Posted In: Communities Date: 12/12/2018 Council grants help cities plan for development around future transit lines Nearly half a million dollars in grants will help local communities plan for development around future transit lines and for other predevelopment activities. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 8/10/2018 New report shows population and household growth in the Twin Cities metro outpaces available housing The Twin Cities is facing a critical housing shortage as the population increases. In addition to needing more housing supply, demographics are increasing the need for more diverse housing. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 7/26/2018 Region’s third rapid bus line approved to begin design and engineering D Line would replace region’s highest ridership bus route; still needs $35 million to construct entire project Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning Date: 6/12/2018 Council names new Community Development Director Nationally recognized planner to lead work focused on regional planning, livable communities, housing and parks, and research. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 5/10/2018 Council moves another rapid bus line closer to reality Chair calls on State lawmakers to provide bonding money to make it and other rapid busway investments. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 12/17/2019 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM Location: Bloomington Center for the Arts, Rehersal Room 1800 West Old Shakopee Road Bloomington, MN 55431 Google Map Livable Communities Projects: Community Engagement "Primer" This session will focus on planning your community engagement process, with a particular focus on suburban communities. Read more
Posted In: About Council, Communities, Council News, Housing, Parks, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 12/11/2019 6:00 PM - Location: Metropolitan Council Chambers 390 N. Robert Street St. Paul, MN 55101 Public Meeting on 2020 Unified Budget The Metropolitan Council is receiving public comment on the proposed 2020 Unified Budget and 2019 Levies, Payable 2020. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Housing, Parks, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 1/1/2019 12:00 PM - Location: various locations and dates Upcoming Council and Committee meetings The Council and its committees meet regularly most months. Find information on all upcoming Council and Committee meetings. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 11/19/2019 Decades-old program helps preserve metro area ag land Farming is important business in the Twin Cities metro area, and the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves Program is helping to keep it that way. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 11/15/2019 Regional forecast: Household growth revised downward; population growth expected to slow The Twin Cities region will gain 803,000 residents between 2010 and 2040, bringing the region’s population to 3,653,000. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing Date: 11/13/2019 Council awards $1.4 million to promote affordable homes near transit The grants support moderate- to high-density development near transit that is more affordable and walkable, fosters mobility, and encourages transit ridership. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 11/8/2019 Growing cities meet regional density targets The Council’s net residential density target is a minimum of 3 units per acre for cities and townships designated as either suburban edge, emerging suburban edge, or rural center. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 10/21/2019 Cities, Met Council advance solar energy development Local governments and the Metropolitan Council have expanded the region’s solar capacity by an estimated 50 megawatts since 2015. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 8/7/2019 Regional and local planning go hand-in-hand Local comprehensive plans reflect the vision of metro area cities and townships. The Met Council reviews the plans to ensure planned growth is compatible with regional infrastructure investment. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 8/5/2019 Tax-base sharing supports more orderly development and improves equity After more than 40 years, the region’s Fiscal Disparities program continues to support orderly and efficient development, equity, and economic competitiveness of the Twin Cities area. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing Date: 7/24/2019 Council awards $3 million to local projects promoting jobs, economic development The grants are part of the Council’s Livable Communities program, a voluntary, incentive-based approach to helping communities achieve their regional and local goals. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News Date: 6/14/2019 Council grants get things rolling on planned development in four metro area cities The Metropolitan Council, on June 12, approved Livable Communities grants to set the stage for planned development in Brooklyn Center, Hopkins, Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 Belle Plaine: Healthy people, healthy city The city of Belle Plaine has big aspirations in its Destination Belle Plaine 2040 plan, with goals of stewardship, long-term economic prosperity, social equity, livability and sustainability. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 From students to advocates: St. Louis Park students lead the way Local officials will be the first to tell you where the Climate Action Plan, which was adopted in 2018, got its start – with students. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 Jordan: Small in size, but ambitious A 3.3-square-mile rural center community of 6,200 with a good understanding of Mother Nature’s reign; with much of the city located in a floodplain, it is vulnerable to flooding. