On behalf of the GrandView District Steering Committee, I am please to present our proposed Development Framework for the GrandView District. The Framework is the result of almost two years of work by the Steering Committee and, before them, the Community Advisory and Design Teams that led the Guide Plan process.
View the slideshow version (fullscreen recommended; for best quality, first go to the document on the Slideshare site and then click the icon in the lower right corner); alternately, download the 64-page PDF to your computer.
What all of these groups have in common is that they are made up of members of our community — residents, business owners, property owners — who have generously given their time and energy to try to improve our city. Without the literally hundreds of hours of time that these folks have contributed, we could not have created this Framework.
But the work is not over. Now it is time for other members of our community to contribute their opinions. The posting of this draft of the proposed Development Framework marks the beginning of a public comment period that will run through March 9th.
We are asking members of our community to review the plan and share their thoughts. What is good about it? What could be improved? What do you think will work and what won’t?
You can post your comments here on this blog or send them in writing to City Hall via e-mail edinamail@ci.edina.mn.us or U.S. Mail to me at Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424.
Either way, we want to hear what you think.
In addition to these comment opportunities, we will be holding an open house and public hearing on February 22 at 7:00 PM at City Hall. See the poster (PDF) for details.
Finally, I want to put the Development Framework in context. It is intended to provide broad direction rather than detailed requirements; to lay out a vision of the future rather than a blueprint. It will need to be refined over time to bring the right results. Accordingly, it calls for an implementation process that, like the work that has brought us to this point, will be community-led.
We hope you will join us in this process by sharing your thoughts about our work to date so that together we can make good things happen in the District.
I’ve again asked Griff Wigley, the project manager for Edina Citizen Engagement, to do what needs to be done in the way of moderating the discussion. I’ll be following along closely and will try to answer questions and respond to comments.
This should be fun and interesting. I’m looking forward to it.
Kevin Staunton
Member, Edina Planning Commission
Chair, GrandView District Steering Committee
See the comments here and add your own.
March 9 Update: The Grandview Steering Committee met last night and voted to extend the public comment period to March 28.
March 29 Update: Comments are now closed. Thanks everyone!
As I sit in Memphis on Historic Main Street and see what “activity” and a “sense of place” can bring to an area I think about all the possibilities for GrandView! 2 years of Community led work is available for comment. Let’s make GrandView a neighborhood center that will last generations. Any and all comments appreciated.
As a resident of Richmond Hills, I see no significant change to the access to our neighborhood by the proposed closing of Eden to Sherwood, and then new access provided by a new road cut at 53rd from Vernon to Sherwood. That intersection must have a left turn light, and be wide enough, and long enough for service vehicles to enter unimpeded. The “plan,” as I understand it, also calls for narrowing Vernon to 2 lanes, and reducing the speed limit to 30 MPH. The intention is to make it less attractive as a “shortcut” road, and more pedestrian friendly. The renderings of the proposed changes to Vernon I saw show this (see page 43 of the plan). New roads planned in the interior of the district would further dissipate traffic from Vernon.
I compared the current routes into Richmond Hills neighborhood with the proposed new routes and concluded this:
1) Current coming from 100 north – Right turn onto Vernon, left turn to Eden, right turn to Sherwood.
Proposed coming from 100 north – Right turn onto Vernon, left turn to new road, right turn to Sherwood. No change in number of turns.
2) Current coming from 100 north – Straight on frontage road, right turn to Arcadia, left turn onto Arcadia, right turn to Eden, left turn to Sherwood.
Proposed coming from 100 north – Straight on frontage road, right turn to Eden, left turn to Vernon, Left turn to new road, right turn to Sherwood. No change in number of turns.
3) Current coming from 100 south – Right turn to Grange, right turn to Eden, left turn to Sherwood.
Proposed coming from 100 south – Left turn to Eden, left turn to Vernon, left turn to new road, right turn to Sherwood. One less right turn, two more left turns.
4) Entering or existing our neighborhood from/to the south on Vernon – No change in the number of turns, but a shorter distance.
Thanks for contributing, Bruce. I’ve appreciated you and Marnee attending some of the meetings we’ve held over the past several months and sharing your perspective. You and others from your neighborhood bring indispensable experience with the District to the planning effort.
Chris,
Why don’t you park your car next to our reduced neighborhood park and watch all the cars and big vehicles near Edina Family Physicians and Grandview Square. Then, go up to the BP Station, and watch all the city buses, school buses, cars bringing and getting kids at Our Lady of Grace School, cars turning onto Sherwood, cars driving on Eden Ave between Vernon and Hwy 100 Frontage Road. I don’t think you would find it to be as “quaint” as downtown Memphis’ Historic Main Street.
Vernon Avenue was originally Highway 169: It has NEVER been a “cut through,” but it has ALWAYS been a main arterial road, as was 70th Street, 50th Street, Gleason Road, Tracy Avenue, Interlachen, France Avenue and Wooddale Avenues. Reducing speed and lane sizes on Vernon will only cause MORE congestion, not less of it. That happened when it was reduced to two lanes on each side to one lane. It is nearly impossible to turn left from Hansen Road onto Vernon Avenue.
It seems vital to do a traffic study of Eden Avenue, Sherwood and Grandview since the cars traveling on those roads would all have to travel on one shared road way. This would make the traffic and noise more dense. The traffic study must be done while School is in session for a fair assessment.
On a side note, when half of our neighborhood park was removed for the condominiums, we were promised an open green space in the middle of Grandview Square where our kids could play. Now, it has sculptures for which there is little interest, and minimal seating that no utilizes.
Cammie Dietrich
Edina Resident for 40+ years
Cammie — these are all great points. I think a study of the traffic in the area certainly should be part of a feasibility study. I am more optimistic than you about our ability to complete the transition of Vernon from Highway 169 to a city street but recognize it will be a challenge. Your observations on the park are the kind of important historical context we need to have as we plan the path forward.
