The former Kmart site is closing in on its new use as a mixed-use development known as “Copper Rocks” after the La Crosse City Plan Commission approved its new zoning Monday night.
Three Sixty Real Estate Solutions developers are requesting that the property at 2415 State Road be rezoned from the Local Business District to the Planned Development District.
The rezoning will go before the Judicial and Administrative Committee on Tuesday and the Municipal Council of La Crosse next Thursday before being finalized.
Copper Rocks, a name and brand that was unveiled to neighbors earlier this year, will feature 216 market-priced housing and commercial space in six buildings, as well as outdoor community space.
The existing structure, which once housed the Kmart store which closed in 2017, will be demolished later this year.
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The city’s planning department recommended rezoning approval, stating in its report, “This project takes a vacant former bix-box site and redevelops it into a vibrant mixed-use development with high density in one location. which is arguably the busiest intersection in the county.”
Associate town planner Jack Zabrowski described it on Monday as a “vibrant mixed-use development”.
A neighbor said he was opposed to parts of the plan, but not all of it. He said he had concerns about the project’s plumbing and utilities, the buildings’ proposed five-story height, traffic and barriers between the property and the surrounding neighborhood.
The Planning Commission approved the rezoning unanimously with member Elaine Yager, a Three Sixty employee, recused herself.
In pictures: Rotary Lights 2021

Santa Claus prepares to flip the switch
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

New Rotary Lights mascots Katie Watt, left, and Kilo Watt
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Rotary Lights opens its 27th year Friday night at Riverside Park.
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Crowds attend opening night at Riverside Park. For a photo gallery and video of the celebration, go to lacrossetribune.com.
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Opening night at Rotary Lights
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Opening night at Rotary Lights
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Opening night at Rotary Lights
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Children watch the singing lights of Rotary Lights Friday night.
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Visitors to the rotating lights walk through a tunnel of light
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Lights reflect off a car in a tunnel of light.
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Wisconsin sing Christmas music during the Rotary Lights opening night.
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

A sign celebrates the birthday of Jesus
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Fireworks explode over Pettibone Park.
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Opening night at Rotary Lights
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

Girl Scouts march in the Rotary Lights Parade.
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune

The Riverfest Float on Main Street
Peter Thomson, La Crosse Tribune