The Metropolitan Council voted to approve their Imagine 2050 Plan, a framework for the seven-county region's future growth.
"I think it's kind of taking some of those main issues that Minnesotans really care about, like access to open space, like being able to have a main street and a sense of community in each of our towns, having an opportunity to live affordably," Met Council Chair Charlie Zelle said.
Zelle says the plan also helps 180 cities prepare for the future when it comes to housing costs, land use, transportation, and regional parks and trails.
The Imagine 2050 plan involves everything from housing and transportation to clean water according to Zelle.
"When we think about this area where we are blessed with so much water, and yet, water quality and even water access is an issue we can't ignore," he explained to WCCO Radio.
A cornerstone of the plan is equitable and economic prosperity to ensure all residents feel welcome, included, and empowered.
The Met Council is projecting an additional 650,000 residents in the metro by 2050.
Regional goals
The Met Council has endorsed these goals for our region to achieve through our policies, practices, programs, and partnerships.
Our region is equitable and inclusive
Racial inequities and injustices experienced by historically marginalized communities have been eliminated; and all people feel welcome, included, and empowered.
Our communities are healthy and safe
All our region’s residents live healthy and rewarding lives with a sense of dignity and wellbeing.
Our region is dynamic and resilient
Our region meets the opportunities and challenges faced by our communities and economy including issues of choice, access, and affordability.
We lead on addressing climate change
We have mitigated greenhouse gas emissions and have adapted to ensure our communities and systems are resilient to climate impacts.
We protect and restore natural systems
We protect, integrate, and restore natural systems to protect habitat and ensure a high quality of life for the people of our region.
You can learn more about the plan here.