Hello,
As does Patrick Olk, I too live in the neighborhood on Sherwood south of Grandview. Overall, I think the proposed plans are an exciting improvement to the neighborhood. However, I would like to echo a few points, as well as raising a few potential concerns.
- Although many of our residents think one access point from Grandview might be enough, I think that two entrances into our development (and the medical center) would be needed with the removal of Sherwood road for parking. Yes, parking is sorely needed by the library/senior center if the city is ever able to utilize that building further for community events. If Sherwood road is removed, two improvements would be sorely needed – a stoplight at a new ’53rd’and vernon entrance to allow for hundreds of people to enter the medical building daily, and to enter our neighborhood efficiently (and not back up traffic on vernon at rush hour, trying to turn left at a new spot); and, widening of the western side of the grandview square to allow for better traffic flow to our neighborhood. The square’s current one-way narrow traffic flow is cumbersome, and may be acceptable for library traffic, but not as a pass-through for an entire neighborhood and medical building.
- By cutting off Sherwood, you are limiting large access to our neighborhood by service vehicles (extended fire trucks, large semi’s or delivery cranes (drywall delivery, etc). The Grandview loop was not designed for high traffic or large traffic, and its higher utilization would likely be a source of bottlenecks and accidents if left as is with the proposed changes.
- I would also suggest the addition of increased parking spots throughout the outer perimeter of Grandview square by slightly reducing the green space, as well as reorienting all perimeter parking from parallel spots to side-by-side (drive-forward) spots.
- I would also like to suggest a redesign of the greenspace in Grandview square. It is large, bare, relatively unartistic and uninviting. People don’t sit in Grandview square on the benches because it has little aesthetic or natural appeal (i.e.fountain, prevalent flower gardens, large trees, etc).
- Our neighborhood is somewhat hidden. That is sometimes a good thing. At least it is easily accessible via Sherwood Road right now. If it were not, the service, delivery and visitors we have to our neighborhood will be even more confused about how to enter it than they are now, via Grandview square. It’s not a logical flow. – As your team goes forward, I would propose that you add our neighborhood to your land use plan diagrams so the project team can keep the traffic and access issues of our neighborhood in mind…they are not currently shown, and the plans look fine to those who do not know of our neighborhood’s access issues.
- Finally, if Sherwood Road were closed, I would miss the appealing view of the tree-lined road and street lamps, which enhance the entrance to our neighborhood.
Thank you.
Susan — thanks for the thoughtful (and thorough) post. While we have had some input from folks in your neighborhood throughout this process, the concerns you and Patrick (as well as John below) raise are a good reminder that additional thought and study needs to go into the details of any changes at the entrance to your neighborhood. As daily users of the access to the neighborhood, you all have critical experience that should be part of any discussion of potential changes. Any changes we all decide should be made have to retain viable access to the neighborhood for residents and various service vehicles.
One thought that comes to mind for me is the possibility that Edina Family Physicians might move from their current location. I know previous discussions of redevelopment of the public works site included a move by EFP from their current location (and their imaging center just north of Super America) to the public works site. I find myself wondering (and I’m only one voice) whether the EFP might also find a move to the school bus garage site attractive for many of the same reasons. And, if they did, what impact would that have on how we manage the library/senior center site and associated parking?
I hope you, John, Patrick, and others in the neighborhood will continue to engage as we move forward in trying to improve the GrandView District.
Kevin
Susan, just an FYI, I edited your blog post to make a link of your reference to Pat Olk’s Jan. 22 comment in a previous blog post.
I live in the Richmond hills sub-division, and feel we are being cut off from the rest of Edina by your plan to put a parking lot in the middle of our access. We lost access when the first phase went thru, now you propose to eliminate our main entry to our homes.
It is my fear that we will not have proper access for fire and rescue, and will cause additional traffic thru a residential green space.
We have to much going on in that quadrant, MTC busses, school busses, retail without any setbacks, then the city adds all the density of the Grandview development. Yes the congestion is bad, but closing our access is not the answer.
Your proposed plan only moves the problem from Sherwood to the Grandview corridor. In addition you raise the concern of access with fire and rescue, and change a quiet green space into a major entrance for +- 35 homes, by means of a convoluted route.
I am 100 % against this proposal for Sherwood Dr. I also feel the area is being over developed.
John Newell
5212 Richwood Dr.
Thanks for your comments, John. As I noted above in my response to Susan, I think it’s fair to say that we need more discussion (including the benefit of neighborhood experience with access) before we can settle on details of any changes around the library and senior center. As I mentioned in responding to Patrick’s post, the concepts we show around the library/senior center were designed to address concerns about parking in that area and to try to give the library more of a “presence” on Vernon. I think those are items that need to be addressed as we move forward with changes in the District. I hope you’ll continue to be part of that discussion.
Your comment on density hits on an issue that we identified in the Framework as a focus of discussions in the next phase regarding implementation. My own view is that we need to create enough density to make the changes we are envisioning financially feasible while maintaining the neighborhood character of the area. We had lots of spirited discussion on this topic over the last several months and I anticipate that discussion will continue. I hope you’ll be part of it and encourage neighbors from the area to join us as well.
I am very happy with the Grandview Redevelopment process and proposal. As someone who has lived in Edina for 26 years and has family who has lived in Edina since the 1950′s this process and product has been the most open, transparent and well communicated process and product I and my family have ever seen in regards to development in Edina. The remarkable number of volunteer hours put in by everyone and the leadership shown by Kevin, Mike, Mike and Chris as well as Edina City staff and many others has truly made this community a better place.
My sincerest Thank you!
Andy Brown
5512 Park Place
(Grandview Steering Committe Member)
Thanks for all your work throughout both this and the Guide Plan phase of the planning process, Andy. You and the literally dozens of other residents and property/business owners have made this effort possible.
