cloud's assessor of ce.
Date created: 1/13/2025
Last Data Uploaded: 1/13/2025 9:12:24 AM
360 ft
Overview
Legend
Public Water Inventory
Not Classi ed
General
Development
Natural
Environment
Recreational
Development
Parcels
Streams
Rebuild Using Existing Sites
Page 66 of 157
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Planning Commission
Item Number
5.1
Meeting Date
May 27, 2025
Prepared By
Zack Carlton, Community Development Director
Item Description
Downtown Master Plan
Reviewed by
Chris Leeseberg
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, approval of the Downtown Master Plan.
Background/Discussion
City staff, along with representatives from multiple boards and commissions, have been working closely with
Bolton and Menk to create a 20-year vision for downtown Elk River. The plans are outlined in the 2024
Downtown Elk River Master Plan and have been recommended for adoption by the plan subcommittee.
The city held a public open house on April 22, 2025, and the Planning Commission had a preliminary review of
the plan and recommendations later that evening. The full plan is attached and staff are looking for a
recommendation to move the document forward for consideration by the City Council.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Support the growth and development of the community.
Attachments
1. Draft Downtown Master Plan
Page 67 of 157
Prepared for: City of Elk River
Prepared by:Bolton & MenkLeland Consulting
DOWNTOWN MASTER PLANElk River, MinnesotaDraft Report as of April 21, 2025
Page 68 of 157
TABLE OF CONTENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Introduction & Executive Summary ........ 3
Analysis .......................................................... 5
Plan Process .................................................. 16
Recommendations ...................................... 23
Implementation .......................................... 38
Steering Committee
Allison McDowell (Downtown Business Representative)
Deana McLean (Downtown Business Representative)
Jennifer Wagner (City Council Representative)
Lance Lindberg (Heritage Preservation Commission Representative)
Lynn Caswell (Housing and Redevelopment Authority Representative)
Perry Beise (Planning Commission Representative)
Jill Larson-Vito (Elk River Resident)
City Staff
Zack Carlson (Community Development Director)
Chris Leeseberg (Senior Planner)
Brent O’Neil (Economic Development Director)
Josh Mollan (Economic Development Specialist)
City Leadership
John J. Dietz - Mayor
Cory Grupa - Ward 1
J. Brian Calva - Ward 2
Mike Beyer - Ward 3
Jennifer Wagner - Ward 4
Page 69 of 157
1 INTRODUCTION
Page 70 of 157
1
THE PURPOSE OF THIS DOWNTOWN PLAN
The purpose of this Plan is to create a vision and series of
action steps for the Downtown Area of Elk River — a vision that
responds to the needs of today, and prepares for the desires of
the future.
Downtown is of particular importance to the community because
it is the psychological center of the community. Comprised of
small and medium sized properties, it is in many ways a place of
opposites - a place of pride and community gatherings; a core
separated from the rest of the city; a beautiful river that lacks a
strong presence; major regional visibility offered by infrastructure
that bisects the area; a community that takes pride in both its
downtown, and country identities.
It is also of particular importance because downtown Elk River,
like many smaller downtown, sits at an inflection point in its
history. As it wrestles with a post-COVID economic identity,
downtown is seeking to become more than just a place to
work and shop - but also one in which people can live, gather,
celebrate, and play.
With nearly all of the private land in the area developed,
or encumbered by highways and rail, Downtown Elk River
must creatively pursue strategies of redevelopment, creative
connectivity, and people-oriented public spaces. The purpose
of this Downtown Plan therefore is to provide clear, attainable
guidance to align private and public investments towards goals
of a more connected, inviting, vibrant destination for residents
and visitors.
“Elk River’s attractive and well-programmed downtown will be a destination for residents as well as tourists interested in enjoying a night out for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The downtown will leverage its waterfront to anchor events and draw thousands to the area.
Pedestrian connections throughout the downtown will be enhanced, encouraging visitors to park once and explore on foot.”
-Elk River 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Page 71 of 157
2
BUFFALO
MONTICELLO
BECKER
PRINCETON CAMBRIDGE
NORTHBRANCH
FOREST LAKEANOKA
ROGERS
MAPLE GROVE
ELK RIVER
MINNEAPOLIS
ST. PAUL
ST CLOUD
ELK RIVER THROUGH THE YEARS
The RegionA Trading Hub
Like many present day river cities, Elk River originated as a hub for
fishing and trading. The earliest human activity saw the Ojibwa
and Dakota people using the land for hunting, fishing, and
traveling along the Mississippi. Early European settlers eventually
set up trade posts along the Mississippi and Elk River, and the
Red River Trail, leveraging the confluence of each for travel and
commerce. Over time, trading turned to farming, which eventually
gave way to industry. Rail arrived in Elk River in the 1870’s, and
with it came a shift of the economic center of the city to “Lower
Town”, the current historic downtown area.
Shortly after World War II, regional and state-wide paved
roadways were introduced to the city. Highway 10, originally
called the Jefferson Highway, was constructed in its current
location along the northern edge of the downtown core. A few
years later, Highway 169 was introduced. Even in its early days
the highway saw major weekend backups extending miles out of
town.
ENERGY CITY
Even before Elk River was established as a city in 1974, energy
production played a major role in the regional economy. The first
rural nuclear power station went online in the area in 1960, and
subsequent energy innovations and sector growth help the city
achieve the unofficial title of “energy city” in the late 1990’s.
Elk River is just outside the official Twin Cities Metropolitan
Region, however it relies on surrounding communities for much
of its daily retail and dining needs. Located 30 miles from
Downtown Minneapolis, Elk River is on the northern edge of the
regions developed areas. Because of this, the City has adopted
a tagline of “where the city and country flow together. Both of
the city’s major highways, Hwy 10 and Hwy 169, provide direct
access from Minneapolis and St. Paul, north to regional centers of
commerce and recreation in greater Minnesota.
1943 1957 1991 2004 2004
CITY AND COUNTRY FLOW TOGETHER
Elk River continues to embrace the converging of city and
country within its borders. With near proximity to both St. Cloud
and the Minneapolis/St. Paul Metro, Elk River is never more than
a short journey away from city amenities. It also offers plenty of
wide open country land for those seeking respite from city-living.
With something for everyone, and anchored by the Mississippi
and Elk Rivers, the city truly reflects the moniker of “Where City
and Country Flow Together”.
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DOWNTOWN ELK RIVER
Downtown has been the economic and cultural heart of the city,
ever since the first trains rolled into town in the 1870’s. Today, the
downtown core area - the area on Main Street west of Highway
10 - is a series of walkable blocks with main street commercial
buildings and apartment housing. This commercial heart quickly
transitions to a single family neighborhood to the west.
North of the core, is a mix of industrial and small commercial,
eventually transitioning to a small residential neighborhood. To
the east of the core then is a small commercial corridor along
Main Street, connecting Highway’s 10 and 169.
Downtown faces a series of infrastructure and natural
challenges. Bounded by Highway 169 to the east, the downtown
is bisected by Highway 10 and the rail line, right through its
core. The difficulties each presents in terms of connectivity and
development, cannot be overstated. Further, the Mississippi
bounds the area to the south. While there are immense
opportunities to better connect to the river, today, the downtown
only minimally addresses the river.
Despite these challenges, there are numerous opportunities
for the city to guide transformational redevelopment, promote
enhanced multimodal connectivity, and provide destination
public space experiences.
Scale of OpportunityHeart of the City
The scale of the downtown area is comparable to several other downtowns in
surrounding communities. Additionally, its a size in which its core area is all within
an approximately 10-minute walk - a standard measure for a comfortable walking
distance.
Downtown Anoka
Downtown Elk River
Downtown Monticello
Downtown St. Cloud
10 min walk
DOWNTOWN CORE
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Zoning Code
Details allowable land uses, and site and
building design guidance for Downtown, and
immediately surrounding areas.
Downtown Traffic and Parking Study (2021)
Analyzed traffic and parking conditions within
Downtown; Evaluated the pros and cons of
transitioning Jackson Avenue to a one-way.
Highway 10 Corridor Study
The corridor study identifies a series of safety,
access, and operational challenges for the
Highway.
2040 Comprehensive Plan: Riverfront Planning
Outlines future guidance for Rivers Edge Park,
and an ADA accessible seasonal dock to the
River; Recommends additional connections to
the river front.
Elk River Parks and Recreation Master Plan (2015)
Provides facility and programming improvement
recommendations for downtown area trails,
river access, and area parks.
Sherburne County Park, Trail, and Active Living Plan
Identifies conditions and needs for improved
trail connectivity with Downtown and the
Great Northern Trail and Mississippi River Trail;
Downtown is within Sherburne County’s Priority
network corridor for improvements
Key Takeaways
• Much of the historic development pattern of
downtown remains, though is constrained by natural
features and regional infrastructure.
• Existing land use and character area guidance is as
in alignment with desired uses in downtown, but may
benefit from some additional refinement.
• Only about 1/3 of available parking downtown is
utilized on an average day, however available parking
isn’t necessarily perceived as convienant or “near”
destinations.
• Converting Jackson Avenue to a one-way street was
determined to be more detrimental to downtown than
beneficial.
• Continued expansion of public space and access to the
river is critical to maximizing downtown’s potential
• New trail connections can connect downtown with
the Great Northern Trail, Lion John Weicht Park, Bailey
Point Nature Preserve, and other regional destinations
2040 Comprehensive Plan Guidance
To guide city economic development actions, and promote cohesive
developable areas, the city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan ascribed a series of
character areas to the downtown. Guidance, including area-specific city policies
and strategies, seek to promote job creation, enhance delivery of goods and
services, and raise quality of life in each area.
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DOWNTOWNDOWNTOWN
Downtown Mixed Use
Neighborhood commercial
Uptown Mixed Use
Highway 169 commercial
DOWNTOWN ELK RIVER
Past and Current Plans
Page 74 of 157
2 ANALYSIS
Page 75 of 157
6
MARKET
PUBLIC SPACE
(P)
The analysis of Downtown Elk River includes a review of Public Space,
Connectivity, and Development. Understanding issues and opportunities
through this holistic lens allows for targeted improvements, while
recognizing their interrelated role each plays towards creating strong
places.
The Plan is also supported by a market analysis. Findings from the
market analysis further refined the analysis to identify and explore area
recommendations.
KEY FINDINGS
D1 - Defined Development Character Areas
D2 - Railroad Dr Redevelopment Opportunities
D3 - Parking Lot Site, Church Site, Funeral Home Site
C1 - Main St Design, Crossings of Hwy 10 & BNSF Rail Line
C2 - Mulitomodal Connectivity
C3 - Main St / Parrish Ave Intersection
P1 - Leverage the River
P2 - More and more frequent events
P3 - Enhanced Main St pedestrian experience
CONNECTIVITY (C)
DEVELOPMENT (D)
C2
P1
P3
P2C1
D1
D2
D3
C3 HWY 169HWY 169
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Main StMain St
River’s EdgeRiver’s Edge
CommonsCommons
Main StMain St Jackson AveJackson AveBailey Point
Nature Preserve
Mississippi
River Irving AveIrving AveGates AveGates AveRai
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SYSTEMS OF ANALYSIS
P3
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Downtown is wedged between the Mississippi
River, Highway 10, and the BNSF rail.
The City grew up along the river, therefore
the older building stock extends west
from Downtown.
As Main Street extends east towards Hwy
169 it lacks a consistent development
pattern.
Most of the City’s commercial development is
along HWY 169 and not Hwy 10.
Though the rail line predates most of the
city’s development, the block pattern on
the north side of the rail line appears to
have been disrupted by the rail alignment.
Study Area
DEVELOPMENT
Existing Conditions
KEY FINDINGS
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169HWY
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8
Railroad Drive Opportunities
• The Main Street portion of downtown is relatively well
built out, therefore there are only a few opportunities for
redevelopment. Railroad Drive, on the other hand, presents
significant opportunities for redevelopment.
• The properties are underperforming, in that land values
exceed the building values - suggesting they are susceptible
to change in the near term.
• Given the inability to add housing into the immediate
Downtown, the Railroad Drive properties are well positioned
for multi-family housing.
Key Downtown Sites
• The City owns several key properties Downtown - including
the public parking lot, riverfront properties as well as the
street ROW. The City should use these properties to advance
the goals of the Master Plan
• The church and funeral home are legal non-conforming uses
in the Downtown. They are permitted to operate however
they are limited in their ability to expand in that location.
Development Districts Character Areas
• Though the rail line and Highway 10 disrupt the physical fabric
of the community, they create the opportunity to clearly
define different character areas in the downtown area.
• Main Street, between Lowell Avenue and Highway 10 is
generally considered the core of downtown - consisting of
mercantile, commercial, and mixed use buildings. The area is
a center of the community - a place where a mix of uses come
together.
• West of Lowell, the character changes to urban neighborhood
- where housing is the dominant land use. The width of Main
Street remains relatively wide, which is inconsistent with the
residential character astride it.
• Uptown, the area north of Railroad Drive, has never evolved
into a place with a consistent character. The uses are not
related to each other and the street grid and block pattern
have abrupt edges along the rail line.
DEVELOPMENT
Key Findings
MAIN ST
MAIN ST MAIN ST JACKSON AVEPARKING
LOT
PARKING
LOT
LOWELL AVEJACKSON AVEHW
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RHWY 169Page 78 of 157
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Hwy 10 bisects the study area, but also
offers visibility and regional access
The rail line bisects the center of the
downtown area, and is a major barrier
Main Street is the primary east/west
connector in downtown, and the anchor
to the local network
Jackson Ave is the only north/south
connection over Hwy 10 and rail line
The Main St/Parrish Ave/Hwy 10/Rail Line
intersections are very difficult to navigate
by car, foot, and bike
Improvements to Hwy 169 should
alleviate area traffic, while offering
another means of getting to downtown
DOWNTOWNCORE
UPTOWN
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR
NEIGHBORHOOD
NEIGHBORHOOD
MAIN ST
PARRISH AVEJACKSON AVEHWY 10
HWY 169
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INDUSTRIAL
CONNECTIVITY
KEY FINDINGS
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10
More Places for Walking and Biking
• Walking within the downtown is generally concentrated
within two, circular networks - one north of Highway 10 and
one south. While the sidewalk systems is relatively well built
in each, pedestrian connections between downtown and
uptown are poor.
• There are currently no designated areas to bike into and
around the downtown area, and wide vehicle lanes within
downtown dissuades people from biking. Connecting
downtown to area trails, particularly the Great Northern
Trail, could bring another user group into downtown while
promoting bike tourism.
Vehicle Spot Improvements
• Vehicle circulation into and within downtown is often very
uncomfortable. This is especially true during large events,
the many times per day that trains pass, and during summer
weekend traffic.
• Spot improvements at the Main Street / Parrish Avenue
intersection could help with better circulation at the already
location, while offering places to loop back into downtown.
• Similarly, Lowell Avenue at the west end of downtown
could be redesigned to offer a loop back opportunity into
downtown.
• Spot improvements at Jackson Avenue and Highway 10
crossing could help with vehicle access and safer pedestrian
crossings.
A Disconnected Downtown
• The Downtown Core area is severely isolated due to Highway
10 and the rail line to the north, and the Mississippi River
to the south. Getting into and out of the area requires
“funneling” onto Jackson Ave, Main St east, and Parrish Ave -
all of which have difficult crossings.
• Crossing Highway 10 and the rail line is difficult,
uncomfortable if walking or biking and limited in location -
the only places to cross within downtown are along Main St
or Jackson St. The presence of both make circulation around
the area very difficult, particularly during events, trains, or
summer weekend traffic.
• The generous roadway widths, angled parking, and modest
streetscape along Main Street, don’t promote an attractive
retail and pedestrian experience. Reconsidering the roadway
design towards one with more space for pedestrians, could
better balance the many competing needs within the
downtown core.
