After an initial survey to find out local concerns, MnDOT held it’s first public information session on a new project to resurface a stretch of Highway 61, as well as replace a busy intersection on it.

The scope of the plan starts just after the Lester River bridge, stretching to the start of the Highway 61 expressway, a distance of just under a mile.

Also in the works is a plan to replace the junction where Highway 61 and East Superior Street intersect.

From a handful of options, MnDOT says two are most likely – a roundabout, or a “continuous tee”. Project manager Tom Lamb says both have pros and cons.

“The roundabout is definitely more expensive. The continuous tee option, the downside of that is it kind of cuts off some movements, you’re not going to be able to go straight across Superior Street from one end to the other across Highway 61, for example.” Lamb said.

The roundabout, while more expensive would offer improved flow and greater freedom of movement for drivers. While the continuous tee is more restrictive, it is far cheaper. Either option meets the goal of reducing traffic speeds, a common complaint according to MnDOT’s survey.

Lamb says the plan is still in it’s initial “scoping” phase. A more finalized plan could appear by the end of the year. Construction is slated to begin in 2029, though Lamb admitted that 2030 is more likely.

Citizens can still reach out to MNDOT to offer feedback on the proposed plan as it takes shape. Contact information for Lamb can be found on the project’s website.