Yep a huge team effort! The consistent attendance at our meetings is truly amazing!
Kevin,
If Edina Family Physicians did move, then what? Would that property be included in the redevelopment plan? Also what about BP and SA? Are those properties potentially in play? Would taking out the EFP imaging site open up more parking that could possibly be used for the library?
Like John, I also am concerned about the overall density in the area. I heard that one of the reasons that the EFP move to the public works site fell through was because of traffic issues related to that development. Is that true?
I still remain opposed to closing Sherwood Road. The residents of this neighborhood deserve a proper and safe access into our homes. The way the plan is drawn up, it feels like we are cutting through a bunch of parking lots to gain access to our neighborhood.
Pat Olk
5315 Pinewood Trail
You’re asking exactly the right questions, Pat. The short answer is — I don’t know what would happen if EFP moved. But I do know that their past expression of interest suggests they might be interested in moving. I also suspect that the immediate vicinity won’t host two gas stations across the street from one another forever. Before 50th and France evolved into what it is today there were — I think — 4 or 5 gas stations in that area (including one in what is now the Lund’s parking lot). Today, there are none. I’m not suggesting that all of the gas stations in the GrandView District will (or should) be gone in the future but I suspect that market forces will drive some change of use on those parcels. People in your neighborhood and mine (as well as other residents and property owners throughout the city) have an interest in shaping what kind of future uses might exist there. I’m really pleased that more people from your neighborhood are joining that conversation.
The density/traffic issue you and John have raised is an important one. I don’t think the previous EFP proposal got far enough to include any serious look at traffic. But, as we have developed the Framework, we have been looking hard at that issue. One of our Steering Committee members used the phrase “carrying capacity” to describe the relationship between density and infrastructure capacity. Capacity to carry traffic is clearly part of that. One of the big changes we are proposing to address that is a conversion of the ramps on the west side of Highway 100 to a frontage road that helps increase the “carrying capacity” for traffic (and improves safety).
These are good discussion items. I look forward to continuing the dialogue on them.
.
The National T grocery store was located where the current Lund’s surface parking lot is now. There was a gas station on the south west corner of 50th & Halifax. Now the SW corner is multi unit housing (built mid 1990′s), and the old National T location is the parking lot in front of Lund’s. Lund’s used to be on the other side of West 50th Street (1960′s era).
Personally I like getting my auto & lawnmower gas close to home at BP, I like their touchless car wash and their landscaping. Before the family owned gas station at 50th & France became what is now Anthropologie, I used to get my car wash & gas there. I value a convenient (and safe) gas station!
When I look through the plans I like what I see. Regarding access to our neighborhood there is one thing I would like to see. I would like pedestrian access to the east across the railroad. I am not keen on my kids traveling anywhere on Vernon. If they could cross the railroad they could go to school and to friends without having to access Vernon. Making Sherwood less accessible would benefit the neighborhood in my mind. It could potentially slow speed of traffic through the entire area.
I’m not sure exactly where you are located, Pontus. If you are in the Richmond Hills neighborhood, are you talking about crossing the tracks into the neighborhood south of OLG? It’s an interesting idea. With younger kids, I can certainly see the appeal. We haven’t looked at that specific idea but have, in general, been trying to emphasize enhanced pedestrian and bicycle access to GrandView. Creating a way for pedestrians and cyclists to get from your neighborhood to GrandView without having to walk out Sherwood might help achieve that without compromising the desire many in that neighborhood have expressed for limiting automotive access to the existing path.
Yes, I live on Richwood Drive. Pedestrian and bicycle access to the area south of OLG is what I am talking about. I am not worried about getting my truck out of the neighborhood. An additional 15 seconds to get out does not affect my commute. For pedestrians and bicyclists we are in a bad spot. Neither Eden nor Vernon are good roads for non motorized traffic and we are blocked by the railroad. Additionally, pedestrian traffic from our neighborhood to Jerry’s is both uninspiring and hazardous.
I picked up a map of bicycle routes in Hennepin county and it is a disgrace that Edina is such a bad example in this area.
As a secondary note, the traffic in the corner of Eden/Link road/Vernon by SA works really badly. It would be nice if it would be possible to limit motorized traffic in this area but I do realize that might be a challenge.
I also live in the neighborhood on Sherwood south of Grandview. While some of the plans are quite exciting, I’m 100% against the current plans for accessing our neighborhood for the reasons outlined by my neighbors:
1.) You are limiting access to our neighborhood by service vehicles (extended fire trucks, large semi’s or delivery trucks, garbage trucks, school buses), which to me is a huge safety hazard.
2.) This plan makes it very, very confusing to explain to guests/delivery drivers, etc. how to get our neighborhood as we’d basically be explaining how to manuver through Grandview Square parking spaces and library parking lots.
3.) For property value sake in our neighborhood, I believe it would be a negative that to enter our quaint little neighborhood of single family homes, you have to go through either a public parking lot or a bunch of apartments/condos and government buildings.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Niki. I just want to be sure we’re all seeing the current proposal the same way. It would replace the entrance at the corner of Sherwood and Eden (actually the corner of Eden and Link) with an entrance at 53rd and Vernon. Bruce Kieffer describes it well in his post (comment 1.1 above). Of course, any change like that would have to be investigated to ensure that it would facilitate adequate emergency vehicle access as well as permit larger delivery vehicles to access the neighborhood. We would also have to think through how it would work for residents especially at rush hours).
