Two transit-oriented development projects in Minneapolis earned a total of $1.4 million in Livable Communities grants from the Metropolitan Council in November. The grants support moderate- to high-density development near transit that is more affordable and walkable, fosters mobility, and encourages transit ridership.
“These particular grants provide incentive to communities and developers to create connections for residents between housing, jobs and transit, promote efficient use of land and infrastructure, and improve access to services that meet daily needs,” said Lisa Barajas, director of community development for the Council.
“The two grant awards this funding round are expected to create 162 affordable homes and 162 temporary construction jobs and leverage more than $40 million in other public and private investment,” she said.
The grants:
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Bimosedaa, Minneapolis: $1 million toward redevelopment of the former Film Exchange building in the city’s Warehouse District. Plans calls for 48 units of permanent supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness, mental illness and/or chemical dependency. Priority will be given to people with Native American tribal affiliation.
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L&H Station Phase III, Minneapolis: $431,800 toward 114 units of affordable senior housing at the Lake Street LRT Station. The various stages of the project contribute to a walkable urban area with a variety of housing options.
Grants are awarded on a competitive basis and reviewed and recommended by the Livable Communities Advisory Committee, chaired by Jo Emerson, mayor of White Bear Lake.
Applicants for funding are local units of government that commit to affordable housing goals and participate in the Livable Communities program. Proposed projects must meet criteria that the Council has vetted and approved.
More about the Livable Communities grant program