A new development is set to transform the west side of Tanners Lake in Oakdale, Minnesota, where a 3.25-acre project will introduce 126 apartment units and 12 townhomes. Formerly the site of two restaurants and a glass-repair company, this initiative led by McGlynn Partners and Boo Realty aims to revitalize the area. The location, just east of Century Avenue and north of Hudson Boulevard and Interstate 94, will soon see the commencement of construction, with plans to include market-rate apartments, townhomes, and public attractions such as a boardwalk, patio, pier launch, and lakeside amenity building.
The strategic location is bolstered by its proximity to the 3M Corporation headquarters in Maplewood and the newly established Metro Gold Line, a $505 million bus rapid transit route that connects Woodbury and St. Paul. The redevelopment effort is a response to a recognized demand for housing, combining residential living with public engagement through its lakeside features.
City officials have been actively working on redeveloping this site for over 15 years, with previous plans for condominiums, hotels, medical offices, and various restaurants never coming to fruition. The site, which once hosted Toby’s on the Lake and Blackie’s Eatery and Saloon, has been part of a broader effort involving the city’s Economic Development Authority (EDA). In 2008, the city received legislative approval to form a redevelopment tax-increment financing district, facilitating the purchase and demolition of these former establishments at a total cost of approximately $2.4 million, including demolition expenses.
Further financial support comes from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, which has granted Oakdale $430,937 for soil stabilization and stormwater infrastructure improvements. The anticipated outcome is an increased tax base by $326,107 and leveraging of $32.1 million in private investments. The city is also contributing $4 million in tax-increment financing assistance, although developers will reimburse the city roughly $2.4 million for the acquisition of the city-owned properties involved.
The project is slated for completion in 2026, with hopes that the new residences will be ready for occupancy within 18 months. Oakdale’s involvement highlights its commitment to enhancing community living standards while preserving the natural beauty of Tanners Lake. The area continues to offer recreational amenities, including Tanners Lake Park, which features a swimming beach and a 10 mph speed limit on the lake.
Community Impact
The new development at Tanners Lake represents a significant shift in Oakdale’s residential and recreational landscape. For local residents, the introduction of additional housing options could mean greater accessibility to modern living spaces and enhanced community resources. With the inclusion of a boardwalk and other public amenities, the project aims to forge stronger community ties and encourage outdoor activities.
Economically, the project is poised to bolster the local tax base and attract private investment, fostering a more vibrant local economy. The connectivity to major transport routes and the proximity to major corporate centers like 3M could potentially increase job opportunities and ease commutes for residents. Overall, the development is a step towards a more integrated and vibrant community, balancing residential needs with environmental and social considerations.