I wasn’t able to attend the neighborhood meeting on Feb. 19 but listened to it online. I share thoughts expressed by my neighbors that a link to Vernon from this newly created 53th would be a disaster. It would only be one car-length long between Shurwood and Vernon, which I don’t believe would be adequate to handle large emergancy vehicles (i.e., a firetruck) and would cause serious congestion trying to get in and out of the neighborhood, especially without a light at the new intersection of 53rd and Vernon. I suspect it would be virtually impossible to take a left from 53rd onto Vernon during rush hour without a light there. As well trying to take a left from Vernon onto 53rd. If there is a light put in at this intersection, are you going to have 2 stop lights within about 200 feet of each other (with there also being the light at Vernon and Eden)? Very weird. I just don’t see how this new entrance at 53rd could possible work and truly hope that the next version of these plans includes our neighborhood on them and comes forth with a more suitable/viable solution.
This is an exciting, ambitious and progressive development that will convert underutilized real estate into something very meaningful for this area of Edina. However, I find it quite ironic that the plans to create a future ‘Neighborhood Center’ have such an absence of vision for the impact those plans will have on a current neighborhood of 47 houses. Access to the Richmond Hills Neighborhood shouldn’t have been a convenient afterthought. Our neighborhood can’t stand in the way of progress, but we can and will organize to assist the GrandView Heights Steering Committee and Consultants to create a thoughtfully planned solution that will minimize any negative impact to our quality of life and property value.
Rusty Golfis
5264 Richwood Drive
I think your last sentence says it well, Rusty. I’d like to find an opportunity in the near future to organize a meeting to talk further about how to incorporate the experience and perspective from the neighborhood into the planning process. There have been a number of very thoughtful posts from your neighborhood this week. We should leverage that into ongoing participation. I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on how to best do that.
I am currently President of the Edina Historical Society. I want to congratulate the steering committee members and consultants for their excellent work on the draft plan. I especially appreciate the history of the area appearing on page 8 of the January 31, 2012 draft.
From a historical perspective, the plan’s strengths include (1) a focus on bicycle and pedestrian access, which were common modes of transportation in the area until WWII (2) a focus on increased residential use in the area, which is consistent with the residential uses in the area prior to WWII and (3) improved access to the historic Tupa Park site with the Grange Hall and Cahill School and expansion of the park grounds.
Tupa Park is of particular interest to the Edina Historical Society. It is sited on the last piece of the large wooded hilltop that separated the historic farms of Andrew Craik and B.C. Yancey. The rest of the hilltop was removed during the construction on the highway 100 interchange that started in the late 1960′s. The park is also within walking distance of many historic sites along 50th street. Cahill School and the Grange Hall are also the site of a living history program interpreting pioneer life for the children of Edina that has now been in operation for more than 35 years. In the 1970′s, when the Grange and school were newly restored, there was great interest in showing off the buildings and many events were held in the park. However, the small size of the park and the lack of convenient parking and safe pedestrian crossings have limited such uses. The plan addresses these problems well.
I have culled information about the area from a variety of sources and have uploaded a file with some additional notes about the history of the area for those who are interested.
Dan Latham
File: TheGrandviewDistrict-HistoricalNotes.pdf
Thanks for the great context, Dan.
I’ve been a resident of Richmonds Hills since 1984, and was surprised to see that we weren’t on any of the drawings or maps for the GrandView District Redevelopment Plan. The original entrance to our neighborhood had a stately tree lined park, which included a hockey rink, and brick planters for flowers and signage that stated Richmond Hills. When the GrandView Condos were built, the park and trees were reduced by one third for a row of condos. Once the development was completed, the brick planters and signage were replaced with a wooden sign that states Sherwood Park. Imagine if the stone signage into the Rolling Green neighborhoods was removed …those residents wouldn’t be happy with that final outcome either.
Now our neighborhood is now informed that we will enter and exit around the “Square”, that was a part of our former park, through the condo project. The re-routing of our exit and entrance from our homes that are located on Sherwood, Edenwood, Pinewood and Richwood Drive, will have a negative financial impact on our neighborhood. We’ve seen area businesses come and go from our Sherwood Road, and those changes will continue. But our need for a primary road since the early 1950′s hasn’t diminished.
The stated objective of the Plan is to increase the public presence of the city. It’s stated that the library needs more parking, while at 7:00 am weekdays, Sherwood Road is already filled with cars of commuters. They’re not library patrons. There’s no time limit or parking restrictions, unlike the GrandView ramps or lots that forbid that. Why not? They park and catch a bus into Minneapolis. Why are homeowners in Richmond Hills now dealing with a Plan that has our access blocked, restricted or re-routed for more commuter parking? Many don’t even live or pay taxes in Edina.
As other neighbors have posted, we’re concerned about how your Plan will negatively impact our homes and our primary road entrance. Our neighborhood has already been diminished, so that city could increase the density of housing and services in our area. We’re not opposed to change or progress, but when it impacts our neighborhood and our primary access road into Richmond Hills, we’re ready to challenge that.
As to the overall Plan, I’d like to suggest that the former city garage site be considered for an enclosed public pool that’s for the use of all Edina residents. With southern exposure, there’s plenty of room for parking and events, while being central for city-wide use. Edina has always been ahead of the curve when compared to other municipalities, but not with this type of facility. The overall Plan, with proper consideration, can be a positive force everyone.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Steve Loehr
5216 Richwood Drive
Great history, Steve. I really like the historical picture you paint of the entrance to the neighborhood. Recreating (or maybe creating the next generation of it) should be part of our focus for the relationship between the District an the neighborhood.
Steve- I wanted to let you know I also received these comments via the City Planning Department which I think you sent this past week on 2/23. We have them logged and are apart of the public record. Hopefully you had a chance to see the Planning Comission meeting, I think we are in a much better place with your neighborhood since the last 2 meetings (Sunday 2/19 and Wed 2/22)
Kevin,
Yesterday, some people from the Richmond Hills neighborhood went to the Grandview Heights presentation put on by the League of Women Voters. Mike Fischer mentioned that the two of you discussed getting the neighborhood together to have a constructive discussion on the proposal. I think that is a great idea. How can we make that happen? I think we would want to meet before the Planning Commission meeting on February 22 if at all possible. I would be happy to get the word out to the neighborhood.
