Cottage Grove, Minnesota

strategic goal to diversify the city’s housing stock, which has also contributed to its desirability. “Now you’re seeing a lot of different products being brought to the market – from apartment buildings, to townhomes, to different price-points for single family homes,” Levitt says. “So, those things are really making our area very attractive. We have a housing stock that meets everyone’s needs. It helps create that sense of community that people really want to stay here.” To prepare for the influx of residents they predict over the next decade, the city has been investing in infrastructure projects, which include sanitary sewer and water extension to the business park. They are also extending their utilities and water supply system to growing residential areas. Bailey reports, “We are seeing probably some of our largest infrastructure investment from the past couple of years and into the future with an eye to ensuring that our infrastructure that we currently have is in great condition, and looking to those areas that we can expand.” The future is looking bright for this progressive Minnesota city, and they hope to continue to grow and foster a sense of community with residents and businesses alike. “We really want to continue those partnerships that we have,” Costello says. “It’s very important. We want to work with businesses and we want to work with developers. I pride myself on having great relationships with them and it’s great to see that they have a great experience here.” COTTAGE GROVE , MINNESOTA