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 Planning resilient communities to confront climate change Rising temperatures. More rain and extreme weather. Changes in wildlife, environment, foliage, and habitat. Longer allergy season. The signs of climate change are all around us. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 Public health guides Osseo resiliency planning Healthy generations: It’s a phrase that defines the City of Osseo’s vision for growth and development. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 Shoreview: Resilient, Responsive and Ready In its Destination Shoreview 2040 Plan, the city focuses on energy efficiency, water quality, water conservation, waste reduction and new infrastructure technology. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 Solar saves money in Woodbury Woodbury takes seriously its responsibility of demonstrating best practices, using renewable energy sources to provide the equivalent of 100 percent of the energy needs at city facilities. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 5/23/2019 White Bear Lake: Envisioning a resilient community The goal of the city's 2040 Comprehensive Plan is to “become more resilient in the face of an evolving climate.” Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 5/20/2019 Metro area growth continues, housing challenges remain Preliminary population estimates show Minneapolis and Saint Paul continue to lead growth in number of new residents. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Housing, Transportation Date: 5/7/2019 Support services play critical role in allowing people who have disabilities to live independently Council Chair calls for state lawmakers to pass transportation bill with real solution for Metro Mobility. Read more
Posted In: About Council, Communities, Council News, Housing, Parks, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 4/18/2019 Steady growth continues in metro area Metro area population increased 8.8% since 2010, according to U.S. Census Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 3/5/2019 Council designated “SolSmart” for solar leadership Silver designation highlights achievements in expanding solar across the region by offering resources and technical assistance on solar planning, and market development and finance. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 2/20/2019 Council makes $21.4 million available in 2019 for local investment and regional opportunity The funds promote livability, a mix of housing choices and affordability, jobs and local economic development. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing Date: 1/9/2019 Council awards grants supporting jobs, housing and economic development A majority of these grants will help clean up contaminated sites for future development; one grant was awarded for contamination investigation. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing Date: 12/5/2018 Council grants promote economic development and housing opportunities Nearly 850 new homes and more than 1,100 jobs will result from $9.6 million in Livable Communities grants. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 11/26/2018 Council recognized for leadership on climate change mitigation and adaptation The Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership (MCAP) awarded the Council for efforts to help the region adapt to climate change. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 10/17/2018 2020 census has big stakes for states, local governments At stake is the number of representatives each state will get in Congress, and distribution of billions of dollars to and within states for the upcoming decade. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 10/17/2018 New online mapping resource pinpoints 1.2 million ‘address points’ The information will benefit a wide range of public services from emergency response to municipal planning. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 10/17/2018 Twin Cities metro area stands to gain by eliminating racial and ethnic disparities Council’s new interactive data visualization tells the story. Read more
Posted In: Communities Date: 9/26/2018 Council rolls out flood risk tool as part of climate vulnerability assessment The Climate Vulnerability Assessment will plan for public infrastructure to increase its lifespan and reduce costs. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 8/29/2018 Sewer separation, inflow and infiltration reduction efforts are paying off The Metropolitan Council and City of Minneapolis have reached another milestone in joint efforts to protect public health and water quality. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks, Planning Date: 8/14/2018 Council’s new Parks Ambassador hopes to ‘bring parks to the people’ After meeting with regional parks leaders and park implementing agency staff, she'll work with community members and park staff to gather input about what people want and need in our regional parks. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 8/14/2018 Hopkins area sewer improvements: onward and upward The renewed wastewater infrastructure will reliably protect public health and the environment—and support the region’s economic growth—for decades to come. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 7/27/2018 Council sets 2019 wastewater rates; SAC rate stays flat for fifth year running The overall municipal wastewater charge to the 109 communities served by the Metropolitan Council’s regional wastewater collection and treatment system will go up 3.5% in 2019. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 7/23/2018 National advocates unite to address serious water challenges Council collaborates with partners to ensure plentiful, clean water for all. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 7/23/2018 Parties reach agreement to advance Southwest LRT The agreements with the Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company will now be considered by the Surface Transportation Board, a federal regulatory agency. