Chaska is embarking on an ambitious redevelopment project known as City Square West, targeting the block adjacent to City Square, across Highway 41. This initiative is a key component of the city’s Downtown Master Plan, aiming to invigorate the downtown area by introducing new public spaces, housing, and retail opportunities.
Project Goals
The City Square West project is designed with several objectives in mind:
- Public Gathering Spaces: Establishing areas that foster community engagement and social interaction.
- Economic Enhancement: Introducing a mix of residential units and retail spaces to stimulate downtown’s economic vitality.
- Community Activities: Creating plazas and pedestrian-friendly zones to host events and activities.
- Visual Connectivity: Enhancing visual and physical connections between downtown blocks to create a cohesive urban environment.
Planned Amenities
The redevelopment will feature several key amenities:
- Signature Public Plaza: A central outdoor space designed for community gatherings and events.
- Mixed-Income Housing: Residential units catering to a diverse range of income levels.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Improvements to surrounding streets, including Pine Street, West 3rd Street, and West 4th Street.
- Underground Parking: A public parking facility to accommodate increased downtown activity.
- Support Facilities: Public restrooms and storage spaces to facilitate public events and activities.
Funding and Timeline
The City Square West project is a public-private partnership. Recognizing its potential as a regional attraction, the city secured $5,425,000 in funding from the State Legislature in 2023 and is seeking an additional $7,825,000 in 2026 to support the project’s development.
For more information or to get involved, residents can contact Community Development Director Nate Kabat at 952-448-9200 or visit Chaska City Hall at 1 City Hall Plaza.