Minneapolis Folks,
The height of buildings has been an important discussion on this list for
several months.
I support larger-taller buildings because of the density it will help to
create, which will benefit development of mass transit, and help to slow the
sprawling development in our fifth and sixth ring suburbs (that is our current
reality). This is important land that needs to be saved for farming, and
recreation, and creating greater density will help to preserve this valuable
state asset.
I understand the public apprehension about having more people crammed into
their neighborhood. I believe the biggest concern is related to increase
congestion caused by automobiles.
I propose that the city offer to except the height restriction if the developer
limits sale and rental to people that do not own an automobile. For instance
you could have enough parking spaces for 10 automobiles (10 units), and rent or
sell to another 20, 30, or more people that did not own vehicles. I believe TCF
(or another bank) has a home loan for people that do not own vehicles. The
average operating cost of a vehicle is $10,000 a year. Banks are willing to
give you more money to purchase a home if you do not have the expense of a
vehicle. These building would also be great locations for Car Share Programs.
Promoting development of building for people that do not own vehicles will help
to increase home ownership and reduce congestion.
I am prepared to be attacked for making this proposal on the list. But, many
major city residents do not own automobiles and live very good lives. I just
returned from Chicago and stayed in a beautiful condo, close to Lincoln Park
and did not need a car during my three day stay. We walked, used the train,
bus, and the occasional late night cab. The building I stayed in did not have
enough parking spaces for all the condo owners. It was a 26 story building that
had about 40 parking spaces, and about 150 bike spaces. I found condo prices
in Chicago to be competitive or even cheaper then Minneapolis. Our friend said,
"that is because high rise condos are not unique in Chicago", many of the
neighborhoods have them.
In the future I hope we can say the same for Minneapolis.
Ken Bradley
Kennny Neighborhood
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