Pat
It’s a great idea, Pat. As I look at my calendar (which does not need to be the determining factor), this Thursday, the 15th, and next Monday (the 20th) look good. Sunday the 19th is also a possibility but I don’t know how people feel about meeting on a Sunday. I’m thinking the Senior Center might be a good venue. What do you think? If it helps move things along a little faster, feel free to give me a call at 612.743.7571.
Kevin
After being promised during past development meetings that Sherwood road would “never” be closed, looks like the Richmonds Hills neighborhood assoc has been hood-winked?
After living here for soon 25 years and attending many of the past development meetings I didn’t think that could happen. Seems to me that a residential development dating back to the early 50′s would deserve a better result than closing our road.
Maybe the two gas stations and two doctor clinic should close with eminent domain as was used to remove all the busnesses for the condo’s. That would leave lots of parking spaces with vast green space.
A new 53rd st. would be a disaster as would driving thru the condo access.
Thanks for the chance to be heard.
Jack abrahamson, resident
I’ve blogged the audio and photos of yesterday afternoon’s Richmond Hills neighborhood meeting at the Edina Senior Center.
Sherwood Road
I live in the Richmond Hills neighborhood. And although I’m in agreement with many of my neighbors, I won’t repeat what’s already been stated. Instead, I propose an interim step. If the true concern is library presence on Vernon, then start with that. You could put a frontage sign on Vernon, add a shrub or tree lined “green” entryway, remove the fence and add stairs into the library parking lot while still leaving Sherwood Road intact. You could then put a crosswalk across Sherwood, and even add some of those flashing crossing lights like they have on 70th St. for safety if warranted. This would provide the frontage view, a pedestrian friendlier access, yet leave the road intact.
Arcadia/Gus Young Lane
While I appreciate many of the plans regarding the street and connector to MN-100 redesign, I feel compelled to echo the comments of Mr. McReavy regarding existing businesses. It’s important that you consider what street redesigns can be implemented without bulldozing existing businesses. Eden Avenue Grill, for example, is a neighborhood small business that we visit with embarrassing frequency. It is an appalling thought to me that a business would be considered expendable for the redesign. I know that the philosophy stated in the meeting is that if you redesign the public spaces, the private spaces will change as a byproduct. However, that is never explicitly stated anywhere in the plan.
General Comment/Overview
Verbally, I’ve heard the committee state that this is a “framework” not a “plan”. I’ve also heard, as I stated above, that the plan is redesign the public spaces and let the private spaces/businesses follow without invoking eminent domain. In the most recent version of the plan, the framework concept is more evident. But, I think it’s important to make sure that each of those points is very clear. While I am in agreement that having a framework/plan for the community is important, I also believe it’s important to be respectful of the existing families and businesses lest this become “change for the sake of change.”
Thank you,
Sarah Hoegger
5257 Richwood Dr
Good suggestions, Sarah. On March 8, the Steering Committee is meeting to talk about what modifications we might make to the Framework to respond to the thoughtful comments we’ve received. The meeting will be held at the Senior Center from 7-9 pm.
Thanks again for taking the time to share your thoughts.
Kevin
Thanks so much for providing an audio of the February 19th meeting. Being new to the Richmond Hills neighborhood, it was very interesting to hear the history of past development. We live on Edenmoor in a house with the railroad tracks in our back yard. I was wondering if the steering committee has discussed the future of the tracks in relation to the redevelopment plans. There are two rumors, the first that the tracks may be switched to light rail (insert LOUD BOO here) or possibly as a trail for bikers and walkers. I would expect that the future of the tracks would play some role in the plans to redevelop the GrandView area. Can you provide any thoughts on this topic?
Danette,
From what I understand, the steering committee has proposed nothing that would impede the rail line, and that’s as far as they have taken the issue. We are your neighbors up the street, and we are very concerned about some of the possible rail line changes we hear. There’s a lot of disinformation out there. It’s a subject I plan to bring up at the next City Council Open House.
Bruce and Danette – a couple of comments on this issue. First, In the guiding principles we made reference by stating “preserve the rail for future transit options”. One of the reasons I got involved was to stay on top of the rail issue. I live on the other side of the tracks from you so I share your concerns. We need to seriously consider the ramifications of the neighborhoods when talking about LRT. That said I have also been educated about new ways to do transit that is not as obtrusive as standard LRT. All this to say there is a lot of good information on this topic and staying engaged is a good way to try to calm the rumors. As a member of the Exec Committee I just want to be clear these are my personal opinions on the LRT issue. Thanks
Bruce & Danette,
Transportation has been a major issue for the steering & executive committees and no major recomendations were made accept like Chris R said above “to preserve the rail for future transit options”.
Personally, I have had to commute up down Hwy 100 for work for the last 14 years. Traffic congestion on the highway is a nightmare and now with the new Twins stadium on the western side of downtown its become even worse.
MNDOT is planning to remove and rebuild the old bridges between excelsior blvd and 394 but there will still only be one lane to get from 100 to 394.
I also appreciate and would not want high frequency LRT running through people’s backyards. Chris has been an excellent advocate for your neighborhood.
I however, am very concerned and fear the unintended consequences of the GAG strategy now in place regarding the study of the Dan Patch corridor.
A MN Legislative Auditor’s report issued in Jan 2011 calls for the repeal of the GAG rule. State Rep Mike Beard, Chair of the House Transportation Committee has also called for the repeal of the GAG rule and has received calls of inquiry regarding privately funded rail transportation along the line.
This is also becoming a huge issue of access to the metro for cities like Northfield, Shakopee, Savage, Burnsville, Lakeville, Mankato(A link to the latest articles will be at the bottom).
