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VII.3. Artspace Development – Lot 800; ElverumMarch 4, 2020 Council Report 2020-016 ARTSPACE DEVELOPMENT – LOT 800 Proposed Action Staff recommends adoption of the following motion: Move to withdraw from consideration the concept for an Artspace development on municipal parking lot #800. With this motion, the concept will be officially withdrawn. Overview The City of Hopkins has been working to bring an Artspace development to Hopkins for several years. In 2017 the City and Artspace conducted a feasibility study and in 2018, a market study was completed that identified a strong market for artist live/work housing units, artist studio and community space. In 2019, the City identified an underutilized parking lot, Lot #800, in the municipal parking system. The property is zoned R-4, medium to high density residential. Through a $72,000 grant from the Metropolitan Council, the site was explored through a robust community engagement process utilizing creative engagement facilitated by Juxtaposition Arts. Following the community meeting on the results of the engagement, the Hopkins City Council has indicated a lack of support for moving forward with this site. Primary Issues to Consider While the Hopkins City Council has indicated support for an Artspace development in the City, an alternative location has not been identified at this time. Supporting Information • Concept plans for Artspace development on Lot 800 • Public Comments received to date • Artspace Hopkins Engagement Report ___________________________ Kersten Elverum Director of Planning & Development Financial Impact: $__0__________Budgeted: Y/N ____ Source: ________________ Related Documents (CIP, ERP, etc.): _______________________________________ Notes: _____________________ To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members Mike Mornson, City Manager From: Sarah Swingley, Director, Artspace Projects, Inc. Date: February 27, 2020 Subject: Artspace Projects, Lot 800 PURPOSE To discuss potential options for an Artspace development on Lot 800. INFORMATION Artspace was engaged by the City of Hopkins in 2017 to conduct a Preliminary Feasibility Study, and again in 2018 to conduct an Arts Market Study. While the initial potential sites studied did not materialize as viable development site options, the city later identified Lot 800, on the NW corner of 1st St. N. and 10th Ave. N., as a good candidate for an Artspace development. In 2019 the City partnered with Juxtaposition Arts, Artspace Projects, and BKV Architects to conduct an extensive community engagement process regarding development potential on Lot 800. Results of the engagement process were shared with City Council and in public meetings in January/February 2020. Artspace and BKV shared a 4-story 40-unit plan for the site that would include affordable residential units for artists, underground parking, lobby/amenity space, a public plaza, resident outdoor amenity space, a pocket park, and walk-up units. Many of these features were included as a direct result of the engagement process and in response to resident concerns regarding parking, seamless integration into the existing neighborhood, privacy, community space, and proximity to single family homes. Feedback from residents and the Council indicated concern over site density and building height. In response to this feedback, Artspace and BKV have prepared a 3- story option for the site that reduces the unit count to approximately 35, and also maintains most of the original features and amenities of the 4-story site plan. Artspace also received feedback that the concept plan, as presented in block form, made it difficult to visualize what the building could look like. In response, additional images are being provided that may make it easier to imagine how an Artspace building could add to the neighborhood in a very positive and aesthetically appropriate way. As the future of Lot 800 is being considered, Artspace would like to highlight some of the features that makes it an ideal development site for an Artspace project. • Proximity to Mainstreet retail and services. The site has a Walkscore of 88! • Transit Oriented Development – located within ½ mile of a future light rail stop and adjacent to a regional bike trail. Eligible for additional funding. • City-owned, underutilized parking lot. • Transitional site between commercial uses and single-family neighborhoods helps integrate uses. • Gateway into downtown Hopkins via the bike trail – opportunities to highlight identity and for connectivity to the Artery. • Proximity to established residential neighborhoods where artists and their families can engage with neighbors, liven and energize the corner, participate in city events, and contribute to the community. • Access to many arts organizations including the nearby Hopkins Center for the Arts • Consistent with the 2040 Comprehensive Plan – Future Land Use Downtown Center, TOD development, pedestrian orientated. • Opportunity to create much-needed affordable housing now, before LRT is complete and land values continue to rise. 2/15/2020 From:James Lucas To:Rick Brausen; Jason Gadd; Alan Beck; Kristi Halverson; Brian Hunke; Kersten Elverum; Jan Youngquist Subject:[EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Project Date:Sunday, February 16, 2020 12:03:16 PM Hello All, My wife Sara and I are artists and Hopkins community members, and we strongly support the Artspace project. By bringing artists to the community, not only are you bringing cultural contributions to the community, you are bringing jobs to the city. According to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis: The arts contributed $763.6 billion to the U.S. economy in 2015, 4.2 percent of GDP and counted 4.9 million workers, who earned $372 billion in total compensation. The arts added four times more to the U.S. economy than the agricultural sector and $200 billion more than transportation or warehousing. Among the fastest-growing industries within the ACPSA are web streaming and web publishing, performing arts presenting, design, and architectural services. Art-related printing in Wisconsin contributed $530.9 million to the state’s economy, four times greater than the national rate. Graphic design in Illinois contributed $589.5 million to GSP, 69 percent above the national rate. Industrial design in Michigan added $429 million, 9 times the national rate. And the list goes on. The point is, that Art is commonly misconceived as a hobby or not a "real job". As the evidence above shows, that could not be further from the truth. Artists can support community and business in so many facets: Again we strongly urge you to support this project. Best Regards, James Lucas Industrial Designer www.jameslucasdesign.net 651.246.8090 James Lucas Design, LLC From:Laura Krider To:Jan Youngquist Subject:[EXTERNAL] Fwd: Artspace, Lot 800 Date:Sunday, February 23, 2020 8:37:21 PM Dear Jan, My name is Laura Krider, and I am an arts administrator, a classical musician, and a graduate of Hopkins High School (class of 2001). I am writing to encourage you to support Artspace in Lot 800. I know that there’s currently an affordable housing crisis in Hopkins, and I can think of no better way to address this issue than to infuse Hopkins housing with artists. I’ve seen firsthand how affordable artist housing can not only make a community stronger, but bring in more economic activity. Artists are placemakers—people that engage deeply in their surroundings and add value to their neighborhoods through inquiry and activism. Beyond the increase in vibrancy and quality of life that artist housing would bring, the arts also contribute substantially to the economic wellbeing of any city. Hopkins is already so special (with Stages alone!)—how incredible would it be to have an affordable space for artists to make Hopkins the next thriving arts hub in the Twin Cities?! I understand that there are a handful of neighbors who don't want Artspace in their neighborhood. But, the City Council understands that the Affordable Housing crisis is only going to get worse, and with the light rail in progress, now is the perfect time to invest in housing before the crisis gets worse and all available land is taken up by high-end real estate developers. If the city is going to implement its 2040 Comprehensive Plan, it has to lead in moments like these to take steps to position Hopkins to be a place where all kinds of people can thrive. I truly appreciate your time, and would be happy to talk with you more about how artists make the best citizens. Much appreciated- Laura Krider -- singersmca.org composersforum.org she/her -- singersmca.org composersforum.org she/her From:Andrew Ulasich To:Jason Gadd; Jan Youngquist; Kersten Elverum; Brian Hunke; Kristi Halverson; Rick Brausen; Alan Beck Subject:[EXTERNAL] In Support of Artspace - for families like mine Date:Sunday, February 16, 2020 4:25:07 PM Dear Hopkins Mayor, City Council and Staff, I am writing to urge you to support the Artspace project as one important and creative intervention in the housing affordability crisis; it will add economic and socio-cultural value to the heart of Hopkins. I grew up on 7th Avenue North, walked to and from Alice Smith Elementary, went sledding at Hilltop and played soccer at Maetzold field. I biked to Snyder Drug for candy and to Hance Hardware for popcorn. It was an ideal place to grow up. Today I am unable to offer a similar experience to my son. This is not - as some forces in culture and politics would suggest - because of my personal failings, but because we live in a system that is making it harder for working families to thrive. In 1980, my parents bought their home on 7th Avenue North for $62,000. Recently that same house sold for over $400,000. Housing rates have risen dramatically, but wages have not kept pace. My dad worked in retail and my mom was an administrative assistant, yet could buy a home in which to raise three kids. Unlike their kids, they didn’t come of age at a time when decent-paying jobs required racking up tens of thousands of dollars of student debt. And even those degrees today don’t guarantee a job that pays a livable wage. I am one of millions of Americans saddled with student debt, working low-wage jobs, trying to get by. I work a full-time job at a non-profit, and my wife has worked 2-3 jobs for years until our son was born two years ago. She continues to sell her art in retail and photograph families’ important life moments, while raising a child. We have lived in my parents’ basement for over 2 years, just over the border from Hopkins in Minnetonka off Hwy 7 and Baker Road. I patronize Munkabeans and/or the Hopkins Dunn Bros many times a week; we frequent the Hopkins Library, participate in Hopkins’ Early Childhood and Family Education, and attend shows at Stages Theatre and the Hopkins Mann Theater. My life is already intertwined with Hopkins, but we cannot afford to live here. A project like Artspace in its proposed location in Hopkins would give us the opportunity to live in Hopkins again, to raise our son here, and to give him the kind of childhood I had the privilege of experiencing. We would have the opportunity to invest in a thriving community of artists who contribute to the vitality, the beauty and the culture of Hopkins - not only by having a beautiful building in what is currently a fairly depressed strip on 1st St. - but by all of the economic and cultural contributions we can offer to families and individuals in the neighborhood and across Hopkins. Things are going to change - we know that is inevitable. You have the opportunity to shape that change in a way that will bring renewed energy and life while intervening in the housing crisis before it gets worse. Artspace is a win-win-win for the city of Hopkins, the community, and a few dozen families like mine who could raise their children here. Kind regards, Andrew -- Andrew J.O. Ulasich From:Richard Van Sickle To:Jan Youngquist Subject:[EXTERNAL] Re: Hopkins Artspace Update--Planning Commission Meeting Canceled Date:Monday, February 24, 2020 11:39:10 AM Jan: Thank you for including Ann and me on the City’s actions re:: Lot 800 as a site for the Art- space project. I agree with this proposed action but am supportive of the project on a larger, better located site. The original recommended site on the earlier feasibility study suggesting use of the the School Board Property seems much better to me. The Lot800 site would be more appropriately offered to a developer for market rate Senior Garden Condos . The incentive is , of course, the property ( for the developer) but a market rate tax flow to the city.. and more appropriate property neighbors for their 11th Avenue Neighbors to the West. Exciting times for Hopkins! Respectfully, Richard VanSickle Sent from my iPhone On Feb 24, 2020, at 10:53 AM, Jan Youngquist <jyoungquist@hopkinsmn.com> wrote: Hello, Thanks for your interest in the Hopkins Artspace project. The City of Hopkins and Artspace have been evaluating the feasibility of developing affordable live-work artist housing on Lot 800, a City-owned parking lot in Hopkins. We worked with Juxtaposition Arts, who led a community engagement process in November-December. At the February 11 City Council work session, the results of the community engagement and a concept plan for the site that was developed based on the engagement were shared. The community engagement report and concept plan can be found here. At the meeting, staff indicated that the concept plan would be discussed at the Planning Commission meeting on February 24 (tonight). Please note that tonight’s Planning Commission meeting has been canceled. The City Council will be considering an action to officially withdraw Lot 800 from consideration for an Artspace development at their meeting on March 4. We will send out an update after that meeting. