Cottage Grove approves Lockridge zoning change and preliminary plat for 183-unit subdivision amid trail dispute

The Cottage Grove City Council on Feb. 19 adopted Ordinance No. 1093 to rezone about 72 acres from Ag2 (agriculture) to R4 (Transitional Residential) and approved a preliminary plat for the Lockridge subdivision that would create 99 single-family lots and 84 townhome units.

The council's actions followed a staff presentation and an extended public discussion about a planned recreation trail around Lake Robert. Senior planner Samantha Pierrot told the council the proposal covers three parcels totaling approximately 72 acres and that the developer, Pulte Homes of Minnesota, proposes a mix of single-family and townhome units under the R4 district. “The request encompasses 3 parcels totaling approximately 72 acres currently zoned Ag2 Agriculture, to change to R4 Transitional Residential District,” Pierrot said.

Why it matters: The approval advances a large residential project and obligates the city to future design and construction decisions for a loop trail around Lake Robert. Neighbors said portions of the planned trail would run within a few feet of existing rear property lines, and they urged the council to choose a route that preserves privacy, minimizes tree removal and avoids costly boardwalk construction.

Project details and developer commitments - Size and units: The plat covers about 72.18 acres and proposes 99 single-family lots and 84 townhome units…