By Emma Nelson
Recent actions by the Inver Grove Heights City Council reflect major developments in city infrastructure and land-use policy, impacting neighborhoods and the balance between growth and livability. Here’s what residents should know:
Roads, utilities and projects in motion
A sweeping feasibility report outlines substantial improvements for seven neighborhoods under the Project #PMI North plan. These include full-depth reclamation, curb and gutter work, and upgrades to stormwater, sanitary, and water services in areas like Alta Avenue, Angus Avenue, Upper 55th Street, and both North and South Blackberry Trail. The City’s engineering office is overseeing design and planning phases.
Simultaneously, the 70th Street E./County Road 26 reconstruction project is set for 2027. Plans call for rebuilding the stretch from Allen Bay to Highway 52, reducing a portion of roadway from five to three lanes, constructing new trail sections, installing storm sewers, and adding roundabouts at key intersections. These improvements aim to increase safety, improve multimodal access, and reduce congestion along a critical east‐west corridor.
Energy infrastructure is also moving forward. Xcel Energy has proposed a project to rebuild about two miles of its 115 kV transmission line between the Inver Grove and Inver Hills substations, including related upgrades at both substations and at UMore Park. Most of the work follows existing easements, though adjustments are required where the route crosses railroad tracks.
Land use: data center moratorium & policy changes
In July, the City Council unanimously denied an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for a proposed data center at 5890 Carmen Avenue, following strong opposition from neighbors over concerns about noise, environmental impact, and power consumption. Shortly afterward, the council approved a one‐year moratorium on all new data center development by a narrow 3‐2 vote. This pause allows for further study into how these facilities are regulated and where they’re located.
Another policy change passed in August modernized the city’s appointment process. City Code 1-6A-5, governing how public positions are advertised, applied for, screened, and confirmed, has been overhauled to increase transparency and responsiveness in municipal hiring and commission appointments.
What it means for local residents
- Residents in the neighborhoods slated for infrastructure upgrades should expect construction notice, utility disruptions, and partial street closures as work progresses.
- Property owners near major road projects like 70th Street should prepare for traffic pattern changes, trail construction, and possible temporary rerouting.
- The data center moratorium indicates the city is taking time to review how new industrial or tech uses align with community priorities.
- The revised appointment code could mean more citizen involvement in advisory boards and commissions, with clearer processes for application and selection.
These moves show Inver Grove Heights is investing heavily in balancing growth, infrastructure demands, and maintaining neighborhood quality. Community engagement remains essential—get involved by attending council meetings or subscribing to city updates for your area.