St. Louis Park's Planning Commission took a significant step on June 17, 2026, by advancing a crucial future land use redesignation for the property at 8800 Highway 7. This decision is poised to facilitate the development of a 208-unit affordable housing project, marking a key moment in the city's efforts to expand housing options.

The redesignation, a pivotal component of the city’s broader planning initiatives, alters the site's classification to accommodate high-density residential development. Located strategically along Highway 7, the project site’s new designation is essential for moving forward with plans to bring much-needed affordable housing to the community, addressing a consistent demand for diverse residential options.

This land use redesignation is part of the city's Comprehensive Plan Amendment Phase Two, a multi-stage effort to update St. Louis Park's guiding development policies. This phase specifically addresses elements like residential land use density adjustments and aims to refine the city's framework for future growth and development.

This amendment is really intended to close policy gaps. It's not intended to change any policy decisions that were made in previous zoning code update phases.

Following the Planning Commission's recommendation, the proposed zoning map amendment and ordinance updates for 8800 Highway 7 will now move to the St. Louis Park City Council for further review. An anticipated City Council hearing is scheduled for July 20, 2026, with a second reading for the ordinance and map amendments slated for August 3. If approved, the official publication date is expected on August 13, leading to an effective date of August 28.

Broader Zoning Revisions Support Community Goals

The redesignation of 8800 Highway 7 takes place within a period of comprehensive updates to St. Louis Park's zoning code. These city-wide revisions, presented by Zoning Administrator Gary Morrison, include significant restructuring, such as the consolidation of the zoning code into 10 articles and the standardization of various regulations across the city. This larger overhaul aims to create a more efficient and clear regulatory environment, which in turn facilitates specific projects like the affordable housing development on Highway 7.

We're taking the performance standards that are in article four and moving them into the new article that addresses only performance standards for uses throughout the city.

Community engagement has been a part of the process, with a neighborhood meeting for the 8800 Highway 7 project held on March 3, 2026, allowing residents to offer feedback and insights. The anticipated 208 units are expected to contribute significantly to the city's housing stock, particularly in the affordable sector, aligning with St. Louis Park's long-term vision for sustainable and inclusive development.