The City of Lanesboro is undertaking a significant update to its comprehensive plan, focusing on addressing the community’s housing needs in response to steady population growth. The previous plan, last revised in 2018, is being overhauled to better reflect current challenges and opportunities.
City Administrator Mitchell Walbridge emphasized the importance of balancing the town’s thriving tourism industry with the needs of local residents. “In this plan, the city council and the steering committee have had in mind finding that balance between playing off of our key tourism industry, but also kind of bolstering the livability of Lanesboro for local residents,” Walbridge stated.
Projections indicate that by 2035, Lanesboro’s population will increase from 787 to 957 residents. However, housing development has not kept pace with this growth, leading to concerns about affordability and availability. The city aims to develop more housing in areas with existing infrastructure to minimize costs and environmental impacts. Additionally, updated zoning and land use regulations are being considered to accommodate a range of housing types suitable for various household sizes.
Community feedback has highlighted the need for affordable housing to attract families and support individuals beginning their careers. To date, the city has developed one single-family home in 2025 and ten apartments in 2024. The updated comprehensive plan seeks to build upon these efforts to ensure Lanesboro remains a vibrant and inclusive community for all residents.