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and opinions by attending the open houses and workshops and/or completing the Artspace market survey. We truly appreciate your feedback. Best regards, Jan Youngquist, AICP l Community Development Coordinator l City of Hopkins 1010 1st Street S. I Hopkins, MN 55343 I 952-548-6343 <image001.jpg> From:lauren rewers To:Jason Gadd; Alan Beck; Rick Brausen; Kristi Halverson; Brian Hunke; Kersten Elverum; Jan Youngquist Subject:[EXTERNAL] Support for new housing project Date:Sunday, February 16, 2020 11:00:17 AM Hello, I am a local community member that is very invested in the new ArtSpace project proposed for downtown Hopkins and I think this project has potential to greatly contribute to the cultural, educational, and affordable-housing stock in our community. I ask that you take leadership to see it to completion. Thank you, Lauren Rewers From:Kristina Wright Subject:[EXTERNAL] To the Hopkins City Council and Community Development Staff Date:Friday, February 14, 2020 2:53:12 PM Hello, I would like to share my enthusiastic support for the ArtSpace project in Hopkins: This project has the potential to greatly contribute to the cultural, educational, and affordable-housing stock in our community. I, along with many others, strongly support the project. Specifically, the location of the project is ideal. Despite objections from some of the most proximate neighbors, the site is critical for building a local arts district, supporting Mainstreet, and extending other arts-based activity in town (e.g., Hopkins Center for the Arts/Stages Theatre). Make the buildings aesthetically compelling, and this project will have strongly impacted the good of the neighborhood (especially with a strong parking plan to accompany it). ArtSpace is a nationally-known organization that not only does high caliber work, it also improves the experience and reputation of the communities where they do their work. Artist housing is worker housing. Artists make deeply important cultural, economic, and aesthetic investments to our local economy and community identity that are critical for Hopkins. I strongly support the proposed ArtSpace project and ask that you would take leadership to see it through completion. -- Kristina Wright - Director of Engagement 4828 W 35th St. Minneapolis, MN 55416 | sixspeed.com D: 612-746-3058 | C: 952-652-4358 | O: 952-767-3464 CONFIDENTIAL: The information contained in this email communication is confidential information intended only for the use of the addressee. Unauthorized use, disclosure or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. If you havereceived this communication in error, please notify us immediately by return email and destroy all copies of this communication, including all attachments. From:mulasich@gmail.com To:Jason Gadd; Alan Beck; Rick Brausen; Kristi Halverson; Brian Hunke; Kersten Elverum; Jan Youngquist Subject:[EXTERNAL] YES TO ARTSPACE project / opinion Date:Monday, February 24, 2020 7:36:28 PM Jason Gadd Alan Beck Rick Brausen Kristi Halversen Brian Hunke Kersten Elverum Jan Youngquist I am writing regarding the Artspace project that was proposed in Hopkins at 1st and 10th. I do not live in Hopkins right now, but I lived in Hopkins for 21 years, on 7th Avenue North. For the last 19 years I have lived nearby in Minnetonka, off of 7th and Baker. My husband and I often go into Hopkins to shop, eat, go to the movies, and to the dentist. We love Hopkins and thought that if we ever downsize, maybe we’d move back to Mainstreet. I’ve been impressed with the way they have revitalized Mainstreet in the 40 years since we’ve been living in this area. For the last 40 years, whenever I drive down 1st Street, I’ve thought how that street has NEVER changed. In 40 years! Yes, it feels like “home” to me, but that street has always looked sad and depressed, so I was so happy when I heard that the City was thinking of doing something to improve that area. I think the Center for the Arts is one of the jewels of Hopkins, and this project could bring more opportunities and value for the whole community, not just the people who would live there. This project could be an extension of the revitalization that has gone on over on Mainstreet. I know the City really wants to make it beautiful – with green space, and great architecture and community shared space. I am afraid that if this doesn’t happen now, it will not happen in any foreseeable future. Affordable housing is the future – you have a chance to do something really valuable and beautiful for your city. Maybe this email is too late, and the outcome has been decided. If not - thanks for listening. Mary Ulasich 4128 Pepperwood Trail Minnetonka, MN 55305 February 5, 2020 Dear Mayor Gadd and Members of the Hopkins City Council: It is my pleasure to write in support of the proposed Artspace project on Lot 800, located at 10th Avenue N and 1st Street N. I apologize for not being able to attend the February 11, 2020 meeting in person. However, after reviewing the October 2017 feasibility report, learning more about the Artspace mission, its successful history, and prayerfully considering the opportunity for the city of Hopkins, I am grateful to offer my recommendation for the project. One of the most fulfilling parts of serving Hopkins is the diversity of residents. I believe that increasing the diverse population by creating affordable housing for artists will continue to strengthen our community. Not only does it align with the new 8th street “artery” it fits well with the Hopkins Center for Performing Arts and the city goal of creating a welcoming hometown for all. I know that there will always be opposition to any development that is considered affordable housing. You know more than most all the arguments against such a new development. As you might imagine I feel strongly that Hopkins future is best served by a diversity of housing that creates a model city where what holds us together is a love of our community. Where our diversity is a sign and symbol of our strength. I believe any future thriving city will be one that reflects a diversity of ethnic, economic, political and religious populations all connected by their enjoyment of one another and their shared hometown. I believe Hopkins is uniquely situated to be such a vibrant city. This project is another step in that hope-filled direction. Thank you for your gift of time, energy and wisdom as leaders of the City of Hopkins. I am grateful for each of you and your willingness to lead in these conflicted times. You are all in my prayers as you contemplate these decisions and the future of the great city of Hopkins. Thank you! Pastor Scott From:Brian Hunke To:Kersten Elverum; Jan Youngquist Cc:Mike Mornson Subject:Fw: [EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Question Date:Tuesday, February 11, 2020 8:16:39 AM Kersten and Jan, Received the email below last night in support of Artspace. Thought you might like to know... See you tonight. Brian From: Andrew Wright <wriand@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, February 10, 2020 3:10 PM To: Brian Hunke <bhunke@HOPKINSmn.com> Cc: Andrew Ulasich <andrew.ulasich@gmail.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Question Dear Brian, Hello! I hope you're well. Andrew Wright here, 240 9th Ave. N. I feel baseball right around the corner--at least that's what my kids tell me. Looking forward to the season sometime soon here! :) :) Official business though: I wanted to write you to follow-up on a conversation regarding ArtSpace that we had at the previous public forum. I am not able to make it tomorrow night, and I just wanted to note a few points that are important for our city from my point of view. This project has potential to greatly contribute to the cultural, educational, and affordable-housing stock in our community that is values-based, creative, and in line with our strategic plan. I, along with many others, strongly support the project. Specifically, the location of the project is ideal. Despite objections from some of the most proximate neighbors, the site is critical for building a local arts district, supporting Mainstreet, and extending other arts-based activity in town (e.g., Hopkins Center for the Arts/Stages Theatre). Make the buildings aesthetically compelling, and this project will have strongly impacted the good of the neighborhood (especially with a strong parking plan to accompany it). ArtSpace is a nationally-known organization that not only does high caliber work, it also improves the experience and reputation of the communities where they do their work. Artist housing is worker housing. I've heard from a number of folks in this process, privately, that artists "need to get a real job" and they'd be able to afford housing. That's plain wrong. Artists make deeply important cultural, economic, and aesthetic investments to our local economy and community identity that are critical for us becoming the city we can to be. Finally, I am working with a community-member/friend of mine to try to build support for the project. We are wondering: would you be available at all to meet sometime and just talk about what the council might be looking for to support the project? We're both available during the days this and next week. Otherwise, we are hit or miss in the evenings. Thank you for your leadership and support for Artspace. I hope we can connect. Talk soon, Andrew Wright Brian Hunke | Council Member | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 | www.hopkinsmn.com Like the City on Facebook Visit Think Hopkins From:Mike Mornson To:Kersten Elverum; Jan Youngquist Subject:FW: [EXTERNAL] Artspace Date:Tuesday, February 25, 2020 1:38:01 PM Attachments:image001.jpg image002.jpg image003.jpg Mike Mornson | City Manager | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 952-548-6301 | 612-605-2330 Fax www.hopkinsmn.com Like the City on Facebook Visit Think Hopkins From: Kristi Halverson Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 1:35 PM To: Mike Mornson <mmornson@HOPKINSmn.com> Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL] Artspace Sent from my iPad Begin forwarded message: From: william Anderson <williamanderson404@gmail.com> Date: February 25, 2020 at 1:26:23 PM CST To: Rick Brausen <rbrausen@HOPKINSmn.com>, Jason Gadd <jgadd@HOPKINSmn.com>, Kristi Halverson <khalverson@HOPKINSmn.com>, Brian Hunke <bhunke@HOPKINSmn.com>, "akuznia@hopkinsmn.com" <akuznia@hopkinsmn.