Advisory panel endorses 450-unit Metcalfe redevelopment plan with park dedication and conditions

The Eagan Advisory Planning Commission voted 7-0 on Nov. 26 to recommend a rezoning and related approvals for redevelopment of the former Metcalfe Middle School site at 2250 Diffley Road. Planner Marie Dusiak summarized the proposal as a mixed residential project that would provide multifamily apartments (245 units), a 66-unit senior cooperative, 97 townhomes and 42 twin-home units (totaling about 450 units) on approximately 34.5 acres, and include a proposed public park and trail connections.

City staff noted the proposal is tied to a pending land-use amendment and an environmental assessment worksheet (EAW) process; the EAW was prepared and public comment accepted earlier in the month, and Met Council review remains ongoing. Staff highlighted deviations requested from city code for minimum lot area, parking-stall sizes, setbacks and building coverage that can be managed through Plan Development zoning if city officials accept them.

Paul Hoyer of Pulte Homes, the primary applicant, told the commission the plan evolved through multiple revisions over roughly three years and that the development mixes product types to meet market demand, including single-level twin homes targeted to older residents and townhomes attractive to first-time buyers. Hoyer addressed questions about tree preservation along the southern boundary, traffic and stormwater design, and the potential to keep or relocate memorial trees; he said records were limited and relocating large mature trees is often unsuccessful.

Public commenters spoke on both sides: nearby residents raised concerns about traffic, parking and tree removal, while representatives from housing advocacy groups and the school district — including Burnsville–Eagan–Savage District 191 Superintendent Teresa Battle — urged support, noting the district’s interest in responsibly disposing of a vacant property for community benefit.

Commission discussion balanced concerns about deviations and tree removal against the package of on- and off-site amenities, trail connections and the developer’s revisions to reduce unit counts from earlier concepts. Commissioners recommended approval of the rezoning, preliminary plan development (conditions 1–49) and preliminary subdivision (conditions listed in staff report) by unanimous votes. Staff said the EAW must be finalized and Met Council must act on the comprehensive guide amendment; staff estimated Met Council action and subsequent City Council review likely in January–February 2025.