Minneapolis residents won a battle over a controversial development. Then the city changed the law.

In a notable legal battle, Minneapolis residents contest the Plymouth Avenue Apartments, which were built after a judge ruled against the city's zoning variances. Homeowner Ingrid Alexander leads a lawsuit against the city, arguing that the variances allowed the complex to infringe on neighboring properties. Although the judge found the variances unjustified, the city later revised its zoning code to make the apartments legal retroactively. Developer Matrix Development claims the project addresses the pressing affordable housing crisis by restricting units to low-income residents. However, local residents report that the development has caused a surge in parking problems and disturbances.

Complaints include blocked emergency access and unkempt surroundings. Alexander's fight underscores the ongoing struggle between urban development and community dynamics. The situation raises critical questions about zoning regulations and their impact on neighborhoods.