In its first foray outside of Florida, Corner Lot is developing a new multi-family community in a region of the country where housing availability is an urgent need and topic of community discussion. Construction is already underway on Corner Lot’s Lofts of Novotny in Baxter, Minnesota. The new multi-family community will include a three-story, L-shaped building with an elevator, interior corridors, 64 apartment homes, and 33 private attached and detached garages. Climate-controlled storage and bike locker rooms will also be available onsite for those who do not lease a garage.
“When Corner Lot began to consider development opportunities outside of Florida, Central Minnesota was one of the first places we looked.” said Andy Allen, Corner Lot CEO. “That part of the country is near and dear to my family, and we spend a large part of our summers in the region. People are drawn to a lifestyle of outdoor activities, and Crow Wing County has so much to offer.”
Floor plans include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options. In addition, three-season patios and balconies will be available in most units. Modern interior features include 42-inch shaker cabinets, energy-efficient appliances, luxury wood-style flooring, walk-in closets, and washers and dryers. Community amenities include a fitness facility, community room, and a walking trail that connects to local businesses.
“I’d like to thank the City of Baxter Council and staff, the Brainerd HRA, Tyler Glynn and the team at the Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation, and Eric Charpentier and the Brainerd, Crosby & Crow Wing County Housing and Redevelopment Authority” said Allen. “It was truly a pleasure to work with the community and I’m happy that Corner Lot has the ability to help address the housing and economic development needs in our home away from home.”
A 2019 housing study indicated that the region needs more than 4,500 residential units over the next 15 years in order to meet the demand of those who want to live in the area year-round. In developing The Lofts of Novotny, Corner Lot worked closely with the Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation to understand the study and ensure the development aligns with the region’s current and future housing needs.
“The City of Baxter is thrilled that Corner Lot has invested in residential development in this area of the city. The development will not only provide housing to support the existing and growing commercial area, but it will also provide an example for additional residential development that will follow,” said Brad Chapulis, Baxter City Administrator.
In conjunction with The Lofts of Novotny, Corner Lot is also constructing a portion of Novotny Road, a component of the City of Baxter’s long range transportation plan. The Lofts of Novotny is scheduled to be complete this Fall. First National Bank is the lender, and Corner Lot enlisted Widseth as the civil engineer and Minnesota construction company Miller Architects and Builders to design and construct the project. INH properties has been secured to manage the new development.
“The Brainerd Lakes Area is excited to bring Corner Lot into this market. The professional team at Corner Lot has been a pleasure to work with. They are providing a quality product to our area in a time of need with regards to our housing market,” said Tyler Glynn, Executive Director of the Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation. “The Lofts at Novotny will be a show place for this area to be proud of and the economic impact of the project will allow for the continued growth and expansion of our local companies, as new employees will have an amazing opportunity to call the Lofts at Novotny home.”