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks, Planning Date: 7/18/2018 Annual regional parks visits top 58 million in 2017 Improved methodology allows for more accurate count, shows more visits than previously thought Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 7/18/2018 Council adds $5 million to Municipal I/I Grant Program The additional funding is good news for the 79 communities in the region eligible for municipal inflow and infiltration grants: Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 7/18/2018 Council offers $500,000 for local project to reduce inflow and infiltration from private property Local communities are invited to apply for up to $500,000 to demonstrate effective ways of reducing inflow and infiltration into the regional wastewater system from private property sources. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 6/27/2018 Council awards $3.3 million to local projects promoting jobs, economic development The Council awarded three types of grants, for investigating and cleaning up contaminated sites, and for improving redevelopment opportunities in an existing or former area of concentrated poverty. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 6/22/2018 Aging and changing: U.S. Census and Metropolitan Council reach similar conclusions about population growth The Metropolitan Council estimates that metro area population grew more between 2010 and 2017 than the U.S. Census. But both agree the region is aging and becoming more diverse. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 6/11/2018 Region needs more housing; residential construction is not keeping pace with household growth Multifamily development remains robust. Construction of affordable housing is especially slow. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 5/16/2018 Metro area grows 8% between 2010-2017 Preliminary population estimates show Minneapolis and Saint Paul had the highest population gains. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 4/24/2018 Neighborhood takes a novel approach to planning for its future This month’s local planning feature focuses on an innovative approach taken by a Saint Paul neighborhood to chart its future in a “small area plan.” Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 4/23/2018 Sewer improvements in Mound and Minnetrista begin this spring Major infrastructure improvements are coming to Mound and Minnetrista, thanks to collaborative efforts with the Metropolitan Council, local government and CenterPoint Energy. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 4/20/2018 Metro dog parks provide social time for dogs and their human companions Since the first dog park opened in Elm Creek Park Reserve in 1983, dog parks have spread to nearly every corner of the region, and usage has grown every year. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 3/28/2018 Metropolitan Council receives national planning achievement award American Planning Association recognizes 16 communities for best practices in planning and urban design. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 3/22/2018 Council eases SAC burden for business Task force of city and business representatives recommended the changes, which go into effect July 1, 2018. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 3/20/2018 Local governments to compete for transportation funds in 2018 Regional Solicitation About $200 million in federal funds will go to local highway, bridge, transit, bicycle and pedestrian projects. The federal funds will leverage additional local matching funds. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 3/16/2018 Maplewood’s sustainability efforts strengthen city’s livability Maplewood boasts a host of natural amenities, connections to major transportation corridors, strong commercial and business hubs, and residents who are active in the community’s public life. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 3/15/2018 Council grants help growing communities use water more efficiently Property owners across the region are saving an estimated 52 million gallons of water annually, thanks to the Council's Water Efficiency Grant Program. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 2/5/2018 Council awards more than $5 million to local communities to expand affordable housing. Livable Communities grants support job growth and economic opportunity, as well as leverage millions in private investment. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 12/28/2017 Theodore Wirth Regional Park: Winter quiet, recreation amid the city Theodore Wirth Regional Park is an especially attractive destination during winter: cross-country skiing, sledding, tubing, snowshoeing, skijoring, snowboarding, and hot chocolate in the chalet! Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 12/11/2017 Preserving the past, Hastings mounts major effort to plan its future Hastings city officials are drawing on 21st century techniques to engage community members in planning for its future. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Transportation Date: 12/6/2017 Shoveling snow and ice improves safety and mobility “Please shovel!” That’s the plea being made by Metro Mobility, a metro area transportation service for people with disabilities. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 12/1/2017 Council awards funds for affordable housing Council Chair says affordable housing is critical to ensure regional growth and prosperity. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 12/1/2017 Partners in water quality monitoring: Developing leadership in the next generation Since 1993, the Council has enlisted citizen volunteers to bolster its own monitoring work on lakes in the seven-county region. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Parks, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 11/22/2017 Council grants support community planning The city of Carver, a historic Minnesota River town in Carver County, is looking to the future. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Council partners with small businesses on projects big and small The Council's procurement process describes a percentage of contracts that should be available to Minnesota businesses that are owned by women, people of color, veterans or people with disabilities. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks, Planning Date: 11/22/2017 Creating connections for people to the regional parks The Council created the Parks Ambassador program to increase awareness of regional parks by communities of color, and invite them into the parks. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 11/22/2017 Engineer recalls fragmented, polluting sewage system Dr. Russ Susag reflects on how collaboration created our award-winning wastewater treatment system that treats 250 million gallons of wastewater a day from 2.6 million residents. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 11/22/2017 Livable Communities grants help ‘nail down the deal’ Program helps cities throughout the region create affordable housing for area residents. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning Date: 11/22/2017 Local communities join forces to prepare for climate change City and Council planners look ahead at vulnerabilities, prioritize responses, and prepare communities for the inevitable challenges ahead. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Local officials central to decision-making on transportation projects The Council relies on local elected officials and residents to review those local project proposals and make funding recommendations. This body is called the Transportation Advisory Board (TAB). Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Housing, Parks, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 11/22/2017 Metro Cities: Watchdog, liaison and partner to Council Metro Cities monitors the Council to make sure city interests are represented, informs cities about Council actions and programs, and shares Council information useful in local planning. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Metro Mobility is a life saver for people with disabilities Many Metro Mobility riders travel to work, school and other essential activities. It’s just another way public transit contributes to the economic vitality of the region. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 11/22/2017 Partnership with U of M promotes water savings Survey found lawn irrigation systems overwater, waste water and money, and lawns aren’t necessarily better for it. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 11/22/2017 Partnerships that connect families with housing they can afford Partnerships are key for the Council, through its Housing and Redevelopment Authority (Metro HRA), to provide thousands of metro-area households with federal rent assistance. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning Date: 11/22/2017 Regional collaboration delivers sustainable energy The Council played a central role as partner and leader helping to form the Governmental Solar Garden Subscriber Collaborative and bring the project to life. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Transit investments spur development, serve employers and neighborhoods Development along the existing Green and Blue lines bears out the economic benefits of dedicated transitways. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/22/2017 Using community wisdom to design better bus stops Metro Transit staff and partnering agencies built relationships, shared information and listened to the ideas and feedback across 22 neighborhoods. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 11/16/2017 A Step Forward: the region’s 2016 affordable housing production The primary form of new affordable housing continues to be multifamily apartment buildings. In 2016, 94% of affordable units were renter-occupied. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 10/31/2017 Council approves federal funds for transportation services for older and disabled residents Thirteen federal grants totaling nearly $2.6 million will help private nonprofit and government organizations meet the transportation needs of older adults and people with disabilities. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 10/25/2017 Metropolitan Council invests in job growth, development, and housing near transit Council has awarded nearly $4.6 million in Livable Communities funds to transit-oriented development (TOD) projects along transit corridors. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 10/19/2017 Disabilities affect economic status, create disparities A new Council MetroStats research report finds that people with disabilities have fewer opportunities for employment, housing and economic well-being. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 10/16/2017 Council awards engagement contracts for I-94 study The Metropolitan Council has awarded six contracts totaling $161,000 to community-based organizations to engage people in MnDOT’s Rethinking I-94 Study. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning Date: 10/11/2017 The cost of persistent racial and ethnic disparities in the Twin Cities region Longstanding and persistent trend will cost the region opportunities for continued growth, economic prosperity, greater livability, improved neighborhoods. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 9/28/2017 Council “green infrastructure” grants support local water initiatives In September, the Council awarded $1 million to five metro cities looking to improve water quality and encourage conservation. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 9/18/2017 Regional park visits climb to nearly 48 million in 2016 The region’s vast network of parks and trails got nearly 48 million visits last year, a one percent increase over the previous year, and an increase of 11 million visits since 2006. