The Minneapolis Planning Commission approved three development projects Monday, including a controversial parking lot for the upcoming CPAC venue and conversion of the former Sheraton Hotel into a substance abuse treatment facility.

The commission granted multiple variances for a 287-space parking lot to serve the CPAC amphitheater in Upper Harbor, despite concerns about the large surface lot. The project required variances to exceed the typical 100-space limit and allow extensive street frontage along Washington Avenue North and Dowling Avenue North. Commissioners modified the proposal to require 10 electric vehicle charging stations instead of the requested zero, citing the need for some environmental considerations.

In the North Loop, commissioners approved expanding parking at a fowling warehouse on Royalston Avenue from 70 to 80 spaces through restriping. The Cunningham Brothers requested removal of required tree islands to reduce costs, but commissioners maintained the landscaping requirements to address urban heat island effects.

The commission also approved converting the former 150-room Sheraton Hotel at Midtown Global Market into a 182-person state credentialed care facility for individuals pursuing sobriety. The project will include a coffee shop, medical office space, and operator offices on the ground floor. Commissioner Conley emphasized the need for extensive community outreach given the building's history during the 2020 civil unrest, when it served as emergency shelter.

All three projects received unanimous or near-unanimous approval, with commissioners noting the need for adaptive reuse of existing buildings and addressing regional transportation and housing needs.