Sears' plans to build a major development on its property west of the State Capitol got a boost Wednesday when they won approval from the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board.
The next step for Sears is to seek leasing commitments for the development, consultant Paul D'Arelli said. He said the plan is to file a zoning permit in a few months.
The retailer is planning a mixed-use development around its Rice Street store that includes retail buildings, offices, townhouses, apartments and parking garages. The site is a block south of the new Central Corridor light-rail line, scheduled to begin running next year, and close to the Rice Street station.
Sears would own and operate the development, which would occupy the north half of its 17-acre site. It is not seeking public funding.
"I'm very happy to see this proposal come forward. I think it's long overdue," said Bryan Carlson, an architectural adviser to the board, which oversees design and zoning in the State Capitol area.
KEVIN DUCHSCHERE
@KDuchschere
University of Minnesota police arrest 9 after pro-Palestinian encampment set up on campus
2 dead in Lino Lakes, no known threat to public, police say
Teen charged with murder in deadly St. Paul shooting last month
Clash brewing over Lino Lakes development plan that includes mosque