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4th ST 4th ST 4th ST
MAIN ST MAIN ST MAIN STJACKSON AVEJACKSON AVEJACKSON AVEPROCTOR AVEPROCTOR AVEPROCTOR AVEPARRISH AVEPARRISH AVEPARRISH AVEMISSISSIPPIRIVER MISSISSIPPIRIVER MISSISSIPPIRIVERHwy 169Hwy 169Hwy 169
CONNECTIVITY
Key Findings
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11
Right of Way
Mississippi River
Bailey Point Nature Preserve
RIVERS EDGE
COMMONS
MAIN ST
MAIN ST JASCKSON AVEHWY 169
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Main Street and Jackson Avenue are
major public space amenities, but
primarily serve vehicles
The city-owned parking lot is a major
event space for activities like the farmers
market
Rivers Edge Commons is the premier public
space downtown, but its programming is
limited to concerts and performances
Surrounding public space destinations
like Bailey Point Nature Preserve are not
well connected to downtown for people
walking and biking
The riverfront has the potential to be a major
downtown amenity and public space, but is
largely disconnected from downtown.
KEY FINDINGS
3
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PUBLIC SPACE
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12
Main Street and Jackson Avenue are the Key
• Main Street is the only east-west through downtown.
It is also the primary connector and public space within
downtown.
• Rethinking the design of Main Street and Jackson Avenue in
the downtown core, would offer more space for pedestrian
activity, eating and shopping, and events, all while improving
multimodal connectivity in downtown.
More and More Frequent Events
• The community expressed a strong desire for more
downtown events, particularly for families. Such events
bring the community together to celebrate and socialize
downtown.
• The provision of public events will need to balance available
city resources, and consider space and facility needs for these
activities. If aligned with supportive public spaces downtown,
additional events could bolster the role of downtown in civic
life, while reconnecting people to downtown as a identity of
the city.
Leverage the River
• The river is one of downtown’s strongest assets, yet it is
only experienced via River’s Edge Commons and seasonal
dock. Enhancing public space along the river and providing
additional access and views, is a priority of this plan.
• Improvements along the river and connective public space,
could better connect people to each other, the natural
environment, and offering new recreational and event
opportunities.
PUBLIC SPACE
Key Findings
+/-25% Pedestrian Space
+/-75% Vehicle Space
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13
Demographics Employment and Commuting Local Market Conditions
• There is a higher concentration of lower-income households in
the Downtown study area, largely due to the fact that nearly
a third of multifamily housing units in this area are regulated
affordable housing. Along with Jackson Place, the 23-unit Elk
River Senior Apartments are affordable. However, the high
concentration of upper-income households citywide suggests
that there could be an opportunity to add higher-end housing
and retail to Downtown.
• 262 people live in the Downtown study area, making up just
under one percent of the total population of 27,393. Between
2010 and 2024, population growth in Elk River outpaced
county- and region-wide growth. The median per capita
and household incomes are lower in Downtown than region
wide due to the high concentration of affordable housing in
Downtown Elk River.
• Elk River has a total of 11,498 jobs, 81% of which are filled
by workers from outside of the city limits (including
unincorporated areas). Nearly 11,000 workers who live in Elk
River commute to other communities for work. Just 2,169 (17
percent) of workers who live in Elk River work within city limits.
• Among workers who live in Elk River, 14.5% work in the
city and nine percent work in Minneapolis, while 52% of
Elk River workers commute to other locations, including
unincorporated areas.
• Residents of Elk River and
neighboring cities typically
cross municipal boundaries
to meet their daily needs.
To understand the overall
market dynamics in Elk
River, the Plan analyzed
a seven-mile radius from
Downtown Elk River,
which includes parts of
Sherburne, Anoka, and
Wright counties. Within
this area, there are 8.3
million square feet of
industrial space across
255 properties, with an
additional nine proposed
properties expected to
add two million square
feet of industrial space to
the market. Multifamily
• Permitting has not returned to pre-Great Recession levels.
While between 2000 and 2006, Sherburne County permitted
an average of over 1,200 units per year, between 2017 and
2023 the county permitted an average of around 500 units
per year. In 2022, 596 units were permitted, over half of which
were in structures with five or more units. It does not appear
that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative
impact on permitting.
• Retail trade, manufacturing, health care and social assistance,
and educational services dominate the Elk River employment
sector.
• Between 2012 and 2021, construction, manufacturing,
accommodation and food services, and retail trade saw the
biggest job gains among employment sectors.
• Over that period, the city gained 722 new jobs, a 6.7% increase
in overall employment. Manufacturing and retail are the
biggest employment sectors in Elk River, employing over 1,800
workers each and accounting for nearly two thirds of total
employment citywide.
• Manufacturing sector employment in Elk River grew by 45%
between 2012 and 2021 while retail grew by 23% percent.
and retail are also among
the most common use types
by square feet, though there
are more office properties
than multifamily in this area.
The relatively small office
spaces support nonprofit
offices, service providers like
insurance agents, and mental
health care providers.
MARKET SUMMARY
Housing Permits in Sherburne CountyLocation of Employment for Residents of Elk River
Income Distribution in Downtown and Elk River
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14
Retail Gap AnalysisVisitor Dynamics
• Visits to Olde Main Eatery peak between 9 and 11 AM, while
peak hours at Caribou Coffee are longer, lasting generally
between 7 AM and 5 PM. Most visits to the Rivers Edge
Commons and McCoy’s Irish Pub are in the evening hours.
• Visits to Olde Main Eatery and McCoy’s Irish Pub are
concentrated on weekends, while Caribou Coffee attracts
more weekday traffic. This is likely due to the fact that
Caribou Coffee caters to drive-through customers on their
way to work. Over a quarter of visits to Rivers Edge Commons
are on Thursdays, when summer programming brings
residents to the waterfront for concerts and festivals.
MARKET SUMMARY
Visits by Time of Day
Share of Visits by Day of Week
Retail Square Footage per capitaSupply and demand for Selected Retail Categories within a Five
Minute Drive of Downtown Elk River
Restaurant Square Footage per capita
• The category with the highest unmet demand within a five-
minute drive of Downtown Elk River is full-service restaurants.
This aligns with information provided by shareholders,
who specifically stated the need for family dining as well
as dining options open late enough for visitors to summer
programming at the river. There is also an unmet demand for
full-service and limited-service restaurants within a 20-minute
drive of Downtown.
• Although Elk River has a high concentration of retail and
service sector employment, it does not have the same
concentration of eating and drinking establishments as
peer cities. In Albertville, there are three eating and drinking
establishments for every thousand residents, while in Elk River
there are fewer than two.
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15
The Center of The City.
The role of Downtown is not necessarily to be the City’s
economic engine or a competitor to big-box anchored shopping
centers, but rather to be a point of pride for the community and
an amenity for residents, employees, and businesses. A healthy
and thriving downtown communicates that the community is
valued and helps to attract residents and businesses.
A Strong Foundation
Elk River is a small but growing city with an active Downtown
and supportive business community. From an occupancy and
placemaking perspective, Elk River’s Downtown is relatively
healthy, especially for a town of its size.
Creative Opportunities
Post-COVID work-from-home trends in the office sector are
causing problems for central downtown office and retail
vitality. Those same trends, however, present an opportunity for
outlying and suburban communities that combine high quality
of residential life with a well-rounded offering of amenities and
services. Downtowns like Elk River’s stand to benefit from the
increased daytime “body count” to support walkable retail,
dining, and small office spaces, especially with complementary
residential options.
Leverage Continued Growth
Elk River is growing rapidly, with an average growth rate of 1.4
percent annually between 2010 and 2024. Although residential
permitting is below pre-Great Recession levels, this level of
growth will continue to fuel a need for housing, requiring a
combination of single-family homes and apartments. Downtown
could be a key location for new apartments, but more everyday
amenities will likely be needed to support Downtown residents.
This could include small-format grocery or convenience stores,
pharmacies, health clinics, and other necessities.
Introduce More Uses
Downtowns are constantly improving and changing to
meet resident needs. Adding more housing and mixed-use
development proximate to Downtown and improving the
connection between Downtown and the riverfront would help
draw more visitors and support local businesses.
Events and Business Hour Alignment
Most visits to Downtown Elk River are evenings during the
weekends, as well as Thursday nights in the summer when there is
programming, including the Farmers’ Market and concerts at the
riverfront. However, many of the stores, restaurants, and offices
Downtown are not open into the evening hours. While there are
limited spaces currently available for new family-friendly dining
and entertainment, there could be an opportunity for the City to
allow temporary or mobile vendors, like food carts.
Leverage the River for Unique Amenities
Downtown currently lacks a suitable site to build a competitive
hotel. However, if riverfront properties currently occupied by the
church and funeral home could be assembled at some point in
the future, a boutique hotel as part of a mixed-use development
could fill a high value niche in a market with little variety in
current supply.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
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3 PLAN PROCESS
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17
THE PROCESS
Project Goals
The Downtown Elk River Master Plan establishes a refined vision and set of
implementation steps for Downtown and the immediately surrounding area.
This vision builds on the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan, while reflecting a
deeper analysis of downtown’s issues and opportunities.
The Plan is guided by a set of Goals to promote a place that is unique to Elk
River—one that affirms the historic center of economic and social activity that
Downtown played for the City, while affirming a need to continue evolving into
a modern center.
It is envisioned that much of the existing fabric of Downtown will generally
remain in place - the current roadway network, the types of land uses allowed,
and the majority of the area’s public spaces. However, a series of targeted
interventions are suggested that build on this foundation towards a more
robust destination and year-round place of social and economic activity.
A Market-Supported Vision
A Place People Can Comfortably Get To, And Get Around
Getting to downtown is critical
considering the constraints of
adjacent roadways, rail, and the river.
Equally as important are clear ways to
move around downtown once you’ve
arrived. Downtown must therefore
provide comfortable means of driving,
walking, and biking to and around
downtown for it to continue being
successful.
The future vision of downtown should
be aspirational, while supported
by current and anticipated market
realities. Implementation steps should
balance city resources with long-term
returns on public investments.
A Public Realm That Supports Businesses and Events
Appropriately-Scaled Development
The scale of future development
in and around downtown must
complement existing development,
offer transitions in height and scale,
and support the city’s long-range
vision.
Downtown’s public realm is the
lifeblood of gathering and activity.
Improvements to the Public Realm
must continue to support current
downtown events and businesses,
who rely on the public realm for their
success. In turn, improving these
spaces must set the stage for strong
events and business growth.
Balance Evolution with Predictability
Events and Businesses that Bring People Downtown
Continued business success in
downtown will require a level of
predictability in the pace and scale
of change. Future improvements
downtown should be communicated
proactively and regularly with
downtown business owners. In doing
so, local businesses can become active
partners and champions of change.
The busiest days in downtown are
driven by events. The continuation and
growth of downtown events should
be paired with destination businesses
that encourage people to visit the
area more often, and extend their stay
while downtown.
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18
Project engagement was conducted using a two-phased approach. This
provided for initial, broad input gathering from the public in Phase 1, followed
by a feedback loop in Phase 2 to confirm findings and share recommendations.
PHASE 1
• Project Website with project details and information
• Online public preference survey (362 respondents, see Appendix A for
results summary)
• Downtown Farmers Market pop-up
• Elk RiverFest pop-up
• Street decals about the project throughout downtown
PHASE 2
• A project overview video that summarized key plan elements
• Public Open House at City Hall that presented key recommendations and
outcomes of the plan.
The project was guided by a steering committee comprised of city staff,
downtown business owners, and local stakeholders. The steering committee
met monthly to review public feedback, evaluate opportunities, craft
recommendations, and establish an implementation plan.
ENGAGEMENT AND STEERING COMMITTEE
WHAT WE HEARD
• The public deeply values downtown, particularly its businesses and
events.
• Free or low-cost activities downtown draw the most people,
particularly where there are things to do for young families and kids
- something that is missing elsewhere in the city.
• Downtown should continue to attract more businesses, more
places to gather, and better views and access to the River.
• Parking, or at least the perception of available parking, is a concern
for the public.
• Within downtown itself, people did not want to see more
housing, particularly if it comes at the expense of more stores and
restaurants.
Downtown plan engagement at the Farmers Market (left), and Elk Riverfest (right).
Street decals about the project downtown
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19
Downtown
The steering committee explored and evaluated redevelopment concepts
on two, key sites in downtown - the city-owned parking lot north of Main St,
and the Elk River Lutheran Church property, should redevelopment ever occur
on the site. The church is expected to continue being a valuable member of
downtown, and as such, this plan does not anticipate a specific timeline for
that property.
Concepts explored on each site included:
• What an appropriate balance of development, public space, and parking
may be on the city-owned parking lot.
• The amount and type of new public space that should occur along Main
Street, what public improvements should be done to the Riverfront, and
how might these spaces relate to each other.
• How much development can be along Main St and what uses should it
include.
• Near and medium-term frontage or public realm improvement
opportunities for the Church property, even while they remain at that site.
“Front Porch”: Small green space with
parking area
“Double Liner”: A central parking ramp
with adjacent development
“Marketplace”: year-round space for
Farmers Market, pop-up events
“Riverfront Concessions”: Modest
development with a destination riverfront
“Town Green”: Larger outdoor space for
events and gathering
“Welcoming to the River”: Large development
oriented to the river, with modest park space
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | City-Owned Parking Lot Development and Public Space
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | Riverfront Development and Public Space
Downtown Development Guidance
• Any development on the city-owned parking lot should prioritize active ground floor uses along Main Street, and continue the character of downtown.
• A small green or public space on the parking lot site was desired, as a compliment to Rivers Edge Commons, and to continue hosting the Farmers Market
• Development on the city-owned parking lot must balance available parking throughout downtown.
• Any future development south of Main Street should ideally have a presence on Main Street, without turning its back to the river.
• The riverfront experience should be improved, but must be mindful of access and program needs of the Rivers Edge Commons, the visibility of new amenities to promote use and safety, and have clear physical and visual site lines to Main Street.
Main StMain St
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CONCEPT EVALUATION
Development
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Uptown Development Guidance
• Redevelopment in Uptown should be primarily residential, and allow for a diversity of housing types, scales, ownership, and price points.
• Denser development should be located along Railroad drive, and at major intersections.
• As feasible, a small or medium grocery or convenience store was seen as a good fit for the Uptown area.
• Closing Railroad Drive at Main Street could promote safer circulation at the rail road crossing area, but would require shifting access to Gates Ave.
Uptown
The steering committee also explored and evaluated a series of redevelopment
blocks north of Highway 10 and the BNSF rail line - termed “Uptown” during
the planning process. Recognizing the comparatively larger area of potential
redevelopment sites, this area was looked at holistically as compared to the
site-specific approach to Downtown.
In Uptown, the development concept explored:
• What an appropriate balance of residential and commercial uses should be,
and where each should be located
• The types, intensity, and general arrangement of residential uses
throughout Uptown
• The viability of a grocery or convenience store, and a centralized small
commercial “node” at the railroad drive roundabout.
Mix of housing types, price points, and ownership, with modest targeted commercial uses.
UPTOWN DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT
CONCEPT EVALUATION
Development
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Rebalancing Street Design
The steering committee considered rethinking streets, and the
balance of how the public right of way is utilized for vehicles,
people, business activities, and public realm enhancements.
For Main Street and Jackson Avenue downtown this included:
• What an appropriate balance of streets, parking, and space
for pedestrians may be.
• How to promote more space for pedestrian and economic
activity, like outdoor places to walk, eat, shop, and gather.
• For Jackson Avenue, how to improve business access along
the block, which is currently ramped on the east-side of the
street, with a contiguous railing.
For Main Street east of Highway 10 this included:
• With a limited available right of way, what improvements
might be viable, particularly those that improve and create
pedestrian space on the north side of the street and a more
welcoming environment into the downtown study area.
MAIN STREET DOWNTOWN CONCEPT (80’ Right of Way)
MAIN STREET EAST (65’ Right of Way)
JACKSON AVE CONCEPT (80’ Right of Way)
Current
Current
Current
Redesign Concept
Redesign Concept
Redesign Concept
Connectivity Guidance
• Within Downtown, the usage of the ROW should be rebalanced towards serving pedestrians, events, and street-level economic activity.
• On Main Street and Jackson Avenue there should be more trees and places to sit, while providing space for outdoor dining and selling of goods.
