Population Growth
Carver County’s population is expected to grow to around 161,400 by 2040. This is a more than 50% increase from the current population. With such large growth, it will be important to carefully consider where and how we want growth to take place. As the County grows, the transportation, parks and trails networks will need to be expanded, upgraded and maintained to meet increased demand.
Expanding Cities
As our population grows, cities will expand. By 2040, 27% of the land within Carver County will be part of a city. Most growth will occur in the County's eastern cities. Growth will especially affect Dahlgren and Laketown Townships, as the cities of Waconia, Victoria and Carver are planning to annex large portions of these townships. The City of Carver is planning for growth three times its current size by 2040.
Preservation of Agriculture Land
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan includes land use goals to preserve the viability of the agricultural economy for future generations and maintain the County's unique and rural agricultural character. To accomplish this, the County's land use policy is to direct most urban developments to cities and allow limited residential and commercial development in the remainder of the county. In 2040, the majority of the County will continue to be used for agriculture, about 68%.
