If you don't build it, they won't come

Star Tribune Tue, 03 Jun 2008 05:07:41 GMT
Developers delay, and neighbors in Minneapolis feel the pain

As a stalled condo project languishes, some seek stiffer rules for land maintenance before extending any deadlines. Drive west across the Ford Bridge and after a sweeping turn you'll arrive at one of the gateways to Minneapolis. There's a nice-looking luxury condo building at the first stoplight. But it exists only on a fabric advertising screen that's attached to a tall chain-link fence at the corner of E. 46th Street and 46th Avenue S. Behind the fence lies the reality of a project stalled before it even rose above ground level, either by a faltering housing market or a developer's hubris, depending on whom you ask. Signs were installed without permits, a sidewalk is collapsing and neighbors are tired of having to detour around barriers for which the developer is late on fees. "It's been very, very frustrating," said Kevin Sullivan, who lives four doors north. "It really changes the nature of the neighborhood because it's close to [Minnehaha Park]. It's been a huge eyesore." The city may revoke the permit that allows the condos to encroach on 46th Avenue and two sidewalks. Revoking a permit is a rare step, according to area Council Member Sandra Colvin Roy. The incident highlights the concerns some council members have about the neighborhood impact of stalled projects. That has held up council action so far on a plan to give more time to developers who haven't broken ground on city-approved projects.

[[keywords: Housing;Living;Metro;]]