• On Jackson Avenue, improvements should seek out opportunities to allow for mid-block access along the western ramp.
• Main Street “east” shouild bury utilities, add more space for people to walk, and change the lighting to a more visually attractive style.
Very large space for cars (60’), limited sidewalk space (10’ each side)
Very large space for cars (56’), limited sidewalk space (12’ each side)
Appropriate space for cars, with a single sidewalk and utilitarian utility
poles and lighting
Reduce travel and turn lane widths, allowing 8’ to be reallocated for
another sidewalk and boulevard trees
Parallel parking on both sides, allowing 30’ to be reallocated to sidewalks
Parallel parking on both sides, allowing 16’ to be reallocated to sidewalks
CONCEPT EVALUATION
CONNECTIVITY
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More Places to Gather and Play
Public space improvements were considered along Main Street, within the city-
owned parking lot, and the Riverfront. These spaces were recognized for their
continued importance of hosting events, attracting people downtown, and
supporting a strong sense of place to support downtown businesses.
Public space considerations explored:
• The size, location, and design of any new public space in the city-owned
parking lot
• Opportunities for improving the Riverfront’s access, visibility, and design,
including trails, event space, natural areas, and navigating grade down to
the river.
• The relation of future public spaces downtown to Rivers Edge Commons.
• How sidewalks and the street could better support area businesses and
events.
• The recognition that new public spaces in Uptown will likely come about
through partnership with private developers.
Public Space Guidance
• The Farmers Market should continue to be hosted either in the city parking lot, or along Main Street. While a modest host structures could be of benefit, public space design and programming flexibility is important.
• Any new public space on Main Street in the city-owned parking lot should be modestly sized, while accomodating new development and public parking.
• While the riverfront could host some additional programming, most of this activity should remain along Main Street and Rivers Edge Commons.
• Any gazebo, bathrooms, or other structures along the riverfront should be designed with clear site lines to Main Street to promote use and safety.
• New public spaces in Uptown will be opportunity-driven, and in partnership with future private development.
MAIN STREET PUBLIC SPACE
RIVERFRONT IMPROVEMENTS
Exploration of a large public green space (above), smaller covered market (top right), and covered streetscape features (bottom right)
Riverfront improvements like trails (left), development-driven trails (middle), or pop-up vendor space (right)
CONCEPT EVALUATION
Public Space
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4 RECOMMENDATIONS
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24
THE PLAN
UPTOWN
A new walkable residential
neighborhood, with many options
to live, close to downtown.
DOWNTOWN
The community’s center offering
places to work, shop, dine, gather,
and play.
THE RIVERFRONT
A destination park, leveraging views
of the river with new places to
recreate, gather, and play.
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DOWNTOWN
Downtown will continue to evolve into the center of the city’s identity, offering year-round activities, commerce, and connections with friends and neighbors.
Downtown Elk River has a strong foundation in which to build on. In leveraging
its many assets - the business community, Rivers Edge Commons, year-round
activities, and highway visibility - downtown will further assert itself as the
destination center of the city.
Improvements to the street and sidewalk will provide a public realm that both
compliments downtown businesses, while creating flexible space for events
to naturally expand into. Targeted and strategic redevelopment will expand
existing street activity, while offering more places to work and live. Similarly, as
improvements to the river are incrementally accomplished, new development
will be drawn to the views and access of the river. Elsewhere, events and
activities will continue to grow, offering families, residents, and visitors more
things to do together throughout the year.
Access into and around downtown will be enhanced by carefully implemented
improvements along Main Street and Jackson Avenue. Strategically located
gateway projects will provide people “loop backs” through downtown,
addressing the challenges of a linear downtown, hemmed in by the highway
and river.
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DOWNTOWN
City-Owned Block
Key Outcomes
• New publicly accessible park along Main St, that can accommodate the farmers market and other events
• Active ground floor with direct access onto Main Street
• Pedestrian-scale design and frontage along Main Street
• Above-floor office or residential uses
• Maintain ability for future structured, shared parking ramp
• Explore the viability of a linear development along Highway 10
• A publicly-accessible restroom for the public space
The City owns a 2 acre site in the middle of
downtown. The site currently hosts a 160 space
surface lot, and a small 4,000 sq ft turf green
space.
Future development of the site must balance the
creation of an active retail frontage along main
street, the provision of a publicly-accessible public
space, and preservation of at least a portion of
the site for public parking. An east/west oriented
parcel (PID 75-00405-0240) in the center of the site
could provide a convenient delineation between the
development and parking areas, while maintaining
vehicle access to existing development on the west
side of Jackson Ave.
As the city prepares for a future development RFP,
it should remain flexible on the exact development
and public space arrangement. Some options
shown here illustrate how development and public
space programming could be arranged.
DEVELOPMENT VISION
SITE PHASING
The initial development may not be able to deliver structured
public parking or linear development, so the city should
anticipate multi-phased site improvements. Development
on Main Street should ensure feasibility of future site
improvements.
DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES
The city should maintain an openness to working with a private developer
on a feasible development plan that meets city goals. Recognizing this, other
development alternatives were explored that could also meet the needs and
expectations of the community.
2
1
3
5
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1 Publicly-accessible green space
along Main Street
2
Mixed-use building, with active
ground floor and office or
residential above ground
3 Surface, or future structured
parking
4 Space for future “linear” development
5 Maintain access to existing
building, with rear alley
POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OUTCOMES
• 8,000-12,000 sq ft ground floor retail space
• 20-25 new housing units or 16,000 - 24,000 sq ft new office space
• 6,000 - 10,000 sq ft public space to gather
• 80-160 parking spaces (pending future structured parking)
PHASE 1
PHASE 2/3
PHASE 2/3
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DOWNTOWN
Elk River Lutheran Church Site
Key Outcomes
• Establish a shared parking agreement on the back surface lot, for public use
• Coordinate on planned frontage and site improvements along Main Street, to reduce vehicle access points onto Main Street, create places to sit, and provide vegetation or a small greenspace
• Continue to work with the church as a strong partner and amenity within downtown
Key Outcomes
• Active ground floor with direct access onto Main Street
• Pedestrian-scale design and frontage along Main Street
• Above-floor office or residential
• Underground or podium parking, to reduce parking footprint
• Convert the lower surface parking lot to extended green riverfront park space
Elk River Lutheran Church is a strong downtown
partner, and is an amenity for the community.
The City and downtown stakeholders should
continue to partner with the church towards
opportunities for continued local partnerships
If the church ever desires to relocate, the site
could play an important role in the continued
evolution of downtown business and public
space improvements.
A mixed use project that offers commercial uses
along main street, residential, office, or event
uses in the rest of the building, and extends park
space along the River, could be a unique site
that leverages both the River and Main Street.
Existing
Potential Future Redevelopment
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DOWNTOWN
King to Lowell
Key Outcomes
• Medium-to-high density housing, with active ground floor uses along Main Street, along the northern half of the block.
• Townhomes or similar owner-occupied housing along the southwest quadrant of the block, leveraging views of the river.
• A modest or boutique hotel along King Avenue NW, connecting Main Street to the Riverfront, leveraging views and access of the river.
• As development along the riverfront occurs, portions of land along the river is transitioned to public riverfront park space, with trails connecting Rivers Edge Commons to Bailey Point Nature Preserve
On the southwest edge of downtown,
the “King to Lowell” block offers
long-term, opportunity-driven
redevelopment potential to extend
the active frontage of downtown
while further activating the river.
The block is anchored by a funeral
home that sits on the east half of
the block. If it were to relocate in
the future, that site could become
a significant redevelopment
opportunity in that the property
spans Main Street to the River.
A redevelopment could include
a large mixed use project with
active street frontage, or a modest
boutique hotel. Adding a hotel
downtown would further establish
downtown as a destination.
Elsewhere on the block, larger
commercial or residential
development should line Main
Street, whereas town homes or
small apartment housing could
line the riverfront to the south.
Redevelopment of the block should
include extending the riverfront park
west to at least Lowell Ave / Angel St.
Structured or interior surface parking
would likely be required, but could
service the needs of the entire block
if designed well.
2
3
1
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1
Mixed-use buildings along Main St
and Lowell Ave, with active ground
floor on Main St, and office or
residential above ground
2 Boutique hotel with views to
the River
3 Expanded public park
4 Housing fronting the riverfront
park
Stillwater’s Hotel Crosby. Credit: Ironmark Building Co.Modest townhomes, tri-plexes, or similar scale housing could be located along the
riverfront
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DOWNTOWN
Main Street and Jackson Avenue Redesign
The city is planning to
reconstruct Main Street
and Jackson Avenue in the
coming years, presenting an
opportunity to rethink the
layout and function of the
street.
The design “balance” of the
street today has about 75%
of the right of way used for
vehicles - traveling, delivering,
or parking. The redesign of
Main Street and Jackson Ave
should instead move each
towards a 50/50 balance, in
which the right of way supports
vehicles and pedestrian activity
in equal balance.
By doing so, Main Street has
the potential to become a
destination street in the city in
which daily activities happens.
Wider sidewalk space between
buildings and the street, would
allow for twice as much room
to walk, roll, dine, shop, and
gather, than currently exists
today.
To do this, the plan envisions
all angled parking is shifted
to parallel parking, and the
two travel lanes are reduced
to 11 feet. The space “gained”
from these changes is enough
to double the sidewalk space
on both sides of the street,
including a new boulevard
space with seating and
planters for trees.
20’
SIDEWALK &
BOULEVARD
20’
SIDEWALK &
BOULEVARD
20’
SIDEWALK &
BOULEVARD
20’
SIDEWALK &
BOULEVARD
9’
PARKING
(incl. curb/gutter)
9’
PARKING
(incl. curb/gutter)
11’
TRAVEL
11’
TRAVEL
11’
TRAVEL
11’
TRAVEL
9’
PARKING
(incl. curb/gutter)
9’
PARKING
(incl. curb/gutter)
MAIN STREET JACKSON AVEMain Street RedesignJackson Ave Redesign
MAIN STREET JACKSON AVECONTINUATION OF PLANTERS & STAIRS
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30
DOWNTOWN
Main Street and Jackson Avenue Redesign
Flexible Event Space
The additional sidewalk and boulevard space on the north side of
Main Street will compliment a future public space at the King Lot
development. Events in this public space could spill out onto the
sidewalk and boulevard - possibly even the street itself - offering
flexible event space that can grow and contract with an event’s
needs.
New Access to Jackson Ave Shops
By shifting Jackson Avenue’s angled parking to parallel, and
tightening up travel lanes, a redesigned street will add on-street
parking while also increasing the sidewalk space on the east side
of the street. In doing so, the current ramped edge could include
a landing, periodic stairs to create new points of access to shops,
and seating space that “overlooks” the street.
Casual Gathering
The redesign of Main Street would allow for casual outdoor
gathering, dining, and even shopping - something downtown lacks
today. The new boulevard spaces could act as an extension of
businesses, offering additional seating space, areas to advertise
and sell goods, or simply to leverage the seating and trees for an
attractive “front porch”.
MAIN STREET JACKSON AVEKey Outcomes
• Main Street and Jackson Avenue are destination streets that balance vehicles and pedestrians, and better serve downtown activities.
• Leveraging a new public space with the King Lot development, events in downtown utilize the expanded sidewalk and boulevard space, while possibly extending into Main Street for larger events.
• Construction occurs through a phased approach, that incrementally closes and constructs streets and sidewalks, and balances project cost, time, and property access.
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As a narrow, linear downtown wedged between Highway 10 and
the Mississippi River, Downtown Elk River lacks routes to “loop
back” around to get to a destination. This east end of downtown
particularly struggles with this, as missing a destination means
having to navigate the Parrish Ave/Hwy 10/Rail Line intersections.
As part of the reconstruction of Main Street, there are
opportunities to establish both simple and innovate “loops” at
either end of downtown, while also establishing clear gateways.
At Main Street and Lowell Avenue, a mini roundabout would
offer this circulation, create a modest welcome feature to
downtown, and realign the intersection. To the east, a more
complex intersection may warrant an interim solution, while more
significant opportunities are explored (see pg X). A U-turn loop
back feature could be added just before the parrish intersection,
allowing vehicle U-turns while preserving access from Parrish
Avenue and into the Bank of Elk River. Within this feature could
be a modest art of signage feature, welcoming in visitors. While
untraditional, the city of Columbia Heights recently implemented
a similar feature.
Key Outcomes
• Conduct a design and operation feasibility study for the Main St/Parrish Ave intersection U-Turn design, as part of the Main Street reconstruction project.
• Reconstruct both intersections as part of the Main Street reconstruction project, implementing public art, signage, or other gateway features.
DOWNTOWN
Entrances and Gateways
Main St & Lowell Ave Mini Roundabout Main St & Parrish Ave Interim Design
MAIN STREET MAIN STREET
Bank of Elk River
Milestone Orthodontics
Cretex
Granite Shores
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The east entrance into downtown is a complex convergence of road, rail, and
river. The area is very difficult to cross east-west, particular during rush hour or
when there is one of the dozens of trains that pass through the area on a given
day.
Improvements to the East Entrance will require significant, and long-term
coordination between the City, MnDOT, and BNSF (the rail line owner).
Highway 10 is still in a state of good maintenance, and likely won’t be due for
reconstruction for many years. The City should therefore use this time to plan
for and develop design improvements that enhance the entry experience into
downtown, while ensuring MnDOT and BNSF needs are continued to be met.
One solution could be to separate Highway 10 and Main Street - an approach
called “grade separation”. In this scenario, Highway 10 would be elevated
over Main Street, while adding a pair of roundabouts to Main Street to allow
for easy on/off access from Highway 10, and the ability to “loop” back into
downtown. The BNSF rail line would remain in its location, and Main Street
would use the grade change to tunnel underneath the rail line, before coming
back to grade at the Gates Ave intersection. This would require closing the
Railroad Dr access to Main Street.
Roundabouts aren’t necessarily the preferred route for pedestrians, however
east-west pedestrian safety would be significantly approved as people would
no longer need to cross Highway 10 or the rail line. Comfortable sidewalks,
pedestrian scale lighting, and even the inclusion of art of other features could
make it an attractive pedestrian route.
While this is just one concept, the City should continue to coordinate with
MnDOT and BNSF, while progressing additional feasibility studies for the area.
Key Outcomes
• Conduct a design and operations feasibility study, to determine the viability, and alternative layouts, for the interchange area.
• Initate conversations with MnDOT and BNSF, to raise awareness of design opportunities and challenges.
• As feasibility assessments occur, continue working with MnDOT and BNSF on design, funding, and timeline coordination.
DOWNTOWN
Downtown, Highway 10, and the Rail Road Closed Railroad Dr access
Main St uses existing topography to tunnel under the BNSF rail line, which remains at current grade
A roundabout between Highway 10 and the BNSF rail line allows for circulation and loop backs into downtown
A roundabout between Highway 10 and downtown at Parish Avenue allows for circulation and “loop backs” into downtown
Highway 10 is elevated over Main Street
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The riverfront holds the potential to be an even more significant amenity for
downtown, and a stronger part of its identity. Downtown has made several
improvements to leverage the water to draw people and activity to downtown,
yet could benefit greatly from even more investment. Establishing a signature
public riverfront edge could become a defining feature within downtown, and
offer a unique amenity in which to draw more activity, people, and private
development interest.
Such a space should be a gathering spaces for families, employees on a lunch
break, friends meeting for coffee, or shoppers looking for a brief respite. The
naturalized edge offers year-round views of the water, while providing flexible
programming space that compliments commercial and event activity within
the redesigned Main Street and Jackson Avenue.
Expanding publicly-accessible space along the riverfront will be a multi-year,
multi=phase approach, with strong partnerships and collaboration with current
and future property owners. While the city can take some initial steps today,
property owners and other stakeholders will be necessary partners to build this
amenity.
THE RIVERFRONT
Downtown’s public riverfront will be a local and regional draw, while offering a unique place to rest, play, and gather that supports Downtown.
