Minneapolis Approves New Affordable Housing Project
The 98-unit development will bring family-sized apartments to the historic Checkerboard Elevator site.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Apartments
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The Minneapolis Planning Commission has approved a new 98-unit affordable housing development at the historic Checkerboard Elevator site on Cheatham Avenue. The six-story project will provide apartments for households earning 30% to 60% of the area median income.
Why it matters
The development aims to address a shortage of multi-bedroom rental housing in the Howe neighborhood by prioritizing family-sized units. By repurposing a site that has been vacant since 2013, the project adds density to the area while maintaining local historic elements.
The proposal features 30 one-bedroom, 47 two-bedroom, and 21 three-bedroom units across six stories. Construction will repurpose the historic 1912 headhouse, with the site located between 37th Street East and 38th Street East.
The players
Trellis Co.
An affordable housing developer focused on increasing residential capacity in local communities.
Minneapolis Planning Commission
The municipal body responsible for evaluating land use, zoning requests, and urban development projects.
The details
The design integrates the site's industrial past by retaining the historic headhouse and utilizing metal paneling to mimic the appearance of original grain silos. On-site amenities will include a first-floor parking garage, bike storage, and a dedicated children's play area to support local families.
Timeline
1912: Construction of the original grain elevator site began.
2013: The Checkerboard Elevator ceased operations.
October 26, 2026: The Minneapolis Planning Commission approved the project.
The Home Front
This project reflects a broader trend of converting underutilized industrial properties into residential space to meet city growth targets. It specifically aligns with efforts to expand housing supply within the Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan framework.
Local families looking for stable, income-restricted housing should monitor upcoming City Council sessions for final project authorization. Those in the Howe neighborhood can review site plans to see how the project's parking and play areas may impact local traffic and pedestrian flow.
The takeaway
The Trellis Co. development marks a shift from vacant industrial land to essential family housing in the Howe neighborhood. Residents should track the upcoming City Council rezoning vote to confirm the timeline for this new 98-unit affordable apartment complex.
Further reading
Learn more about local rental market developments in the Apartments section.
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Do you support the construction of high-density affordable housing developments in your community?
