The Edina Planning Commission on Wednesday approved three major items, including a conditional use permit for a new Southdale Library and Art Center and the Lincoln and Londonderry Small Area Plan.

The commission unanimously recommended approval of Hennepin County's proposal to replace the existing 76,000-square-foot library with a new 43,000-square-foot library and 16,000-square-foot art center at 7001 York Avenue South. The $121 million project will include underground parking, extensive green space, and sustainable design features including solar panels and geothermal heating.

The new facility will occupy the north half of the 7.75-acre site, with the south half dedicated to wetlands and green space connected to regional bike trails. The project requires a building height variance, as the proposed structure will be 59 feet tall compared to the 40-foot limit, though it will be shorter than the existing 60-foot library.

"This is going to be the quietest library that we've done," said Matthew Krod, principal architect with MSR Design, addressing noise concerns about the open atrium design connecting the library and art center.

The commission also approved the Lincoln and Londonderry Small Area Plan after extensive community engagement. However, the plan's implementation faces significant constraints due to sewer capacity limitations affecting much of western Edina. The plan divides recommendations into short-term improvements possible under current capacity and long-term development opportunities requiring infrastructure upgrades.

Commissioner Paul Nelson was welcomed to his first meeting, replacing departing commissioner Miranda who served seven years. The commission will hold officer elections at its March 26 meeting, with Chair Bennett announcing plans to step down in one year.