Density: Difficulties Delivering on Campaign Promises in Minneapolis

The Minneapolis City Council recently blocked a development proposal for a six-story hotel in Dinkytown, a popular neighborhood near the University of Minnesota.

The editorial board of the Star Tribune takes umbrage with the vote—calling into question the council’s stated intentions of growing the city’s population and tax base.

“Especially troubling was the tactic that the council used. Apparently with straight faces, its members voted to explore the historic significance of a less-than-ordinary one-story building along 4th Street SE., where a six-story hotel would have been built. If a four-month study finds it worthy, the building will be protected from demolition,” write the editors.

The article goes on to explain the benefits of transit oriented development (because clearly the City Council needs a lesson).