Minneapolis Approves New Trellis Co. Housing Project
The city clears a 98-unit affordable housing development at the historic Checkerboard Elevator site.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Apartments
Live Poll
Do you support the construction of high-density affordable housing developments in your community?
The Minneapolis Planning Commission has approved a new six-story affordable housing complex from Trellis Co. The project will bring 98 units to the former Checkerboard Elevator site on Cheatham Avenue.
Why it matters
The developer aims to address a shortage of family-sized housing in the area by prioritizing three-bedroom units for households earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income.
The six-story development will feature 30 one-bedroom, 47 two-bedroom, and 21 three-bedroom units. The site includes a grain elevator constructed in 1912, with plans to retain the historic headhouse in the new design.
The players
Trellis Co.
This organization is a housing developer focused on creating affordable living spaces for residents.
Minneapolis Planning Commission
This municipal body is responsible for reviewing and approving land-use development projects within the city.
The details
The project design features metal exterior panels intended to mimic the appearance of cylindrical silos. Amenities for residents will include a first-floor parking garage, bike storage, and a children's play area.
Timeline
Construction of the original grain elevator site began in 1912.
The Checkerboard Elevator officially ceased all operations in 2013.
The Minneapolis Planning Commission approved the housing project on October 26, 2026.
Culture Shift
The project aligns with urban revitalization trends that prioritize repurposing historic industrial sites for modern residential use. This move capitalizes on the growing shift toward adaptive reuse in dense metropolitan neighborhoods.
Local families may soon have access to new three-bedroom apartment options in the Howe neighborhood. Future residents will also benefit from proximity to existing infrastructure as the building integrates modern residential features into the historic site.
The takeaway
The development demonstrates how historic industrial architecture can be successfully integrated into contemporary urban housing solutions. Residents should look for upcoming city council hearings if they wish to monitor the final approval process for this site.
Further reading
Learn more about local rental housing developments on the Minneapolis Apartments page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Finance & Commerce.
Live Poll
Do you support the construction of high-density affordable housing developments in your community?