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Today, the Riverfront plays a limited role within Downtown’s daily life, as many
buildings back up to the river, and few provide direct visibility and access
Changing this will require significant adaptations to existing buildings, or more
practically, changing the expectations of future development along the river.
As such, any future development facing the river should ensure strong visibility
of the water, and whenever possible, direct access to future public space.
Within this public space, the city and should implement trails connecting Rivers
Edge Commons to Bailey Point, while exploring future feasibility of a suspended
or elevated trail between Rivers Edge Commons and the Parrish Bridge (in
response to bluff and grade). Supportive elements and programming should
accompany this trail, including pedestrian scale lighting, plenty of seating,
public art, and strategy places to pause and enjoy nature. The south terminus
of King Avenue in particular could be such as place, offering an overlook at the
rivers edge, and a modest plaza space for events.
Future improvements should ensure continued drop off access for performers
at the Rivers Edge Commons, which could be facilitated with a larger trail
from King Avenue. Likewise, any future structures, restroom facilities, or similar
programmable space should have clear visibility and sightlines, while ensuring
maintenace staff have clear and easy access.
Key Outcomes
• Transition the city-owned parking lot to a riverfront park area, with wide trail access to allow for access to the amphitheater
• Generous trails that connect riverfront park to Bailey Point nature preserve to the west
• “Punch out” spaces such as docks or overlooks that people can look out over the river, particularly at the end of King St
• Small pad spaces for park activation, such as coffee carts or book mobiles
• Places to sit, rest, and play, with clear wayfinding and signage
THE RIVERFRONT
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Within and around Downtown, the strongest opportunity for new and more
places to live is within “Uptown” - the four blocks within Jackson Avenue, 4th
Street, Railroad Drive, and Gates Avenue.
While Downtown will continue to offer a mix of places to shop, work, play,
and live, Uptown will be defined as a residential neighborhood with a mix of
housing options. Larger apartments could be located along the edges, whereas
smaller town homes, apartments, or even compact single-family homes, are
found in the interior.
As opportunity-driven commercial uses emerges, they will be located along
a small activity “node” at the Railroad Drive, Irving Avenue, and 3rd Street
intersection. Likewise, a small or modest grocer could be located in the south
corner along Main Street, leveraging the proximity of Uptown and Downtown,
along with visibility from Highway 10’s more than 30,000 daily travelers.
Along Main Street “East”, and enhanced entry experience is provided with an
additional sidewalk, improved streetscape, and signage the clearly orients
travelers to downtown.
UPTOWN
Uptown will be a new, walkable residential neighborhood, offering more housing choices in close proximity to downtown.
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Key Outcomes
• A mix of housing types, styles, ownership, and price points, to provide a
broad range of housing opportunities for the uptown area.
• A walkable, pedestrian scaled area, that leverages the existing street
network and grid.
• Opportunity-driven commercial uses are oriented around the Railroad
Drive/Irving Avenue/3rd St intersection, creating a small activity node
within the neighborhood..
• A new modest grocery store in the southern area of Uptown, serving
residents in Uptown, Downtown, the surrounding neighborhoods, and
travelers along Highway 10. Railroad Drive access to Main Street should
be closed off at this location.
UPTOWN
A New Neighborhood
Uptown is strategically located to
support downtown, surrounding
commercial areas, and be a
complement to surrounding
residential neighborhoods.
Additionally, any future commercial
uses in Uptown, such as a grocer,
would benefit from the visibility and
access to Highway 10.
Residential Neighborhood
Residential Neighborhood
Commercial Center
Downtown
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options
2
Commercial uses oriented
around the Railroad Dr
intersection
3 Removed RailRoad Drive access
to Main Street
3 A small, modest grocer
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Key Outcomes
• As the street pavement becomes due for repair or replacement, design the street with sidewalks on both sides, buried utilities, and more
aesthetically attractive lighting.
• Work with current and future owners on mutually beneficial
opportunities to consolidate access, facilitating access agreements
or new access points, as needed, to promote safety along Main Street
East.
UPTOWN
Jackson Street Crossing & Main Street East
Consolidated Access
6’SIDEWALK
6’SIDEWALK
6’BOULEVARD
6’BOULEVARD
11’ TRAVEL4’ SHOULDER, CURB, & GUTTER
4’ SHOULDER, CURB, & GUTTER
11’ TRAVEL11’ CENTER TURN LANE
Main Street East
Main Street East would benefit from minor
design improvements. The existing street layout
should remain, but should add a new sidewalk
along the north side of the street. This would
require reducing the current shoulders, and
reconstructing and reversing the sidewalk
and boulevard on the south side of the street.
Additionally, the city should bury the existing
utility poles, add new lighting, and add features
like banners, trees, signage, and art.
Jackson Avenue Crossing
Improving the Jackson Avenue crossing at
Highway 10 will offer better pedestrian safety
and stronger connectivity between Downtown
and Uptown.
Solutions could include a longer and dedicated
pedestrian crossing signal timing, pedestrian
refuges within Highway 10 at the center
medians, and tightening up the curbs at each
intersection. Adding a marked cross walk across
Jackson Avenue on the north side, will also help
pedestrian visibility.
Other improvements could come by working
with current and future property owners to
consolidate property access onto side streets,
where possible. Minimizing driveways and
vehicle access onto the street would benefit
both vehicles and pedestrian by keeping vehicle
access to intersections. This would require
working with existing and future property
owners to redirect access to side streets, or
potentially establish new access points. Shared
access and/or parking agreements may also be
needed for some properties.
HWY 10
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5 IMPLEMENTATION
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Clarity and Prioritization
To equip the City and its partners with the
long-term guidance to realize the plan’s
vision, the following implementation plan
outlines both action steps necessary for
downtown broadly, and those specific to
five opportunity area projects.
Downtown Vision Implementation Steps
Implementation action steps are provided for the entire downtown, and are
organized around Connectivity, Development, and Parks & Open Space.
Opportunity Area Project Implementation Steps
Implementation action steps specific to each Catalytic Project are also provided, and are structured as single-page project sheets for ease of use.
IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN
1. City owned lot
2. King to Lowell
3. Riverfront
4. Main & Jackson
5. Uptown
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DEVELOPMENT
Action Timing Lead (L) / Support (S)
1. Develop the City Owned Lot
Solicit and pursue development of the city-owned parking lot along Main Street
Priority
(L) Community Development, HRA, EDA
(S) Engineering, Public Works
2. Continue Supporting Existing Businesses
Continue to support existing businesses by establishing programs such as:
• Façade improvement program
• Business improvement grants
• Business spotlight program
Ongoing
(L) Community Development, HRA, EDA
(S) Engineering, Public Works
3. Prepare for private redevelopment
• Proactively rezone Uptown to allow for denser residential and commercial mixed use
• Establish general development partnership processes and outcomes expectations, for redevelopment within Downtown and Uptown
• Case-by-case evaluation of city site acquisition, preparation, and sale
Ongoing
(L) Community Development, HRA, EDA
(S) Engineering, Public Works, Private Property Owners, Private Developers
4. Market & Advertise Downtown
In partnership with DERBA and area Chambers, continue to market and champion downtown for businesses, activities, and investment
Ongoing
L: Community Development, DERBA
(S) Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce
5. Attract Specialty Users
Begin attracting uses downtown such as a grocer and boutique hotel (see Appendix B)
Priority / Ongoing
(L) Community Development, HRA, EDA
(S) DERBA
1
2
22
2
3
3
4
5
5
IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN
Development
Priority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
Page 110 of 157
41
CONNECTIVITY
Action Timing Lead (L) / Support (S)
1. Reconstruct Main St & Jackson Ave
Reconstruct Main Street and Jackson Avenue with wider, more comfortable space for people, events, and business activity
Priority
(L) Engineering, Public Works
(S) Community Development
2. Improve Main St East Walkability
Reconstruct Main Street East with a new sidewalk on the north side and work with property owners to consolidate access
Med. Term
(L) Engineering, Public Works
(S) Community Development
3. Provide New Riverfront Trails
Construct new trails along the riverfront, connecting Downtown to Bailey Point Nature Preserve
Ongoing
(L) Engineering, Parks & Rec
(S) Public Works, Community Development
4. Continue Exploring Crossing Opportunities
Continue to explore intersection and crossing improvement opportunities along the Main St / Hwy 10 / Rail Line intersection
Ongoing
(L) Engineering
(S) MnDOT, BNSF, Sherburne County
5. Implement Strategic Parking Agreements
Work with Elk River Lutheran Church to establish a parking agreement for public use of their parking lot.
Priority
(L) Community Development, Elk River Lutheran Church
1
1
2
1
IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN
Connectivity
3
4
5
Priority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
Page 111 of 157
42
1
1
PUBLIC & OPEN SPACE
Action Timing Lead (L) / Support (S)
1. Create a New Public Park
In partnership with new development, establish a modest new public space along Main Street in the city-owned parking lot
Priority
(L) Community Development, Parks
(S) Engineering, Public Works
2. Enhance Downtown Streetscape
Provide high-quality streetscape and public realm amenities along Main Street & Jackson Avenue, as part of the reconstruction project
Priority (L) Engineering, Public Works
3. Enhance Main Street East
Provide enhanced streetscape and signage amenities along Main Street East, as part the reconstruction project
Ongoing
(L) Engineering, Public Works
(S) Community Development
4. Host More & More Frequent Events
Host more events throughout the year – both along Main Street and the River
Near Term (L) Parks & Rec
(S) DERBA
5. Expand the Riverfront
Extend public riverfront park area along the River, as redevelopment occurs
Ongoing
(L) Parks & Rec, Engineering, Community Development
(S) Public Works, Property Owners
1
5
4
2
3
IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN
Public & Open Space
Priority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
Page 112 of 157
43
Lead
Implementer
City Community Development, City Public
Works, HRA, EDA
Partners Private Developer
Timeline Planning and design should begin over next 1-5
years; Implementation beginning by 2027
Funding
Source(s)Private development
KEY COMPONENTS
• New publicly accessible park along Main St, that can accommodate the farmers market and other events
• Active ground floor with direct access onto Main Street
• Pedestrian-scale design and frontage along Main Street
• Above-floor office or residential uses
• Maintain ability for future structured, shared parking ramp
• Explore the viability of a linear development along Highway 10
NEAR-TERM
PRIORITY
PRIORITY
Establish necessary
agreements during
the development
negotiation process,
for shared access
and use of the
remaining parking
area on the site
As needed, partner
with the developer
on financial subsidies
or other strategic
partnership needs,
as identified during
development
negotiations.
Complete all
required design
approvals, site
rezoning, project
permitting, and
begin construction
Complete a
site survey and
environmental review
of the city-owned
property.
Develop preliminary
infrastructure
designs and
details for public
infrastructure into
and around the site.
These plans should
clearly delineate
pedestrian crossing
locations and the
redesign Main St.
Complete preliminary
site environmental
reviews to
understand site
conditions, and
identify anticipated
remediation needs
Using the Downtown
Plan, establish
clear development
outcomes that
the City and area
stakeholders expect
from a future
development on the
site.
Solicit a developer
for the city-
owned property
redevelopment
site through a
competative RFP
process.
The developer should
expect to partner
with the City on the
project.
OPPORTUNITY AREA
City-Owned Lot
Priority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
Page 113 of 157
44
Lead
Implementer City Community Development, City Public Works
Partners Private Developer, HRA, EDA
Timeline Planning and design should begin over next 1-5
years; Implementation beginning by 2027
KEY COMPONENTS
• New mixed use and single unit residential development
• Active ground floor with direct access onto Main Street
• Pedestrian-scale design and frontage along Main Street
• Above-floor office or residential uses
• Attract a hotel to east side of the block
• Negotiated new public park extension along the
riverfront
NEAR TERM
NEAR TERM
ONGOING
Continue outreach
and communication
with current site
owners, to track
with and evaluate
redevelopment
opportunities, and
timing.
Begin networking
with and positioning
downtown for a
hotel by building key
relationships and
attending industry
events.
Consider on a case-
by-case basis the
mutual benefits of
city acquisition of
sites, to facilitate
assembling
redevelopment sites.
Develop preliminary
infrastructure
designs and
details for public
infrastructure into
and around the site.
These plans should
clearly delineate
pedestrian crossing
locations and the
redesign Main St.
Prepare for future
park extension on
the south end of the
block by preparing
a conceptual park
site plan, to use in
owner and developer
discussions.
OPPORTUNITY AREA
King to Lowell
Priority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
• Identification of key sites, preferably
along the river, that are suitable
for hotel development and zoned
appropriately to allow for an urban,
boutique-style hotel. This can include
sites suitable for both ground-up
development and adaptive reuse.
• Financial incentives such as
tax abatements, infrastructure
improvements, and/or shared planning
costs.
• Increasing visits to Downtown Elk
River through branding, high-quality
placemaking, and events that draw
visitors from throughout the region and
provide a reason to stay overnight.
• Building and maintaining relationships
with developers and key property
owners to identify potential
opportunities for partnerships.
Hotel Attraction
Attracting a hotel in this area could be somewhat challenging for Elk River, as it is not
yet a tourism destination, and few small boutique hotels have been built in the area in
recent years. However, as the City implements improvements that address connectivity
challenges and emphasize Downtown’s connection to the river, the prospects for a new
hotel development will improve. Strategies the City should consider to attract hotel
development include:
Page 114 of 157
45
Lead
Implementer
City Community Development, City Public
Works, City Parks
Partners Private property owners
Timeline Near-Term / Ongoing
KEY COMPONENTS
• Convert the lower city parking lot to park
• Incrementally transition properties along the riverfront, starting with the lower city-owned parking lot, and King Ave terminus
• Extend trails west as park land is extended, eventually connecting to Bailey Point Nature Preserve.
• Add elements into the park like seating, lighting, gazebos, docks over the water, and space for pop-up
programming
ONGOINGNEAR-TERM MED-TERM
Prepare for future
park extension on
the south end of the
block by preparing
a conceptual park
site plan, to use in
owner and developer
discussions.
Transition the lower
city-owned parking
lot to park space,
expanding Rivers
Common Edge park
and implementing
initial trail and
programming
features.
Transition the south
end of King Ave
to a park space,
in preparation
for future park
exansions and
improvements.
Continue
coordinating with
property owners on
future opportunities
to continue
expanding park land
and programming
features.
As completed, install
trails along Angel
Ave to Bailey Point
Nature Preserve
OPPORTUNITY AREA
Riverfront
Improvement Phasing
Realizing the vision for the Riverfront will require strategic phasing, and strong partnerships with current and future
property owners. The plan recommends making improvements within city-owned property first, while seeking out
opportunity-driven improvements for privately held property.
Near-Term Park
Medium-Term Park
Opportunity-Driven Park
Opportunity-Driven Trail
Near-Term Trail
Medium-Term Trail
Opportunity-Driven Elevated/
Suspended TrailBailey Point Nature Preserve
Rivers Edge Commons
Priority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
Page 115 of 157
46
Lead
Implementer
City Community Development, City Public
Works, Construction Contractor
Partners DERBA, Private Property Owners
Timeline Planning and design should begin over next 1-5
years; Implementation beginning by 2027
KEY COMPONENTS
• Reconstruct Main St and Jackson Ave as envisioned by the Downtown Plan.
• Prior to construction bidding, develop a desired construction phasing plan with DERBA that incrementally closes and reconstructs each street, and identify support programs during construction.
• During construction, ensure clear and regular communication with area property and business owners.
OngoingPRIORITY
Progress Main St
and Jackson Ave
into detailed design,
cost estimating, and
funding.
As part of project
bidding, request
options for phased
construction
scenarios, to weigh
options and mitigate
access issues.
Work with DERBA
to establish a
construction phasing
plan, identifying
key performance
outcomes and
property/business
owner support
programs.
During construction,
ensure weekly
contractor and
business owner
progress meetings,
and the installation
of clear signage that
accurately directs to
business access.
OPPORTUNITY AREA
Main Street & Jackson Avenue
Construction Phasing
To balance construction cost, time, and business access, the reconstruction project should utilize a
phased construction plan, such as block-by-block phasing. The final phasing plan should be developed
in partnership with DERBA to promote project transparency and business readiness.