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Artspace Dear Mayor and Council, Thank you in advance for not moving forward with Artspace. There are far better options for a property such as that. Until such time parking is addressed, it serves the public well. I hope the council continues to look for ways to get a property owner who can get the most out of the property and maximize the tax revenue for it. Hopkins is becoming more desirable and can attract tax paying property owners without offering incentives or offering it to low income, low tax base development. Thank you, William Anderson 102 Wayside Road West Kristi Halverson | Council Member | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 | 952-935-3865 www.hopkinsmn.com Like the City on Facebook Visit Think Hopkins From:Mike Mornson To:Kersten Elverum; Jan Youngquist Subject:FW: [EXTERNAL] Re: [EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Project Date:Tuesday, February 25, 2020 1:37:41 PM Attachments:image001.jpg image002.jpg image003.jpg image004.jpg image005.jpg Mike Mornson | City Manager | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 952-548-6301 | 612-605-2330 Fax www.hopkinsmn.com Like the City on Facebook Visit Think Hopkins From: Alan Beck Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 1:35 PM To: Mike Mornson <mmornson@HOPKINSmn.com> Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Re: [EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Project City of Hopkins Alan Beck | Council Member | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 612-361-9955 | 952-935-1834 Fax www.hopkinsmn.com From: Bette Fenton <bfenton@usinternet.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 1:28 PM To: Alan Beck <abeck@hopkinsmn.com> Cc: Curt Fenton <cfenton@usinternet.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: [EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Project Alan – I have read the newspaper account. That is why I am writing you. You are supporting the concept in a different location. I am asking you to STOP spending Hopkins’ taxpayers money for projects that don’t contribute to the tax base. Enough is enough. Get the budget under control and reduced to reasonable levels. Get all these other loser projects you have approved off the books or to a state where they are contributing and not a burden on taxpayers. Get our taxes in line with other surrounding communities. Listen to us taxpayers. Not to a nonprofit in Minneapolis that wants Hopkins taxpayers to foot the bill. That happened with the low income housing on the church property. People outside of Hopkins residents lobbying the City Council to have us taxpayers fund their pet project. STOP. Enough is enough. Bette Fenton bfenton@usinternet.com 612-597-0213 From: Alan Beck <abeck@hopkinsmn.com> Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 1:21 PM To: Bette Fenton <bfenton@usinternet.com> Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Project Hello – Thank you for your comments! I’ve attached an article form the Sun Sailor – The title is: Proposed Artspace location lacks Hopkins Council support, pulled from agenda https://www.hometownsource.com/sun_sailor/community/hopkins/proposed-artspace- location-lacks-hopkins-council-support-pulled-from-agenda/article_7f731bc8-574a-11ea- a437-afa78ecbf8a3.html City of Hopkins Alan Beck | Council Member | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 612-361-9955 | 952-935-1834 Fax www.hopkinsmn.com From: Bette Fenton <bfenton@usinternet.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2020 1:17 PM To: jgadd@hopkinsmm.com; Alan Beck <abeck@hopkinsmn.com>; rbrausen@hopkimsmm.com; khalverson@hopkimnsmm.com; bhunke@hopkinsmmn.com Cc: Curt Fenton <cfenton@usinternet.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL] ArtSpace Project On behalf of my husband, Curtis Fenton, and I, we are registering our concern over the possible approval of the ArtSpace project. We have spoken with you at a number of City Council meetings and registered our concerns over the burgeoning debt of the City, the debacle of the parking ramp with Doran and the hideous level of taxes we pay in Hopkins. Stop! Do not burden us further with development projects that do not contribute to the tax base. Stop! Do not add more tax burden to Hopkins taxpayers. Stop! You have to start realizing that the faulty decisions you are making will burden us for years and years to come. Thank you for listening. We live at 426 Hollyhock Lane, Hopkins, MN 55343 Bette Fenton bfenton@usinternet.com 612-597-0213 Alan Beck | Council Member | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 | www.hopkinsmn.com Like the City on Facebook Visit Think Hopkins Alan Beck | Council Member | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 | www.hopkinsmn.com Like the City on Facebook Visit Think Hopkins February 8, 2020 To the Mayor and City Council of Hopkins: While attending a planning session in December, a Hopkins city planner said she was worried about the vitality of Hopkins. She proposed turning Hopkins into a community for artists to maintain the vitality by developing an affordable live/work housing artists. We love artists, especially the Hopkins Center for the Arts, but the proposal includes a 40 unit affordable use building on a very small lot abutting a nice neighborhood. Attending this meeting there were about a dozen artists present none of which intend to live on this property. It seems this proposal is a 40 unit affordable housing building under the guise of a building for artists! And what is the definition of an artist…anyone with a pencil and crayon? We understand Hopkins has their quota of affordable housing. With the new addition of this 40 unit building and the Shady Oak 75 unit building that is proposed on the Hopkins and Minnetonka border, this make Hopkins the affordable housing community rather than the artists community. With the upcoming Light Rail, this should make Hopkins a Mecca for clients coming all over the state. We think Hopkins has a great vitality with a nice mix of commercial, entertainment, professional, and great neighborhoods. The proposed 40 unit building will be situated on a small parking lot that now has 25 to 35 cars daily. Where will all those cars go? Hopkins keeps its vitality by having lots of free parking. Where will the 40 unit building find enough parking for their tenants and visitors? The neighborhood needs on street parking also, which will be taken from our current tax payers. We hope you are still considering the problems that involve our neighborhood. Christy Smith Robert Gerlicher 121 10th Ave N Hopkins From:Kersten Elverum To:Jan Youngquist Subject:FW: [EXTERNAL] Approve Artspace at the Lot 800 site Date:Thursday, February 27, 2020 8:32:27 AM From: Mike Mornson Sent: Monday, February 24, 2020 10:05 AM To: Kersten Elverum <kelverum@hopkinsmn.com> Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL] Approve Artspace at the Lot 800 site Sent from my iPad Begin forwarded message: From: Kristi Halverson <khalverson@HOPKINSmn.com> Date: February 24, 2020 at 9:17:30 AM CST To: Mike Mornson <mmornson@HOPKINSmn.com> Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL] Approve Artspace at the Lot 800 site Sent from my iPad Begin forwarded message: From: Andrew Wright <wriand@gmail.com> Date: February 24, 2020 at 8:55:17 AM CST To: Rick Brausen <rbrausen@HOPKINSmn.com>, Alan Beck <abeck@hopkinsmn.com>, Kristi Halverson <khalverson@HOPKINSmn.com>, Brian Hunke <bhunke@HOPKINSmn.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Approve Artspace at the Lot 800 site Dear City Council: Greetings on this bright and increasingly warm Monday morning! Andrew Wright here, resident on 9th Ave. N. I am writing to remind you about what is at stake in these negotiations regarding Artspace @ Lot 800 by sharing with you a bit of what I've heard from the community over the last week. I have spoken many people from our community over the last week: residents on the Avenues, Interlachen Park, and the Presidents neighborhoods, and the wider-Hopkins area, Artspace, residents in Hopkins concerned about fiscal responsibility, school district staff, and leaders of local faith-communities. It is near consensus that Lot 800 is the only realistically viable and also is the preferable location for Artspace across the community. Here are some of points to consider: · There is no realistic alternative. I take no pleasure to say that we are most likely looking at Lot 800 or no Artspace situation. Here are the alternatives that I've heard and why they are not viable: o Lot near LTD: taking away needed parking that is far more necessary for business district; major resistance from local businesses o Lot South of Costa Rica Ballroom: away needed parking that is far more necessary for business district; major resistance from local businesses o Spot near Katherine Curren: (1) less placemaking near arts institutions, and more importantly, (2) the school district will not give up or sell land to make that happen. o Sinclair site: is the city really wanting to make a multi- million dollar investment here after just raising the tax levy and the ruckus that followed? Not a good use of resources; not politically or fiscally viable. o A site near the future Shady Oak Station: again, (1) a placemaking issue; (2) very spendy land; (3) will Artspace even be willing to wait for that all to develop over the next 3-5 years for it to be viable? Not likely. o Near Blake Road: (1) placemaking issue; (2) high interest from developers/spendy land; (3) loss of downtown economic vitality. · Lot 800 is an excellent place to benefit both the Central Business District and Residents of the Avenues. Many Avenues residents want Artspace in the neighborhood because it will directly benefit us. It is a natural point of transition between the Central Business District and more single-family residential areas, enabling both the benefits of proximity and a neighborhood. Both the Avenues residents and Artspace residents will benefit for this geographical organization. · This will greatly benefit the downtown area and community broadly. Research carried out by Artspace and by an independent consulting firm both confirm precisely how Artspace projects contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of local community--both at a broader city level, and at a hyper-local neighborhood level. It creates sense of place and community belonging that would be so important--these values are core values for our community-planning (2040 Comprehensive Plan) that has been made with widespread community input over the last few years and represents the will of the community broadly. Further, this is especially important for that small 1-2 block area of downtown which feels like a blighted/parking lot-filled corridor. · The costs of affordable housing will be an increasing by the day; so will the need in our community. And right now--this particular project--is a tangible and near-immediate opportunity to do it. In other words, there will be no cheaper way to bring affordable housing to the city of Hopkins than this right now. This can serve teachers, low-pay but skilled workers, young families, and--people have not noted this I don't think--seniors! We want affordable housing for seniors? This could be one piece of that puzzle! · Finally, there is a sense among many people right now that the council is reacting to a few loud voices that have the power to influence the council towards their own limited interest. That's not a good sentiment for the community to share. It is really, really important that you make decisions that will benefit all of your constituents--not just a few. At this time, without a viable alternative, there is only one choice to make that honors the needs of this community broadly: Approval of Lot 800 for Artspace. It is my hope and expectation that the city council will be willing to take leadership courageously to do what is best for our community on this matter. I urge you to do the right thing for all of Hopkins--not just a few--and promptly approve Artspace at the Lot 800 site. