That balance is reflected in Lakeville’s evolving identity.Once largelyviewed as a bedroom community of commuters, the city has seen a noticeable shift over the last five to seven years. Post-pandemic remote work has kept more residents local, while industrial and commercial growth has expanded beyond expectations, creating more opportunities to live and work in the same community. The result is a city that continues to attract newcomers while still honoring its rural roots and historic downtown character. DOWNTOWN STRENGTH THROUGH LOCAL BUSINESS AND CULTURAL ANCHORS Lakeville’s downtown is not only a geographic center, but a cultural one, Hellier argues. Community Development Director Tina Goodroad notes that the district’s historic buildings have been well-maintained over time, helping preserve the downtown’s authenticity. Just as important is the presence of locally grown businesses that reinforce the area’s identity, particularly restaurants, breweries, and independent shops. Hellier points out that one of downtown’s most significant drivers is the city’s arts ecosystem. Lakeville’s Art Center and Fine Arts Building have become true anchors, drawing visitors regionally while creating steady activity in the downtown core. Parks and Recreation Director Joe Masiarchin explains that the Art Center operates out of the former All Saints Catholic Church, a historic 1910 building that has served as an arts destination for nearly 25 years. Demand has grown to the point where the city acquired the adjacent former parochial school and converted it into an 11,000-square-foot fine arts facility, allowing both performing arts and fine arts programming to expand with dedicated space. Hellier highlights that the scale of activity is significant. The Art Center attracts audiences from across the state, with annual performing arts ticket sales reaching into the tens of thousands and registrations in the fine arts building numbering in the thousands each year. The facility also serves as a hub for several of Lakeville’s most popular 125 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 LAKEVILLE, MN
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