Should Holy Angels Sell Land for Retail Redevelopment?

Redevelopment has been booming in Richfield, with projects such as Lyndale Gardens and Lyndale Station giving locals hope of revitalizing the town.

But, a recent project proposal to redevelop a portion of the Academy of Holy Angels front lawn into a retail center has caused a bit of a stir, especially among alumni.

According to the Star Tribune, a developer has offered the private school almost $6 million—about six times more than the assessed value—for a strip of land along Nicollet Avenue at 66th Street for retail development. School officials believe the sale would allow the institution to start an endowment fund, help pay down some of the $10 million in debt its accrued and make some needed campus improvements.

As of 10 a.m. Thursday, an online petition through Change.org to save the front lawn had 527 supporters. One petitioner from the Class of 2003 wrote: "I'm opposed to this for several reasons. This is a short term easy fix with long term consequences. The school will regret doing this."

According to the Star Tribune, the proposed development would use 1.7 acres of land, which is less than 10 percent of the school campus:

"It would include what the school describes as a 'low-profile' retail space that would partner well with a high school, perhaps including a 'Walgreens-like drugstore,' a coffee shop, a bank, a sandwich shop and a frozen yogurt store."

Richfield Community Development Director John Stark told the Star Tribune the city only knows the basics of the project at this point, but is concerned about the impact the new development could have on the Hub, which is across the street.
The Richfield City Council and Planning Commission will discuss the proposal with school officials at a study session Nov. 26.

So, Patch asks: What do you think the school should do? Is this a good opportunity for the school and community? Tell us in the comments section below.

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