Property and Business Support
During project bid preparation,
develop a list of support options for
area property and business owners.
These could include:
• Weekly progress report meetings
• Contractor inventives for time and
preserving clear access
• Bi-weekly window and facade
cleaning, using local cleaning
business(es)
• Artistic access and wayfinding
signage, using local artists
• Hosted events during construction
to promote activities downtown
Phase 1
Phase 2
Phase 3
Example Approach to Project Phasing
MAIN STREET JACKSON AVEPriority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
MAIN STREET JACKSON AVEPage 116 of 157
47
Lead
Implementer
City Community Development, Private Property
Owners
Partners Public Works, HRA, EDA
Timeline Opportunity driven as current owners decide to
willingly sell and/or redevelop
KEY COMPONENTS
• Redevelopment of existing blocks that brings a greater variety of housing options, and commercial uses at the Railroad Dr intersection
• A new small or medium grocer located along Main St East
• Improvements to Main St East to enhance mobility,
safety, and area aesthetics.
• Improvements to the Jackson Ave / Hwy 10 intersection to
enhance pedestrian crossing safety.
ONGOING
ONGOINGPRIORITY
Design, fund, and
reconstruct the
identified portions
of Main Street
East, addining an
additional sidewalk
and enhanced
streetscape features
Partner with MnDOT
to design, fund, and
reconstruction the
Jackson Ave/Hwy
10 intersection, with
pedestrian crossing
improvements.
Rezone properties
are needed to
support desired
redevelopment
outcomes, and
prepare clear
expectations for
future developers.
OPPORTUNITY AREA
Uptown
Continue outreach
and communication
with current site
owners, to track
with and evaluate
redevelopment
opportunities, and
timing.
Consider on a
case-by-case basis
the benefits of
city acquisition of
sites, to facilitate
assembling
redevelopment sites.
Begin networking
with and positioning
uptown for a grocer.
by building key
relationships and
attending industry
events.
Priority= 0 -2 Years
Near Term= 2-5 Years
Med. Term= 5-10 Years
Long-Term= 10+ Years
Ongoing= Periodically / Opportunity-Driven
Grocer Attraction
Attracting a grocery store to the Uptown neighborhood
will be challenging, especially because there are only few
small-format grocery chains operating in the US. The most
likely type of grocery store to locate in this area may be a
cooperative. Strategies that cities can use to attract grocery
stores include:
• Financial incentives like land, infrastructure
improvements, and/or tax credits
• Regulatory incentives like zoning changes or
modifications, design concessions, and expedited
permitting
• Alerting the local tenant broker community to a potential
grocery location in Uptown
• Attending local ICSC events to network and spread the
word about the opportunity
Page 117 of 157
6 APPENDIX
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20.17%73
41.99%152
25.97%94
10.77%39
1.10%4
Q1 How often do you visit Downtown?
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
TOTAL 362
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
Dail y
Weekly
A few times
per month
A few times
per year
Never
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Daily
Weekly
A few times per month
A few times per y ear
Never
APPENDIX A
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0.28%1
1.66%6
6.08%22
1.38%5
90.61%328
0.00%0
Q2 When you visit Downtown, how do you usually get there?
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
TOTAL 362
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
I don't visit
Downt own
I already live
in Dow ntown
I wal k to
Dow ntown
I bike to
Dow ntown
I drive to
Dow ntown
I take transit
t o Downtow n
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
I don't vis it Downtown
I already live in Downtown
I walk to Downt own
I bik e to Downtown
I drive to Downtown
I tak e transit to Downtown
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3 1,157 362
Q3 How would you rate the ease of getting to Downtown area by each of
the following travel modes? Use the slider to indicate between "Very
difficult" and "Very easy" for each mode of travel.Walking
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
Total Respondents : 362
#DATE
1 4 9/18/2024 8:51 PM
2 1 9/17/2024 8:18 AM
3 4 9/15/2024 9:11 PM
4 5 9/15/2024 10:23 AM
5 5 9/14/2024 10:39 AM
6 3 9/12/2024 9:49 PM
7 3 9/12/2024 8:43 PM
8 5 9/12/2024 8:04 PM
9 5 9/12/2024 5:49 PM
10 4 9/12/2024 4:28 PM
11 5 9/12/2024 4:21 PM
12 5 9/12/2024 2:03 PM
13 1 9/12/2024 1:08 PM
14 4 9/12/2024 12:29 PM
15 5 9/12/2024 11:46 AM
16 4 9/12/2024 11:30 AM
17 2 9/12/2024 11:28 AM
18 3 9/12/2024 11:19 AM
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
ANSWER CHOICES AVERAGE NUMBER TOTAL NUMBER RESPONSES
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3 1,123 362
Q4 How would you rate the ease of getting to Downtown area by each of
the following travel modes? Use the slider to indicate between "Very
difficult" and "Very easy" for each mode of travel.Biking
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
Total Respondents : 362
#DATE
1 4 9/18/2024 8:51 PM
2 2 9/17/2024 8:18 AM
3 4 9/15/2024 9:11 PM
4 5 9/15/2024 10:23 AM
5 5 9/14/2024 10:39 AM
6 3 9/12/2024 9:49 PM
7 3 9/12/2024 8:43 PM
8 5 9/12/2024 8:04 PM
9 4 9/12/2024 5:49 PM
10 4 9/12/2024 4:28 PM
11 5 9/12/2024 4:21 PM
12 4 9/12/2024 2:03 PM
13 1 9/12/2024 1:08 PM
14 3 9/12/2024 12:29 PM
15 5 9/12/2024 11:46 AM
16 5 9/12/2024 11:30 AM
17 3 9/12/2024 11:28 AM
18 2 9/12/2024 11:19 AM
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
ANSWER CHOICES AVERAGE NUMBER TOTAL NUMBER RESPONSES
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4 1,277 362
Q5 How would you rate the ease of getting to Downtown area by each of
the following travel modes? Use the slider to indicate between "Very
difficult" and "Very easy" for each mode of travel.Driving
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
Total Respondents : 362
#DATE
1 5 9/18/2024 8:51 PM
2 5 9/17/2024 8:18 AM
3 4 9/15/2024 9:11 PM
4 2 9/15/2024 10:23 AM
5 2 9/14/2024 10:39 AM
6 5 9/12/2024 9:49 PM
7 2 9/12/2024 8:43 PM
8 3 9/12/2024 8:04 PM
9 2 9/12/2024 5:49 PM
10 2 9/12/2024 4:28 PM
11 4 9/12/2024 4:21 PM
12 3 9/12/2024 2:03 PM
13 3 9/12/2024 1:08 PM
14 4 9/12/2024 12:29 PM
15 5 9/12/2024 11:46 AM
16 2 9/12/2024 11:30 AM
17 4 9/12/2024 11:28 AM
18 3 9/12/2024 11:19 AM
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
ANSWER CHOICES AVERAGE NUMBER TOTAL NUMBER RESPONSES
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2 669 362
Q6 How would you rate the ease of getting to Downtown area by each of
the following travel modes? Use the slider to indicate between "Very
difficult" and "Very easy" for each mode of travel.Transit
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
Total Respondents : 362
#DATE
1 3 9/18/2024 8:51 PM
2 1 9/17/2024 8:18 AM
3 1 9/15/2024 9:11 PM
4 1 9/15/2024 10:23 AM
5 2 9/14/2024 10:39 AM
6 1 9/12/2024 9:49 PM
7 1 9/12/2024 8:43 PM
8 3 9/12/2024 8:04 PM
9 4 9/12/2024 5:49 PM
10 1 9/12/2024 4:28 PM
11 5 9/12/2024 4:21 PM
12 2 9/12/2024 2:03 PM
13 1 9/12/2024 1:08 PM
14 1 9/12/2024 12:29 PM
15 1 9/12/2024 11:46 AM
16 5 9/12/2024 11:30 AM
17 1 9/12/2024 11:28 AM
18 3 9/12/2024 11:19 AM
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1 .4 1.6 1.8 2
ANSWER CHOICES AVERAGE NUMBER TOTAL NUMBER RESPONSES
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Q7 What are some strengths of Downtown? Select at least one (1) and up
to three (3) strengths.
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
Housing
Availability &
Locations
Housing Prices
M ix o f
Businesses
Public Spaces
to Gather &
Recreat e
Views and
Access o f t he
River
Pl aces to Eat
& Dr ink
Unique
Destinations
Places to Work
Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Wal king a...
Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Driving
Qual it y of
Sidewal ks,
Str eet Tr ees...
A Place that
Looks and Feels
"Uniquely El ...
Avail ability
o f Locat ion and
Par king
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2.21%8
0.55%2
35.64%129
34.53%125
58.84%213
42.27%153
13.26%48
3.59%13
13.81%50
5.80%21
23.76%86
36.46%132
12.15%44
Total Respondents : 362
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Hous ing Availability & Loc ations
Hous ing Prices
Mix of Bus ines s es
Public Spac es to Gather & Recreate
Views and Acc es s of the River
Plac es to Eat & Drink
Unique Destinations
Plac es to Work
Ease of Get ting Around by Walking and Biking
Ease of Get ting Around by Driving
Quality of Sidewalks , St reet Trees, and Overall Aesthetics
A Place that Looks and Feels "Uniquely Elk River"
Availability of Location and Parking
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Q8 What some weaknesses of Downtown? Select at least one (1) and up
to three (3) weaknesses.
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
Housing
Availability &
Locations
Housing Prices
M ix o f
Businesses
Public Spaces
to Gather &
Recreat e
Views and
Access o f t he
River
Pl aces to Eat
& Dr ink
Unique
Destinations
Places to Work
Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Wal king a...
Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Driving
Qual it y of
Sidewal ks,
Str eet Tr ees...
A Place that
Looks and Feels
“Uniquely El ...
Availability &
Location of
Par king
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8.01%29
9.39%34
29.28%106
16.85%61
14.64%53
43.09%156
27.62%100
7.18%26
13.81%50
28.18%102
17.40%63
12.71%46
49.17%178
Total Respondents : 362
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Hous ing Availability & Loc ations
Hous ing Prices
Mix of Bus ines s es
Public Spac es to Gather & Recreate
Views and Acc es s of the River
Plac es to Eat & Drink
Unique Destinations
Plac es to Work
Ease of Get ting Around by Walking and Biking
Ease of Get ting Around by Driving
Quality of Sidewalks , St reet Trees, and Overall Aesthetics
A Place that Looks and Feels “Uniquely Elk River”
Availability & Loc ation of Parking
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Q9 Thinking of the future, what would you most like to see in Downtown?
List at least one (1) and up to three (3) things you'd like to see.
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
More and
Different Types
of Housing
More and
Different Types
of Businesses
Mor e Public
Spaces to
Gather &...
M or e Pl aces t o
Eat & Drink
Mor e Unique
Destinations
M or e Pl aces t o
Work
Bet ter Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Wal king a...
Bet ter Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Driving
Higher Quality
of Sidewalks,
Street Trees...
A Place that
Looks and Feels
“Uniquely El ...
More Opt ions
for Parking
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1.93%7
40.88%148
23.76%86
69.61%252
37.02%134
4.70%17
15.47%56
23.48%85
21.55%78
24.31%88
38.12%138
Total Respondents : 362
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
More and Different Ty pes of Hous ing
More and Different Ty pes of Businesses
More Public Spaces to Gather & Rec reate
More Places to Eat & Drink
More Unique Des tinations
More Places to Work
Better Eas e of Getting Around by Walking and Bik ing
Better Eas e of Getting Around by Driving
Higher Quality of Sidewalk s, Street Trees , and Overall Aesthetic s
A Place that Looks and Feels “Uniquely Elk River”
More Options for Parking
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Q10 Thinking of the future, what would you least like to see in Downtown?
List at least one (1) and up to three (3) things you would not like to see.
Answered: 362 Sk ipped: 0
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
More and
Different Types
of Housing
More and
Different Types
of Businesses
Mor e Public
Spaces to
Gather &...
M or e Pl aces t o
Eat & Drink
Mor e Unique
Destinations
M or e Pl aces t o
Work
Bet ter Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Wal king a...
Bet ter Ease of
Getting Ar ound
by Driving
Higher Quality
of Sidewalks,
Street Trees...
A Place that
Looks and Feels
“Uniquely El ...
More Opt ions
for Parking
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79.28%287
7.18%26
5.80%21
3.31%12
3.04%11
17.13%62
2.76%10
7.73%28
2.49%9
5.80%21
15.47%56
Total Respondents : 362
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
More and Different Ty pes of Hous ing
More and Different Ty pes of Businesses
More Public Spaces to Gather & Rec reate
More Places to Eat & Drink
More Unique Des tinations
More Places to Work
Better Eas e of Getting Around by Walking and Bik ing
Better Eas e of Getting Around by Driving
Higher Quality of Sidewalk s, Street Trees , and Overall Aesthetic s
A Place that Looks and Feels “Uniquely Elk River”
More Options for Parking
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Q11 Is there anything else you'd like to share about your experience,
concerns, or ideas for Downtown?
Answered: 172 Sk ipped: 190
#RESPONSES DATE
1 DO NOT make it a mini rogers .... Rogers s ucks. Elk river is nic e. Please keep it lik e that and
not dev elop too much. Thanks . - Out side v iewer.
9/18/2024 8:51 PM
2 We hope the his toric buildings keep their aes thetic and that more historic buildings aren’t t orn
down! We would also love to s ee The Pit us ed for more event s throughout the year—ev er
sinc e Elk River hos ted Hoc k ey Day MN in 2014 The Pit has felt neglec ted and forgotten.
9/15/2024 9:11 PM
3 Eas ier way to walk or bik e ac ross hwy 10 9/15/2024 10:23 AM
4 We s hould expand pas t the railroad also 9/12/2024 9:49 PM
5 Need more places to eat/drink that over look the s c enic views of t he riv er 9/12/2024 4:28 PM
6 We need way more plac es to eat around downtown elk river.9/12/2024 4:21 PM
7 Would lov e to see a v ariety of retail and res taurant s in the area. Things t hat bring people to the
area.
9/12/2024 1:08 PM
8 Somehow, both s ides of Hwy 10 need to be inc orporated. Maybe a tunnel could go in under
Hwy 10 and t he tracks at Jac k s on and mak e Jac k s on pedestrian only. Then, move the parking
to t he north side of the trac k s . That frees up Downtown for more shops. There's plenty of room
between Jacks on and Irv ing on Railroad Drive.
9/12/2024 12:29 PM
9 The bridge over the river has terrible ac c es s to downtown. I t's hard to s ee what is c oming when
turning lef t from the bridge. Traffic thru town and pas t the bridge goes way too fast. I suggest a
roundabout by taking out the bank and c reating a bet ter Traffic flow.
9/7/2024 12:25 PM
10 Is s ues with 3 way stop c rossing when walking. Would lik e t o s ee 4 way s top by dent ist of elk
river and tattoo places.
9/6/2024 8:47 PM
11 The park ing areas along the river hav e high potential f or conv ersion to public spaces that
highlight the beauty of the river and ties in with a trail s y stem. North of this along Main would
be highly v aluable mixed use res idential with river v iews and s treet level retail.
9/6/2024 5:26 PM
12 It would be great to have businesses and gathering plac es that ac tually hav e views of the river.
A mix of bus inesses t hat are destinations - s hopping, dining - as oppos ed to serv ices .
9/6/2024 5:00 PM
13 Driv ing is an overall night mare, es pecially during the morning and evening c ommute. The
stoplights should be replaced with roundabouts and if possible there should be an ov erhaul and
redesign of the streets and park ing.
9/6/2024 2:36 PM
14 I do not want unique plac es to be torn down to hav e c ookie cutter apartment buildings put up. I
want the charm of Elk River to stay the way it is . I would like a c ouple more rest aurants and
cute s hops to mov e in there. When they took out the little corner store and put in a dojo that
was dis appointing.
9/6/2024 9:44 AM
15 Don't modernize with c heap new c onst ruc tion buildings . Leave it alone. Fix the river shoreline
by adding proper v egetation.