Strategically, I hope Edina can have a conversation regarding the reasonability of having a slow, low frequency commuter train, with neighborhood input on safety, noise/sound mitigation and beautification.
This rail line would then connect with Southwest Rail in St.Louis Park allowing people in Edina to then connect to trains in Minneapolis that then go on to St.Paul, Duluth, Rochester or Chicago.
I would rather be proactive and have the neighborhood & the City of Edina involved in that system, then having other agencies & levels of government dictate changes to our neighborhoods because the GAG rule was unsuccessfully defended.
A lot of this is many, many year’s off however, open discussion, feedback and what Edina should ask for if anything happened I think would be beneficial to the community and the city. Would rather be prepared than not.
Here is the latest MPR & Northfield News online articles.
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2011/01/26/dan-patch-commuter-rail-study-ban/
http://northfieldnews.com/content/potential-commuter-rail-northfield-sees-new-life
Please also note that the above note is my personal opinion and not that of steering or executive committees and their recomendations.
Thank you again for your input in the process, I personally know that many of the leaders of this process are taking your recomendations to heart and are listening.
Kevin’s latest link shows some of these options that are being discussed.
Andy Brown
Steering Committee Member
2010-2012
Folks who have been following this process have heard concerns expressed by residents of the Richmond Hills neighborhood and the owners of the Washburn-McReavey Funeral Home about the ways the Framework affects them. As we move forward with the process, we want to be responsive to those concerns To that end, I’m attaching a couple of pages of ideas for ways those concerns can be addressed. The Steering Committee will be considering these ideas when it meets on March 8. I encourage anyone interested in these issues to join us and share their thoughts.
One note of clarification on the next two Steering Committee meetings. Contrary to what was stated at the Planning Commission meeting, the March 8 meeting will be held at the Grange hall from 7-9 pm on March 8. The April 12 Steering Committee meeting will be held at the Senior Center. Sorry for any confusion on this issue.
File: 111113BrdLibraryFuneralAlts022812.pdf
I have heard that Perkins will be forced to close in ten years. If what I heard is correct, I think that is a mistake for such a thriving business–and one of the few chain restaurants in that area.
Hello—
Thanks to Josh Sprague for always keeping residents informed, and thanks to all the hard-working steering committee members.
Favorite feature of the draft Grandview plan:
The plan’s extensive use of boulevard trees! Boulevard trees, especially those that create a canopy over roads or paths, create an unmatched sense of serenity and charm. They are romantic magnets for people. They create a slower-paced, Old World feeling. We could gain a “destination” reputation just for our artistic use of boulevard trees!
Question:
Is there any place where we could put a water feature? Water attracts everyone and is also calming and romantic. A “natural” small pond surrounded by white paper birches and masses of water-loving purple iris? A pond of water lilies? A shaded place to sit around a fountain and play checkers?
We Edinans love red brick!
Thanks again for all the effort to make Edina more green and WALKABLE!! It’s a beautiful place to live.
Sincerely,
Sparky Eisenstadt
5101 Mirror Lakes Drive
Edina, MN 55436
I think people would really appreciate some small, locally-owned shops, and a nice restaurant. (By “nice restaurant,” I mean the sort of place that has a relaxing ambience and serves wine. I don’t mean Burger King, Culvers, etc.)
I agree with Amy Johnson’s comments.
Hi…the first thing I would like to mention is that it’s been very difficult for me to find out information about what the city is planning on building in this area. Even the drawings at the library were so incredibly vague that I couldn’t tell what exactly was going to be built in this area. I have heard people talking aobut a green space or biking or walking areas—-this is a very busy area of Edina where that might sound good in theory, but I really doubt that it would really be used that way. How many people walk to Jerry’s? Also, has anyone noticed how many cars park at the library and the street in front of the library every day? It’s almost impossible to find a parking space no matter what time I go to the library. Obviously, many people are parking their cars and taking the express bus downtown. Has anyone considered and planned for that?
Also as anyone who has ever had kids in sports in Edina knows–there is a great need for a community center with a nice workout facility and gyms. All of the major cities around us have wonderful gym and workout facilities—we should also!! This area presents an incredible opportunity to create something for all the people of Edina. A community center with gyms and workout equipment would be for the benefit of all the people of Edina.
Thanks for letting me express my opinion!
Laura
I would like to add that as I scroll through the comments here it seems that only the people who live in the adjacent neighborhood have commented about their concerns. Obviously, there isn’t enough information getting out to the rest of the people of Edina. I think the communication needs to improve immediately.
Also, there are many people in Edina who have supported a community center with many gyms etc. for years.I think we have to acknowledge that Edina is not lacking cute shops or nice restuarants, but we are lacking in the number of gyms our kids have access to. (How many shops at Jerry’s complex were successful?) I wonder why none of the sports people have commented here? The lack of comments by more citizens of Edina who are not immediate neighbors concerns me very much.
Thanks again,
Laura
Let’s keep in mind that this is a very large space we’re talking about, so it doesn’t have to be “either-or” on what develops there. All of the proposed ideas could be implemented, with the costs more-than-covered by tax-revenue from the additional shops and restaurants. (Currently, municipal garages, storage, and inefficient parking lots are generating no tax revenue at all.)
To add to what I posted earlier: I’m imagining a boulevard with cobblestone sidewalks. Businesses could include boutiques, contemporary restaurants, and maybe a wine bar. I also love the ideas of trees, a water feature, and benches.
I also really like the activity-based community center idea, built to blend in with the surroundings. It could possibly have exercise equipment and a space for kids to run-around. That would be huge relief in winter. (Edinborough Park already exists, but it is a relatively long commute in highway traffic from this part of Edina.) Families up here would love a closer facility. Furthermore, people who use a community center would then shop in nearby stores, before going home again.
