While the architectural plans for the new Nicollet Square facility in south Minneapolis have already been drawn up and ground has already been broken, it’s the cultural underpinnings that will really make this new building a community.

And YouthLink plans to play a big part in that work.

Just as it does in the other temporary housing facilities it’s involved with in Minneapolis, YouthLink will help the youth that live in Nicollet Square develop independent living skills, manage their money, get and keep a job, improve their education level and make healthy choices.

The facility, which is tentatively scheduled to open later this year, will boast 42 furnished studio apartments with private bathrooms and kitchenettes. Building amenities include laundry room,community room,computer resource room and fitness room. The building will have 24-hour front desk security that limits access to tenants and approved guests only.

The building–which will incorporate environmentally sensitive design features  and building materials such as energy efficient lighting and appliances–will also feature a number of retail outlets. Companies that can and most likely will provide first jobs to many tenants in the building.

For more information on this new facility, please visit www.plymouthfoundation.org.