Chaska City Council reviews Beckman Coulter's 148,000 square foot building addition plan

During the recent Chaska City Council meeting held on April 21, 2025, significant discussions centered around a proposed expansion of the Beckman Coulter facility located at 316 Lake Hazeltine Drive. This meeting marked the second step in a three-step review process for the project, which aims to add a substantial two-story building addition totaling 148,000 square feet to the existing 60,000 square foot structure.

The proposed expansion is situated within a planned multi-use district and is designed to enhance both office and manufacturing capabilities. The addition will also include an expansion of the parking lot, increasing capacity to accommodate over 400 vehicles, with the potential for further expansion to meet future needs. The site currently features two access points on Lake Hazeltine Drive, which will be maintained to facilitate traffic flow, particularly for large trucks accessing loading docks.

City officials highlighted that the project adheres to zoning regulations, including building coverage and floor area ratio standards. The stormwater management plan includes both underground and above-ground systems to effectively manage runoff. Additionally, the landscaping plan meets city requirements, ensuring that the expansion integrates well with the surrounding environment.

The council is expected to vote on the preliminary site and building plan, with the resolution outlining specific conditions for approval. This expansion is seen as a vital step in supporting local economic growth and enhancing the industrial capacity of Chaska, particularly given the proximity to neighboring cities and transportation infrastructure.

As the council moves forward with this proposal, the implications for local employment and economic development are significant, reflecting a broader trend of growth in the region. The next steps will involve finalizing the approval process and addressing any remaining technical details before construction can commence.