By Emma Nelson
Development brings both opportunity and unease
The recently approved Brixton townhome project—106 units at Manning Avenue and 80th Street West—represents a major housing investment in Stillwater. Project revisions include added sidewalks, trail connections, and increased buffering between the development and nearby properties. While many praised the changes, some neighbors expressed concerns about infrastructure stress, parking, and traffic flow, especially as vehicle volumes rise in the area. Stillwater staff emphasized that these changes were made in direct response to resident feedback.
Aging property issues declared public nuisance
The City Council unanimously declared Remington Ranch Apartments a public nuisance, citing months-long failures in water and heat systems in many of the 300 units. With over 280 units needing replacements, council members criticized slow progress from the property owner. Legal action has been authorized to force improvements, and the city may carry out repairs and bill the owner for costs.
Changes in traffic patterns aim to improve safety
A significant update: beginning August 24, traffic patterns at the intersection of Washington Avenue and West Frontage Road will shift. The left-turn lane on the Frontage Road will be closed and westbound traffic between Washington Avenue and Northwestern Avenue will be removed, with detours in place. The goal is to reduce dangerous conflicts that have persisted for too long. While residents are relieved to see action, the new flow will require adjustment.
Leadership and long-term planning shaping Stillwater’s future
With Jason Zimmerman now serving as Community Development Director, the city is laying groundwork for major projects—among them the Lakeview Hospital Campus, a $400 million facility, plus mixed-use amenities and grocery retail along Manning Avenue. These plans, along with updates to the Comprehensive Plan, aim to address growth thoughtfully. Concerns persist around balancing density, preserving open space, pedestrian safety, and maintaining the city’s character as growth accelerates.
Looking ahead: voices calling for more say
Across these stories, common threads emerge: residents want better transparency, more focus on pedestrian infrastructure, and stronger protections when development causes disruptions. As Stillwater charts its next chapter, many are keenly watching to see whether proposed changes truly reflect community values—or simply meet minimums. For those concerned, staying engaged now is proving more important than ever.