Work on a large senior living project is expected to begin on 20 acres this fall at the corner of Hodgson Road and County Road J in Lino Lakes. The plan by the developer, Lyngblomsten calls for 223 units starting with 20 separate cottage homes and one larger building that would include independent living, assisted living, and memory care.
Community Development Director Mike Grochala says the city has been eyeing the site for redevelopment for over 20 years.
“People are going to see a brand new face-lift to that corner. That intersection of town is a major gateway for the southern end of town into Lino Lakes, so we’re really excited about the opportunity.”
Some existing buildings will come down and commercial development is expected later, especially since it will bring sewer and water utilities that it lacks now. Also, the senior housing fills a need in the area.
“This will be Lino Lake’s first truly independent senior housing community,” said Grochala. “We have two existing assisted living complexes here in town, but as far as independent living, providing a place for active seniors, this is certainly something new to the community.”
The development will also bring major changes to the intersection at Hodgson and County Road J. The county is bringing in a consultant to help come up with a plan customized to work best with the project.
It’s become a busy intersection and engineers have been working for years on the best way to upgrade it.
“Inefficiencies at this intersection do cause cut-through traffic in some of the neighboring communities of Shoreview,” said Assistant Anoka County Engineer Jerry Auge.
No decision has been made, but engineers are considering a round-a-bout or improved traffic signal options. There will be a chance for public input sometime this fall or winter with construction expected in 2023.
“We have worked with both the cities of Shoreview and Lino Lakes and Ramsey County to look at, not only the intersection, but also further north on Hodgson and west on County J and how this all fits with the development,” said Auge.
Located near the county line, it’s a complex project involving two cities and two counties, and officials are glad to see it’s finally coming about.
“People have been looking at that corner and commenting about it for a number of years and asking when is something going to happen down there. Well, that is happening now,” said Grochala.
Future phases of the project include a stand-alone restaurant, future commercial development, and a skilled care wing with 56 units.