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 9/15/2017 Grant helps preserve affordable housing in manufactured home park The first-of-its-kind pilot grant of $234,83 will cover half of the cost of connecting homes in the Maple Hill Estates manufactured home park to the regional wastewater system. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 9/12/2017 New Regional Parks Map reflects the rich cultural heritage of our region People from a wide variety of communities, and many ages and abilities, will see themselves reflected in the Council’s newly updated Regional Parks Map. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 9/11/2017 Survey yields robust data to forecast travel, understand transit users Survey results provide transit planners and policy makers with information to better understand who riders are, how and why they are using transit. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 8/14/2017 Savage: Small-town feel, global industrial connections, plentiful open space Located on the Minnesota River bluff in northeastern Scott County, Savage is a city filled with suburban neighborhoods, natural features, and history. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Housing Date: 8/2/2017 Metro HRA’s new ombudsman helps people navigate rental process The Metropolitan Council’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority (Metro HRA) recently hired Abdiaziz Ibrahim as its first outreach coordinator and program ombudsman. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 7/18/2017 MnDOT, Council seek community partners for engagement work in I-94 Corridor The goal is to to ensure that historically underrepresented community members help shape decisions on the future design, use and overall look of I-94. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 7/17/2017 Cottage Grove: Suburban edge where urban meets farmland and open space Bordering the Mississippi River in southern Washington County, Cottage Grove is a community where “city” meets “nature.” Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 6/26/2017 Council funds “U” research on lawn irrigation, drought resistance of grasses Council funds University of Minnesota study of lawn irrigation practices to help homeowners and communities save money and conserve water. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 6/14/2017 Regional forecasts update The Twin Cities regional forecast to 2040: Steady growth and big changes ahead. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 6/7/2017 Strong residential construction in the region in 2016 New Council report indicates robust home building in the region in 2016, with multifamily housing leading the way. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 6/2/2017 Council awards $1 million for stormwater management projects Funding will support eight projects across the region that will improve water quality and reuse stormwater for irrigation. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 5/16/2017 Metro area continues to grow; Carver County hits a milestone The estimates are the official population and household estimates for state government purposes, including how local government aid (LGA) and local street aid allocations are determined. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 4/27/2017 Regional Bicycle Barriers Study needs your help Physical barriers throughout the region get in the way of safe and efficient bicycling. The Council is addressing some of these barriers in a study called the Regional Bicycle Barriers Study. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 4/18/2017 Trail offers scenic lake views, small town charms, and plenty of history The 15-mile Lake Minnetonka LRT trail offers scenic views of the big lake and local wetlands – but plenty more as it wends through canopies of shade trees, open meadows and old neighborhoods. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 4/17/2017 Rosemount: Growing suburb offers active lifestyle Set in the rolling landscape of north-central Dakota County, Rosemount was originally established as a township in 1858, the same day Minnesota became a state. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 4/10/2017 Metro Mobility service faces likely cuts/fare increase under House legislation Transit Link service, where there is no regular-route service, could be discontinued. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Wastewater & Water Date: 3/7/2017 Council offers stormwater grants The Metropolitan Council invites watershed management organizations, watershed districts, and soil and water conservation districts to apply for stormwater management grants. Apply by April 14. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 2/22/2017 New report outlines challenges to sustaining long-range water supply The Twin Cities has a good supply of water – and will for a long time – but new challenges will threaten the abundance of clean water if we don’t plan to sustain the resource. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 12/15/2016 C Line rapid bus line moves toward 2019 opening The C Line will connect riders from Brooklyn Center and North Minneapolis with stations in downtown Minneapolis Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 12/15/2016 Dovetail Consulting found niche in rail safety Dovetail’s work has included light rail and streetcar projects across the nation, and Allen credits the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program for helping her firm continue to thrive. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 12/7/2016 Physical challenges of sewer repair can be daunting In the region’s northern suburbs, the Council's Environmental Services group is rehabilitating the aging pipes in the massive interceptor sewer network. