MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) -
It's the cornerstone of Stadium Village by the University of Minnesota campus, but Sally's Saloon could soon be gone -- at least temporarily.
It's one of many changes happening in the neighborhood now that developers are pushing to revitalize the area, but while new construction can be exciting, not everyone is ready to see the character of the old neighborhood go into the pages of history.
"I would definitely be sad if it closed down," said nursing student Erin Schaden.
Developers say a new housing project could deliver premium options for students, but it could mean that Sally's would have to shut its doors for up to a year.
"It's a fun place to come, especially when it's nice out to use a patio outside," Jessie Boe tells FOX 9.
However, by the time students can comfortably dine outdoors in the summer, developer Daniel Oberpriller hopes his new housing project will be breaking ground. That would require Sally's to close from July 2013-July 2014, which will also enable developers to improve the restaurant while it builds student housing.
"Sally's is staying. The owners are excited to go back into the new space," nodded Oberpriller. "Sally's is going to benefit from this space. They'll have a larger space, better circulation."
Except it's not a sure thing yet. Oberpriller still needs approval from the Minneapolis Planning Commission to build the complex of 158 bedrooms in 98 units. The plan calls for quality studios as well as one- and two-bedroom options with rent running anywhere from $800 to $1,000.
"Laundry in unit, granite countertops -- you'll have a club room, you'll have a movie theatre, study rooms, individual lounges," promised Oberpriller.
Even so, not all of the students are sold on the idea of more modern housing on campus.
"I know housing is a huge issue here on campus but there needs to be a sense of community too," Schaden noted.
The proposal will be formally discussed at a hearing in April. If approved, Sally's could close as soon as July.