The points about street flow and parking were also well-said. Is it possible to have a small, municiple parking ramp in the center of all of this, but built into the hill-side (w/ green space on top), and hidden by store fronts? This would mitigate street congestion & parking, while helping commuters, shoppers, families, etc. At the same time, it would not dominate the view, by being built into the hillside, and partially sub-terranean.
As to the lack of comments on this blog, there were some posters put up at coffee shops regarding the blog, but the wrong URL was given. (When I went there I got a “page not found” message.) Maybe that is why there aren’t more comments here. I completely understand how things change between planning and implementation, but I wonder if it’s possible to put a link from that web page to this web page.
Thanks!
Thanks for your comments, Amy. My apologies for confusion on the url. Your comments on the opportunity to leverage property that currently generates no tax revenue to help finance public realm and community center improvements are right on target and something that the Steering Committee was definitely thinking about and discussing as we created this Framework. As we move forward with this project, we will have to investigate that issue in greater detail.
The other point I want to react to is your question about the possibility of a parking ramp. In fact, the Framework contemplates (I’m sorry it is not clearer — take a look at the sections on page 21) a ramp under a community facility and plaza that takes advantage of the drop in elevation from the south side of the Blockbuster/Starbucks building to Eden Avenue. We envision this area (between the railroad tracks and Highway 100) as a pedestrian-oriented counterpart to the automobile-oriented convenience retail west of the tracks. The hope is that the presence of restaurants, the plaza, and a community center would encourage people to stay a bit longer than they might on the convenience retail side of the District.
Kevin, Thanks for your reply! I hadn’t realized that some of the ideas I mentioned were already being contemplated in the framework. In any case, that’s wonderful!
Also, thank-you for the endless hours you have clearly devoted to this project, in addition to your constant patience as people work to become informed. You are one of the most accessible and responsive public servants I have encountered.
Your unending efforts and meticulous attention to detail are definitely noticed and appreciated by your constients!
I know that there are a large number of people working on the ideas for this site and I realize how much time you all have spent, but when I read some of the comments here it seems like this area is slated to be Edina Fantasy Land…everything anybody’s ever wanted in one area. Why not buy a carousel too?
I’m even more unsure about this process now than I was before I commented. Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t understand what is going on with this area.
And, Hope for Change–really? What does that even mean?
Thanks,
Laura
I know we can’t have everything, but let’s keep in mind that this is just the proposal and ideas phase.
Also, the City Council has supported many of these amenities in other parts of Edina, so why not any in this part? Taxes from new businesses will also help pay for any beautification efforts. Currently, we have no new taxes coming in from the parking lots and municipal storage areas in the area.
One last note… I have spoken with many, many Edina residents who have expressed the need for some nice shops where you can buy a birthday present, and a contemporary restaurant that’s open after 9:00. Yet not everyone participates in blogs. We need to keep that in mind as well.
Thanks for everyone’s efforts to do what’s best for our city, and get involved!
I just want to say that has a library employee, we really do need more parking for the library/senior center. Please include this in any plan. We have lots of rich programming in both venues, and there is often not enough parking to accommodate everyone.
Thanks!
Amy I just wanted to pass on that Salut, Pittsburg Blue and Crave are all open unitl 11 on weekends and 10 on weekdays. Good Earth is open until 10 m-sat. And, that is just a few of the choices we already have in Edina within easy reach of everyone.
I still am not sure what the deal is with this land and what the agenda is….why is it so difficult to find clear answers? Can someone answer that please?
And, if we are spending 30-40 million to build this then I hope there is much more information available.
Thanks,
Laura
Hi Laura, Thanks for the information on closing times at Edina restaurants. I think your point is that, since these businesses exist in other parts of Edina, it would be a bad idea to encourage them in the Grandview District–and we should instead encourage the types of businesses that don’t already exist elsewhere in Edina.
I can definitely see where you’re coming from.
I do want to re-iterate though, that I love your idea of having a community center w/a work-out area and gym in the Grandview District. That really would be useful for kids and families.
Thanks for keeping the dialogue moving!
(I’m going to step back from the dialogue now though, so I don’t “drown out” others, but it’s been great to have the chance to contribute my ideas.)
I have absolutely no idea what you are insinuating.
I just want to know what the plan is for this area. I expected Kevin to answer my questions like he has yours, but that hasn’t happened yet. I have no idea why he hasn’t answered.
Where I am coming from is that I want clear answers to what is planned for this area. It really is that simple.
Laura
Laura — sorry to have not responded earlier. Frankly, your broad question is pretty difficult to answer in a blog post. The Framework posted here includes over 60 pages of material covering the ideas for future redevelopment of this area. As individuals have asked questions that focus on particular items, I have done my best to respond. The power point presentation from the February 22 public hearing before the planning commission is also posted here and provides some additional background on the process that we have followed. If you would like to talk further about the background, I’m happy to chat. You can reach me at 952.836.1020.
Kevin
Hi Kevin,
I want to thank you for taking the time to explain to me what the plans are for this area.
Thanks again,
Laura
You are welcome. Thanks for taking the time to explore our efforts.
K
I support the development of a community center in the Grandview Area. For some time now, the City of Bloomington and the City of St. Louis Park have outclassed Edina with their arts and cultural center (Bloomington) and recreation facility (St. Louis Park). We have the opportunity to create a center that welcomes people of all ages for recreation, cultural education, and socialization. I would love to see a walking track, a weight training room, art facilities, and airy spaces with conversational seating.
I wanted to react to some of the comments regarding the communication comments that have appeared on the blog.
First, the URL on the poster http://bit.ly/grandviewcomment, when tested today worked fine for me, so not sure what the issue was from the poster. Was it the QR code you had challenges with?
