The Minnesota Department of Transportation held an informational open house meeting at the Lion’s Community Center on Tuesday evening, September 26th. Several informational posters, maps and drawings of the upcoming roundabout project were displayed to clarify the design and why the project is needed. Project manager, Chad Hanson, along with other MnDOT representatives were on hand to answer questions.
Construction of the roundabout at the intersection of State Highway 58 and Goodhue County Road 9 is scheduled to begin in mid-April 2024 and be completed by the Fourth of July. This is an estimated timeline that can be affected by weather and other factors. Highway detours will be in place in two stages but access to the city will be maintained throughout the process. Estimated cost of the project is $2.4 million.
An informational flyer given out at the open house states that the project will provide many benefits beginning with improved safety for all users. Studies show a decrease in the frequency of accidents when using a roundabout compared to a regular intersection crossing. Any accidents that do occur are usually less severe due in part to the need for a reduced speed upon approach and entrance. Additional lighting is also planned for the area.
Drivers need to yield to other motorists already in the circle but with a reduced need for a full stop, traffic moves more quickly through the intersection. Extending large culverts under CR9 will improve drainage upon completion of the project. The welcome sign and landscaping on the edge of city limits will not be affected and the entire project lies within the right-of-ways. The need for turning lanes will be eliminated and the project will not encroach on farmland.
MnDOT designed the project using computer simulations to ensure it will accommodate the largest legal truck. It will be created with large farm equipment and oversize loads in mind, having a short 4 inch curb and basic grass center. Curbs on the approaches will have openings to accommodate users of both the walking trail and snowmobile crossings.
Project materials can be viewed online at the project’s website, www.dot.state.mn.us/d6/projects/hwy58-cr9.