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to support you in making this decision. Blessings and peace, Andrew C. Wright 240 9th Ave. N. Kristi Halverson | Council Member | City of Hopkins 1010 1st St S | Hopkins, MN 55343 | 952-935-3865 www.hopkinsmn.com Like the City on Facebook Visit Think Hopkins From:Kersten Elverum To:Jan Youngquist Subject:FW: [EXTERNAL] Artspace Date:Thursday, February 27, 2020 8:32:47 AM From: Amy Domeier Sent: Sunday, February 23, 2020 8:27 AM To: Mike Mornson <mmornson@HOPKINSmn.com>; Kersten Elverum <kelverum@hopkinsmn.com> Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL] Artspace Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Chrystie Wagner <chrystie@stashandcodesign.com> Date: February 22, 2020 at 11:13:55 PM CST To: adomeier@hopkinsmn.com Subject: [EXTERNAL] Artspace Hi Amy, Please pass along the following email to the appropriate party. I am emailing regarding my support of Artspace in downtown hopkins. We are residents of Hopkins in the Sherwood Forest neighborhood. We have loved Hopkins the past 18 years because is it is a down to earth place to life yet offers so much diversity and richness in culture and art. We love that this richness has been evidently growing over the years and would love to continue to see this growth by way of Artspace as we think that it will enhance our wonderful city in so many ways for years to come. Our family is involved in the arts in many ways such as interior design, graphic/web design, dance, theater, music, etc. The world of art is close to our heart and have seen how beneficial these types of building have been to enhance area such as the edges of Minneapolis and St. Paul. We believe it can benefit Hopkins is all of the same wonderful ways these types of buildings have in other cities. We are in full support and hope that the city considers approving this wonderful project. Kindly, Chrystie Wagner, CID | Founder + Designer + Sales chrystie@stashandcodesign | 612.875.3308 From:Kersten Elverum To:Jan Youngquist Subject:FW: [EXTERNAL] Support for Artspace at Lot 800 Date:Thursday, February 27, 2020 8:32:10 AM From: Mike Mornson Sent: Monday, February 24, 2020 10:11 AM To: Kersten Elverum <kelverum@hopkinsmn.com> Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL] Support for Artspace at Lot 800 Sent from my iPad Begin forwarded message: From: Jen Bouchard <jtwbouchard@gmail.com> Date: February 23, 2020 at 9:19:54 PM CST To: Alan Beck <abeck@hopkinsmn.com>, Rick Brausen <rbrausen@HOPKINSmn.com>, Jason Gadd <jgadd@HOPKINSmn.com>, Brian Hunke <bhunke@HOPKINSmn.com>, Kristi Halverson <khalverson@HOPKINSmn.com>, Mike Mornson <mmornson@HOPKINSmn.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Artspace at Lot 800 Dear Mayor Gadd, Hopkins City Council Members, and City ManagerMornson - I’m writing to add my voice to the chorus expressing support for Artspace atLot 800. I know that the City (staff and Council) has been working hard tohear proposals and engage the community about this project - thank you!Now it’s time to get this development to the finish line. The City of Hopkins has a reputation for valuing the arts, as evidenced by ourvibrant Hopkins Center for the Arts, the Artery, and myriad arts-relatedbusinesses in Hopkins. The logical next step for Hopkins is embracingaffordable housing for artists, and Artspace has proven itself to be aninnovative and reputable partner. Building the Artspace development on Lot800 makes sense for a variety of reasons: It is close to the new light rail, thebike trail, downtown Hopkins, and the HCA (which makes it an accessibleand walkable location that reduces the need for more cars). To myknowledge, there is no other location in Hopkins that City staff has identifiedas feasible for this development. That means if we don’t build it here, ourcommunity will lose out on an incredible opportunity. When I reached out to you regarding Vista 44 in the fall, I expressed theurgent need for affordable housing in our community to support our HopkinsSchools families. In discussions regarding Artspace, I have talked with avariety of Hopkins Schools graduates who are artists and are not able toafford to live in the City where they grew up and attended school. It would besuch an asset to our community to have these people living here again,supporting local businesses, and sending their kids to Hopkins PublicSchools. For all the reasons above, I fully support the Council in moving forward withthe Artspace development at Lot 800. Thank you for all the work you do to make Hopkins a place where everyonecan thrive. In community, Jen Bouchard(952) 334-7313 City of Hopkins Artspace Engagement and Concept Plan Share-Back Session Comments/Questions Name: Fawzia Khan Question or Comment: After listening to everybody at the planning meeting, here are my conclusions. The idea of an Artspace housing project is a good one. Most people support it. The biggest concern is the location and the impact it may have on the single household houses around. I cannot speak completely to those concerns as I don’t live in that neighborhood. 1. I have never had a problem parking in Hopkins. 2. I understand not wanting to become like Uptown, but high density in housing is unavoidable in this day and age. It is unfortunate the lot is as small as it is, but I don’t think it is unfeasible. 3. I wouldn’t want to lose the project. If there is any chance for another location, I would go for it as long as it is within walking distance of downtown and light rail. I personally don’t have a problem with Lot 800 and current proposal but again I don’t live in the neighborhood. There is always demand for more gallery space in town. Name: Kara Collins Question or Comment: One of the main concerns seems to be that the building at 4 stories is too tall, yet the only way to achieve this project in this space is to fully ignore that concern. This leads me to believe that this is the wrong spot for this project – the surrounding community overwhelmingly does not want a building that tall, so I’m asking the Council to listen to us – it is a small town feel in the Avenues. This changes that. It should be pointed out that even the businesses at the south and east sides are 1 story. Homes are either 1 or 2 stories. Four stories does not fit into this scheme. Thanks for listening and everyone’s work. Questions for Artspace: Similar projects with under an acre, etc – how dense/what are the surrounding neighborhoods like? How can the surrounding community help support your project on this space if it is only 2 stories? Are there things we can do to help and end up with a project everyone (mostly) is happy with? Name: Liz Reynolds Question or Comment: This is 1 of 4 AH (Affordable Housing) projects within a mile. Behind the Church on Mainstreet, SLP Prince of Peace Church, Shady Oak in Minnetonka, then this one (Artspace). That seems like a lot. Land owned by Luther may be a better option? Can Artspace buy those lots? Closer to other multi-family buildings. The City lost money on underground parking at the Moline. Can we really take this risk on another project? CITY OF HOPKINS Frequently Asked Questions—Artspace Project Artspace What is an Artspace development? Artspace is a nonprofit arts organization specializing in creating, owning, and operating affordable spaces for artists and creative businesses. These spaces include live/work apartments for artists and their families, working artist studios, arts centers, commercial space for arts-friendly businesses, and other projects. In Hopkins, an Artspace development would include live/work apartments, gallery space and possibly community space. For additional questions about Artspace, please visit https://www.artspace.org/what-we-do. Why is the City of Hopkins interested in an Artspace project? The City of Hopkins has been focused on using art and creative expression to build community for the past two decades. It began with the construction of the Hopkins Center for the Arts, which serves as the home for Stages Theatre, an art gallery, classrooms, community rooms and music and dance offerings. It grew to include Artstreet, an annual installation of public art, on loan from local and national artists. Recently, art was incorporated into the 8th Avenue Artery as a way to tell the unique story of Hopkins for current and future visitors who may come to Hopkins on the Green Line. This infusion of art has happened at the same time that creative businesses are flourishing. Hopkins is home to four dance organizations, a tattoo studio, music stores and many other creative and experiential enterprises. Hopkins believes that creative people and the lifting of culture is and will be one of the City’s greatest assets. It will be our competitive advantage and help to make the City resilient and sustainable through all the changes and challenges that lie ahead. To truly become a creative community that supports and values art and artists, artists need to be able to live in the community. Affordability is quickly leaving the Hopkins market and without projects that are built around a model of affordability, Hopkins will not be able to retain or attract emerging artists and creatives. In an effort to realize our goals, the City of Hopkins invited Artspace to pursue a project in our Downtown. Through early feasibility and market analysis, it has been concluded that Hopkins is an excellent candidate for an Artspace development of approximately 40 units. February 27, 2020 February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 2 Artist Housing Value of an affordable artist live/work housing development: Artists that qualify for affordable rents – would they bring that much money into the City? The goal of having an affordable place in our community for creative people to live and work, allowing them to focus on their artform, has everything to do with the value creative people bring to a community. Creative people often see things differently and therefore can help lead to unique solutions. Artists will support our existing creative businesses as well as add to the strength of the Hopkins Center for the Arts. It has nothing to do with how much money they have or don’t have. That being said, creative people need groceries, work other jobs, have children and give back to the community, just like everyone else. The development itself would bring money into the community by paying property taxes on a site that is currently tax exempt. Artspace has studied the impact of their projects on communities and has tangible evidence to show that where their projects are located, the surrounding community thrive. Why should artists get lower rent? Artists can help create economic opportunity and make communities more livable, but in some cases they are displaced by the very processes they set in motion. Artspace helps artists share in the value they create by ensuring that our properties remain permanently affordable to artists and cultural organizations, even as neighborhoods evolve. Artspace projects benefit communities by animating underutilized spaces and bringing them back on the tax rolls, fostering the safety and livability of neighborhoods without evidence of gentrification-led displacement, anchoring arts districts and expanding public access to the arts, and attracting additional artists, arts businesses, organizations and supporting non-arts businesses to the area. Artspace has championed the once-radical idea that both artists living with financial hardship, and chronically underfunded arts organizations, can leverage fundamental social change. What is the definition of an artist…anyone with a pencil and crayon? Artspace defines the term “artist” broadly to encompass a wide variety of creative pursuits. This does not mean that the art the artist creates generates any or all of the artist’s source of income. An artist is defined as: • A person who works in or is skilled in any of the fine arts, including but not limited to painting, drawing, sculpture, book art, mixed-media and print-making. • A person who creates imaginative works of aesthetic value, including but not limited to film, video, digital media works, literature, costume design, photography, architecture and music composition. