Best Practice Action 11.6
GreenStep City Best Practices: Transportation
Living & Complete Streets No. 11
Create a network of green complete streets that improves city quality of life, public health, and adds value to surrounding properties.
Best Practice Action Detail
Best Practice Action 6
Implement traffic calming policy/measures, including lane conversions (road diets), roundabouts, low-speed streets, shared space and depaving, in at least one street redevelopment project.
Safety:
- See Minnesota’s Best Practices for pedestrian and bicycle safety (MnDOT, 2023), including education, planning/research, design and engineering, and grants/funding opportunities.
- The Small Town and Rural Design Guide (Center for Prevention, MN: 2017) provides information on bicycle and pedestrian facilities specifically applicable to small towns and rural communities.
- See MnDOT's Traffic Safety Fundamentals Handbook (MnDOT, 2015) which includes a toolbox for strategies, and many other safety-related reports and publications.
- See the Vision Zero Community criteria to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries.
Traffic Calming:
- The traffic calming database (Institute of Transportation Engineers, 2023) provides a series of factsheets for several traffic calming measures.
- The MN Dept. of Transportation provides resources on roundabouts.
- A Roundabout Database (Kittelson & Associates, 2023) is an online inventory tracking roundabouts since 1999 across the world.
- One approach to traffic calming relies more on changing the psychological feel, rather than the physical geometry, of the street. Shared space and paint the pavement are 2 techniques, also known by the terms naked streets, living streets, street reclaiming, mental speed bumps, woonerfs.
- The Un-paving or American Roads (Strong Towns, 2016), or keeping a gravel road usually has traffic calming and financial benefits but the effect on nearby surface water is site-specific and can be so negative as to overwhelm the benefits. See gravel road maintenance resources from the Minnesota Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP).
Reduced Speed Limits:
- Reduce posted speed limits on municipal-owned streets as allowed by a state law passed in 2019.
- See information from the Cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis and the League of Minnesota Cities.
- The Minnesota Statewide Speed Limit Vision Project is working to develop a consistent and unified vision related to speed limits.
Road Conversions/Reconfigurations:
- Learn more about 4 to 3 lane conversions/road diets and see Minnesota case studies developed by the GreenStep Cities program for Albert Lea, Battle Lake, Parkers Prairie, Richfield, and Saint Paul/Ramsey County.
- Note also that streets with fewer than 1000 average annual daily trips at peak hour generally need only two lanes, and that generally no street handling fewer than 10,000 AADT should qualify for left-turn lanes or a center turn lane.
- See MnDOT's Advanced Flexibility in Design workshop.
- The Urban Street Design Guide (National Association of City Transportation Officials, 2023) is a blueprint for designing streets that are safer, more livable, and more economically vibrant.
- Imagining Livability Design Collection (AARP, 2015) provides a visual portfolio of tools and transformations.
- The Tactical Urbanist's Guide to Materials and Design (Street Plan Collaborative's, 2016) provides guidance for citizen-led demonstration and city-led pilot and interim design projects.
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Measures such as streetscaping, bump-outs, raised crosswalks, intersection markings, medians and narrower lane widths, and elimination of slip lanes (deemed inherently unsafe by FHWA) at 1 or more local/arterial intersections. Report temporary or permanent parklet installations under BPA 14.1. |
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Measures such as roundabouts, and road reconfigurations (road diets) where 3 lanes replace 4 lanes of a road with under 20,000 average annual daily traffic counts; adopt a traffic calming policy; reduce posted speed limits paired with design changes that lower the design speed; conduct a city-wide pedestrian fatality study. |
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Become a Vision Zero Community; pedestrian-centered road planning/implementation; measures from street reclaiming, naked streets, shared space, woonerfs, and Paint the Pavement approaches; implement lane width reductions as encouraged in MnDOT's training course: Advanced Flexibility in Design; diverging diamond interchange, J-turn lane, reverse diagonal parking; a multi-modal Level of Service metric developed and applied to road projects; conversion of underused/redundant roads to gravel roads, stormwater management, energy generation, etc. |
Who's doing it
Lakeville -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2014
Implementation details:
The City of Lakeville implemented traffic calming measures during two street reconstruction projects in 2014 and 2016. The challenge in the first project was to make a speed transition from 40 mph to 30 mph as a collector roadway moved from a rural section to a residential section. The City worked with residents to install dynamic speed display signs on both the north and southbound lanes of the residential portion of the roadway and reconstructed that segment with bump outs to narrow the roadway. The second project involved slowing traffic as it approached the intersection of a high-speed, high-volume county road. Again, working with residents, the City reconstructed a quarter mile section of the street with bump outs to create a dramatic narrowing of the roadway as it approached the intersection with the county road. The City has also converted two land to three lane roadways, to improve traffic safety in areas shared between residential users and commercial districts. The City has also partnered with Dakota County over the last five years in the construction of four roundabouts at high volume intersections with both county roads and City streets. As the City reviews and develops its transportation capital improvement plan annually, traffic calming measures and locations for roundabouts are a part of the planning process and implemented where they will have the most benefit.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ann Messerschmidt (City Staff) | amesserschmidt@lakevillemn.gov | 952-985-4528
Partners: Dakota County
Richfield -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Restripe: 12 to 11 width dropped from 4 lanes to 3 (opposing left) on 11th Ave, 72nd Street, 76th Street, Portland Ave, and 66th St.
