Mapping Northwest Main - Planning Process

What is included in the planning process? 

Lino Lakes is committed to hearing from residents about their goals for the development of this area, especially those who live near or adjacent to the study area. To help facilitate these discussions, the City is already screening the land’s topography, wetland boundaries, floodplains, existing roads/trails, and easements to provide a high-level understanding of the area’s limitations and opportunities. 

Upcoming Events

Stakeholder Engagement

Over the next few months, the City will meet with several groups that are the most likely to be impacted by future development within the study area. These meetings will provide key stakeholders with opportunities to provide early feedback and identify wants and concerns for development in the area. These groups include: 

  • Residents that live near or adjacent to the study area. 

  • Leaders of Forest Lake and Centennial school districts.   

  • Local agencies, such as the Anoka County Highway Department and Rice Creek Watershed District.  

Resident Input

Public Open Houses will be held over the next few months so that all residents have a chance to provide input on development goals for the area. Residents are also welcome to attend and observe City Council and Advisory Board work sessions; however, public comment will not be taken at those meetings.

Residents can also submit questions and feedback online by visiting the Connect page.

Creation of Development Scenarios

The city will use stakeholder feedback, resident input, and the initial screening of the study area to develop development scenarios. Each scenario will provide a look at what development could look like generally. Each scenario will incorporate different levels of residential density, natural/park areas, and commercial space. 

Once residents have had a chance to provide feedback, what’s next?

After the initial planning process is complete and development scenarios are defined, the study area will be subject to an environmental review via an Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR). The AUAR will assess the likely impacts of development within the area in greater detail. During this time, residents will have the opportunity to review the assessments and provide formal public comments on their results.