Laserfiche WebLink
i <br /> r , Research Inc <br /> t <br /> August 31, 2004 <br /> Ms. Heidi Steinmetz <br /> City of Elk River <br /> 13065 Orono Parkway <br /> Elk River, MN 55330 <br /> RE: Proposed Reduction of Downtown Parking Stalls to Accommodate Turn Lanes <br /> I have reviewed the proposed elimination of parking stalls from the first phase redevelopment in <br /> Downtown Elk River to make way for dedicated right-hand turn lanes on Highway 10 and on <br /> Main Street. I understand that the turn lanes are being contemplated to reduce traffic congestion <br /> in the area at peak periods, enhance traffic safety and traffic flow through the area. <br /> The following are my comments regarding the potential impact of this change and the <br /> elimination of parking stalls near to the first phase project. <br /> This is the City's first significant project in the Downtown, intended to serve as a catalyst for <br /> further redevelopment. While housing will be an additional component to this development, the <br /> first floor retail space and its success are critical to this project and to the establishment of strong <br /> retail presence in this area. <br /> This project is intended to draw- customers to the Downtown, many who do not already come <br /> Downtown. Their traditional shopping patterns typically take them to strip shopping centers <br /> where parking is in a large lot directly in front of the store. Customers' perceptions of parking <br /> and its proximity are not always reality, but in their minds, the parking is close. National studies <br /> have proven that these perceptions exist. Customers want to park so as to be able to see the store <br /> or venue where they are going. <br /> While the Downtown environment is not intended to copy that of the strip shopping center, and <br /> would not want to, features such as extended shopping hours, sufficient and proximate parking, <br /> are characteristics that would be beneficial to emulate. This does not mean that Downtown <br /> should be a strip shopping center. Nevertheless, this format has been successful for several <br /> reasons, some of which are general retail precepts (i.e. customer service, convenient access, and <br /> high visibility). <br /> In its initial stages, the availability of parking in close proximity to the various stores/restaurants <br /> will be critical. Depending on the type of tenants planned for the spaces, sufficient parking in <br /> close proximity will affect their sales and their ability to be successful in this space, at the onset. <br /> 615 1s'Avenue NE #400,Minneapolis,MN 55413 <br /> (612)338-0012 fax(612) 904-7979 <br /> www.maxfieldresearch.com <br />