City approves ambitious mixed-use development in Wasilla

In a recent government meeting, the Wasilla City Council reviewed a proposal for a new mixed-use development at 870 South Robert Street, encompassing approximately 2.23 acres. The project, which will house the restaurant Basil Ginger along with additional staff housing on the second floor, spans 11,558 square feet and requires a conditional use permit due to its size.

Deputy Administrator Nygaard presented the staff's recommendation to approve the project, contingent upon several conditions outlined in the Wasilla Municipal Code. The development aligns with the city’s future land use plan, which designates the area for commercial activity aimed at job creation and sales tax revenue.

The council noted that the city had sent out 30 notices to relevant parties, receiving two comments prior to the meeting. The proposal has been reviewed by the Mat-Su Borough Planning Officer and the Corps of Engineers, both of whom had no objections.

Key conditions for approval include obtaining a letter from the borough fire marshal to ensure compliance with building codes, securing necessary driveway permits from the Public Works Department, and submitting a landscape plan after the city council finalizes updates to the land development code. Additionally, the applicant must provide a drainage plan approved by the city’s Public Works director and establish a shared access agreement for the property.

The council emphasized the importance of infrastructure development in the area, noting that significant growth is anticipated over the next year. The meeting concluded with an invitation for the applicant to address the council, allowing for further discussion on the conditional use permit.