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Planning Commission approves Roosevelt High School CTE addition and associated variances
Summary
The commission approved variances and site plan review for a roughly 17,600‑square‑foot career and technical education addition at Roosevelt High School, including reduced setback, front‑yard parking reconfiguration and an additional wall sign; commissioners emphasized student benefits despite neighbor parking concerns; vote was 6–0.
The Planning Commission on Dec. 8 approved four land‑use applications to allow an addition and site changes at Roosevelt High School to host career and technical education (CTE) programs.
Staff described the proposal as a roughly 17,600‑square‑foot addition on the east side of the building and said the project requires a variance to reduce a corner side yard setback from 10 feet to 1 foot, allowance for parking between the building and street along 30th Avenue (an existing condition), an additional wall sign for the new entrance and site plan review for the addition. Staff said they support the land‑use applications and have been in contact with neighbors.
Project architect Chris Lopps (LSE Architects) told commissioners the CTE program is part of Minneapolis Public Schools' network of career‑tech centers; most students will be bused in for single classes rather than driving, and the program will provide training in welding, automotive, machining and similar trades. Lopps said the project design incorporates a seven‑foot landscape buffer on 30th Avenue and other measures to reduce headlights and improve frontage.
Neighbors acknowledged the program's value but expressed concerns about the loss of about 60 parking spaces, community engagement/notice and safety screening at the 30th Avenue entrance. The applicant said the site will add 8–9 bike racks (and the school already has over 100 racks) and will provide a secure, buzz‑in entry in line with Minneapolis Public Schools standards; staff said no traffic demand management plan was required because most CTE students arrive by bus.
Commissioners said the project aligns with the city's 2040 plan and climate policy discouraging excess parking and moved to approve. Commissioner Conley moved approval; the motion carried on a 6–0 roll call.
The commission approved the variances and site plan that enable the CTE program; commissioners asked applicants to continue community engagement and to adhere to school safety standards.