Roundabouts: 4 on 66th St. and 3-5 proposed in future projects.
Richfield’s Guiding Principles used in every transportation project emphasize multi-modal design as the community’s top priority – a concept also seen in internal planning practices which start with land use considerations and then, in order, pedestrian, transit, bicycle, and vehicle performance measures. This is seen in the recent 66th Street construction which now has:
• Safer roads with raised concrete medians
• New turn lanes in key areas
• New sidewalks and trails with a boulevard buffer
• New paths to use when bicycling
• Better stormwater management
• Improved accessibility for people with disabilities
Roundabouts: 4 on 66th St. and 3-5 proposed in future projects.
Richfield’s Guiding Principles used in every transportation project emphasize multi-modal design as the community’s top priority – a concept also seen in internal planning practices which start with land use considerations and then, in order, pedestrian, transit, bicycle, and vehicle performance measures. This is seen in the recent 66th Street construction which now has:
• Safer roads with raised concrete medians
• New turn lanes in key areas
• New sidewalks and trails with a boulevard buffer
• New paths to use when bicycling
• Better stormwater management
• Improved accessibility for people with disabilities
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: https://www.richfieldsweetstreets.org/wp-content/uploads/Guiding-Principles-Revised.pdf
For more information contact:
Jack Broz (City staff) | jbroz@richfieldmn.gov | 6128619792
Partners:
Sartell -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The city of Sartell along with partner projects (MNDOT, Stearns County) in 2013 became the first in the state of MN to complete a diverging diamond interchange. The interchange is located at the intersection of CO Rd 120 and State Highway 15.
During the 2015 reconstruction of Pinecone RD a major artery within the city the city completed 3 roundabouts. The roundabouts are located at the following intersections: Pinecone Rd N & 2nd ST; Pinecone Rd & Heritage Dr; Pinecone Rd and Scout Dr. The city also has plans to implement more roundabouts within the next couple of years. See link: http://www.sctimes.com/story/news/local/2014/12/09/sartell-plans-roundabouts-pinecone-road/20169301/
During the 2015 reconstruction of Pinecone RD a major artery within the city the city completed 3 roundabouts. The roundabouts are located at the following intersections: Pinecone Rd N & 2nd ST; Pinecone Rd & Heritage Dr; Pinecone Rd and Scout Dr. The city also has plans to implement more roundabouts within the next couple of years. See link: http://www.sctimes.com/story/news/local/2014/12/09/sartell-plans-roundabouts-pinecone-road/20169301/
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/d3/hwy15ddi/
For more information contact:
Nate Keller (City staff) | nate.keller@sartellmn.com | 320-258-7316
Partners: MNDOT; Stearns County, City of Saint Cloud.
Albert Lea -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
In 2015 the City of Albert Lea implemented a road diet on Broadway Avenue, converting the road from 4 lanes to 3 and adding bike lanes.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jerry Gabrielatos (City staff) | jgabrielatos@ci.albertlea.mn.us | 507-377-4316
Partners:
Bemidji -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Bemidji implemented traffic calming measures in the South Shore Development project by installing two roundabouts on the roads near the Sanford Center (along Event Center Dr and Grant Ave).
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kent Ehrenstrom (Community volunteer) | kent.ehrenstrom@state.mn.us | 218-755-6555
Partners:
Bloomington -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
In 2016 we did a project on W 98th Street between Nesbitt and Normandale that included many elements listed. The project was to reconstruct the existing parkway and in that project we narrowed the road (reduced amount of pavement) and increased the green space in the center of the parkway and added on-street bikeway by eliminating one vehicle lane in each direction.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: https://www.google.com/maps/search/West+98th+Street+Circle,+Bloomington,+MN/@44.8264112,-93.3566007,805m/data=!3m1!1e3
For more information contact:
Steve Gurney (City staff) | sgurney@BloomingtonMN.gov | 952-563-4606
Partners:
Brainerd -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Curb bump-outs and streetscaping were part of the downtown renewal project implemented in 2008. The rebuilt College Drive, completed in 2013, included streetscaping and roundabouts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Mark Ostgarden (City staff) | mostgarden@ci.brainerd.mn.us | 218-828-2309
Partners:
Columbia Heights -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Columbia Heights between 2004 and 2007 the City redeveloped and old industrial area into a town home residential district. This was projected to increase traffic considerably at the corner of Jefferson and 39th Ave (now called Huset parkway). A roundabout was designed and built to improve traffic flow for the area. This was in accordance with the Comprehensive plan (Chapter 6 page 2)
GOAL: Provide for safe and efficient roadway transportation.
