Resolution approving a Conditional Use Permit to allow for a parking lot providing off-street parking for a permitted use, a school, in the R-1, One-Family Dwelling District (West High School, 1351 South Riverfront Drive); by request of Mankato Area Public Schools.

Adoption of the attached resolution.

Mankato Area Public Schools is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to allow for the expansion of an existing parking lot within the R-1, One-Family Dwelling District. The subject property is legally described as a 36.27-acre tract located between Riverfront Drive and West Pleasant Street, excluding a 0.475-acre tract and the Stoltzman Road right-of-way (Subdivision 013 108 27 024.490A – West High). The property is addressed as 1351 South Riverfront Drive.

The proposed project involves the removal of the existing athletic fields situated east of the current parking lot to facilitate the construction of an expanded parking facility. The new parking area is intended to enhance service for students, staff, and visitors, while also improving traffic flow and safety within the surrounding neighborhood. The existing driveway access from Stoltzman Road will be maintained, as will the traffic signal at the adjacent pedestrian crosswalk. As part of the project, interior lot landscaping, lighting, and stormwater management infrastructure will be incorporated in accordance with applicable regulations.

Currently, the site provides 348 parking stalls. The proposed expansion will increase the total number of stalls to 505, including 17 stalls designated as accessible. The expansion is not anticipated to result in a net increase in traffic volume but is expected to significantly improve internal traffic circulation and traffic efficiency on the site.
In compliance with the Mankato City Code, the applicant will be required to implement landscaping consistent with established municipal standards.