Housing documentary spotlights Apple Valley development
The 45-unit Quarry View townhome complex in Apple Valley is one of three developments profiled in the documentary “Homes For All,” which will air at 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, on Twin Cities Public Television. (Photo submitted)
Quarry View townhomes profiled in ‘Homes For All’
by Andrew Miller
Thisweek Newspapers
Apple Valley’s Quarry View townhome complex will be featured on Twin Cities Public Television later this month in the documentary “Homes For All.”
According to the show’s producers, “Homes For All” takes an in-depth look at the need for sustainable, affordable housing choices in Minnesota and profiles three innovative developments in the Twin Cities area that have broken the mold in creating homes for those living on small incomes.
“This documentary tells the story of real people in real life situations who – with the security of a safe, affirming place to call home – can move forward and live independent lives,” Chip Halbach, executive director of Minnesota Housing Partnership, said in a press release.
The 45-unit Quarry View complex was developed by the Dakota County Community Development Agency as part of its Family Townhome Program for moderate-income families with children.
Located at Pilot Knob Road and 155th Street near Cobblestone Lake, it opened last year and is the CDA’s third Family Townhome Program development in Apple Valley – the other two are Chasewood Townhomes and Glenbrook Place.
The Quarry View development was a source of controversy at city hall when the Dakota County CDA submitted its proposal for the townhomes in 2008. Neighboring residents expressed concerns about the prospect of increased criminal activity – everything from criminal sexual conduct to graffiti vandalism – if the townhomes were built.
After city officials held a series of public meetings – at which CDA officials explained their housing application process, which includes criminal background checks, and Apple Valley police reported that the other CDA-run townhome sites don’t generate an inordinate number of calls for service – the City Council approved the Quarry View proposal in November 2008.
Along with Quarry View, “Homes For All” profiles Forest Ridge Townhomes in Forest Lake and Hope Communities in Minneapolis.
The 60-minute documentary will air at 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, on Twin Cities Public Television.
A preview event for “Homes For All” is scheduled for Feb. 13 at the Wilder Center in St. Paul. More about that event, which will include discussion with the owners of the three developments profiled, is at www.mhponline.org.
Andrew Miller is at andrew.miller@ecm-inc.com.