1. Review and analyze high traffic crash locations on a biannual basis.
2. Work with MnDOT and Anoka County to provide means for low-cost traffic congestion mitigation.
GOAL: Provide for safe and efficient roadway transportation.
1. Review and analyze high traffic crash locations on a biannual basis.
2. Work with MnDOT and Anoka County to provide means for low-cost traffic congestion mitigation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links: http://www.ci.columbia-heights.mn.us/index.aspx?nid=198
For more information contact:
Jesse Davies (City staff) | Jesse.Davies@ci.columbia-heights.mn.us | 763-706-3706
Partners:
Coon Rapids -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
The City implemented a road diet on Evergreen Blvd in 2016, reducing the overall pavement width by 16 feet. Coon Rapids also completed a traffic calming project on Foley Boulevard in 2019. The Foley Boulevard project included installing bump outs, narrowing traffic lanes, and adding sidewalks. The Port Riverwalk redevelopment project narrowed some public streets. 24-foot street widths were used on private streets. The project also included numerous sidewalks and trail connections for enhanced walkability.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Colleen Sinclair (City staff) | csinclair@coonrapidsmn.gov | 763-767-6485
Partners:
Cottage Grove -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
70th Street roundabout was installed summer 2013 at Highway 19. Double round abouts installed at East Point Douglas Road/Highway 61 and jamaica Ave.
Construction of the Ravine Parkway includes medians throughout as well as raised crosswalks.
Construction of the Ravine Parkway includes medians throughout as well as raised crosswalks.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ryan Burfeind (City staff) | rburfeind@cottage-grove.org | 651-458-2899
Partners:
Crystal -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Made former 4-lane roads into 3-lanes, 1 in each direction with a center turn lane (Douglas Drive, Medicine Lake Road, Bass Lake Road, 36th Avenue)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Traffic slowed
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Mark Ray (City Staff) | mark.ray@crystalmn.gov | 6127606712
Partners: Hennepin County, Cities of Brooklyn Center, Golden Valley, New Hope, Robbinsdale
Detroit Lakes -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
We constructed 2 roundabouts in Washington Avenue project and reduced the lane size.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Bridget Penton (City Staff) | bpenton@cityofdetroitlakes.com | 218-846-7133
Partners:
Duluth -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2014
Implementation details:
2019 Update: The Cross City Trail Phase 1 involved a conversion of W Superior Street from 4 lanes to 3 lanes to fit the bike trail in on the south side of the street. Phase 4 extended the trail from 63rd Ave W to the zoo on the old DWP line.
The City of Duluth implemented traffic calming measures at the reconstructed intersection at Jefferson Street and 17th Ave East.
The City of Duluth implemented traffic calming measures at the reconstructed intersection at Jefferson Street and 17th Ave East.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Alex Jackson, Energy Coordinator (City staff) | ajackson@DuluthMN.gov | 218-730-4433
Partners:
Eagan -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Installation of two roundabouts: intersection of Diffley & Rahn and intersection of Denmark & Central Pkwy. Eagan also encouraged implementation of radio transmitted traffic signals, installation of flashing yellow left turn signals to reduce idling, for example, along Yankee Doodle Rd. Chokers/narrowing on Ashbury Drive, Blackhawk Lake Road, Deerwood Drive, Denmark Avenue (added sidewalk). Speed display signs on Daniel Drive, Deerwood Drive, Denmark Avenue.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Tim Plath (City staff) | tplath@cityofeagan.com | 651/675-5643
Partners:
Edina -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2011
Implementation details:
A variety of traffic calming approaches such as traffic circles and pedestrian islands are used in concert with safety, transportation and striping projects.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Andrew Scipioni (City Staff) | ascipioni@EdinaMN.gov | 952-826-0440
Partners:
Fergus Falls -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
As a part of the Tower Road and Bridge project, a roundabout was added to this area. When Friberg Avenue was reconstructed, narrower roadways with a turning lane were established. This roadway goes by the 6-12 school buildings, YMCA and residential areas.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Len Taylor (City staff) | len.taylor@ci.fergus-falls.mn.us | 218-332-5418
Partners:
Fridley -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
During the project open house for Fridley's 2015 Street Reconstruction project, staff heard concerns regarding vehicle speeds on 3rd Street between 49th Avenue and 53rd Avenue. The City received funding from the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (MWMO)to reduce pavement area along 3rd street through the installation of seven bump outs which reduced street width from 40 feet to 24.
Staff hosted two onsite meetings with residents to discuss proposed changes and gather input on design. In advance of the first meeting, the City placed traffic delineation to mimick the impacts of the bump outs.
In 2017, the bumpouts were excavated into bioswales and planted with pollinator plants. These bioswales perform co-benefits of treating stormwater and calming traffic.
