Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - The Rochester City Council has approved the preliminary plan for the proposed Bloom project.

Monday night’s unanimous vote will allow the developer to work with staff on a final plan and a development agreement. The developer hopes to begin work on the huge twin-tower project later this year. The current plan calls for the project to be completed in stages. It would be built on the west side of the Zumbro River between 2nd and 4th streets. The city owns the land and is expected to sell it to Bloom as part of a development agreement.  Both towers would include parking garages totaling about 500 spaces. Nearly half may be public spaces to make up for the loss of the city’s 2nd St ramp.

The council also held a hearing Monday night on a recommendation to designate the Days Inn/Carlton Hotel as a Landmark Property. After hearing from supporters and opponents the council voted 5-2 against the recommendation. Council members Bilderback and Wojcik cast the nay votes.

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