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Project Understanding <br />Located 34 miles northwest of Minneapolis -St. Paul situated along the Mississippi River, the City <br />is home to approximately 24,000 residents and growing. Elk River is well -positioned in the region <br />with convenient access to the greater metropolitan area via the NorthStar commuter rail and <br />Highways to,169, tot and nearby Interstate 94. The City offers a full spectrum of high -quality <br />housing and public and private school options. Elk River is truly "Powered by Nature" with an <br />extensive network of 44 parks and over 1,000 acres of parkland. The community strives to create <br />a balance between the environment and development to ensure future generations will have wild <br />and scenic areas to enjoy. <br />Elk River follows a forward thinking, innovative, and progressive approach to planning supported <br />by strong leadership. This leadership dates back to the 1980's when the City was designated <br />a Minnesota Energy City leading the State in energy conservation, public education and <br />environmental stewardship. A new Comprehensive Plan for the City is needed that builds from <br />the 2014 City Council approved Comprehensive Plan - a Plan that maintains the community's <br />distinct identity, fosters strong neighborhoods, keeps Elk River a "safe" and "complete" place, and <br />preserves and maintains the environment. <br />Based on our experience working in the region, knowledge of current trends and influences, and <br />a review of past plans, the following project understanding highlights some of our preliminary <br />observations regarding the issues and opportunities we believe to be important to the <br />Comprehensive Plan project. <br />City of Elk River, Minnesota I Comprehensive Plan Update <br />Prepared by Houseal Lavigne <br />15 <br />