Staff hosted two onsite meetings with residents to discuss proposed changes and gather input on design. In advance of the first meeting, the City placed traffic delineation to mimick the impacts of the bump outs.
In 2017, the bumpouts were excavated into bioswales and planted with pollinator plants. These bioswales perform co-benefits of treating stormwater and calming traffic.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Rachel Workin (City staff) | rachel.workin@fridleymn.gov | 763-572-3594
Partners: Mississippi Watershed Management
Golden Valley -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2004
Implementation details:
The Douglas Drive corridor project will incorporate streetscaping, sidewalks, bike lanes and roundabouts at Sandburg Road and Golden Valley Road intersections for improved traffic flow. Construction will be completed in 2017. Reconstruction of Winnetka Avenue South and Xenia Avenue South incorporated perennial, shrub, and tree plantings in medians and boulevards. Xenia Avenue was constructed with curves to induce slower traffic speeds.
The City supported road diets implemented on three County Roads where four lanes were reduced to three. Almost every street reconstruction project the City has completed for the last 15 years has narrowed roadway widths.
When reconstructing streets, the City always looks for opportunities to remove redundant roadways and reduce impervious surfaces. In 2004, the City converted a segment of the Olson Memorial South Frontage Road to trail and greenspace. In 2010, the City converted a segment of road to a biofiltration basin (rain garden) and trail in Paisley Park. In 2017, the City converted a segment of Rhode Island Avenue to greenspace and flood storage. A redundant segment of road that was located in the floodplain at Scott Avenue North (near Minnaqua Pond) was converted to trail and native buffer.
The City supported road diets implemented on three County Roads where four lanes were reduced to three. Almost every street reconstruction project the City has completed for the last 15 years has narrowed roadway widths.
When reconstructing streets, the City always looks for opportunities to remove redundant roadways and reduce impervious surfaces. In 2004, the City converted a segment of the Olson Memorial South Frontage Road to trail and greenspace. In 2010, the City converted a segment of road to a biofiltration basin (rain garden) and trail in Paisley Park. In 2017, the City converted a segment of Rhode Island Avenue to greenspace and flood storage. A redundant segment of road that was located in the floodplain at Scott Avenue North (near Minnaqua Pond) was converted to trail and native buffer.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: http://www.goldenvalleymn.gov/streets/construction/douglas-drive.php
For more information contact:
Jeff Oliver (City staff) | joliver@goldenvalleymn.gov | (763)-593-8034
Partners: Hennepin County
Hackensack -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Completed reconstruction of 1st Street (one of the city's primary commercial spaces) with bump-outs, expanded pedestrian sidewalks, streetscaping, and improved storm sewers.
Also reduced posted speed limit in a section of road adjacent to the city's major manufacturing facility (Mann Lake Ag and Bee Supply) to address pedestrian and forklift safety concerns.
Also reduced posted speed limit in a section of road adjacent to the city's major manufacturing facility (Mann Lake Ag and Bee Supply) to address pedestrian and forklift safety concerns.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Gary Dietrich (Community Volunteer) | garydietrich@icloud.com | 612-801-3345
Partners:
Hutchinson -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
Hutchinson has implemented roundabouts in high traffic areas as traffic calming methods. Most recently, a project on South Grade Road in 2019 input a round about as a traffic calming method. Hutchinson also recently underwent construction on Main Street with a road diet as a method of traffic calming on one of the main roads that traveled through town. This has also been implemented on other streets in town with road diets, giving more room to pedestrians and calming traffic in areas.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
John Paulson (City staff) | jpaulson@ci.hutchinson.mn.us | 320-234-5682
Partners:
Inver Grove Heights -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2009
Implementation details:
Inver Grove Heights constructed a roundabout in 2009. The City of Inver Grove Heights has been working with the MnDOT and Dakota County to construct a second roundabout. The preliminary layout was approved in January 2017 and construction is planned to start in Spring 2018.
Streetscaping was implemented in the design of Cahill Road, a highly utilized road with the City. A raised cross walk was implemented outside of Gertens to increase safety for pedestrians. The City of Inver Grove Heights also promotes development of medians and narrower streets to developers.
Streetscaping was implemented in the design of Cahill Road, a highly utilized road with the City. A raised cross walk was implemented outside of Gertens to increase safety for pedestrians. The City of Inver Grove Heights also promotes development of medians and narrower streets to developers.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ally Sutherland (City Staff) | asutherland@invergroveheights.org | 651-604-8511
Partners:
Kasson -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: In practice we have worked toward traffic calming measures in city projects and plans. The new Comprehensive Plan was adopted in June 2018. Discussion have been underway with the State DOT on the Highway 57 project since 2017.
Implementation details:
Yes, 16th Steet and Highway 57 corridor. We're always looking at access management and magnitude of proposed development projects.
Linden Manor Project (example). Hwy 57 reconstruction roundabout at CR34 and Main St.