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 12/1/2016 New SAC Task Force to reexamine outdoor seating, ways to simplify SAC application process The Metropolitan Council has appointed a new 17-member task force to discuss and make recommendations on several issues related to the sewer availability charge, or SAC. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 11/22/2016 Poised for more growth, Carver engages residents to guide planning Carver's population grew from 744 people in 1990 to 4330 in 2015, and is forecast to grow to 15,500 by 2040. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/15/2016 Metro Transit reaching out to juvenile offenders, changing lives Metro Transit Police are building on-street relationships with struggling youth and helping them turn their lives around. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Planning Date: 9/20/2016 Engaging the community in determining equitable investments Community conversations around equitable investment begin this week in North Minneapolis. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 9/20/2016 Thousands turn out to celebrate the Monarch butterfly The Eighth Annual Minneapolis Monarch Festival - Festival de la Monarca - brought together butterfly, music and art enthusiasts from across the region to Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 9/1/2016 Southwest LRT secures funding to apply for federal match The Council voted Aug. 31 to authorize the future issuance of Certificates of Participation for $103.5 million. CTIB and Hennepin County each agreed to contribute an additional $20.5 million. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks, Planning Date: 7/14/2016 “Toolkit” to gauge progress toward more equitable park use The region's people of color visit regional parks far less than than their share of the population would suggest. The Council is working to broaden park use among a changing population. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Parks, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 6/9/2016 Council’s PlanIt series provides resources to local planners Local government planners and planning consultants are invited to take part in a variety of educational opportunities and resources. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing Date: 6/8/2016 Manufactured housing—very affordable but future uncertain Manufactured housing—often called “mobile homes”—is a valuable source of housing for very low- and extremely low-income households. But its future is at risk. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Parks, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 3/22/2016 Council ramps up technical support as communities prepare for climate impacts Dr. Mark Seeley of the University of Minnesota didn’t mince words when he presented a summary of his research on Minnesota climate change to the Metropolitan Council in early March. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks, Planning Date: 3/18/2016 Council engages agencies, concerned groups toward more equitable park use While the number of park visits continue to climb, a Council survey shows that visitors do not represent the overall population makeup of the region, specifically for communities of color. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 1/14/2016 Council commits $1 million to land bank for affordable housing The TCC Land Bank is a nonprofit community lender that helps government agencies, nonprofits, developers, and others to quickly buy properties and sell them to developers of affordable housing. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 7/29/2015 Regional park and trail visits grew to more than 48 million in 2014 Annual visits to regional parks and trails in the seven-county metro area grew to 48.7 million in 2014, about 1.5 million more visits than 2013, an increase of 3.3%. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing Date: 7/23/2015 Amendment to regional housing plan lends guidance on affordable housing need When the 2040 Housing Policy Plan was adopted in December 2014, the Council indicated it would amend the plan in 2015 to include additional information. The Council approved the amendment in July. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 7/14/2015 Council approves grants for innovative stormwater reuse The projects in Waconia and at the Minnesota Zoo are the latest examples of the Council’s longstanding commitment to find solutions to reduce stormwater runoff and improve surface water quality. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 7/8/2015 Council adopts forecasts for local comprehensive plan updates The Council releases forecasts for population, households and employment in cities and townships in the metro area, as it gears up for the next round of local comprehensive plan updates. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 6/23/2015 Poverty is spreading and becoming more concentrated As poverty spreads, it is becoming increasingly concentrated. In some areas, 40% or more of residents' incomes are below 185% of the federal poverty threshold. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Transportation Date: 6/16/2015 Connections ground businesses, arts on METRO Green Line corridor The year-old 11-mile light rail line provides an essential connection for riders to discover and explore communities, businesses, and arts and cultural amenities along the corridor. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Wastewater & Water Date: 6/11/2015 Metro Council leading collaboration to spur community solar development Local governments in the metro area soon will have the opportunity to subscribe to solar energy generated at one or more proposed community solar gardens through an innovative collaboration. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning, Transportation Date: 6/10/2015 METRO Green Line has been magnet for housing development From artist lofts to affordable housing to luxury apartments, new housing development has contributed significantly to the estimated $2.8 billion in development along the METRO Green Line since 2009. