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CDA hears schematic‑design and site updates for Yahara Crossing (Headquarters); retaining‑wall and power‑line relocation raise cost questions
Summary
Staff reported start of a phase‑one environmental study and soil borings for the Yahara Crossing project and presented schematic designs. Board members flagged a 10–12‑foot retaining wall and an ATC power‑line relocation study (estimated $10,000 and up to four months) as potential budget drivers; design will be refined for constructibility and cost control.
Staff updated the Community Development Authority on July 10 about the Yahara Crossing (Headquarters) development project, reporting environmental and geotechnical work and presenting schematic design renderings from Kaylor Slater.
Environmental and utilities: Staff said a phase‑one environmental study was performed on the three properties and that soil borings and test pits were completed; results were expected within roughly two weeks. On the north side of the property, American Transmission Company (ATC) operates a power line; ATC requires a relocation study estimated at $10,000 that could take up to four months, and the CDA would initially fund that study (it would be credited against a future relocation if relocation occurs).
Design review: The design team presented schematic renderings showing the residential entry at the corner plaza and commercial storefronts along Highway V. Board members discussed a substantial retaining wall on the Main Street side—roughly a 10–12‑foot wall in the current scheme—wrapped in stone in the renderings. Staff cautioned the board that material choices and retaining‑wall constructibility could materially affect the project budget and that some materials or features may be revised to meet cost targets.
Units and amenities: The schematic includes one‑ and two‑bedroom apartments, in‑unit laundry for every unit, two elevators, secured mail/parcel rooms on the first floor and communal amenity spaces (community dining, arts/crafts room, and outdoor courtyard with a grill/fire pit). Staff said the project is a tax‑credit development with rent caps (no market‑rate units) and that the schematic recently gained two additional units (moving from 60 to 62 units in the design).
Next steps: Staff will circulate the color renderings and updated floor plans to the board for comment and will work with the design team to refine materials and the retaining wall based on constructibility and budget projections. Fire review has been done at the preliminary level and final sign‑off will be required as plans are finalized.