Linden Manor Project (example). Hwy 57 reconstruction roundabout at CR34 and Main St.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: https://www.dot.state.mn.us/d6/projects/hwy57-reconstruction/index.html
For more information contact:
Nancy Zaworski (City staff) | financedept@cityofkasson.com | 507-634-6321
Partners: State DOT on Hwy 57 project - construction to begin Spring 2022
Maplewood -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
During the reconstruction of Beam Avenue, the street was narrowed and bump-outs were constructed.
A round-about has been added to the Gladstone area to slow traffic and prevent congestion during recent redevelopment projects.
The living streets policy also has design measures that reduce street width, raised cross walks, dynamic speed display signs, chicanes, bump-outs, and differentiated pavement surfaces (including pervious pavement). All of which work to calm traffic in residential and commercial areas.
A round-about has been added to the Gladstone area to slow traffic and prevent congestion during recent redevelopment projects.
The living streets policy also has design measures that reduce street width, raised cross walks, dynamic speed display signs, chicanes, bump-outs, and differentiated pavement surfaces (including pervious pavement). All of which work to calm traffic in residential and commercial areas.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Narrowing the street and creating bump-outs help reduce speed and help the flow of surface water to rain gardens located on the side of the road.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Blank Blank (City Staff) | Blank | Blank
Partners:
Moorhead -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City of Moorhead has adopted a traffic calming policy.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Dan Mahli (City staff) | dan.mahli@cityofmoorhead.com | 218-299-5314
Partners:
New Hope -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
The city adopted a Complete Streets resolution in January of 2011. Examples of streets that have been altered to follow the complete streets philosophy include Boone Ave N & 49th Ave N and Xylon Ave N & 45th Ave N (2015). Lanes have been narrowed to allow for bike lanes, sidewalks, and parking. Medicine Lake Rd and 36th Ave N were changed from 4 lanes to 3 lanes. Cones were added to narrow a pedestrian crossing at Boone Ave N near Sonnesyn Elementary.
In 2017, the city partnered with MnDOT and Alta Planning + Design to develop Safe Routes to School (SRTS) plans for the three elementary schools in New Hope. The SRTS plans include an assessment of existing infrastructure and non-infrastructure barriers and opportunities for each participating school site. Planning is completed in close coordination with school-based teams to support a clear path to implementation. For each school, detailed action plans for specific short- and long-term infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects that support the overall vision of enabling more students to access their schools and communities on foot or bicycle were developed.
In 2017, the city partnered with MnDOT and Alta Planning + Design to develop Safe Routes to School (SRTS) plans for the three elementary schools in New Hope. The SRTS plans include an assessment of existing infrastructure and non-infrastructure barriers and opportunities for each participating school site. Planning is completed in close coordination with school-based teams to support a clear path to implementation. For each school, detailed action plans for specific short- and long-term infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects that support the overall vision of enabling more students to access their schools and communities on foot or bicycle were developed.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: https://www.ci.new-hope.mn.us/city_hall/community_development/policies_plans
For more information contact:
Jeff Alger (City Staff) | jalger@newhopemn.gov | 763-531-5119
Partners: MnDOT
New Prague -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
For a City of just over 8,000 people, New Prague has constructed eight roundabouts, with the last roundabouts being installed in a 2020-2021 Main Street (MN-19) improvement project. As New Prague continues to grow and redevelop older areas of town, we continue to look for ways to improvement transportation for all users.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Joshua Tetzlaff (City Staff) | jtetzlaff@ci.new-prague.mn.us | 952.758.4401
Partners:
New Ulm -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Bump-outs have been incorporated within the city. Attached is a bump-out located at Johnson Park (baseball field) and further up the street at Johnson Field (football field) to help crossing the street safer for pedestrians by narrowing the crossing distance and increasing visability for a person and vehicles. Additionally, vegatation was included at the Johnson Park bump-out for enviromental benefits such as water run-off.
Three round-abouts have been installed within city limits. The first is located on HWY 14 and attaches to the bike trail. The other is located on Oak St. and N. Highland and was installed due to the construction of a new public high school in that area. The third location was installed HWY 14 south of New Ulm due to city expansion.
