By Tim Douglass

tdouglass@pctribune.com

A proposed new housing complex that will feature high-end, luxury condominium units right in the middle of Glenwood is moving closer to becoming a reality.

The 32-unit complex, called Franklin Square is to be constructed along Franklin Street just west of Central Square in downtown Glenwood and will feature eight housing units on each floor of the four-story building, according to developers Larry and Josh Zavadil who are the current officers for Franklin Square, LLC.  

The complex will be built once most of the units are pre-sold, it was stated recently, but those interested can reserve their unit without much risk because if the construction timeline doesn’t fit their needs they can back out and their deposit will be returned with interest, said Colton Iverson, of Glenwood State Bank Real Estate, who is marketing the units and meeting with interested residents on pre-sales. 

“There is a lot of excitement around the housing project we don’t need to have 100 percent pre-sold to start construction.  Reserving a unit now, however, lets the buyer pick the desired unit and location within the complex.  Those interested “can secure your spot now with the peace of mind that if for some reason the timing of the project doesn’t work out you can walk away and get your deposit back.” 

Iverson said there are a number of units that have been reserved already.

“We are thrilled with the initial interest in the project and know people are interested in a groundbreaking date, but our groundbreaking will hinge on the number of units sold.  Fluctuating material prices and interest rates have made it challenging to determine the exact count required at this time,” it was stated by the developers. 

Iverson said those interested in viewing the housing project online can do so in about two weeks when a website will be available that lets the public view the design and provide all the information needed to reserve a space.  In two weeks, those interested should google “Franklin Square housing in Glenwood, Minn.”

In the meantime, area residents interested should contact Colton Iverson at Glenwood State Real Estate or call him at 320-808-1488.  He can be  reached by email at colton.iverson@glenwoodstate.com.

A unique housing choice

The unique housing units will range from $199,000 to mid $400,000 with most units at about 1,000 square feet and some at about 1,200 square feet of living space.

The unique design of the development should give area residents a different choice in housing.

“What is unique about these living units and the overall design is the bridge that it creates between a typical single-family home with its amenities and merging those into a denser living environment,” said Chass Rising, CEO of Rising Architects of St. Cloud, the firm that designed the complex.  “For instance, each unit will have two underground parking spaces with easy access to three elevators and three stairways.  The comfort continues by providing each unit with its own front porch that creates a personalized entry and the rear balcony creates additional privacy,” Rising explained.  

There are also a variety of options for buyers that allows them to select from “End units” that have increased windows and natural daylight.  

Rising, who is a 1991 graduate of Glenwood High School, also explained that the top floor units have higher ceilings and superior views of downtown Glenwood and Lake Minnewaska.  All owners will have access to the Roof Top Lounge space that has a 44-person capacity.  There, development also includes a large open lawn and pet play area, it was stated.

Iverson again reiterated that the idea for this housing development is to “free up the local housing market.”  He said Franklin Square gives residents the opportunity to move from single-family homes into maintenance-free, luxury living.   “That would open more single-family homes to younger families who currently can’t find those home options in Glenwood,” Colton Iverson said. “It’s difficult for a town like Glenwood to grow without housing options available,” Iverson added.

Glenwood City Administrator Dave Iverson agreed. “After reviewing the concept, it looks like a fantastic development for the city of Glenwood,” Iverson said.  “The city can definitely benefit when there’s a variety of housing options available and this one will certainly add to the betterment of the city,” he added.

The developers focused the housing project on offering an affordable price by unit size and location; the view to the West /Southwest; privacy; two spacious inside parking spaces (and some private parking spaces available); inside access to Central Square building; and close to the downtown business area.