Twin Cities Habitat Breaks Ground on New Affordable Homes in Minnetonka

Every family deserves the opportunity to build a stable future through homeownership. That's why Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is excited to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Minnetonka Mills Twin Homes project—a new development that will create 10 affordable homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers in Minnetonka. 

Although construction is already underway, the recent ceremonial groundbreaking marked an exciting milestone and celebrated the many partners working together to make these homes possible. View the photos from the Minnetonka Mills Groundbreaking event.

The Minnetonka Mills Twin Homes are the result of a unique partnership between Twin Cities Habitat, Homes Within Reach, and Mills Church. Together, they're transforming 2.56 acres of underutilized land on the church's campus into a neighborhood where families can put down roots, build equity, and become part of the community for generations to come. Twin Cities Habitat President Chris Coleman said:

"The Minnetonka Mills Twin Homes project significantly expands attainable homeownership options in Minnetonka. After robust community engagement, we are excited to celebrate this milestone and look ahead to welcoming ten families to their new homes."

For Habitat, every home is about much more than four walls. Homeownership creates stability for families, strengthens neighborhoods, and helps close the racial and economic wealth gaps that continue to affect our region. 

The development thoughtfully builds on what already makes the property special. The project transforms an underused parking lot while preserving community assets like the apple orchard, playground, and much of the existing tree canopy. The community garden and other site amenities will also be relocated or improved, ensuring the property continues to serve both church members and neighborhood residents.

The preserved orchard and mature trees will provide natural shade for future homeowners, while improved stormwater infrastructure will benefit both the new neighborhood and the surrounding church campus.

Projects like Minnetonka Mills demonstrate what's possible when nonprofits, local governments, faith communities, businesses, and generous supporters come together around a shared vision. Funding for the development includes support from Congressionally Directed Spending, Minnesota Housing, contributors to the State Housing Tax Credit including Bridgewater Bank, the Metropolitan Council, Hennepin County, the City of Minnetonka, individual donors, and a partial land donation from Mills Church.

Construction is expected to continue through 2028, when ten families will receive something far more meaningful than a new address. They'll gain the opportunity to build equity, create lasting memories, and establish a foundation for generations to come.

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together nonprofit partners, elected officials, and community members, including:

• Minnetonka Mayor Rebecca Schack 

• Former Minnetonka Mayor Brad Wiersum 

• Mills Church Pastor David Landt 

• Hennepin County Commissioner Heather Edelson 

• Metropolitan Council Member Dr. Tyronne Carter (District 3) 

• Minnesota Housing Commissioner Jennifer Ho 

• Bridgewater Bank Managing Director - Commercial Banking, Patrick Craig 

• Homes Within Reach Executive Director Brenda Lano-Wolke