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Council approves comprehensive-plan amendment to allow high-density housing at 901 North Highland Avenue
Summary
The council voted unanimously to amend the comprehensive plan to re-designate 10.2 acres near New Ulm High School for high-density residential use; staff said the change clears the way for a planned-unit-development application for multiunit housing.
The New Ulm City Council unanimously approved a petition to amend the city’s comprehensive plan to permit high-density residential development at a 10.2-acre site generally located at 901 North Highland Avenue.
City staff said the site is southeast of New Ulm High School and west of North Highland Avenue. Staff reported a planning-commission recommendation in favor of the amendment and described a proposed site plan that includes multiple three-story apartment buildings, detached garages, a pool, playground, dog park, parking areas, stormwater ponds and an extension of Tenth North Street. Staff said the site plan would be built in two phases and that the developer anticipates a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments.
Why it matters: staff and consultants cited the city’s housing study and public survey responses showing strong demand for rental housing; the amendment increases available land for higher-density housing in a community where staff said large multifamily projects occur infrequently.
Staff outlined key technical details: the property totals 10.2 acres; staff reported a project density figure of about 15.96 units per acre and noted that the comprehensive-plan definitions put high-density residential at 9–21 units per acre. Staff also said new buildings would be set back roughly 255 feet from adjoining residences on one side. The planning commission recommended approval subject to recording required documents with the Brown County Recorder and subject to subsequent PUD zoning approval.
A council member said traffic and circulation were discussed at the planning commission; the city engineer told the council he does not expect the additional traffic to require changes to North Highland Avenue. The council voted to approve the amendment by roll call: Councilor Christian — yes; Councilor Warmka — yes; Councilor Schmitz — yes; Councilor Mack — yes; President Becker — yes.
Next steps: staff said the PUD zoning application and specific site-plan approvals remain required before building permits can be issued.
