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Memo to EDA/LU 01-02 and ZC 01-03 <br /> July 9,2001 <br /> Page 2 <br /> When analyzing the request for rezoning,the City will need to ask itself what is the highest and <br /> best use of this property? The City has invested millions of dollars in the Twin Lakes Road <br /> corridor,and with the projected number of vehicles estimated to use this road,is Light Industrial <br /> the best zoning for this area? Perhaps a focus toward commercial and office would be better. <br /> Also,the 50+ acres to the east may be better suited for inclusion in the Urban Service District to <br /> generate higher density development, be it residential or Business Park. <br /> There has been discussion that residential will not work in this location because no one wants to <br /> live next to the railroad tracks. As with all things in life,people make choice about where they <br /> live. Some people do not want to live on large lots;others do not want to live in high-density <br /> neighborhoods. The developer has designed the site with the proximity to the railroad in mind. <br /> Twin Lakes Road/171St Avenue will be yet another gateway into the City of Elk River. This <br /> road will provide transportation alternatives to residents living on the east side of the city and <br /> the west side of Anoka County. Redevelopment will occur at the intersection of 17150 Avenue <br /> and Highway 10. At a minimum,if the EDA does not agree with the proposed development,it <br /> may agree that a rezoning to Business Park would be appropriate for the subject parcel. <br /> Summary <br /> Staff agrees that industrial property and the creation of jobs is important in the overall balance <br /> of the city's development. Elk River Station has the opportunity to provide jobs,although in <br /> another area than industrial. It also provides an opportunity to"put Elk River on the map"in <br /> another way,by providing a neighborhood that takes advantage of transit and other modes of <br /> transportation for the residents that live there. It can be said that the catalyst for Elk River <br /> Station is the presence of the Northstar Corridor Depot. <br /> The EDA is asked to make a motion either supporting or opposing the proposed Elk River <br /> Station. <br /> • <br /> S:\PLANNING\MICHMC\MEMOS\7 6 01 EDA ER Station.doc <br />