New Development Shows Economic Turnaround in Brooklyn Center
At least eight new businesses have opened in Brooklyn Center within in the past year. There’s also many other redevelopment projects going on. The city’s community development director couldn’t be happier.
“It’s been a long time coming,” said Meg Beekman, Brooklyn Center’s community development director.
Hom Furniture and Bank of America are going up where the old Kohl’s store used to be. And restaurant chain Tim Hortons is just about ready to open its doors. Dallas-based Topgolf is also in its final stages of opening at the site of the former Regal movie theater.
“I hear that’s pretty cool, sounds like they’re big all over the country, go have some beers and play some golf,” said resident Matt Moebeck.
Construction Progress
Another sign of progress is along Freeway Boulevard where where La Casita Mexican Restaurant and Mr. BBQ and Voodoo Lounge were once located. That area will become a Casey’s General Store. Construction is expected to start this fall.
A hotel is also under construction. A Fairfield Inn & Suites will open near the Earle Brown Heritage Center. Meanwhile, several new stores have moved into the Shingle Creek Crossing area over the past year.
Upscale Apartments Coming Too
The last time an apartment complex was built in Brooklyn Center was back in 1972. But the dry spell is about to change. A developer is renovating Earle Brown Terrace, turning the building into upscale apartments.
“The city has just really changed its image and for a good reason. The city has changed and made it a great place to be,” Jim Soderberg, president of Soderberg Apartment Specialists.
Brooklyn Center’s location is part of the lure.
“We’ve got two major freeways running through the community, and you can get to downtown Minneapolis, quickly,” explained Beekman.
The business boom is also bringing hundreds of jobs to the area and helping with the tax base. However, some residents say they like the convenience of not having to go far to shop.
“Everything is just right there and a lot of people want that, we want that, instead of driving far,” said resident Geraldine Peters.
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