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 3 • A person who creates functional art, including but not limited to jewelry, rugs, decorative screens and grates, furniture, pottery, toys and quilts. • A performer, including but not limited to singers, musicians, dancers, actors and performance artists. • A person involved in all culturally significant practices, including a culture bearer or practitioner, designer, technician, tattoo artist, hairdresser, chef/culinary artist, craftsperson, journalist, teacher or administrator who is dedicated to using their expertise within the community to support, promote, present, and/or teach and propagate their art form through events, activities, performances and classes. Does Artspace select tenants? An Artist Interview Committee meets all applicants. The committee looks for evidence that applicants are seriously committed to their art and that they will be mindful and positive contributors to the building and community. The application and qualification process does not include judgment of quality of work. Artists can sometimes be noisy, will noise be an issue? The zoning code has performance standards related to noise which require any use to be in compliance with and regulated by the standards of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Artistic processes that are extremely noisy, do not comply with local zoning regulations or involve hazardous materials are typically not allowed to be practiced on the premises. What will the cost be to an artist? In setting rents, Artspace adheres to affordable housing guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HUD uses a formula based on the local area median income (AMI), the degree of affordability of any given unit (expressed as a percentage of the AMI), the number of bedrooms in the unit, and the number of people in the household. While rents vary by community, the goal is to provide affordable space that is adequate for artists both to live and to work in their units. Artspace buildings provide live/work spaces that are larger than other affordable spaces and usually less expensive than other comparable spaces. As part of its sustainability model, Artspace buildings remain affordable in perpetuity. What will the cost be to providing artist tools? Artspace does not provide artist tools. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 4 Site Selection Why is the City considering an Artspace development on Lot 800? There are several factors that make Lot 800 a good candidate for an Artspace development including: • The site is underutilized. The site is currently used as a free, unrestricted public parking lot. It has a total of 85 parking spaces but a week of counts in Spring 2019 showed an average daily use of 17 parking stalls. The lot is currently being used as a temporary park and ride for Metro Transit while Southwest Light Rail is under construction, so the car so the cars there today are primarily from people parking there to take the bus. • The site does not produce any revenue for the City. The property does not generate property taxes or permit income today. An Artspace project provides the ability to create significant taxable-value on an underutilized, tax-exempt site. • The site is City-owned, so there would be no displacement of existing businesses or residents. • The location is in close proximity to downtown, the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, and arts-related activities and businesses downtown including the Hopkins Center for the Arts and Stages Theatre. The development will allow people to live in close proximity to jobs in the creative economy. • The site is within the 10-minute walkshed of the Downtown Hopkins LRT Station so it will support transit ridership, meets the Metropolitan Council density requirements, and is eligible for transit oriented development grant programs. • The site is zoned as R-4, Medium Density Multi-family Housing. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 5 What happened to the homes that were on the site—why were they torn down? There were two houses on the site that were removed in the early 1970s. Records show that the houses were removed from the property rather than demolished in place. A review of historic aerial photography shows that the site was paved for a parking lot sometime between 1978 and 1984. What other properties were considered? Why wasn’t Katherine Curren site considered? Or the Old Sinclair site? What was the process for eliminating other properties? First, the City has to look at either property we own or properties where there is a willing seller. We do not have the ability to use eminent domain (condemnation) for economic development purposes under State law. Several sites were identified but are not available or not feasible. The Katherine Curren site is owned by the Hopkins School District. They are undertaking a comprehensive evaluation to determine the future needs of all of their facilities and have not indicated an interest in selling all or a portion of the site at this time. The former Sinclair gas station site on Mainstreet is being held for redevelopment, to be combined with the Hopkins Park Plaza when the owners decide to sell. On its own, it is too small for an Artspace development. In addition to site size and availability, other criteria that has been applied to the search includes: within ½ mile radius of LRT, close proximity to Mainstreet and the Hopkins Center for the Arts, zoning, and site conditions. City staff looked at all parking lots in our downtown system and concluded Lot 800 was the one that was most viable due to the location, lack of revenue and its low use. How did this site get chosen? This site, Lot 800, was chosen because it is a viable location that has been identified to date. Other possibilities are either unavailable because they are privately-held and/or not on the market for sale, or they are publically-held but too small or are well-utilized for public parking today. Preliminary Feasibility Report conducted by Artspace, at the request of the City, has Katherine Curren as the top site for this project. Why not this location? The Feasibility Report did not rank possible sites. Rather, it identified three sites that have potential for an Artspace development: Katherine Curren, the “Raspberry Site” (parking lot #700 on 8th Avenue across from the raspberry sculpture) and the Downtown Park parking lot #300. The report stated that these sites should be prioritized as conversations progress, but also indicated that this recommendation was based on currently available information and that February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 6 much can and will likely change between the writing of the report and site selection. It was concluded that both Lot 700 and Lot 300 are currently utilized by a wide variety of people and needed for downtown parking today. What are other uses for this lot? The process of finding a site for an Artspace development led to identifying Lot 800 as a possible candidate. The conversation has not been focused on the underutilized lot and what we should do with it. Now that it has been identified as underutilized and many agree it is underutilized, the City Council will decide on the future use. A couple factors that will inform the discussion are its location within 0.5 mile from an LRT Station and the desire to maximize our tax base, but those will not likely be the only factors considered. The R-4 district allows multiple family dwellings (apartment buildings), Hopkins- owned park and recreation uses, and a number of conditional uses such as ground floor commercial, motels, group homes, public/quasi-public buildings, nursing homes, private clubs, and off-street parking for the B-2 district. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 7 If the City isn’t actively trying to bring development to this property, why do they use underutilized as a factor? While the City didn’t come at this from a goal of development on this site, we do look for underutilization as a criteria for any redevelopment project. Maximizing a property’s use and taxable value is important. Hopkins is a fully-developed city and has a need to continue to increase the taxable value in order to keep our property taxes reasonable. If a piece of property is not producing any money for the City, not meeting a critical need and is not part of a larger redevelopment plan, it is only fiscally-prudent to consider development that increases the tax base. Is the Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority (HCRRA) involved? Not at this point. If through the site design process the need or desire for HCRRA property is identified, we will have those conversations. What's the hurry? As time goes on, lot will become more valuable. The City has been working to bring an Artspace development to Hopkins since 2017. We have been focusing on Lot 800 since approximately April of 2019. Artspace is a highly-sought out developer throughout the country. They have finite resources to put towards project development and conducting site feasibility due diligence takes time and money. Their team, including BKV architects, need to plan their schedules and if this site isn’t viable they will need to move on to other projects in other places. With no other viable site, this could mean an Artspace development in Hopkins would not be realized. The City of Hopkins is not interested in an Artspace development on Lot 800 solely for profit. In undertaking redevelopment in Hopkins, the City looks through many lens and what the development brings to the four environments identified in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan: built, social, natural and economic. What is the future of Lot 800 if not used for an Artspace development? Has there been any thought to have developers look at the property for other proposals? It is impossible to say what the future of this site holds. Disposing of City-owned property is a City Council decision. It may continue to be used as a City parking lot into the foreseeable future, or another development proposal could come along (solicited or unsolicited) that they support and they could choose to dispose of it. The lot is not in an ideal location to make it a permitted lot. Many people are not willing to pay for parking in Hopkins, even in the central business district. It is also not centrally-located or visible from Mainstreet which makes it impractical for restaurant and bar parking. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 8 Future demand for parking is not easy to predict. Demand may increase in the near term but may also decrease as ridesharing, LRT, increase in biking and driverless cars will influence demand for automobile parking, especially in the periphery of Downtown Hopkins. The impact of the development of the site on our overall public parking system will be evaluated through feasibility analysis. Capacity does exist within other municipal lots. Has Artspace gone into other single family residential neighborhoods before? Artspace has extensive experience working in similar communities such as Hopkins and with single family neighborhoods. The Pullman project in Chicago, Silver Spring, MD, and Mesa, AZ are just recent examples. One closer to home is Jackson Flats in Minneapolis. This nearby project is an Artspace development in a lower-density residential neighborhood. https://www.artspace.org/jac-flats . The architecture is unique in every one of Artspace’s developments so they will scale, size and design the project to be uniquely tailored for Hopkins and the surrounding site characteristics. How tall could a fence erected along the alley be? Fences along the rear property line can be as tall as six feet. Building Concept Will studio spaces for artists who don't live there be a consideration? Artspace is still in the early stages of concept and project development. Specific layout and uses for the first floor are not completely solidified. Non-resident studio spaces remain a potential option. Will there be space for ceramics? This is undetermined at this point. However, kilns often present a safety challenge in residential development and it is rare that Artspace includes them. Will artists be able to rent commercial space only? Artspace is still in the early stages of concept and project development. If the final project includes commercial studio spaces, they are able to be leased by both residents and non- residents. If there is gallery space, how much traffic is needed to bring people in? The gallery space included in the project will be a resident gallery that is only open for special events or shows. The gallery is not open to the public during regular business hours and will not result in consistent levels of increased traffic. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 9 How many stories? Based on feedback received during the community engagement sessions about the desire for structured parking, separation from single family homes, and green space, the concept plan includes a four story building that is located on the southeast corner of the site facing the existing commercial development. Parking Stages productions during day - buses park on 11th Ave. N, shouldn't they be parking in this lot? Bus drivers are directed to park in the Maetzold Field parking lot while waiting for Stages productions to end. Most drivers do use Maetzold Field but if parking on 11th is an issue, the City’s parking enforcement officer can reinforce Maetzold Field as the preferred location. Underground parking - how many stalls? 