Downtown Changes

Changes are coming for the huge expanse of asphalt at the Pamida site in downtown Bemidji. The property has been subdivided into two parcels and the north 2/3 of the site will be redeveloped with a 2-storefront building. I'm not sure of the timeline for the redevelopment, but the Joint Planning office has received a preliminary plan for a structure on the site.

At first blush, the site plan does not appear to provide space for the Farmer's Market. As BemidjiMike notes in his blog post this week, having the market downtown is a real asset.
The City Engineer, Craig Gray and I have made comments on the preliminary plan, but it will be the Joint Planning Office that reviews the plan for compliance with the zoning ordinance. Craig's comments were centered around the stormwater management on the site and street access. I had a variety of comments and concerns including parking for Pamida, access onto Paul Bunyan Dr, landscaping, and parkland dedication, (which is required with this commercial lot division).

It will be interesting to see how the plan develops.