The council gave the green light to Abundance Properties' Vernon Avenue housing project during its August 7 meeting, advancing the city's goals for what planners call "missing middle housing" — multi-unit homes designed to blend into single-family neighborhoods while providing more housing options.

The approved project will transform a single-family lot into two two-story buildings, each containing two units. The development required several city approvals, including an amendment to Edina's long-term planning document, a rezoning of the property, and approval of both preliminary land division plans and detailed site designs.

Council members focused their discussion on how the project aligns with Edina's comprehensive plan, which calls for diverse, walkable housing options. The developer highlighted the site's proximity to a local school as a benefit for families seeking housing in the area.

"It's a beautiful space. We were able to put a vision together that really made sense, made sense to the city council, and just makes sense for the community," a representative of Abundance Properties told the council.

The vote passed without noted opposition. Missing middle housing has become a priority for many cities seeking to address housing affordability and availability without dramatically changing neighborhood character. These developments typically include duplexes, townhomes, and small apartment buildings that offer alternatives between single-family homes and large apartment complexes.