9/6/2024 6:49 AM
16 Intersect ion at J ac kson and Hwy 10 is ex tremely dangerous, especially driv ing S on Jacks on
towards downtown - c ars constant ly get locked up in t he int ers ec tion and are unable to go
straight t hrough while waiting for turning c ars. Take out parking in front of busines ses there and
create turn lanes!! So many accidents and near misses at that inters ec tion.
9/5/2024 10:29 PM
17 Please prov ide bat hrooms not s atellites. Other communit ies do…What c an be done about t he
blind left t urn onto Main Street from Parrish- horrible, get rid of a park ing spot to inc reas e
safety. Keep having family events downt own- may be s huttle f olk s
9/5/2024 10:07 PM
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18 I like that there was a “more plac es to work” option. I feel like t he only plac e I can c ome and
stay a while is The Edge, but I hones tly don’t lik e Edge so I don’t stay. I wish there were more
plac es that weren’t just s it for a meal and leav e. But I LOVE our loc al res taurant s, t oo. All of
them.
9/5/2024 9:37 PM
19 Get the f armers market out of downtown!9/5/2024 5:34 PM
20 Gett ing to Elk River from Otsego is trick y when driving. The stop s ign after c ros s ing the bridge
and trying to turn into downtown is a c hallenge. It would be great to s ee this updated…may be a
round about or s omething dif ferent would be great .
9/5/2024 4:08 PM
21 Would like to see more v ariety of restaurants , inc luding Asian and v egetarian/ vegan options.
Even t hough parking is us ually adequate, during t he farmers mark et parking c an be an is s ue
as well as general ability to get around in the area. Consider mov ing t he farmers mark et to
anot her location that would offer more park ing / mobility.
9/5/2024 11:57 AM
22 I would like downtown to be family-oriented and a place that friends and family c an go to
support local businesses while enjoying the plac e we c all home.
9/5/2024 10:43 AM
23 Public restrooms with running water at the park .9/5/2024 10:36 AM
24 Add rooftop res taurants with river v iews, and clean up the shoreline. Elk River should mak e
paths down by the river and c lean up some if the fallen trees ec t.
9/5/2024 10:05 AM
25 People c omplain about street parking therefore they av oid vis it ing the area, but t hey dont
realiz e parking options are free for blocks . I do not want t o s ee a parking ramp c log up the
streets, its a his toric astetic and nature centered s treet, t he elite apartments already took over
the riv er and quaint look of the area. We need to be proud of our old main st reet stores and
res taurants instead of hide them or remove them. Let's not turn into a drive thru c ity lik e rogers
and osseo and ramsey.
9/5/2024 9:45 AM
26 Bulldoz e it and tak e out the s toplights. Elk River is not a dest ination nor is 2 bloc k s of
shopping and eating a “Downtown”
9/5/2024 8:46 AM
27 Would lov e a public playground. Possibly in Hank ee pit. For the kids who live in the downtown
area, there is no walkable public play ground or park . The pit s its empty all s pring/summer/fall
long. I would lov e the farmers market or mus ic or both be mov ed to a different night as
Thursdays are bus y with cabin traffic as is .
9/5/2024 8:42 AM
28 We love downtown and the loc al s hops. Pleas e c ontinue to encourage local business.9/4/2024 11:33 AM
29 The north side of U.S. 10 c orrider from Main Street to Norfolk Av e. REALLY needs a facelif t.
Go vis it Arlington Heights, Illinois charming downtown that dev eloped around t he railroad
station.
9/3/2024 9:14 AM
30 The Parrish road int ers ec tion is terrible. Is there anyway to put a light in? I see near ac c idents
there every day.
9/1/2024 12:35 PM
31 I lived in t his town for 17 years and this is the most beautiful part of the town. Don't ruin it.8/31/2024 1:13 AM
32 Nowhere to eat. General aes thetic is “rundown” or “old”8/30/2024 6:10 PM
33 Some businesses need to spruce up their ex terior - they look like they hav en’t been updated in
years
8/30/2024 5:57 PM
34 We need more inclusiv ity and diversity! All should feel welcome in downtown Elk River, and be
able to enjoy, including dietary res tric tions, ac c es sibility, etc .
8/30/2024 12:58 PM
35 I like the idea of closing Jac k s on and making it a public place. Unfort unately you will s ac rifice
some driv ing and parking
8/30/2024 12:21 PM
36 Regular rest rooms f or Rivers Edge park 8/30/2024 11:35 AM
37 More plac es to eat and drink would definitely get me and my family to downtown more. It is
such a great loc ation but not a lot that gets us there right now and we have to drive based on
where we live.
8/30/2024 8:53 AM
38 Unique s hops and the views are awesome. They k eep the f eel of s mall town and are unique to
Elk Riv er The apartments are either too pric ey for most people or to much lik e c heap public
housing. I t’s not a good mix. Theirs nothing in between.
8/30/2024 8:46 AM
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39 The farmers market needs c hairs and tables to vis it and recreate, maybe some food truc k s 8/29/2024 9:57 PM
40 Needs a legit , easily-acces s ible, public parking ramp.8/29/2024 3:38 PM
41 Traffic is heavy and there no where to secure bikes 8/29/2024 12:42 PM
42 Please fix the corner it’s hard t o s ee with the parking and traffic coming from all sides 8/28/2024 10:29 PM
43 Interactive businesses /wntertainment (I.e. bowling, game room (Dav e and bus ter lik e), indoor
waterpark ), other winter indoor activities.
8/28/2024 8:56 PM
44 I lov e downt own Elk Riv er, but when ev ents are happening it can be diff icult to get around and
find a parking s pot. Maybe more loc al shops or a new restaurant.
8/28/2024 7:02 PM
45 We love downtown Elk River & s pecific ally dec ided to liv e here because we wanted a small
town with an old downtown area. Would lov e to see more restaurants downtown! We lov e t he
addition of the Edge & would love to s ee more unique loc al plac es lik e that .
8/28/2024 5:17 PM
46 The bridge of f paris h bac k s up so badly I would think that would be the firs t priority before
anyt hing els e c an really be addressed. The bridge traf fic backs up being able to access
downtown or causes me to drive around it to avoid.
8/28/2024 4:19 PM
47 It would be great to have more f ood options. The loss of Daddyo’s was huge!8/28/2024 1:08 PM
48 I feel like I'm always heading out t o neighboring towns to find the good dining ex periences that
aren't a chain or fas t food. We have a c ouple great places to eat here, but not enough in my
opinion!
8/28/2024 12:59 PM
49 Mak e the area of Main Street (by the shops ) easier to get through by vehic le. The area bac k s
up in rus h hour and becomes almost impossible to get through.
8/28/2024 12:06 PM
50 Riv ers Edge Commons Park needs to have a public res troom and indoor c hanging area for the
weddings and bands
8/28/2024 12:01 PM
51 We need more modern st ores in elk River, lik e Homegoods / mars hals etc 8/28/2024 11:53 AM
52 Need a grade s eparated pedes trian crossing at adjac ent to Main Street over TH10 and RR
tracks .
8/28/2024 10:17 AM
53 A high quality sandwich shop with options to order at c ounter then either sit ins ide and eat, or
tak e to go would be fabulous!
8/28/2024 10:03 AM
54 Don’t los e, keep and maintain the Historic bldgs and vibrant Elk River history.8/28/2024 9:50 AM
55 Leave it alone, look s great how it is.8/28/2024 9:49 AM
56 We look for family-friendly and kid-friendly things to do, and fun outdoor s paces 8/28/2024 9:44 AM
57 Would lov e to see roof top dec k s on rest aurants located on the river. Better views.8/28/2024 9:33 AM
58 That inters ec tion by 10 and Wright count y bridge 42. That needs something different there not
sure if a round about would be good or something different. Hopefully when 169 gets done it
gets bett er but I still s ee it will be busy.
8/28/2024 9:23 AM
59 I’d love for downtown to utilize the riv erfront for areas to sit and have a drink with friends to
enjoy the beaut iful setting
8/28/2024 9:19 AM
60 Please fix the traffic situation with the stoplights on highway 10 and the roads to it.8/28/2024 9:16 AM
61 Would lov e to see some ex isting bus inesses spruce up external appearance to add t o the
overall look and feel of downtown. Some bus iness es look great while ot hers are falling apart.
8/27/2024 9:23 PM
62 The hardest part about getting downtown by bike and walk ing is t he c onnection t o my
neighborhood to the trail sy s tem. Biking or walking along County 1 or 33 is not s afe t o get to a
trail. There is not enough parking when there are large ev ents . I have not been to the
entertainment for many y ears due t o the lac k of park ing and not enough s eating.
8/27/2024 6:13 PM
63 Try to get bus iness to take the v ac ant areas and more restaurants to make a more reas on to
go downtown
8/27/2024 2:11 PM
64 I feel like so many bus iness es are leav ing Elk Riv er and very few are looking at Elk Riv er.
There is little retail shopping, the variety of sit-down, cas ual dining establis hments is limited. It
8/26/2024 8:22 PM
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seems lik e Elk River is a driv e-thru town vs a dest ination.
65 Better use of the riverfront for the public 8/26/2024 2:43 PM
66 We moved here after 30 years in St. Cloud. The at traction f or us was the downtown. We liv e
downtown s o we don't hav e to park on the s treets but watching all the free on s treet parking fill
up in the morning and people walk ing around town is what attracted us here. Downtown St.
Cloud lost a lot of that when they redev eloped t hat area. Some of our favorite busines s es had
to close. It's great that your as k ing for input. Thank you
8/26/2024 10:53 AM
67 Dev elop a riv er walk -- the river is Elk Riv er's biggest as set. Also, hold more events (art fests ,
food fest s) t o get people to go downtown and feel more lik e a community.
8/25/2024 4:19 PM
68 You have a unique opportunity of making a cute downtown with s hops, restaurants etc. Don't
bog down with hous ing and business. Make it very walk able and a destinat ion for tourist s to
come v isit. Don't have it pas t the train trac k s either that is idiotic . If your intent is to add,
max imiz e the footprint between Jacks on and main going towards Handke. I wouldn't even allow
tenants t hat aren't part of the v ibe you want. Chiropractors , law offic es and insurance agencies
should go somewhere else. Think of Niss wa, stillwater and other high traffic lit tle downtowns
that attract people. Mak e it a destination.
8/25/2024 3:05 PM
69 I would lov e to s ee more options for sit down restaurants , especially with v iews of the riv er.
Daddy -os would be a great option for for a fun new restaurant, possible roof top patio. I think
capitalizing on the River ac c es s will help driv e revenue to local busines s es. Look ing for fun,
loc al food eateries with that s mall town feel (Niss awa town v ibes come to mind) - easy t o walk
around, shop, and find a place to s top to eat or munch on the f ood y ou pick ed up. The
accounting, ins uranc e, at torney, etc businesses - I would like t o s ee them mov ed to either a
second st ory in downt own proper if that’s where they currently are or mov e all of those ty pes
furt her down main, closer to 169.
8/25/2024 2:39 PM
70 Going in the right direc tion. However the karate bus iness seems like a wasted opportunity t o
attract tourism and c ommerce to t he area overall. Lov e the book store!
8/25/2024 12:50 PM
71 I would like to see more restaurants with outdoor s paces overlook ing the riv er. The inters ec tion
main and parish needs to be improved.
8/25/2024 9:34 AM
72 More usable greens pace 8/24/2024 3:02 PM
73 Mov e the Thursday conc ert s to lak e orono so people that work c an find a plac e to park and
sit,people putting up chairs all day while people are at work is BS.
8/23/2024 11:01 PM
74 This c ity counc il has ‘progres s ed’ and ‘dev eloped’ a beautiful small town wit h natural areas,
into a c oncrete, ov erc rowded jungle. STOP REDEVELOPING and s tart cons idering t he
environmental impac t of the continual inf lux of people and developers.
8/23/2024 4:05 PM
75 It would be wonderful to have more soc ial options lik e downtown Anok a! It was a huge draw
when had the brewery downtown.
8/23/2024 12:32 PM
76 Driv ing and park ing are diffic ult. It is c ramped and the Parris h intersec tion needs to be fixed.
There needs to be traffic control there.
8/23/2024 12:04 PM
77 A long time ago there was a convenience st ore--Ron's. I really miss that. It would be good to
have more everyday grocery options on the wes tern s ide of town. Also miss the gift s hop @
Kemper's.
8/23/2024 11:23 AM
78 Pedes trian and bic ycle acc es s from t he s outh is v ery poor ev en for people who would
otherwise be in walking dist ance. I liv e by the train s tation and to get to downtown I hav e t o
walk all t he way down Twin Lakes t o Main Street even though it's lik e a mile down the highway.
8/23/2024 11:05 AM
79 I really wis h we s till had a small grocery/convenience store downtown.8/23/2024 10:02 AM
80 Thank s 8/23/2024 9:57 AM
81 Please do not add more hous ing to downtown. It is a very tight locat ion as it is to nav igate
traf fic and it takes away from that small town c harm.
8/23/2024 9:32 AM
82 I really enjoy the downtown but too busy with c ars at cert ain times. More park ing would ease
the situation. I lik e how the Mississippi Riv er is ac c essible to vis itors and Elk River citizens.
8/23/2024 9:27 AM
83 More shopping and overall bett er and safer ac c es s to downtown 8/23/2024 9:20 AM
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84 The businesses aren’t c onnect ed to community and aren’t inviting. Insurance agencies , law
firms, etc . The bars are ins ular and unwelc oming if y ou hav en’t been going to them for years.
We need more busines ses lik e The Edge and Pompeii and Minne Made who want to connec t
with the public.
8/22/2024 10:48 PM
85 I lov e downt own. I think keeping it s afe but fun is key. I think a park would be nic e somewhere
as another activ ity for the k iddos . I think other ex periences like the es c ape room plac e could
als o be fun if it was walkable. Maybe an arc ade eatery or s omething.
8/22/2024 1:43 PM
86 Personally moving from Dallas TX to Elk Riv er there is s ev ere lac k of food options in the area.
Food always brings people together. Beer garden would be lovely.
8/22/2024 11:48 AM
87 Inc reas ing the ov erall look of downtown. Bring a modern touch. A fac ade refres h to store
fronts, modern artwork and better overall landscape.
8/22/2024 9:12 AM
88 I lov e the idea of what downtown Elk Riv er is . I think it needs a couple more bars /restaurants
and at least one more of thos e should be open past 11pm. Mc Coy's is fine, but we would like
more opt ions . Farmers mark et Thursday is one of my favorite day s! Maybe more block party
ty pe ev ents where you shut down the s treets c ould be fun t oo!
8/22/2024 8:05 AM
89 There just not much that downtown elk river offers . We find ourselves heading elsewhere t o
anoka, maple grov e, rogers or ots ego to the restaurants and shops .
8/21/2024 10:36 PM
90 Bring in bus ines s es . Es pec ially to more than just downtown. Lots of ey e soars in the c it y. I've
lived in town for 31 y ears and very sad.
8/21/2024 10:02 PM
91 Need t o utiliz e the riverfront area better 8/21/2024 9:41 PM
92 More pat ios f or enjoying the Riv er.8/21/2024 8:14 PM
93 The city needs to add a way for local growers to sell things in town and t hey also need t o s top
thinking that the down town area needs to be protected the town town area needs to grow with
out city involment
8/21/2024 6:04 PM
94 No section 8 housing More retail More community event s / entertainment/ engagement Lights
cros sing streets
8/21/2024 4:17 PM
95 Modern Res trooms at Rivers Edge Commons Park 8/21/2024 3:51 PM
96 I like a downtown center that c an be an entertainment and soc ial dis tric t! I lov e downtown
Anok a and want to s ee Elk River invest in s imilar ways. Like plac es to relax and s ocializ e and
see the river (either with more ac c essible shoreline or rooftop pat ios ), hidden unique s paces
like Avant Garden Book s tore's patio in Anoka- perfect s pot would be if a cafe bought the Elk
Riv er Chiroprac tic building and made a patio in the spac e behind it that connected to the dock
and amphitheat er area... also an inv es tment in art! Maybe new murals or s c ulptures. I'm also
eager to see the es c ape rooms reopen and am excited t hat the owners might invest in tabletop
gaming as well. It would also be c ool to s ee an arcade or play area t hat is more k id friendly
too... and more unique food options lik e thai or greek . Personally to me t here are buildings I
wis h weren't right in downtown... lik e the funeral home and the churc h in the old bank. That
space could be dev eloped better.
