Dear Chanhassen Residents,

In this week’s update, you will notice that each topic is tied to one of our Strategic Priorities. I want to continue to highlight that our Strategic Plan isn’t just a document, but a plan in action.

Strategic Priority - Development & Redevelopment

Degler Farm: On Monday, City Council approved an Agritourism permit to allow for an operational expansion of the Degler Farm. Located at the corner of Lyman Blvd. and Audubon, this popular destination for pumpkin picking and hayrides will be broadening their offered activities to attract more visitors while continuing to focus on farming and agricultural education.
Erhart Farm Development: The preliminary plat was approved for this 21-single family home development. This new development is located off County Road 101 between Lyman Blvd and Pioneer Trail and is an extension of the existing Foxwood neighborhood. The homes will be built by Gonyea Homes and make a connection to the Fox Woods Preserve trail loop.
Avienda Village Development: With grading now underway, I wanted to again encourage residents to visit the project page on our website and sign up for “Notify Me” to receive updates as development continues. We do not yet know the names of specific businesses, but as different parcels get submitted to the city, we will update the website. While the area looks different already, most of the area developed was previously farmland and tree removal was limited. Please visit the site plan to better understand the tree preservation plan as well as the green space incorporated into the final design.

Avienda, the 116 acres mixed use development, is underway. A grading permit and final plat have been approved. With the final plat, the city secured preservation 21 acres of woods in the southwest corner of the development. This area is part of the Bluff Creek Corridor. In addition, 1.5 acres was preserved in the north east part of the site. The residential homes along the western edge will likely be the first development to be built. This housing project will have to receive approval by the City Council through the Planning Commission before beginning construction.

Strategic Priority - Operational Excellence

Employee Picnic: Happy staff; happy life. Okay, maybe that isn’t exactly the saying, but we recognize the importance of celebrating and appreciating our employees. The annual company picnic provides a great opportunity to have city staff together to enjoy an afternoon of food, games, and camaraderie. Employees who feel valued; value doing good work which results in operational excellence. We appreciate our hard-working employees!

Strategic Priority – Communication

Carver County Non-Emergency Number: Situations occur, for example a tree blocking a road due to storms, and calling 911 doesn’t seem like the most appropriate action. Please save the following number in your phone for those non-emergency situations that require an after-hours response from the city: 952.361.1231. Dispatch will be able to direct your call most quickly to the correct department.

I hope everyone is enjoying the last few weeks of summer. Please don’t hesitate to connect with any questions, comments, or concerns.

Warmest Regards,
Elise Ryan
eryan@ci.chanhassen.mn.us