Three round-abouts have been installed within city limits. The first is located on HWY 14 and attaches to the bike trail. The other is located on Oak St. and N. Highland and was installed due to the construction of a new public high school in that area. The third location was installed HWY 14 south of New Ulm due to city expansion.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Derek Nelson (City Staff) | DerekN@newulmmn.gov | 507-233-2110
Partners:
Oakdale -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Tartan Crossing Redevelopment has implemented several traffic calming measures as it is a busy, mixed-use area that is also home to a senior living community. A road diet was implemented for the main road that serves the site, with two lanes for traffic and a shared turn lane in the middle. There is also extensive streetscaping with trees and concrete planting areas to separate the road traffic from the sidewalks throughout the site.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jen Hassebroek (City staff) | jen.hassebroek@ci.oakdale.mn.us | 651-730-2723
Partners:
Roseville -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The City's Neighborhood Traffic Program lists bump outs, raised crosswalks, pavement/crossings markings, and narrower lanes as traffic management strategies.The city has implemented 2 roundabouts and completed road diets.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Ryan Johnson (City staff) | Ryan.johnson@cityofroseville.com | 651-792-7049
Partners:
Saint Cloud -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
St. Cloud proactively utilizes a number of traffic calming measures when developing or reconstructing streets including narrower width (32'), speed hump, gateway island, roundabout, and diversions such as a straight curb, bollards or landscaped medians among others. In the past few years, five roundabouts were built in the St. Cloud area. In a residential development, Westwood Parkway was constructed at a width of 32'.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: http://ci.stcloud.mn.us/e/Default.aspx
For more information contact:
Liz Kramer (City staff) | elizabeth.kramer@ci.stcloud.mn.us | 320-255-7226
Partners:
Saint James -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
The City of Saint James implemented traffic calming measures in Downtown St. James by installing two roundabouts on First Ave South.
The City of Saint James also implemented traffic calming measures in the 2022 Safe Routes to School Infrastructure Project by installing curb bump-outs on 10th Ave North in front of the St. James High School.
The City of Saint James also implemented traffic calming measures in the 2022 Safe Routes to School Infrastructure Project by installing curb bump-outs on 10th Ave North in front of the St. James High School.
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For more information contact:
Brianna Sanders (City Staff) | brianna.sanders@ci.stjames.mn.us | 507-375-1289
Partners:
Saint Paul -
Date action report first entered:
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The City has numerous traffic calming measures in place which includes: roadway bump outs, painting crosswalks, boulevard trees; intersection marking, medians, curvier roads; and stripping crosswalks.
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Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Kurt Schultz (City staff) | kurt.schultz@ci.stpaul.mn.us | 651-266-6590
Partners:
West Saint Paul -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2014
Implementation details:
The City of West Saint Paul takes traffic and pedestrian safety seriously. In recent years the City has used traffic calming measures to improve safety. In 2014 the City reconstructed a portion of Marie Ave. At the same time Dakota County was constructing a portion of their Regional Trail. This trail has a crossing mid-block on Marie Ave. The City used bump-outs and flashing pedestrian crossing signs to mark the crossing and make it safer.
In 2017 the City partnered with Dakota County to construct a roundabout at Wentworth and Oakdale Ave. This busy intersection had historically seen a higher than normal number of vehicle accidents. The roundabout project also included pedestrian crossings, median refuge, and lowered speed limits to make it much safer for vehicles and pedestrians. Another roundabout project is planned for the Oakdale and Thompson Ave intersection for 2022.
In 2017 the City partnered with Dakota County to construct a roundabout at Wentworth and Oakdale Ave. This busy intersection had historically seen a higher than normal number of vehicle accidents. The roundabout project also included pedestrian crossings, median refuge, and lowered speed limits to make it much safer for vehicles and pedestrians. Another roundabout project is planned for the Oakdale and Thompson Ave intersection for 2022.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Dave Schletty (City Staff) | DSchletty@wspmn.gov | 651-552-4152
Partners: Dakota County
Willmar -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
2 roundabouts were constructed with pedestrian/bike lanes as part of the US Highway 12 reconstruction (Willmar WYE) project.
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For more information contact:
Sara Sietsema (City Staff) | ssietsema@willmarmn.gov | 320-235-4760
Partners:
Woodbury -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
Several recent street redevelopment projects have incorporated traffic calming measures. In 2012, Colby Lake Drive was converted from a 52 foot wide street to a parkway with two 20-foot lanes separated by a 12 foot median. The narrowed roadway has slowed traffic in the area, which had been one of the goals of the project. Other projects include speed bumps on Meadowbrook Drive, and reducing the width of Wimbledon Drive from 44 feet to 28 feet with a sidewalk.
There are currently twelve roundabouts within the City of Woodbury.
There are currently twelve roundabouts within the City of Woodbury.
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Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jennifer McLoughlin (City staff) | jmcloughlin@ci.woodbury.mn.us | 651-714-3522
Partners:
Apple Valley -
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Curb bump-outs and boulevard trees were installed as traffic calming measures on Garden View Drive, south of Whitney Drive.
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Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Charless Grawe (City staff) | CGrawe@ci.apple-valley.mn.us | 952-953-2508
Partners:
Brooklyn Center -
Date action report first entered:
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Improvements to 63rd Ave N in 2015 will move curb lines inward reducing street width. In addition, there will be installation of several bump outs and medians to reduce travel speed in the corridor. The bump-outs at pedestrian crossing will shorten pedestrian crossing times.
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For more information contact:
Andrew Hogg (City staff) | ahogg@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us | 763-569-3327
Partners:
Burnsville -
Date action report first entered:
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Heart of the City has the following traffic calming measures: - bumput parkings, intersection markings, and medians.