8/21/2024 3:35 PM
97 More stuff to do.8/21/2024 2:38 PM
98 The Parrish and Main street “s treet” needs to be t urned into s omething new. The afternoon
traf fic is terrible. Build a bridge or s omething over hwy 10 and the railroad trac k s to ease
conges tion.
8/21/2024 2:28 PM
99 Gett ing of f paris h is diffic ult and the trains back up traffic . Do not need more apartment
buildings
8/21/2024 2:11 PM
100 Downtown inters ections are not pedes trian friendly. Too muc h traffic goes t hrough Downtown
without Downtown as a des tination. Traff ic flow should be c hanged to enc ourage local traffic
only, s uch as mak ing Jackson one way, changing parish to not be able to go wes t onto main,
lower speed limits in old Downtown, etc .
8/21/2024 1:52 PM
101 Right now getting in and out of "downtown" is c umbersome. So muc h s o I don't s top & linger
anymore. It's a plac e to pass through, sadly. Parking is bad, all businesses have their bac ks
turned to the river. Look at Hudson WI or Stillwater MN as examples to striv e for. Thos e are
both riv er towns that are des tinations . Emulate them, they are success fully attracting &
keeping people coming there.
8/21/2024 1:48 PM
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102 Main St and Parris h is an awful intersect ion. Too s mall f or t he amount of traffic it seems. It
needs to be improved.
8/21/2024 1:42 PM
103 I feel Elk Riv er, es pecially t he DT area, is dy ing. Has been for years . If they want to maint ain
it, I would suggest t ry ing to create it- like Ramsey is. We are not Anoka, we've never had a
bust ling DT like Anoka. Let's try less to preserve some of what's t here to mak e room for new
and attractive businesses/housing/features. You hav e a river- utiliz e it more. Spend some $
and buy up s ome of the areas between 169/10. I'd rather see $ going to beautify and create a
nic e town. I'm sorry, but many of t he homes /bus ines s es in that area need to go if pos s ible. It's
time to c reate a city (not a "town"). You c an't stop progres s , if y ou try to hold onto the pas t too
muc h, your c ity becomes a relic of the pas t. And not in a good way.
8/21/2024 1:19 PM
104 The traffic and the t rains. Between the trains and traffic on Highway 10, oft en times it back s
the traffic up terribly. The intersec tion by Granit e Shores and the Bank of Elk River is so
dangerous. It ’s als o too clos e to Hwy 10. In a perfec t world the railroad tracks would move out
of downtown.
8/21/2024 1:15 PM
105 Elk Riv er has no unique bars or restaurants. McCoys and The Depot are dives and all the other
food options are chain fast food. The city needs to bring in more venues like Big Lak e or
Zimmerman hav e to k eep res idents in town, ex amples, Willie’s on the Water, the Buff, Trails,
Ds Smokehous e. Patio s eating or venues that hos t meat raffles, bingo etc . I pay huge tax es in
a c it y I liv e in and have to leav e the city for any form of ent ertainment.
8/21/2024 1:07 PM
106 Downtown is horrible t o get to for people going north from otaego (over the bridge). Something
needs to be done with that s toplight situation, especially on Thurs days. I would love to go to
the farmer's mark et but I don't because it is so difficult to get into downtown from any direc tion.
8/21/2024 12:56 PM
107 I like the farmers mark et in the s ummer. A Chris tmas Mark et would be really cool.8/21/2024 12:41 PM
108 Intersect ion of Hwy 10, Main St, and Parish Ave is a dis as ter.8/21/2024 12:15 PM
109 Traffic at thos e lights are horrible. Ev ery one runs red lights making you worry if y ou walk or
bik e or ev en drive y ou will get hit. Parking is always full unles s y ou go all the way down past
the funeral home and walk down. Lov e the river and the fountains and the doc k t here. Love the
businesses as well.
8/21/2024 12:06 PM
110 I’d love to s ee less ins uranc e and bank options and more places t o gather or shop at a co-op.
A nic e dining spot would be really fun as well.
8/20/2024 10:47 AM
111 More Chris tmas tree light s, more weed and trash cont rol, food truck night, I scream sop, deli
and market where my s tery plac e is , Americ an Flag in park, ex tension of down town through
park ing lots. Food truck fronts along Main Street park ing area, greenery in triangle by Karate
on Ten, a few real planted Chris tmas tree’s .
8/20/2024 9:22 AM
112 No pavers, do colored / tex tured c oncrete 8/18/2024 8:08 PM
113 We would love a long walking path along the river 8/18/2024 7:23 PM
114 The free public parking lot by the feed store is very unkempt and Un att rac tive. I t does not
repres ent a c lean, modern and attractiv e entrance into our downtown area. It is a bit of an eye
sore. The lights down the road by Lake Orono are v ery pretty. Something lik e that c ould look
very good there by the public park ing t oo! With some trees and planters with flowers like the
downtown area has. That would be a beautif ul welcome!
8/18/2024 3:19 PM
115 I would lov e to s ee a farm to table restaurant or a fun brewery ! I love having options for having
a night out! I lov e edge c off ee, old main, and suns hine depot but I would love to see more!
8/18/2024 12:47 PM
116 Bik e path too babcock. More lights at babcock, es pecially the boat launch. A s mall parking
ramp in downtown would be ideal.
8/17/2024 4:27 PM
117 Elk Riv er needs to bring in more retail, dining and boutique busines s es. Av oid franc hises , and
commercial businesses. The c ity needs its res idents to stay, inv est and spend money in t he
city, and attract people pas s ing through to want to stop and s pend money at the loc al shops .
Ins tead as a communit y we are forc ed to leav e the area to all the surrounding cities for all our
basic needs as well as all the addit ional things we buy. Liquor is the only ex ception. Elk River
apparently has a need for 3+ liquor st ores ...
8/16/2024 9:20 PM
118 All of t he busines s es are, not even historic , but just old. As part of younger folk, we would lik e
to see more updated bus inesses appearanc es , a business/res taurant c hain on this s ide of hwy
8/16/2024 3:22 PM
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10, or s omething that people under 40 years-old can enjoy. And traffic is awful, espec ially the
turn onto Parris h.
119 Downtown s hould hav e more places t o go and enjoy yourself not servic e places such as
karate massage places, or hair places , may be more unique s tores and res taurant s.
8/16/2024 11:41 AM
120 I wish the church building on the river was a food & drink , art or some k ind of gathering s pace.
It's under utilized as a c hurc h. I really wis h there was a walk ing/bik ing path that c onnect s
Bailey point and Babc ock Park along t he riv er. This would make the city a destination to enjoy
the riv er. We should embrace the riv er like Anok a & Stillwater do. I would lov e to s ee more
bout ique shopping, deli, speak eas y, gift s hops. Les s insurance, investment, offic e s pac es.
8/16/2024 7:44 AM
121 Elk Riv er Downtown has an underutiliz ed resource in the river/views and potential as a unique
dest ination that c ould serve as a "3rd place" (home, work, 3rd place t o go to for entertainment,
food/bev erages /recreat ion/socializing). I'd like to s ee the downtown area as a hub for trails for
walking and bik ing - s eparating v ehicle traffic to mak e this a safer and more pleasant and
appealing destination. See Seat tle's waterfront as an ex ample of a destination area with
entertainment, dining, shops connected by walking and biking paths . Connec ting the wonderful
trails (Woodland, along Highway 10, Eas t of 169) perhaps with bik e/walk ing paths going behind
the sc hools on School St reet and connec ting these trails to downt own as a hub. Budgeting for
excellent wayfinding signs would be essential to enc ourage us e. Inv it e bike/scooter rent al
companies to locate in the c ommunity. A public transit elec tric tram/bus route to include the
Norths tar Park and Ride, Walmart, Coburns, Cub, School Street, Aegir's Brewery, Downtown
and/or similar higher volume st ops. Eliminat ing vehicle t raff ic in t he c ore Downtown and
rerouting ac c es s/park ing for thos e liv ing/delivering and with disabilities. Reorienting businesses
to river v iews and adding 3/4 s eason patios... Mov e park ing away from downtown and provide
bik e and pedes trian ac c es s that does not require cros sing vehicle traffic (bridge/tunnel).
Enc ourage/support additional retail, recreat ion, dining in the downt own area - plac es lik e a late
night coffee shop, specialty foods , artist st udios , bic y cle repair, t rain store, game night
gathering space, s maller specialty s hops... The Downtown Plan s hould create a space t hat
both invites res idents to spend more time in the downtown and draws people from acros s the
state for a unique and memorable vis it .
8/15/2024 7:23 PM
122 Highway 10 makes downtown uneasy with the amount of traffic. A ris k of cros sing 10. I’m 50
years old and I don’t want to cross it. Also put ting the train station outs ide of Elk Riv er was
dumbest thing. Should have put it where the lions and rental plac e is. Having people to come
directly into downtown to spend money and have downtown grow should’ve been a no brainer.
8/15/2024 3:57 PM
123 Terrible planning in pas t 8/15/2024 9:53 AM
124 Traffic congestion and extreme lac k of park ing will continue to keep people av oiding downtown.
Sips on Main is a great idea but needs a new location. Hot pavement in August is a horrible
idea.
8/15/2024 9:21 AM
125 Farmers mark et loc ation s hould be moved- it’s too congested and traffic patterns for those who
live in that area is horrible.
8/15/2024 9:03 AM
126 Some complain about the c ost of the f lowers in the summer. I disagree with them...I lov e the
"old town" friendly feel. So many of thos e t hings are being lost. Love to see old photos of
towns with the holiday decor along main streets. Howev er, I don't liv e in Elk River do I don't
have to pay f or it.
8/15/2024 8:04 AM
127 It would be amazing if from Studio 107 to Edge Coffee were lil shops. A s afer way to c ross
Hwy 10. More parking.
8/15/2024 8:04 AM
128 I saw tax payer dollars went to pay for flowers for downtown. That is an abomination! If they
businesses want flowers they s hould pay for it out of their own poc k et- NOT TAX DOLLARS!!!
8/15/2024 8:03 AM
129 People use Main St reet and Jackson as through s treets to get through town rather t han TO
town. Figure out how to k eep that traf fic out of downt own and it would add to the appeal
tremendous ly!
8/15/2024 8:03 AM
130 Change the amphitheater area for better s eating that is level and has act ual seats with backs
ins tead of unev en gras s and slabs of rock. The c urrent bus iness es and rest aurants are not
anyt hing t hat I am interested in with the ex c eption of the dental offic e. Nicer (clean, updated)
res taurants is really what we need.
8/15/2024 7:59 AM
131 Need t o abs olutely fix the inters ection of Perris h Ave and Main St. It's abs olut ely horrible and 8/15/2024 7:49 AM
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why I av oid downtown Elk River.
132 Parking is a nightmare. Farmers market is great but bas ically closes a park ing lot and c reates
problems. Thurs day nights traffic is horrible at 5-7pm because of the market and c oncerts
which mak es it unappealing to return. Need to f ace the f acts that downt own is really along the
river and not on the ot her side of HWY 10
8/15/2024 7:47 AM
133 Downtown lost it s c harm years ago.. losing Kempers and meat market was final straw..8/15/2024 7:36 AM
134 More eat ing and gathering plac es.8/14/2024 10:40 AM
135 As a new small bus ines s owner in downt own I would lov e to see more businesses come in that
will attrac t people to the downtown area (unique s hops/res taurant s/ac tivities as oppos ed to
private offic es ). As a bus iness on Jacks on I would love to see Jack s on turned into a one way
in order t o mak e parking av ailable on bot h s ides and ideally the remov al of t he rail on the eas t
side to s witch to s omething more inviting.
8/14/2024 7:29 AM
136 Cute town. Enjoy what has already been updated. Pleas e. KEEP hist oric buildings . So many
torn down already. ☹
8/13/2024 10:10 AM
137 A trail or walkway that goes along t he riv er f or people who like to do walks.8/13/2024 9:29 AM
138 I like how Downt own gets decorated f or t he dif ferent holidays!8/13/2024 9:14 AM
139 Don't remov e the old part of elk River from this area, if you do there will be nothing original left
of t his town.
8/13/2024 5:09 AM
140 The park ing is terrible.8/12/2024 10:57 PM
141 It’s cute, I love t he c oncerts in the summer and the f ount ain. More dining options or a bus iness
for social gathering would be nice- I’m thinking a s moothie or wine place? Definit ely not a c hain
res taurant- just some plac e to go.
8/12/2024 10:09 PM
142 I would lov e to s ee s ome fun s hops and res taurants 8/12/2024 9:48 PM
143 Love the downtown but parking is the biggest issue. On a busy week end or farmers market
days, parking c an be difficult.
8/12/2024 9:46 PM
144 Enforc ement of 30mph through town, restaurant in the Daddy Os location with better quality
food options lik e Pour (Otsego), Main Street Farmer (St Michael) or Big Bore (Hanov er).
8/12/2024 9:46 PM
145 Riv ers ide dining. Patios riverside 8/12/2024 12:53 PM
146 Transit would be unique 8/10/2024 8:39 PM
147 Elk Riv er should look to make Downtown lik e the City of Anoka in terms of restaurants ,bars,
and entertainment. Current offerings in downtown are s ubstandard and many of t he busines s
serv e no general benefit to downtown visitors.
8/10/2024 5:38 PM
148 Parking is the is s ue! There should be a parking ramp - having parking acros s Hwy 10 is
ridic ulous . If y ou c reate park ing, busines ses and people will c ome.
8/9/2024 8:53 AM
149 No more salons, bars, or agenc ies. Bring in businesses that will draw people who spend time
in small towns. Us ed book s tore, c oz y c off ee s hop, and different types of s mall town s hops
are great ideas. Parking street-side is a pain, and wit h a lot of new s paces to park, it's not
really ov erly nec essary, except for handic ap ac cess. Also, increasing the draw to the river
could be big. There is very little acces s to the actual edge of the water and no grass area to sit
next to the river. Construction s uc k s all-around, but if there's s ome way that the construc tion
traf fic c an be redirec ted, busines s es will do bet ter.
8/9/2024 12:52 AM
150 ER downtown is right on the river- t here s hould be many modern res taurants/bars (with live
mus ic) ov erlooking that v iew - Rogers R-Social and many bar/restaurants in Anoka are great
examples . We driv e to thos e places and pass by ER down town and that’s a shame - I’m glad
this surv ey is addressing the issue.
8/8/2024 10:01 PM
151 Parking is an issue 8/7/2024 7:24 AM
152 NA 8/6/2024 9:41 AM
153 Public restroom is a necessity with the amount of downtown events and act ivities. Still hoping
for one in the old meat mark et loc ation.
8/6/2024 9:01 AM
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154 na 8/6/2024 8:43 AM
155 A public res troom would be a great asset to downtown. A higher end restaurant/coc k tail bar is
a mus t. No more c obbles tone, maybe stamped conc rete. Reconf iguration of Main/Parrish/Hwy
10. Consider one way on Jacks on. Thank you!
8/6/2024 8:19 AM
156 I believ e t hey have turned away a lot of bus iness es and proposals, including one from Tips y
Chicken. The "old s chool" businesses have kept new businesses from c oming in. We hav e
los t a lot of opportunities to Ots ego as a result. They need to make J ackson Street a one way.
Mak e parking available on t he other side, tak e down the railing and even out the sidewalks so
thos e bus ines s es c an s urvive. We need more shopping and dining downtown, not another
Karate s tudio or bank, neither of thos e bring foot traffic into downtown. The s mall town
mentality needs to change and those dec ision makers need to see that bringing in more
shopping and dining, only benefits them in the long run as well. I don't want to see us los e
more businesses to neighboring c ities.