Second, I realize that no communication plan is perfect however here is a list of ideas we executed from our committee level:
• Numerous press releases–Targeted towards Workshops & Focus Groups & the General Public
• Articles appeared in Edina Sun & PATCH & STRIB
• City of Edina website–every document loaded– fully transparent–Central depository for all information
• Edina Citizen Engagement website
• City Extra, Email chains, Facebook, Twitter
• Board & Commission interaction (Members of Steering Committee (HPB, School, Park, Transportation, Planning, Energy)
• Summer Intern “Walkabout” to ALL area business’s
• Posters at 85 locations & QR Code (2x’s)
• Jerry’s Food displays (2x’s)
• About Town Articles
• Utility Bill & Liquor Store stuffers
• Edina Night to Unite
• Stump Speeches (Chamber, Associations, League of Women’s Voters)
• Neighborhood door drops
• Library & City Hall easel displays
• Channel 16 “In Edina” episodes
• GrandView webinar event
• Coordination with BCBS of MN “Do Town” campaign
What you don’t see from these efforts is who showed up? The attendance records will attest to the fact that people came from all over Edina with different backgrounds, interests and various business’s etc. Did we get everyone, nope!
I think the Mayor once put it best when he said “If you want to get people’s attention you need to park a bulldozer in the neighborhood with a BIG sign that says REDEVELOPMENT” (I am paraphrasing a bit and smiling at the same time)
Bottom line is that what I have learned is that people show up when they are impacted directly and it is not easy to get other people to engage. The committee decided early on to devote 100% of the Grant to our consultants, which was the right decision. We did what I mentioned above with a lot of hard work from the City & our Committee and it was essentially free. We also took ideas along the way, so if you have some suggestions please let us know so we can continue the effort. I have attached our Communications plan. Thanks for the feedback and thanks for your engagement.
File: CommSlidesOnly.pdf
I feel that the plan for the Public Works site which makes way for a small civic building amongst apartments, townhomes and condominiums is missing the mark. I feel that what should be there is an expansive and inclusive TRUE Community Center for this city. One which is both inter- AND multi- generational. Which would provide for recreation, communication and connections among our community. With meeting and programming spaces, as well as fitness and creative spaces. In short, we have the opportunity to create a crown jewel for our city on our own publicly-owned land.
As a great suburb in a great metropolitan area, that is something we are sorely lacking. With vision and commitment we could fill that void. I have written a longer piece on this which I will try to upload. It was also uploaded to this blog Jan. 4.
File: CaseForCommunityCenter.pdf
I like how this plan seems to pull together several awkward areas and buildings into a community hub that is both visually appealing and an area that our growing senior population can easily enjoy and maneuver.
My hopes is that it would include:
- a pond or body of water that may/may not be stocked with fish
- eateries that are truly locally owned and are a healthy eating option
- a space that may host a farmer’s market
- spaces in the community center area that are built for exercise and art (the current community center is short on these offerings – I know as I have taken a kettlebell class that was hosted in the current cafeteria for Normandale school)
- safe walkways, paths, etc. so that the aging population can enjoy and access all that area will offer at anytime of the year
- sidewalks connecting this area to adjacent neighborhoods (neighborhoods along Interlachen etc.) so families can walk to go out to dinner etc.
I love Laura Nisi’s idea! Having a community center like they do in the southern suburbs (Chaska or Chanhassen) would be a great addition to our city. It would be wonderful to have a spot that families and kids could gather that would be safe and healthy. While we have a community center is not really center that draws the community together at all times to hang out. Thanks for considering this!
I have a question and a concern regarding the Grange Building in Tupa Park.
The very last page of the GrandView District Development Framework is part of the Appendix and is labeled, Transportation, split diamond. The picture has orange stars over the old Public Works building, the Werness funeral home and the Grange building. During the public response at the Planning Commission hearing on Feb 22, the Werness business owner objected graciously to the proposed extension of Gus Young Road which would go through their chapel. So, from this information, I guessed that maybe the orange stars are sites which are greatly affected by proposed changes to the roads.
The new split diamond formation to replace the clover leaf formation for Hwy 100 would be very close to the Grange Building. Question: Will the Grange building be allowed to remain in place, or will it have to be moved for some requirement of minimum distance from the split diamond road?
I would prefer that the split diamond road be positioned to avoid disturbance of the Grange Building in Tupa Park. If the building has to be moved, then I would like it to remain in Tupa Park. Land freed up by the removal of the enclosing clover loop could be used. The Edina Historical Society depends on the placement of the Grange Building next to the Cahill School for its tours which are a major fund-raising event. The Tupa Park location offers security and emergency response levels not found in other park locations.
Thank you, Karen Platt
Karen — the proposal on the east side of 100 is intended to leave the Grange Hall and School in their current locations. It would remove the ramp that circles the buildings and replace it with an intersection/frontage road between 100 and Tupa Park. This, combined with elimination of the cloverleaf-style ramp to northbound Highway 100, would create additional green space to the north of Tupa Park that we think would enhance the Park.
Kevin
The Grandview Steering Committee met last night and voted to extend the public comment period to March 28.
Great news! Please send more feedback. The comments have been great and we have already implemented comments & feedback directly into the Devoplemnt Framework. Thanks everyone!
I will table the issue of traffic congestion and problems, because it doesn’t appear these were addressed. They were briefly mentioned, but not fully vetted.
If this is pedestrian friendly, why the need for 400 parking spots? I would like to see each of the area neighborhoods have a dedicated bike/pedestrian path safely connecting them to the area.
There are condos/apartments, parking spots and open space. Why would we go there? It just seems like another retirement community to me.
As a family, is there a place to take our kids? A park, community center, playground…. Green space is great, but what about the other 8 months a year. Will there be a skating/hockey rink for the cold months?
I would love to walk over to a nice little restaurant and have dinner with my wife one night, and have the ability to take my kids with us to a family type another night. This way we can get out more during the week and get to meet more of our neighbors and really build a community.
Comments are now closed. Thanks everyone!