40 underground parking stalls not feasible because they are too expensive (Is this true?) Underground parking is more expensive than surface parking. The concept plan that was developed based on the community engagement sessions envisions 40 underground parking for residents of the building and surface parking spaces for visitors. Does Hopkins have a comprehensive plan to address what will be increasing parking needs, both for this project, and for future developments to increase density in the city? This project and other future residential developments will need to provide adequate parking on the development site for their residents. The municipal parking system has approximately 1,000 parking spaces for downtown visitors and employees. There will be an additional 1,000 parking spaces at the Shady Oak Light Rail Station. There are many factors that may impact future downtown parking needs, including light rail, ride sharing and Lyft/Uber, and increases in biking. City staff will begin having discussions on planning for the future of downtown parking. There are 25 to 35 cars on that lot daily where will all those cars go and the cars from the 40 unit affordable housing building and their visitors go? The lot is currently serving as a temporary park and ride for Metro Transit during construction of Southwest Light Rail, so the cars you’re seeing today are primarily from people parking there to take the bus. The City of Hopkins has a municipal parking system consisting of surface lots and a ramp with almost 1,000 public parking spaces downtown. The proposed Artspace building will be required to provide adequate parking for its residents February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 10 and visitors on the site. US Bank employees moved to Excelsior Crossings; when new renters come where will they park? Lot 800 has historically been an underutilized public parking lot due to its location on the edge of the downtown core. Other lots in the municipal parking system have capacity and options exist to create more efficiency in the existing system in the areas that are in demand. Does Hopkins have a comprehensive plan to address what will be increasing parking needs, both for this project, and for future developments to increase density in the city? This project and other future residential developments will need to provide adequate parking on the development site for their residents. The municipal parking system has approximately 1,000 parking spaces for downtown visitors and employees. There will be an additional 1,000 parking spaces at the Shady Oak Light Rail Station. There are many factors that may impact future downtown parking needs, including light rail, ride sharing and Lyft/Uber, and increases in biking. City staff will begin having discussions on planning for the future of downtown parking. Could City funding be used to provide more parking space? The Artspace development will be required to provide adequate parking for the people who live there and their visitors, based on the results of a parking study. Planning and Zoning When did the lot become zoned for R4? Does the plan conflict with the 2030 Comp Plan? The 2030 Comprehensive Plan identified the zoning as R-4 but guided as low density residential. The oldest zoning map in the City’s records is dated August 2, 1966 and shows this property as R-5. The next major revision of the zoning ordinance was in 1977. That zoning map shows the property zoned R-4 as of February 1, 1977. The site is on the edge of the downtown district, surrounded by commercial uses on two sides and residential on two sides. At the time the 2030 Comp Plan was adopted, Southwest LRT was still uncertain. The City changed the future land use designation to Downtown Center on the 2040 Future Land Use map based on the existing R-4 zoning, proximity to downtown and the fact that its located within the ½ radius of the Downtown Hopkins light rail station. The Metropolitan Council requires cities to guide land within ½ mile of a light rail station to have average minimum residential densities of at least 50 units per acre. All these factors led the City to change the future land use classification from Low Density Residential to Downtown Center. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 11 The new comprehensive plan (2040 Comprehensive Plan) has a smaller set-back on the street side—how will this affect the 10th Avenue neighbors? The Comprehensive Plan is a high level planning document and does not regulate setbacks. That is done through the City’s Zoning Code, which will be updated over the next 18 months. Financial Considerations What are the specific city “inputs” to the project? (cash, land, etc.)? Will tax dollars be used to support this? This has not yet been determined. We wanted to have a robust community engagement process to help inform the concept plan for the site (rather than develop the concept plan first and then get feedback from the community). The concept plan will be presented to the Planning Commission (2/24) and the City Council (3/4). The City Council will decide whether the City enters into a development agreement with Artspace. The details of City participation in the project would be negotiated as part of a development agreement. Who is paying for what? It is too early to know how the financing will be structured. Every redevelopment project has its own variables. Artspace relies on many financial partners in order to put a project together. The City of Hopkins looks at each project independently and evaluates our role. It is too early in the development process to know the answer to this question. How else will the project be funded? (city, state or county community development grants? private funding? other sources? The City received a grant from the Metropolitan Council for predevelopment work, including the community engagement and concept plan, geotechnical work (soils testing), and a stormwater management plan. We also got a grant from Hennepin County/Minnesota Brownfields for a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. This work will help inform whether the City Council enters into a development agreement with Artspace. If the project moves forward, Artspace would likely seek funding for construction of the project from a variety of sources (that have not yet been identified), such as Housing Tax Credits, grants from the County and Metropolitan Council, private funding, and other options. Private sector funding often includes conventional bank financing as well as individual and community philanthropic support. Will the project be classified as commercial or residential? The project will be classified as residential for property tax purposes. What would Artspace bring the city of Hopkins in terms of taxes? Rough calculations show that the annual taxes would be approximately $68,000. February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 12 How does this compare with 5-6 Single Family homes on the site? The zoning on the site does not allow for the development of single family houses. However, for purposes of comparison, if the single family zoning code requirements were applied to the site, it would allow 4 lots (not 5-6). Rough calculations show total annual taxes of approximately $24,000. How would this compare with comparable with market rate housing? Is this the highest and best use? This is difficult to quantify with a number, since an Artspace project and a market rate multi- family project would be very different. Artspace builds high quality projects, but does not include the same level of finishes and amenities as market rate apartments. This affects the total value of the development, which taxes would be based upon. Generally speaking, market rate apartments pay a higher tax rate. However, the City is not interested in an Artspace development solely for profit. We see a lot of benefits to Hopkins from an Artspace development, including strengthening Hopkins as an arts community, supporting the local creative businesses by providing new customers and housing for their employees, and providing affordable housing that will stay affordable. What is the appraised value of the lot? Will Artspace pay for it/full price, reduced price or free? The property has not been appraised but a value will be established prior to the City of Hopkins entering into a purchase/development agreement. The City has not begun to negotiate a development agreement that would establish the terms of sale, but would offer the following: The City wants to provide only the amount of financial assistance that is necessary so it is likely that the project would include a “look back” provision so that after the development is completed, we will be able to review the actual cost vs. the original project proforma and if the developer could have paid more for the land we will be able to capture that. Feedback Received Do you feel like there has been enough community support for the project to continue moving forward? The decision whether to move forward with the project will be decided by the City Council. We have been working with Artspace for 3 years—the Preliminary Feasibility Study (2017) and Market Study (2018) were positive and demonstrated support and a market for a project in Hopkins. We have also heard excitement and support through the community engagement sessions that were held in 2019. Where has there been resistance to the project? We have heard concerns about the project through the community engagement process related to parking and traffic, height of the building, size of the site, privacy and impact on the neighborhood. There have also been people who are resistant to the project because it is February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 13 affordable housing. These concerns were taken into consideration in the development of the concept plan. Next Steps Will the city council have to approve the project? If so, what specifically will it have to approve? Sale of site? Building permits? Are there any variances? There will be several decision points in the process. First, the City Council will determine whether to enter into a development agreement with Artspace. If they decide to move forward, then Artspace would apply for land use approvals, which would need to be approved by the City Council. Building permits do not require City Council approval, but are reviewed and issued by staff based on compliance with the building code. Do you know if/when the city council will hear/vote on these issues? The concept plan for the site will be presented to the City Council on March 4. After that, staff will ask if the Council wants to enter into a development agreement with Artspace. The Council will decide when they want to make that decision. Questions Asked at February 12 City Council Work Session Is the density proposed more than typical? The density proposed through the 41-unit concept plan is 64 units per acre. In comparison: Marketplace & Main - 64/acre Gallery Flats - 90/acre Moline - 97/acre Oxford Village – 51/acre Beacon – 50/acre The Metropolitan Council has established density ranges for ½ mile radius from light rail stations at 50 units/acre minimum. However, 75-150 units/acre is recommended. How does this project relate to future plans for the Driskill’s site? There is no direct correlation. It would be the assumption going into discussions of redevelopment of the Driskill’s site that the development would have to accommodate the public and private parking needs. But there is no certainty that a redevelopment of Driskill’s/Richards will happen in the near future. How can the surrounding community help support your project on this space if it is only 2 stories? Are there things we can do to help and end up with a project everyone (mostly) is happy with? A two-story development is not financially feasible as there are cost/unit thresholds that cannot be met under that scenario. A three-story concept (35 unit) has been developed, but is also February 