8/5/2024 9:20 PM
157 I lov e downt own but walk ing and bik ing across highway 10 is an abs olute no! More restaurants
and unique s hops would be perfec t as this area c ould easily be a great destination t own!!
8/5/2024 9:08 PM
158 More retail businesses would be wonderf ul. A park ing ramp would be nic e as well.8/5/2024 9:01 PM
159 Would lov e to see a round about or three way s top at main s tart and Parris h. That is a terrible
intersection.
8/5/2024 8:14 PM
160 Continuing to hav e a place that feels warm, welcoming, uplifting, a plac e people say they want
to go to, more activ ities that can bring people to our downtown, mak ing our downt own a
hallmark village.
8/5/2024 7:55 PM
161 No one park s ac ros s highway 10, it’s not s afe walking ac ros s the highway.8/5/2024 6:56 PM
162 The ease of ac c es s to businesses on Jackson Av e need improv ement 8/5/2024 5:44 PM
163 I lov e liv ing in the downtown area. But los ing the drug st ore was really diffic ult. We NEED
someplac e to buy a pop, a newspaper, a doz en eggs , et c. We could really use a market of
some s ort. I think it would complete the feel of this area.
8/4/2024 1:44 PM
164 I would lov e to s ee a c onv enienc e s tore or grocery s tore that s ells basic hous ehold essentials,
fresh produce, and other items that y ou normally have to drive to get.
8/2/2024 1:15 PM
165 The way t he rail interacts with the t est of the infrastruc ture c auses lots of problems . This
causes downtown to feel dis jointed from the rest of elk River. Liv ing downtown we drive into
the nearby neighborhood jus t to avoid the lots on 10 whic h are controlled by the rail sinc e the
cycle times can get ex c essiv e at times . It would be ex pensiv e but grade s eparating the rail
would eliminate most of the issues
8/2/2024 1:03 PM
166 It would be nice to hav e more of a walk ing path near the riv er. The riv ers edge park offers a
nic e view, but that's really the only plac e you can enjoy the river.
7/30/2024 10:35 AM
167 I like that the downt own has a high enough volume of businesses and events (farmers market)
to make it fun to walk around. I do think pedest rians are diffic ult to see with cars park ed
directly next to crosswalks and there are "dead zones " like by the new bookstore that are
harder to get to and feel is olated which mak es them less appealing to walk to (the area around
them is only pavement with a road next to it ). I think having refuge is lands would help. May be
more green s pace in the median? If there was an easier way to get t o downtown f rom the Hwy
10 s ide that would improve life.
7/29/2024 11:23 AM
168 Main Street and Paris h intersec tion needs to be safer/ easier to nav igat e.7/27/2024 3:34 PM
169 Keep t he historic buildings, get the downtown original buildings or bloc k s on the Nat ional
His toric Regis ter.
7/27/2024 1:33 PM
170 Don't need any more hous ing built 7/27/2024 12:45 PM
171 I’m looking forward to some of the riv erfront businesses t urning over (ex the funeral home..)
and being dev eloped into entertainment spac es / restaurants that utilize the riv erfront view.
7/25/2024 8:05 PM
172 Italian res taurant would be nice. Something other than bar food. Eras e t he s top lights on
highway ten.
7/25/2024 4:44 PM
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Elk River Downtown Area Plan - Community Survey
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7.48%27
92.52%334
Q12 Do you currently live in Downtown?
Answered: 361 Sk ipped: 1
TOTAL 361
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
Yes
No
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes
No
Page 142 of 157
Elk River Downtown Area Plan - Community Survey
65 / 68
11.08%40
88.92%321
Q13 Do you currently work in Downtown?
Answered: 361 Sk ipped: 1
TOTAL 361
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
Yes
No
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes
No
Page 143 of 157
Elk River Downtown Area Plan - Community Survey
66 / 68
6.39%23
93.61%337
Q14 Do you own a business or property in Downtown?
Answered: 360 Sk ipped: 2
TOTAL 360
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
Yes
No
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes
No
Page 144 of 157
Elk River Downtown Area Plan - Community Survey
67 / 68
0.29%1
30.84%107
42.07%146
23.34%81
3.46%12
Q15 What is your age (optional)?
Answered: 347 Sk ipped: 15
TOTAL 347
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
0-18
1 9-36
37-54
55-72
72+
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
0-18
19-36
37-54
55-72
72+
Page 145 of 157
Elk River Downtown Area Plan - Community Survey
68 / 68
0.60%2
1.19%4
1.19%4
0.60%2
0.00%0
92.24%309
0.60%2
3.58%12
Q16 How do you identify (optional)?
Answered: 335 Sk ipped: 27
TOTAL 335
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%1 00%
Bl ack
Hispanic
Latino/a
Asian
Pacific
Islander
White
Native American
Other
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Blac k
His panic
Latino/a
Asian
Pacific Islander
Whit e
Nativ e Americ an
Other
Page 146 of 157
610 SW Alder Street, Suite 1200, Portland, Oregon 97205 | 503.222.1600
Elk River Downtown
Recommendations & Implementation Strategies
Case Studies
Downtown Stillwater – Stillwater, MN
Categories: Hotel, riverfront revitalization, placemaking
Major Outcomes: New construction, including multiple hotels, spurred by the creation of a new bridge and conversion
of the old bridge into part of a pedestrian and bike network.
Description:
Stillwater is a small tourism-driven town in the bluff country of eastern Minnesota. Prior to the closure of the 87-year-
old lift bridge in 2017, 18,000 cars crossed the aging bridge daily, bringing visitors to the city’s shopping and dining
establishments downtown. The bridge closure came on the heels of the opening of the St. Croix Crossing south of
downtown. In 2018, two new hotels opened in downtown Stillwater and a third hotel broke ground on an expansion.
The new hotels include Hotel Crosby (55 rooms) and the Lora hotel (40 rooms).
In addition to new hotel construction, owners of retail stores downtown embarked on façade improvements of 19 th
century buildings and in 2019 Wolf Development broke ground on the adaptive reuse of the town’s historic armory,
which was converted into apartments and commercial space (Fieldhouse 34). These investments reflected the strong
economic climate as well as the increased ease of pedestrian access to downtown due to the bridge closure.
Figure 1. Stillwater’s Historic Lift Bridge, Now Part of St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail
Source: Twin Cities Outdoors.
APPENDIX B
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Figure 2. The Lora Hotel
Source: Lora Hotel.
Figure 3. Interior of Fieldhouse 34 in the Historic Armory Building
Source: Historic Fieldhouse 34.
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Figure 4. Rooftop Patio Overlooking the River at Brick and Bourbon in Downtown Stillwater
Source: Discover Stillwater.
Artists on Main Street – Willmar, MN
Categories: Placemaking, Events
Major Outcomes: Increased visits to Downtown throughout the year; community-building
Description:
Artists on Main Street is a program operated by local organizations, Rethos and Springboard for the Arts. The
organizations work with cities to bring art and art -related events downtown, focusing on small and rural cities. Member
cities rfeceive funding and resources for the creation of art -based physical, economic, and social solutions for
downtown.
One of the current participating cities is Willmar, MN, located in Kandiyohi County southwest of St. Cloud. The City’s
approach to using the resources provided by the program involves having “small and many” events to attract a wide
variety of residents downtown throughout the year with a goal of creating community. In its first year, Willmar received
$20,000 from the program, which funded 13 projects. These included murals, seating areas, art workshops, and a
community picnic. In its second year, the City aimed to utilize the program to bolster public outreach for its
Comprehensive Plan update. City Planner Sarah Swedburg emphasized that in bringing people downtown for events
throughout the year, it built downtown’s identity as a place to meet friends and take part in community.
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Figure 5. “Wilmar…What Comes to Your Mind” Art Event in 2019
Source: Rethos.
Figure 6. Residents Helping to Paint the Collaborative Downtown Mural Medallion in 2019
Source: Rethos.
Grain District Downtown Redevelopment Plan – Bondurant, IA
Categories: Hotel, Placemaking
Major Outcomes: Public-private partnership for redevelopment and adaptive reuse of a historic grain silo; public
investment in infrastructure, placemaking, and events.
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Description:
Bondurant, a city of just over 7,000 residents located outside of Des Moines, adopted a plan in 2024 to redevelop the
Grain District, an area adjacent to its downtown. The district was previously home to the Landus Cooperative and
features a 140-foot tall grain silo. In 2024, the City released a plan for the grain district that includes townhomes, mixed-
use (residential over retail), a park with a sculpture garden and stormwater retention ponds, a recreation center, and a
repurposed railroad trail. The local buyer of the Grain District site, The 101 LLC, approached the City with the idea of
sharing the cost of the plan adoption and creation process.
The centerpiece of the plan is the redevelopment of the grain silo into a mixed-use building with a hotel, condos, and
retail space. Planned public investments to support the development of the site include an extension of the Chichaqua
Valley Trail, realignment and extension of Lincoln Street NE, construction of a public gathering space and an arboretum,
implementation of public art and creative placemaking, repurposing of a city Emergency Services facility into a public
Parks and Recreation Center, and new public parking. Following adoption of the plan, the City entered into a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the developer. In addition to the infrastructure investments planned by the
City, the project is eligible for the City’s tax abatement program, and TIF funds could be allocated to the silo
redevelopment if it includes hotel and condo uses.
Figure 7. Adopted Plan for the Grain District in Bondurant
Source: City of Bondurant.
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Figure 8. Conceptual Plan for Grain Silo Redevelopment
Source: City of Bondurant.
Independence Landing – Independence, OR
Categories: Hotel, Riverfront Revitalization, Events
Major Outcomes: New housing, hotel, and park adjacent to the historic downtown
Description:
Independence Landing is a suburb of Salem, Oregon that has in recent years branded itself as a gateway to the
Willamette Valley wine country. The City had spent approximately 15 years prior to forming a development partnership
revitalizing its downtown through investments in streetscape and a new park along the river featuring an outdoor
amphitheater similar to Elk River’s. In 2009, the City’s 2020 Vision Plan identified an 18-acre site on the river adjacent to
downtown as a key development opportunity. The City used a State transportation grant to fund concept plans for the
site, which it ultimately purchased in 2015. In 2017, the City entered into a development agreement with Tokola
Properties, which built a park, apartments, townhomes, and the first hotel in the city on the riverfront.
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Figure 9. Independence Hotel
Source: Tokola Properties.
Figure 10. Independence Landing
Source: Tokola Properties.
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Downtown Walla Walla – Walla Walla, WA
Categories: Hotel, Placemaking
Major Outcomes: Repositioning of Walla Walla as a “boutique destination,” new hotel development, pedestrian plaza.
Description:
The city of Walla Walla in southeastern Washington has a population of just over 30,000 residents that since the 1970s
has been working to establish itself as a wine destination. The Walla Walla Main Street Foundation (now the Downtown
Walla Walla Foundation) was formed in the 1980s, focusing initially on downtown events like the Italian Heritage Festa
and Main Street Fair. In 1987, the foundation partnered with banks on a façade improvement program to revitalize
downtown’s aging buildings. In 1991, the City approved a Local Improvement District to fund downtown improvements.
In 2003, the City embarked on creating a 20-year downtown Master Plan to guide the future of the district. The Master
Plan process created a community vision for the area that the City used as a basis for its urban design framework. The
plan identified key public amenities and planned for wayfinding and circulation. Between 2000 and 2014, the City’s
downtown won a number of accolades, including Washington Main Street’s Excellence on Main award and the American
Planning Association’s Top Ten Great Neighborhood award.
In 2019, the City gained its newest hotel, the FINCH, on the former site of a Red Lion. The 80-room hotel showcases
regional amenities by featuring local art and furnishings sourced from the Northwest, as well as through the use of tour
guides to suggest activities to guests. Columbia Hospitality, which manages the FINCH, told the Whitman Wire that
Walla Walla stands out for its “vibrant, unique, and authentic community.”
In 2023, the City made a temporary street closure into a permanent gathering space called Walawala Plaza.
Figure 11. Walawala Plaza in Downtown Walla Walla
Source: Oregon Wine Press.
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Figure 12. Downtown Walla Walla
\
Source: Visit Walla Walla.
Figure 13. The FINCH Hotel in Walla Walla
Source: Visit Walla Walla.
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City-Owned Lot: Key Considerations
City Investment
In order to spur development of the City-owned lot, the City will likely need to subsidize the project. Because of current
challenges in the development market nationwide, the quicker the City wants to see the lot developed, the more money
it will likely need to put into it. Subsidies that can help attract development include:
• Free or reduced-price land transfer
• Equity in the project
• Infrastructure development
• Tax subsidies or deferrments
• Reduced development or impact fees
• Preliminary environmental or other due diligence studies
Partnership Structures & Development Agreement
The Steering Committee has identified redevelopment of the city-owned lot as a top priority for Downtown Elk River. To
facilitate the development of this site, the city should conduct developer outreach, embark on a formal RFQ/RFP process
to select a developer, and negotiate a development agreement that ensures development on the site is in alignment
with the community vision. Key considerations for this agreement include:
• Land: the City should determine whether it intends to retain ownership of all or part of the land. Typically,
developers prefer to own the development site outright. The City could determine alternative ownership
structures, such as a 99-year land lease, but these are complicated arrangements that may not be appropriate
for this site. The City could alternatively retain ownership of any parts of the site that are intended for public
benefit or that will be developed at a future time.
• Public Benefit: Through the development agreement, the City could choose to require the developer to provide
some public benefit in exchange for public subsidy (as discussed above). This could include park space, parking,
or some other amenity that would benefit the community. However, the City should ensure that the public
benefit is not so costly that the agreement falls apart.
• Timing: If the City chooses to give the land for free to the developer, it should consider including a provision
within the development agreement that causes the land to revert to City ownership if development is not
completed within a specified time. This will ensure that the City does not give up control of a key downtown
site if the developer is unable to deliver.
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Key Actions for Downtown Plan Implementation
Hotel Attraction
Attracting a hotel could be somewhat challenging for Elk River, as it is not yet a tourism destination and few small
boutique hotels have been built in the area in recent years. However, as the City implements improvements that address
connectivity challenges and emphasize Downtown’s connection to the river, the prospects for a new hotel development
will improve. Strategies the City should consider to attract hotel development include:
• Financial incentives such as tax abatements, infrastructure improvements, and/or shared planning costs.
• Increasing visits to Downtown Elk River through branding, high -quality placemaking, and events that draw
visitors from throughout the region and provide a reason to stay overnight.
• Identification of key sites, preferably along the river, that are suitable for hotel development and zoned
appropriately to allow for an urban, boutique-style hotel. This can include sites suitable for both ground-up
development and adaptive reuse.
• Building and maintaining relationships with developers and key property owners to identify potential
opportunities for partnerships.
Grocery Attraction
Attracting a grocery store to the Uptown neighborhood will be challenging, especially because there are few small -
format grocery chains operating in the US. The most likely type of grocery store to locate in this area will be a
cooperative. Strategies that cities can use to attract grocery stores include:
• Financial incentives like land, infrastructure improvements, and /or tax credits
• Regulatory incentives like zoning changes or modifications, design concessions, and expedited permitting
• Alerting the local tenant broker community to a potential grocery location in Uptown
• Attending local ICSC events to network and spread the word about the opportunity
Housing
The current development environment nationwide is challenging due to high interest rates as well as rising material and
labor costs. Attracting significant housing development may be somewhat challenging in the near term, but the City can
use this opportunity to prepare for longer-term investment, especially in the Uptown neighborhood. Actions the City
can take to attract housing development include:
• Zoning the Uptown area for a variety of housing types, including townhomes, garden -style apartments, and
mixed-use development.
• Ensuring that neighborhood commercial uses, potentially including a grocery store, are allowed and that
parking requirements are appropriate for the scale of development.
• Conducting an environmental assessment of the site and potentially mitigating any significant environmental
hazards on site that would limit housing development.
• Building relationships with developers who are active in the region and working with them to better understand
the opportunities and challenges in this area.
• Providing funding for infrastructure development that will benefit the general public, such as new sidewalks.
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