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Transportation Date: 6/10/2015 People, places, and connections: Green Line residents are enthusiastic about light rail The METRO Green Line has proven to be magnet for housing development. And the people who are living along the line are enjoying the access and connections it provides. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 6/1/2015 More poor people living in Twin Cities suburbs than in central cities Twin Cities suburban and rural areas are now home to more people living in poverty than the central cities. Learn what’s behind the trend. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 5/6/2015 Metro Council report provides updated regional forecast to 2040 With metro area cities and towns preparing to start their decennial local planning processes, the Metropolitan Council is fine-tuning its regional forecast. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 4/2/2015 Council will offer planning grants to communities Starting in 2016, the Council will make a total of $1.38 million available for grants to eligible communities and counties to support the upcoming round of comprehensive plan updates. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 2/11/2015 Council adopts Parks Plan with new focus on access and equity The plan reflects the Council’s vision for the region over the next 30 years, as described in Thrive MSP 2040. One key area of focus in the plan is equitable use of parks by all residents. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Council News, Housing, Planning, Transportation, Wastewater & Water Date: 2/11/2015 Council Chair Duininck, local officials tour Gateway Corridor Metropolitan Council Chair Adam Duininck wrapped up the first week of his seven-county tour on Feb. 6 with a bus ride through the Gateway Corridor (future METRO Gold Line) in the east metro area. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 2/6/2015 Innovative system will capture rainwater to keep new Saint Paul baseball field green CHS Field also will host a sustainability feature that captures rainwater from the rooftop of Metro Transit’s adjacent METRO Green Line Operations and Maintenance Facility. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 2/4/2015 Council revs up economic research and assistance to communities In 2015, the Council will provide local governments with more economic information and technical assistance. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 1/14/2015 Council adopts 2040 Transportation Policy Plan The region’s long-range transportation plan sets the policies and strategies for investing in the regional transportation system to 2040. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 7/23/2014 Collaborative problem-solving, shared outcomes key to public engagement Community members and organizations, academics and local government officials have all shared their vision for the region for the next 30 years . Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning Date: 6/24/2014 Workshops sharpen projects applying for Council TOD grants Creating a high-quality, transit-oriented development project is not easy. The Council’s Livable Communities (LCA) staff help communities and developers move their projects from concept to success. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning, Transportation Date: 12/13/2013 Thrive MSP 2040: Millennials weigh in on regional planning with fun and wit Mixing young professionals, music, crayons, and improv theater troupe, and a Council policy wonk = a lively, engaged discussion about the future of the region. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning, Transportation Date: 11/19/2013 Council steps up role in transit-oriented development (TOD) TOD improves mobility, enhances connections between destinations, creates efficiencies, and generates economic vitality. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Parks Date: 7/11/2013 Como Zoo’s edible garden feeds animals and people The Chipotle Edible Garden allows visitors to see how edible gardens can both influence landscape design and provide an abundance of produce throughout the season. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 8/17/2018 Twin Cities area needs new strategy on affordable housing Star Tribune Editorial Board: Region ranked second only to Pittsburgh in key housing-cost measure. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Transportation Date: 7/24/2018 Gold Line planners seek feedback at open house Bulletin-South Washington Councy The Metropolitan Council hosted the first of a series of open houses intended to gather community comment on the nine-mile, round-trip route that will run from St. Paul to Woodbury. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Transportation Date: 7/8/2018 Study finds transit access to jobs rises, thanks to A-Line Star Tribune Twin Cities transit riders can reach more than 18,000 jobs within a half-hour when traveling by bus or train, up 7 percent between 2016 and 2017, according to study results released by the U of M. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Housing, Planning Date: 6/22/2018 Can manufactured homes help the housing crisis? FastCompany.com Tiny houses get all the attention, but mobile homes–despite the stigma–are already a huge part of the country’s housing, and could have a bigger part to play. Read more
Posted In: Communities, Planning, Wastewater & Water Date: 6/13/2018 St. Paul would get new wastewater incinerator under $150 million proposal TwinCities.com Pioneer Press As the metro grows, so does the amount of its poop. And that means a major wastewater plant along the Mississippi River in St. Paul needs to grow as well, to burn heavier volumes of solid waste. Read more