A street project in southwestern Burnsville made the street lanes significantly narrower.
A street project in southwestern Burnsville made the street lanes significantly narrower.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
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For more information contact:
Sue Bast (City staff) | basts@ci.burnsville.mn.us | 952-895-4524
Partners:
Crosslake -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
The Connectivity Committee of the Crosslakers completed the Crosslake Beautification Flower Planter Project which included fastening flower baskets onto two County bridges. Solar panels were installed to water the flowers automatically. 5-14-18
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For more information contact:
Martha Steele (Community volunteer) | steeles@brainerd.net | 218-765-4041
Partners:
Eden Prairie -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
Singletree Lane was reconstructed in 2010 into a four-lane divided roadway, with left turn lanes located between Flying Cloud Drive and Eden Road. The project includes a new traffic signal at the Flying Cloud Drive intersection, as well as new pedestrian facilities and streetscape enhancements along Singletree Lane meeting the Town Center Design Guidelines.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: http://www.edenprairie.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=330
For more information contact:
Jennifer Fierce (City Staff) | jfierce@edenprairie.org | 952-949-8313
Partners:
Elk River -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
Traffic calming in the Trott Brook Parkway redevelopment was completed by narrowing the driving lanes in 2008. The driving lanes were narrowed from 20 feet to 12 feet by striping along the side of the road to clearly mark an 8 foot side lane for parking/biking. The City is currently drafting a traffic calming policy to be adopted by the city council.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The Trott Brook Pkwy redevelopment succeeded in lowering the average speed by 6mph without reducing the speed limit.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Amanda Bednar (City staff) | ABednar@ElkRiverMN.gov | 763-635-1068
Partners:
Falcon Heights -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
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Implementation details:
The City of Falcon Heights implemented a streetscape project along Larpenteur Avenue which included hundreded of trees, native plantings, and decorative concrete at strategic intersections so that drivers know that this street is not only a major road through the city, but it is also a roadway that is used by cyclists and pedestrians on a daily basis.
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For more information contact:
Justin Markon (City staff) | justin.markon@falconheights.org | 651-792-7600
Partners:
Grand Marais -
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The City narrowed streets for traffic calming, built bump outs in the downtown and on streets around the school to make walking to school safer. Other traffic calming includes speed radar signs to get people to slow down coming into town on Highway 61.
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For more information contact:
Shane Steele (Contractor) | sustainability@grandmarais.city | 507-884-5790
Partners:
Hastings -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
We have done this on our 10th street project.
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For more information contact:
Nick Egger (City staff) | negger@hastingsmn.gov | 651-480-2370
Partners:
La Crescent -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: No record available
Implementation details:
Striped 10 foot lanes on North 4th street and Jonathan Lane. There are traffic calming measures at N 3rd St as well.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jason Ludwigson (Contractor) | JDLudwigson@gmail.com | 5073139633
Partners:
LaPrairie -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
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Traffic Calming: In 2010, we rebuilt and resurfaced one of our longest city street. In this construction was the inclusion of a series of speed humps intended to slow traffic. Plans are being discussed with the county to include a roundabout for traffic calming on the reconstruction of the proposed CSAH roadway. A public meeting to obtain resident input.
Built a temporary roundabout on a city intersection to evaluate the impact of speed reduction before and after the installation in cooperation with Get Fit Itasca and the Wilder Foundation. 1/8/2016
Built a temporary roundabout on a city intersection to evaluate the impact of speed reduction before and after the installation in cooperation with Get Fit Itasca and the Wilder Foundation. 1/8/2016
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Residents have reported a noticeable difference in the speed of auto traffic on this street which has resulted in additional pedestrian traffic.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jonathan Bolen (Elected official) | jbolen@laprairiemn.com | 218-326-8898
Partners:
Mankato -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
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Implementation details:
Mankato adopted and utilizes a Neighborhood Traffic-Calming Program, which is a proactive, community-based program designed to enhance the quality of life in Mankato neighborhoods. It is a common goal among City leaders and residents to calm traffic on local residential streets where speeding, accidents, and/or non local traffic are concerns, providing a safer environment for motorists and pedestrians.
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Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Traffic-Calming-Program/Page.aspx
For more information contact:
Molly Westman (City staff) | mwestman@mankatomn.gov | 507-387-8571
Partners:
Maple Grove -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
City of Maple Grove has implemented a variety of traffic calming approaches along Main Street such as on-street parking, bump outs, decorative crossing features, intersection markings, wide sidewalks, refuge islands and streetscaping.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Peter Vickerman (City staff) | PVickerman@maplegrovemn.gov | 763-494-6046
Partners:
Mendota Heights -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2019
Implementation details:
Traffic calming and pedestrian safety measures are incorporated into Mendota Heights streets projects wherever feasible. An example of that is the Marie Avenue Rehabilitation project in 2019 where curb bump-outs were added to multiple intersections to slow traffic and give pedestrians a better view of oncoming cars. A couple years later, in 2022, speed trailers and cameras were also installed along Marie Avenue to help with speed reduction.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: https://trafficlogix.com/a-new-approach-to-slow-speeders-down/
For more information contact:
Courtney Selstad (City Staff) | cselstad@mendotaheightsmn.gov | 952-457-1735
Partners:
Minnetonka -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2017
Implementation details:
In 2017, the City of Minnetonka began road reconstruction on Crosby Road from McGinty Road to the Wayzata city limits. The reconstruction included narrower lane widths to provide traffic calming. This roadway handles about 2,000 vehicles per day and its geometry is long and straight and provides a short cut for rush hour traffic. The vehicle lanes are being reduced from 12 feet wide to 11 feet wide and concrete curb is being added to provide an additional visual barrier to assist with traffic calming.
