The Bloomington Chamber is committed to addressing the needs and concerns of businesses in the city of Bloomington. In conjunction with the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Bloomington Chamber continues to build relationships with community leaders in and around Bloomington enabling the Chamber to serve as a connector between local business associations and decision makers on substantive issues that impact the broader businesses community.

 

Normandale Lake District Area Study

The northwest area of Bloomington along Normandale Boulevard and Bush Lake Road, between I-494 and West 84th Street has experienced considerable residential and commercial office growth and development since 1985. The city is currently conducting a study to consider the variety of land uses in the Normandale Lake District and opportunities for future development and redevelopment in the area.

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France & Old Shakopee Road

The northwest area of Bloomington along Normandale Boulevard and Bush Lake Road, between I-494 and West 84th Street has experienced considerable residential and commercial office growth and development since 1985. A number of previous studies, most notably the October 2, 2000, Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Norman Pointe Office project, have looked at balancing land use and transportation factors. The Normandale Lake District Area Study will describe the relationship between new development and redevelopment and the proposed roadway and traffic improvements necessary to accommodate future development.

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Strategic Planning for 2025

To plan for the City's future, the City Council, Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Port Authority are preparing a Strategic Plan. The plan will define the City's strategy for development, redevelopment, City services, infrastructure, and fiscal strength and stability for the next 20 years. As one of the strategic partners identified by the City, the Bloomington Chamber has been integrally involved in the planning process. Opportunities for member involvement occur on a frequent basis.

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Zoning Update

The City of Bloomington is undergoing a multi-year effort to update its Zoning Ordinance and related City Code provisions. The current Zoning Ordinance, largely written in the 1950s, has never been comprehensively updated. A total of 28 guiding principles guide the project in the areas of growth, housing, transportation, community vitality, and customer service. The larger project is divided into many smaller subprojects.

Updates in progress

  • Lighting standards
  • Nonconformity standards

Completed updates

  • Commercial zoning districts.
  • Electronic message board and video display signs.
  • Exterior construction
  • Home occupation/business standards.
  • HX-R - Mixed-use zoning district for Airport South.
  • Interim use permits.
  • Landscaping and screening standards.
  • 2006 Miscellaneous issues ordinance.
  • Parking and loading standards.
  • Pawnshop and secondhand goods dealer standards.
  • Runway related airport overlay zoning district.
  • Tree preservation, residential building height and lot width standards.

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