LeCesse Development Corporation told the Minnetonka City Council on Thursday night that it wants to build a 322-unit apartment complex that would replace a pair of industrial buildings along Bren Road.
In a proposal, Tom Hayden of LeCesse Development Group, said the five-story building would cater to young professionals and millennials with rents that would average $1.75 per square foot. That's far less than what is typical in some parts of downtown Minneapolis for some well-located buildings, but a premium compared with standard suburban rents.
LeCesse has developed 1,600 to 1,700 luxury units in the Twin Cities and beyond, including a 466-unit apartment complex called Skye at Arbor Lakes in Maple Grove.
To appeal to younger renters and offer something not already in the market, the company is positioning the project as having design features that are "more urban." That means smaller units, higher density and rooftop amenities.
"Every square inch of the building would be used to live in, occupy, visit or use as an amenity," Hayden said.
Because of these features, the project would be consistent with the goals of the city of Minnetonka's comprehensive plan, which calls for a variety of housing types that appeal to people of many ages and income levels.
The site is near the proposed Southwest light-rail line, and is bisected by a public trail that is connected to an extensive system. The developer plans to include amenities that encourage bicycling as a mode of transportation.
At the same meeting, the Mesaba Capital Development proposed plans to develop a 110-unit senior care facility at 17710 and 17724 Old Excelsior Blvd. near the southwest quadrant of the intersection of Hwys. 7 and 101.
The proposed building would be four stories and have underground parking. It would include a full range of care options, including independent living, assisted living and memory care. In addition to private apartments with full kitchens and laundry, there would also be support services for those who have more complex needs and require 24-hour care.
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