27, 2020 Artspace Project FAQs Page 14 increases the cost per unit so additional funds would be needed to bridge the financial gap that would be created. Land owned by Luther may be a better option? Can Artspace buy those lots? City staff has had numerous conversations with Luther Company representatives about selling their Hopkins properties that are underutilized. They have not been willing to sell. The City lost money on underground parking at the Moline. Can we really take this risk on another project? The Moline project contemplated a park and ride ramp for SW LRT. The issues associated with that are not applicable to an Artspace development in that it would not include public or transit parking. ArtSpace HopkinsEngagement Report February 11, 2020 In partnership with: Blocks exercise in progress at Ubah Medical Academy Funding support for this project was provided by the Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Fund Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 2 Alice Smith Elementary Imagination Fair Pop-Up Ubah Medical Academy Student Design Exercise and Survey Training MAINSTREET 1ST STREET NORTH LA K E M I N N E T O N K A L R T R E G I O N A L T R A I L EXCELSIOR BOULEVARD HIGHWAY 7 HIGHWAY 16911TH AVENUE SOUTH10TH AVENUE NORTH5TH AVENUE NORTHHouse of Dance Charette and Open HouseHopkins Center for the Arts Charette and Open House Hopkins Activity Center Open House The Commons Holiday in Hopkins Pop-Up and Blank Canvas Charette Hopkins ArtSpace Project Site (dark blue) Doorknocking Area (light blue) Flyered Area (orange) Who we talked to: Engagement map “What does an Artist Look Like?” exercise at Hopkins Activity Center Open House Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 3 Who we talked to: Engagement events 11/16/2019 12/07/2019 Hopkins Activity Center Hopkins Activity Center Open House Winter Farmers’ MarketPop-up 11/14/2019 Alice Smith Elementary Imagination Fair Pop-Up 1/4/2020 12/16/2019 Hopkins Center for the Arts Blank Canvas Charette Charette and Open House 12/14/2019 Ubah Medical Academy Student Design Exerciseand Survey Training 11/30/2019 The Commons The Commons Holiday in Hopkins Pop-Up 12/14/2019 House of Dance Charette and Open House 11/09/2019 Immediate Neighborhood (see map)Door-knocking and Flyering What does an Artist Look Like? exercise at Alice Smith Elementary Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 4 Date Are you a current resident of Hopkins? If no, have you lived in Hopkins in the past? Do you own your own home or rent? Do you identify as an artist? (even if you don't make a living as an artist)How do you identify your race or ethnicity?What is your gender?What is your age? yesnoyesnoownrentyes no not sure Asian Latinx/ Hispanic Black/ African American Native American/ Alaskan White/ Caucasian Multiracial/ Multiethnic Other Female Male Non-binary _________ 20 or younger 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71 or older Total15202143 8 6 4 4 9 49 0 152 11 1 44 24 0 0 63 16 24 40 35 33 8 total:226 total:219 2%4%22%0%67%5%0%29%7%11%18%16%15%4% Asian Latinx/ Hispanic Black/ African American Native American/ Alaskan White/ Caucasian Multiracial/ Multiethnic Other 20 or younger 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71 or older 2%4%22%0%67%5%0%29%7%11%18%16%15%4% Who we talked to: Overall Demographic information Juxtaposition Arts engaged over 200 community members in the course of this report; see race/ ethnicity and age breakdowns below. Race/Ethnicity Age Date Are you a current resident of Hopkins? If no, have you lived in Hopkins in the past? Do you own your own home or rent? Do you identify as an artist? (even if you don't make a living as an artist)How do you identify your race or ethnicity?What is your gender?What is your age? yesnoyesnoownrent yes no not sure Asian Latinx/ Hispanic Black/ African American Native American/ Alaskan White/ Caucasian Multiracial/ Multiethnic Other Female Male Non-binary _________ 20 or younger 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71 or older Total15202143 8 6 4 4 9 49 0 152 11 1 44 24 0 0 63 16 24 40 35 33 8 total:226 total:219 2%4%22%0%67%5%0%29%7%11%18%16%15%4% Asian Latinx/ Hispanic Black/ African American Native American/ Alaskan White/ Caucasian Multiracial/ Multiethnic Other 20 or younger 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71 or older 2%4%22%0%67%5%0%29%7%11%18%16%15%4% 20 or younger 2% 21-40 21-30 <20 61-7041-50 31-40 71+ 51-60 41-60 61+ Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 5 Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 6 Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 7 compromising the ability of future genera�ons to meet theirs.•Resilience: Ability to respond to shocks disrup�ons while maintaining integrity and purpose. •Complete Communities: Places where daily needs are accessible and convenient to where people live. Our plan is organized around four environments detailed below, which explore dimensions of these topics. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BUILT ENVIRONMENTHOPKINS ARTSPACE DEVELOPMENT VISIONINGSOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT compromising the ability of future genera�ons to meet theirs.•Resilience: Ability to respond to shocks disrup�ons while maintaining integrity and purpose. •Complete Communities: Places where daily needs are accessible and convenient to where people live. Our plan is organized around four environments detailed below, which explore dimensions of these topics. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BUILT ENVIRONMENTHOPKINS ARTSPACE DEVELOPMENT VISIONINGSOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT compromising the ability of future genera�ons to meet theirs.•Resilience: Ability to respond to shocks disrup�ons while maintaining integrity and purpose. •Complete Communities: Places where daily needs are accessible and convenient to where people live. Our plan is organized around four environments detailed below, which explore dimensions of these topics. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BUILT ENVIRONMENTHOPKINS ARTSPACE DEVELOPMENT VISIONINGSOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT compromising the ability of future genera�ons to meet theirs. •Resilience: Ability to respond to shocks disrup�ons while maintaining integrity and purpose. •Complete Communities: Places where daily needs are accessible and convenient to where people live. Our plan is organized around four environments detailed below, which explore dimensions of these topics. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT HOPKINS ARTSPACE DEVELOPMENT VISIONING SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT compromising the ability of future genera�ons to meet theirs.•Resilience: Ability to respond to shocks disrup�ons while maintaining integrity and purpose.•Complete Communities: Places where daily needs are accessible and convenient to where people live.Our plan is organized around four environments detailed below, which explore dimensions of these topics. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BUILT ENVIRONMENTHOPKINS ARTSPACE DEVELOPMENT VISIONINGSOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT What we heard: Project vision input To create a vision statement, participants selected ideas from the Cultivate Hopkins 2040 comprehensive plan that best applied to this project (shown in gray bar graphs with percentages.) The floating words were additional ideas they wrote in. Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 8 What we heard: General input - Ideas Quality/Character • Environmentally friendly structure • Important to do something in the scale of the neighborhood and that reflects the character of the neighborhood. High quality/well done architectural design is important. Design is also important to minimize traffic into the neighborhood. • Save $ by lowering building • Murals! • Re-purposing refuse into art materials General Support • great idea! • [general support] - it’s a good idea • [general support] - it’s a good idea • [general support] - Hopkins is an art community and this would en- courage more community and more relationships, support busi- ness. We need more affordable housing in Hopkins. • great idea! • I think that’s great. I love the arts and support artists. • [General support for the project] • [general support] - we need more housing, and more affordable housing • [general support] - my sister lives in artist housing in Florida - I love it. It’s so beautiful. • [general support] - We support it! • Feels it makes sense for Hopkins and right now, it’s just a parking lot • I’m in favor of this idea Kids • Classes for kids • Space for High School kids to take PSEO classes Alternate programs to Artist Housing • Small green homes for sale; • Single family homes or townhouses; • Transitional senior living Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 9 What we heard: General input - Ideas Site/Massing • Landscape with native plants • Would like to see green space • Push building towards street away from houses. • Surface parking at alley. Influence the process • Sees an opportunity to influence and be part of the process – knows the City could sell it to a developer and then they could do whatever they want • Ask artists about space in building • Ask artists about art spaces, as process continues Artist Space • Artist meeting space • Makerspace - 3D printers, Tool workshop, rental, classes, CNC machine, etc? STEM! • Work space: printer access, multi platform printing, cutting board stations, larger desk workspaces • recording space with microphones, sound- proof rooms • Mentorships for artists • Interest in retail space focusing on locally made goods. Thinks this would be a good spot. • Studio spaces/ shared rented space. • Would like to see space for the community in the building – community meeting space that could be reserved/rented out • Interest in having studio space to rent (2 people commented they already have hous- ing, but need a place to do their art) Location • Uptown- no parking- could happen here. • Alternative site study - US Bank • Site – maybe further down Main Street (to the west) where it’s less developed. Combine/work with Minnetonka on Shady Oak Road. Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 10 What we heard: General input - Concerns Why Artists? • Why should artists get lower rent? • Concerned about the exclusivity of being for artists – teachers, for example, need affordable housing, too Parking/Traffic • [general support] - Enthusiasm for idea, parking is a concern • Parking needs to be close. • Concern w/public parking for businesses. -”Little Uptown”-Rely on LRT/Walking. • Having too many units could affect parking spaces. • Lose parking for dentist. • 40 units- Need underground parking, for more! • If an “event”- where do cars park? • Concern about parking – uses that lot during plowing/snow emergency. Where will people who currently who currently park there go? • Concerned about parking – don’t want cars filling up the street, especially in the winter. • Concerned about parking. • Will the neighborhood be impacted by lack of parking • Concerns about overflow parking on neighborhood streets • Local businesses relying on this lot • 8th Ave. LRT has no park and ride • Lost spaces from the Moline project • merchants need parking for customers Privacy • Privacy is needed along alley and even trail. • Having balcony spaces along alley/ SFH would be noise/privacy issue. • Concern about windows on the west side of the building (privacy for their property) Lot • Is this the right space for this project? • This lot is not heavily used, need better tax base. • We need a formal appraisal to find out value of property- highest & best use. Quality • Changing quaint nature of Hopkins • Lighting • May start feeling like Uptown Minneapolis • Noise and light pollution Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 11 Height • The building should only be 2 stories to be consistent with the adjacent houses • Concerned about the height • How many stories? 10’ ceilings (like in other Artspace properties in Hastings and Mpls) will mean a tall building • Concerned about height – 3 stories, not 4 • Building towering over single-family homes • 4 stories/40 units is too massive for residential 1-2 story home neighborhood. 