Shoppes at Arbor Lakes Streetscape Reconstruction Begins
Construction crews have started work turning pedestrian-only areas into streets, which gives shoppers better access to some stores. Shoppes management say the change was needed to host large events and to keep and attract retailers.
“We really wanted to improve not only the accessibility in this area, but also the visibility of the tenants spaces here,” said Jennifer Zafft, from the Shoppes. “It’s beautiful during the summer but knowing our weather, we really wanted to provide additional parking and store front parking for these retailers.”
Construction crews started work this week with hopes of finishing the project by August. Zafft says the project sparked additional interest for retailers in storefronts that used to only be accessible to pedestrians.
City Council Gave the Green Light in March
In March, the Maple Grove City Council gave the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes the green light to remove the pedestrian area to allow vehicle traffic. Management believes the new street will give interior stores greater visibility.
Animated Photo of Future Streetscape
Managers of the Shoppes presented new video to the city council that gives people a better idea of what the changes will look like. The Shoppes had a tough time keeping retailers in the pedestrian-only spaces. At first, the council expressed concerns about the changes. Some members preferred the area maintain a pedestrian-friendly feel even with adding vehicle traffic. The most recent change will include fire pits and sitting areas for people along the street.
The Shoppes hopes the change will keep retailers satisfied. They also hope to host large-scale events by closing off the new street.
