New ‘Tonka on the Creek’ Apartment Complex Planned by Minnehaha Creek

Minneapolis-based Harriss Architects plans to build a four-story, 93-unit apartment complex near the intersection of Highway 169 and Minnetonka Boulevard, according to documents filed with the City of Minnetonka.

The “Tonka on the Creek” project on Minnehaha Creek is being pitched as a project that takes advantage of the surrounding natural environment. In a letter included with the application, Harriss said the 93,000-square-foot building, located at 9731 Minnetonka Blvd., will have rooftop access that “will offer spectacular views of the surrounding woodlands and the creek.” The roof will have a grill station, a deck and raised planter beds that residents can use as a community garden.

On the ground, there will be a trail that leads to a gathering space and fire pit, as well as stairway access to the creek and wetlands. That access will connect the parking area to future city trail and recreational areas and will be open to the public.

Rain gardens will help control water runoff, and crews will try to eradicate invasive species on the site.

“It is the goal of the development to return the property to a state that allows native plant, animal life and the environment to flourish, and to provide the opportunity for the residents of Tonka on the Creek, and the surrounding community to enjoy these natural features, for many years to come,” the letter stated.

The units themselves will be a mix of studios, one-bedrooms, one-bedrooms with dens and two-bedrooms. Every unit will have a balcony.

Click on the PDF to the right of this article to see the full application packet.

The project is expected to go before the Planning Commission on May 23. The City Council is scheduled to review it June 3.