A number of characteristics distinguish Gladstone from other areas in the Twin Cities: a traffic roundabout effectively manages traffic congestion on two highly traveled streets; the Gladstone Savanna lies at the heart of the project area; and two major state trails, the Gateway and Vento Trails, intersect just to the northeast of the roundabout and the Savanna, providing the neighborhood with an incredible level of connectivity. These extraordinary elements, however, are underutilized in terms of contributing to the creation of a strong, cohesive neighborhood character.

The master plan currently being designed by HKGi will use these qualities as a solid foundation for creating an attractive neighborhood. Through the extensive public participation process that HKGi has designed and facilitated, community members stated their desire for planners to focus on walkability; maintain the amount of open space; preserve ecological systems; and “push the envelope” with planning concepts. As a result, HKGi and the City are exploring innovative concepts such as woonerfs, pedestrian streets, rain water gardens, green roofs and pervious pavement.

Following the City’s adoption of the Master Plan, HKGi developed a form-based zoning district to implement the vision and goals of the Master Plan. The proposed Gladstone Form-Based District provides the regulatory structure to more clearly articulate and ultimately achieve the desired development pattern and character of uses within this redevelopment area. This district establishes desired site and building standards, sustainable design guidelines, density incentives, as well as permitted uses, and consists of three neighborhood sub-districts and an open space district.