16 | SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2026 ELK RIVER STAR NEWS
PROGRESS 2026
Otsego charts busy 2026 with housing, retail and park projects
City officials are advancing new housing developments, business growth, park upgrades and major commercial projects, including Costco
BY ADAM FLAHERTY Otsego City Administrator
Otsego’ s 2026 calendar is shaping up as a busy year, with two residential development applications under review, a Costco Wholesale store under construction and major park renovations planned.
The city’ s population is estimated at 23,790, according to the state demographer. Over the past five years, Otsego’ s population has grown by an average of 5.63 percent, and 280 new home permits were issued in 2025, signaling continued growth in 2026. Already this year, the city has received two applications for new residential housing developments. A preliminary plat for Meadow Haven includes 80 lots and is located southwest of 70th Street and McAllister Ave. The City Council granted preliminary approval on March 9. A second preliminary plat,
PHOTO COURTESY FOSS SWIM SCHOOL
The Otsego City Council approved a preliminary plat for a roughly 9,600-square-foot Foss Swim School to be built near the intersection of Parson Ave. and 85th St., aimed at serving families in the northern Twin Cities metro area. The project would reserve space for future retail development, with final steps including additional city reviews and approvals. The Foss Swim School pool in Otsego will have a similar look and feel, according to a spokesperson.
Meridian Fields, includes 140 residential lots and is situated northwest of 70th Street and Odean Ave.; Planning Commission action is expected in April. In addition, the city is reviewing Phase 2 of the Village Apartments, which would add 90 multifamily units and additional amenities.
Continued growth is likewise shaping the city’ s business landscape. Officials say targeted infrastructure improvements and adherence to the Comprehensive Plan are enabling growth across retail, service, commercial and industrial sectors, expanding job opportunities, offerings for residents and visitors, and the tax base. Highlights include:
Foss Swim School Planned— A new swim instruction facility could be built near the intersection of Parson Ave. and 85th St. The Otsego City Council recently approved a preliminary plat for a roughly 9,600-square-foot building intended to serve families in the northern Twin Cities metro area. The project would include space reserved for future retail development. Final steps include additional city reviews and approvals.
Construction Progress on Future Costco— Construction is advancing on the Otsego Costco, located on a roughly 25-acre site at the northwest corner of 60th St. NE and MacIver Ave. NE, near I-94. The warehouse store is expected to exceed 160,000 square feet, with a fuel station and a large parking area. The fuel station is anticipated to open about a month before the main store. Groundbreaking began in spring 2025, and progress has included grading, utilities, steel work and interior prep. Road improvements on County Road 137 and the I-94 interchange are intended to support increased traffic once the store opens, projected for
See OTSEGO | PAGE 22
INDEPENDENT LIVING APARTMENTS, THERAPY SERVICES AND RIVERVIEW DECK ON SCHEDULE
Guardian Angels Senior Services continues to build on its mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care and vibrant living opportunities for older adults, and 2026 is shaping up to be a year of growth and innovation.
At the heart of everything the organization does is a commitment to enriching lives— whether through exceptional housing options, personalized care or meaningful community experiences. Guardian Angels is proud to share several developments that reflect both its mission and forward-thinking vision. One milestone is the groundbreaking of a new independent living community at its Albertville campus. This thoughtfully designed addition will feature 86 modern apartments and amenities designed to support an active, engaging lifestyle, including a rooftop patio, pickleball courts, a club lounge and a maker’ s room.
Outdoor spaces will include fireplaces, grilling areas and a putting green. The community is scheduled to open in March 2027, and anticipation is already building.
In addition to expanding living options, Guardian Angels is introducing GA Wellness Rehab and Therapy. Beginning in May, all therapy and rehab services will be provided by the GA Wellness team at its care center. This transition
ADVERTISEMENT New independent living community coming to Albertville
allows for more integrated, personalized care while maintaining the high standards residents and families expect.
At Riverview Landing in Otsego, a new outdoor deck for memory care residents is under construction overlooking the Mississippi River. The space will provide a safe and peaceful setting where residents can enjoy fresh air, sunshine and views of the river.
These initiatives reflect Guardian Angels’ ongoing dedication to creating communities where people feel valued, supported and inspired. As the organization continues to grow, its mission remains focused on providing exceptional health care, housing and supportive services to seniors and their families.
THRYVE EXPANDS TO HELP OLDER ADULTS LIVE WELL, STAY CONNECTED
As our communities grow and change, many older adults are asking the same important question:“ How can I continue living well, stay connected, and maintain my independence while aging at home?” Thryve was created to help answer that question.
Rooted in Guardian Angels’ long history of serving older adults and their families, Thryve builds on decades of in-person care and community programs, extending that mission beyond our walls. As a community-based initiative, Thryve acts as a hub by linking people to programs,
See GUARDIAN ANGELS | PAGE 18