Minneapolis Draft Comprehensive Plan Would Allow Fourplexes in Single-Family Neighborhoods

If the rezoning of single-family neighborhoods succeeds in Minneapolis as part of its ongoing Comprehensive Plan process, we could be looking at one of the most ambitious pro-development zoning schemes in the country.

1 minute read

March 12, 2018, 5:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


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photo.ua / Shutterstock

"To relieve a worsening shortage of housing, Minneapolis planners have suggested allowing the construction of four-unit apartment buildings in virtually any neighborhood," reports Adam Belz.

The plan "could transform vast swaths of the city now limited to single-family homes," adds Belz.

The proposed allowances for "fourplexes" is included in the city's draft Comprehensive Plan, expected for release later this month. So far, members of the Minneapolis City Council have only been briefed on the plan, but Mayor Jacob Frey and Council President Lisa Bender campaigned on a platform that included increased residential density. Despite that political support from the city's leadership, new apartments aren’t always an easy development proposition in the Twin Cities. Belz shares a survey of recent development controversies in the article. Belz also finds other City Council members who express skepticism that the idea will find popular support in Minneapolis.

Wednesday, March 7, 2018 in Minneapolis Star Tribune

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