Chaska is moving forward with a plan for future growth that includes nearly 2,000 acres of undeveloped land in its southwest area. The City Council approved the master plan late last month after nine months of public meetings, open houses and revisions.

"It gives everyone a clear direction of where we want to go," said Kevin Ringwald, the city's community development director. Many of the changes are along a portion of Hwy. 212 through Chaska that opened in 2008. A highway interchange at County Road 140 may be added down the line.

Much of the area west of Hwy. 212 would be devoted to business parks and light industrial firms. Acreage east of the highway would be mainly residential and neighborhood mixed-use. The plan also includes 50 acres of commercial space and a 60-acre community park and playing field.

Before the master plan is final, the Metropolitan Council must review and approve it as an amendment to the city's comprehensive plan. That process is expected to take about six months.