2 story/20 unit Artspace apartment would be appropriate size • 2/3 acre lot is too small for 4 stories, green space is needed; too close to alley for residential homes to coexist-garbage trucks, etc. • Trail setback needed Too Small • Too small of a site for this program. • Too small- .65 acre. • This site isn’t big enough. Other possible sites – talk to school dis- trict about Katherine Curren site (7 acres there, keep the building). Central Park? Traffic • Too busy - too many people in one spot • Mainstreet doesn’t get much traffic, but if you put call out, they come. • Concerned about traffic – design to minimize traffic into residential streets Housing Type • This is wonderful - It’s important that it’s really af- fordable (sometimes they say “affordable” but it’s really not. It’s also important that it stays affordable. • Concerned that there are already many rentals in Hopkins; need more owner occupied. Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 12 Funding • Lost tax revenue compared to market rate apartments? • Is this the highest and best use? Priority is that the site contributes to the tax base: Hopkins is a small city and taxes are going up, so tax con- tribution (what tax dollars this brings into the City of Hopkins) is important. Wants to see the site put to the highest and best use, tax-wise, to take burden off of taxpayers. • Will tax dollars be used to support this? Doesn’t think they should be: if no tax dollars, then OK. If it requires support from tax dollars, then no - not right now. • Question about value of affordable housing for artists – what is the value for artists, what is the value for Hopkins? • Funding? • What will Artspace pay for the property? or will they be given the property? • Will an appraisal be done? • What is the appraised value of the lot? Will Artspace pay for it/full price, reduced price or free? • Tax classification – residential or commercial? • how is this funded? Tenant selection • Does Artspace select tenants? • A comment that the Artspace handout said that “anyone” can live there, but preference would be given to artists [potential confusion/concern] • Great community here - included with Artspace? • Question about the process for how art- ist residents get approved to live there. • Question about who can apply and how they apply: teachers need affordable housing, too. Need more info about the process. Artist Costs • What will the cost be to an artist? • What will the cost be to providing artist tools? Size/Height • How big will the building be? • How tall will the building be? More than 3 stories is too tall. • [Confusion over the difference in zoning standards between the properties on 11th and the project site] • Zoning for Lot 800? What we heard: General input - Questions Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 13 What we heard: General input - Questions Parking • Could City funding be used to provide more parking space? Adequate parking is important. • Where will the residents of proposed building park? • How many cars use this lot? • Stages productions during day - buses park on 11th Ave. N, shouldn’t they be parking in this lot? • US Bank employees moved to Excelsior Crossings; when new renters come in where will they park? • Events now need to use residential streets to park. Driskills closes it’s parking lot during Author Talks Separation from homes • How tall could a fence erect- ed along the alley be? • Knows artists can sometimes be loud when they work – will noise be an issue? • New Comprehensive Plan has a smaller set-back on the street side - how will this ef- fect 10th Ave. neighbors? History/Timeline • Why this site? What happened to the homes that were there – why were they torn down? Want to get that information. • Need to see the big picture of why this site, given other sites and other things happening in Hopkins. • Supportive of the project - Interested in knowing how soon it will be built • What’s the hurry? As time goes on, lot will become more valuable • How did this site get chosen? Spaces • Will studio spaces (for artists who don’t live there) be a consideration? • Will there be individual commercial spaces for artists? 400-600 SF • Will there be space for ceramics? • Artists interested in renting commercial space only? • Primary use: art space or living space? • Possible to purchase a unit instead of rent? • If there is a gallery space... How much traffic is needed (to bring people in)? Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 14 Making together: Blocks exercise JXTA designed a ‘Blocks exercise’ to have spatial conversations with community members about specific aspects of the project. The exercise included scaled site plans and wooden blocks, representing dwelling units, surface and underground parking, and amenity space. By trying different configurations, groups were able to see how different characteristics of the project affect each other, and discussed how these should be balanced. These included: • Building Footprint• Massing• Parking• Unit count• Adjacencies to site elements• Connections to roads, paths, and open space. Blocks exercise in progress at Ubah Medical Academy Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 15 Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 16 Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 17 Ideas about the Building Footprint: • Building tight to SE corner • Green space separates building from neighbors across alley • Green space connects lot to bike trail to north • Internal courtyard - either facing trail or neighbors • Taller building to allow for larger green space concept diagrams illustrating ideas about the building Making together: Blocks exercise Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 18 Ideas about the Building Massing: • Building steps up at 10th Avenue North to increase units and create a presence, while minimizing mass for neighboring houses • 4 stories is too tall (some people felt that 3 stories was also too tall) • Step building back from street to minimize mass • Step building up at north and south ends to increase units and create a presence, while minimizing mass for neighboring houses • Create a ring shape on top floor to add character and reduce apparent mass from street Making together: Blocks exercise concept diagrams illustrating ideas about the building Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 19 Ideas about the Parking: • Parking at alley to minimize traffic impact, separate from neighboring houses • Structured and below-grade parking mid-block for good resident and visitor access • Underground parking to minimize building height Making together: Blocks exercise concept diagrams illustrating ideas about the building Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 20 Ideas about the Unit Count: • 40 units seems like too many to fit on site • Fewer than 30 units won’t support as many amenities Making together: Blocks exercise concept diagrams illustrating ideas about the building Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 21 Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 22 Making together: Program exercise JXTA designed a ‘Program exercise’ to have conversations with community members about the shared amenities in the project, both for residents and facilities that might potentially be open to the public. This exercise focused on finding the most popular programs and common adjacencies between them These included: • Gallery and Community spaces at south of building• Green space/gardens by bike trail• Studio and maker space towards middle of building; accessible to artists• Music/performance space was also common, but occurs in many places Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 23 Most-used program ideas Other that Gallery and Community Room (usually provided in all ArtSpace projects) Multipurpose Space • Multiple multi-use spaces • Multipurpose space, could be shifts • Multi-purpose space • Different mediums/collaboration (inspiration!) Storage • Storage for movable furniture • Artist storage/ process/ workshop space Specialty Spaces • Music recording studio • Dark room • Room with woodworking equipment • 10’ x 10’ vented space • Room with sink and table • Fitness • Space for classes • Retail space • Co-op • Need for theater - STAGES uses HCA so much it’s not available • Create parts for theater and interact with Hopkins Center for the Arts Architecture • Light studies should influence the massing • Terrace higher toward the city • Are there other sites available? feels too small, cramming in too much • Lower massing • Consider acoustics in the building and from the outside • Loading dock/garage Bike • Celebrate bike trail entry point • Bike storage • Bike/walk trail connection Renewable Energy • Geothermal • Solar power Studio Space • Painting studio up high • Bank area could be cool art studio space • Painting with lights • Print maker shared space • printmaking Community Garden • Community green space on the roof • Rooftop garden • Green space • Community garden • North edge/side - not good for growing plants, better for art wall • Plaza with planting Parking • Dense parking • Parking Underground • Electric car charger Making together: Program exercise Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 24 Who we talked to: Artists We surveyed artists, specifically to ask more about their needs and interested in affordable artist housing in Hopkins. Medium: Painters were most common. Photography, music, dance/ performance, literature, and printmaking were also represented. Job type: No clear majority in any sector, but educators, freelance workers, and art-related jobs were represented. What you need to make art: 1. Good lighting, including natural light 2. Shared or collaborative space 3. Good ventilation 4. Sink What types of shared space do you need? How many bedrooms do you require? survey numberName Artform Living Apartment size Parking what do you need?Home space?access?Amenity S 1 2 3 car bike other Y N Y N Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music Total photo 4.25 3.25 5.25 2.25 13 1.5 lighting is important 14 3 9 8 6 4 6 11 5 6 count 15 sink for painting, etc 28%22%35%15%76%9%shared workspace 82%18%53%47%35%24%35%65%29%35% studio1 bed 2 bed 3 bed Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music 28%22%35%15%35%24%35%65%29%35% survey numberNameArtform Living Apartment size Parking what do you need?Home space?access?Amenity S 1 2 3 car bike other Y N Y N Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music Totalphoto 4.25 3.25 5.25 2.25 13 1.5 lighting is important 14 3 9 8 6 4 6 11 5 6 count 15 sink for painting, etc 28%22%35%15%76%9%shared workspace 82%18%53%47%35%24%35%65%29%35% studio1 bed 2 bed 3 bed Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music 28%22%35%15%35%24%35%65%29%35% survey numberName Artform Living Apartment size Parking what do you need?Home space?access?Amenity S 1 2 3 car bike other Y N Y N Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music Total photo 4.25 3.25 5.25 2.25 13 1.5 lighting is important 14 3 9 8 6 4 6 11 5 6 count 15 sink for painting, etc 28%22%35%15%76%9%shared workspace 82%18%53%47%35%24%35%65%29%35% studio1 bed 2 bed 3 bed Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music 28%22%35%15%35%24%35%65%29%35% survey numberNameArtformLivingApartment size Parking what do you need?Home space?access?Amenity S 1 2 3 car bike other Y N Y N Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music Totalphoto4.253.25 5.25 2.25 13 1.5 lighting is important 14 3 9 8 6 4 6 11 5 6 count 15 sink for painting, etc 28%22%35%15%76%9%shared workspace 82%18%53%47%35%24%35%65%29%35% studio1 bed 2 bed 3 bed Paint/drawMaker Meeting Gallery Dance Music 28%22%35%15%35%24%35%65%29%35% Painting/drawing studio Makerspace Meeting room Gallery Dance/performance space Music practice rooms Retail space Hopkins Affordable Artist Housing February 11, 2020 Page 25 Making together: Overall takeaways Excitement for what this project can do for downtown Hopkins • Consistency with 2040 Comprehensive plan • Needed space to make art • Affordable housing • Vibrancy of downtown Worries about impact on nearby residential area • Building height • Small site and unit density • Privacy • Impact on feeling of neighborhood • Parking and traffic Throughout the engagement process, the following overlapping themes were observed: Open House at Hopkins Center for the Arts