This week the Minneapolis Planning Commission unanimously approved controversial plans for a pair of new apartment towers overlooking Bde Maka Ska.

St. Louis Park-based Bader Development wants to build two 26-story buildings adjacent to a pair of low-rise apartment buildings on a 5.4-acre site at 3430 List Place in south Minneapolis, according to a city staff report submitted before the meeting.

The proposed $100-million-plus project, which is being called the Calhoun Towers, would have about 750 units and would be adjacent to a 21-story, 113-apartment tower that was built in 1962.

Some neighbors have objected to the project, which would be built in four phases, because of its high density and its proximity to Bde Maka Ska. The project is adjacent to the future Southwest light-rail line’s West Lake Street station and next to the Midtown Greenway bicycle trail, which the developer said will help allay concerns about parking and congestion.

The developer was asking for a conditional-use permit, rezoning, a final plat approval and several setback variances. A representative for the company said the project will next be reviewed in early August, and that based on the unanimous approval from the Planning Commission, the company is optimistic it can start construction on Phase I in early 2019. The second phase of the project could include income-restricted apartments.

During a committee of the whole meeting earlier this year, committee members responded favorably to several suggested changes to the project, including some design modifications and better engagement with sidewalks and streets. The project was designed by ESG Architects in Minneapolis.

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