I-35W North Managed Lanes Open House
Date/Time
Date(s) - 05/02/2012
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location
Blaine City Hall
10801 Town Square Drive Northeast
Blaine, MN
Study Description
This study is intended to identify improvement strategies for the I-35W North corridor and how improvements could be strategically implemented over time. Specifically this study will investigate the type of managed lane system, the location of said systems, and the designation of I-35W managed lanes and associated policies.
The purpose of the I-35W North Managed Lane Study is to identify improvement strategies that accomplish the following goals:
- Better utilize existing and future infrastructure investments.
- Increase transit ridership and the use of high occupancy vehicles by providing travel time advantages.
- Provide a choice for commuters during the peak periods.
- Reduce congestion and improve safety along the corridor.
Background
The I-35W North corridor is one of a number of major radial freeway corridors that connect greater Minnesota and the growing north suburban area to downtown Minneapolis. As the region has grown and more development has occurred, volumes have increased to the point that a number of areas in the corridor experience significant congestion each day. The amount of use and congestion is expected to increase by year 2030 as additional growth and development occurs in communities throughout the corridor.
In addition, many infrastructure elements are nearing the end of their useful life and need replacement. Given the daily congestion levels and operational needs of the corridor, MnDOT has recognized that leveraging preservation and bridge replacement dollars with safety and mobility dollars could substantially increase benefits to corridor users.
Furthermore, MnDOT recently completed the MnPASS System Study – Phase II. This study identified I-35W North corridor, from 3rd/4th Street in Downtown Minneapolis to TH 97 in Columbus/Forest Lake area, as a viable candidate for MnPASS lanes and/or a managed corridor. Specifically, the corridor would potentially have increased traveler information and lane controls, increased transit facilities and service, a congestion free choice and High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) advantages.
