Coon Rapids Blvd Redevelopment
In 1998, the City of Coon Rapids began reviewing the deteriorating conditions along Coon Rapids Boulevard to identify issues along the Boulevard and set goals for the future development along it. This process resulted in adoption of the Coon Rapids Boulevard Framework Plan in 2000, which presents ideas and concepts for the redevelopment and enhancement of Coon Rapids Boulevard through 2020. The Plan noted that Coon Rapids Boulevard cannot compete with newer, larger, one-stop shopping centers along Highway 10 and could no longer attract large scale retail development. It recommended concentrating new neighborhood commercial uses, offices, and higher density residential development in four nodes, or “Ports,” along the Boulevard. Residential uses of varied densities and other commercial uses should then fill in-between the Ports. Each Port functions as a zoning district for a defined area and establishes land use, site, and architectural standards within its boundaries. The Framework Plan was updated in 2010.
The PORTS
PORT is an acronym for Preservation Or Renovation Tract and functions as a zoning district for a defined area. Together with the River Rapids Overlay District, which runs the length of Coon Rapids Boulevard, the PORT Districts establish use, site plan, and architectural standards within the boundaries.
Presently, four PORT districts exist along Coon Rapids Boulevard. From east to west along the Boulevard, the PORTs are referred to as PORT Evergreen, a reference to the adjacent business park; PORT Riverwalk, which draws upon the proximity and history of the Coon Rapids Dam; PORT Campus Square, which is influenced by Anoka Ramsey Community College; and PORT Wellness, where Mercy Hospital has provided a catalyst for additional medical related development.
Development Activity
Several new developments have taken place along Coon Rapids Boulevard since the Framework Plan was adopted. In addition, the City has acquired and cleared properties to spur redevelopment.
PORT Evergreen
Ace Hardware constructed a new building at the corner of Foley and Coon Rapids Boulevards. Two new office buildings have been constructed at the southwest corner of Coon Rapids Boulevard and 93rd Avenue.
PORT Riverwalk
Over the last several years, the City acquired properties, demolished buildings, and cleaned up contamination near Coon Rapids Boulevard and Avocet Street. The Corridor Housing Initiative recently led a series of workshops, with residents and other stakeholders to help shape the site’s future.
PORT Campus Square
The City acquired the former Target, Rainbow Foods, and White Castle properties near 111th Avenue and Coon Rapids Boulevard in 2008. The remaining tenants will relocate and the buildings will be demolished for redevelopment.
PORT Wellness
A new medical office building and retail center have been constructed on the former Carlson Toyota site at Coon Rapids Boulevard and Round Lake Boulevard.