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For more information contact:
Drew Ingvalson (City staff) | dingvalson@eminnetonka.com | 952-939-8293
Partners:
New Brighton -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
At the intersection of 10th St. NW and 4th Ave NW, New Brighton has implemented a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon, a Pedestrian Push Button, and two Static W11-2 signs with supplemental W16-7pL signs. This intersection connects New Brighton’s Eagles Nest Indoor Playground with a shopping mall, Veterans Park, an apartment complex, St. John the Baptist Church, and City Hall.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Craig Schlichting (City staff) | craig.schlichting@newbrightonmn.gov | 651-638-2056
Partners:
Northfield -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
During the 2013 Maple Street Reclamation project, we incorporated bump-outs, intersection markings, and narrower lane widths on the intersection of Maple Street and Sibley Street.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
We have had positive public feedback regarding the changes to that intersection and will use this model moving forward on similar intersections.
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Beth Kallestad (City staff) | beth.kallestad@ci.northfield.mn.us | 507-645-3074
Partners:
Red Wing -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
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Implementation details:
The city received a MNDOT grant of $1.1 million to improve pedestrian intersections on Highway 61 in Downtown Red Wing. The project will begin construction in 2014.
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For more information contact:
Paul Drotos (City staff) | paul.drotos@ci.red-wing.mn.us | 651-410-6744
Partners:
Rochester -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
Rochester recently implemented traffic calming measures near two schools, Folwell and GAGE. They implemented speed bumps, extended crosswalks, medians.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
They have dramatically decreased the average speed of the area, and also allows pedestrians to feel more comfortable crossing the streets.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Charlie Reiter (City staff) | reiter.charlie@co.olmsted.mn.us | 507-328-7136
Partners:
Saint Anthony -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
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Implementation details:
The City of St. Anthony has implemented traffic calming on several of its major arteries as part of its street reconstruction program. These measure include: roadway bump-outs, narrower streets, and trees.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
A reduction in pedestrian and vehicle conflicts.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Jay Hartman (City staff) | jay.hartman@ci.saint-anthony.mn.us | 612-782-3314
Partners:
Shoreview -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
In 2013 the City reconstructed Red Fox Road, a small road with access to Target, existing retail stores, and a new Trader Joes grocery store and additional strip mall. The City's traffic calming improvements included:
Striping of crosswalks to connect retail uses on both sides of Red Fox Road, encouraging walking between stores instead of driving. A shared middle turn lane was also added to keep the roadway narrow (instead of building out to 4 lanes wide).
A new sidewalk was constructed along the North side of Red Fox Road (sidewalks on both sides of road now).
Adding a concrete median at the intersection of Lexington Avenue to guide traffic with signage.
Relocated and upgraded the traffic signal on the SE corner of the Red Fox Road and Lexington Avenue intersection.
Striping of crosswalks to connect retail uses on both sides of Red Fox Road, encouraging walking between stores instead of driving. A shared middle turn lane was also added to keep the roadway narrow (instead of building out to 4 lanes wide).
A new sidewalk was constructed along the North side of Red Fox Road (sidewalks on both sides of road now).
Adding a concrete median at the intersection of Lexington Avenue to guide traffic with signage.
Relocated and upgraded the traffic signal on the SE corner of the Red Fox Road and Lexington Avenue intersection.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
The Shoreview Environmental Quality Committee and the Bike and Trails Committee are both supportive of these upgrades to offer pedestrians and trail/sidewalk users more access to the busiest area of Shoreview.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: Red Fox Road improvements
For more information contact:
Ellen Brenna (City staff) | ebrenna@shoreviewmn.gov | 651-490-4665
Partners:
South Saint Paul -
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2018
Implementation details:
In 2018, South St. Paul reconstructed Southview Boulevard and implemented traffic calming measures such as bump outs and intersection markings.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links: https://clients.bolton-menk.com/southviewblvd/
For more information contact:
Deb Griffith (City staff) | dgriffith@southstpaul.org | 651-554-3230
Partners:
White Bear Lake -
Date action report first entered:
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Implementation details:
Certain roads were built as curved roads - the City has repaved all of these roads, to make them straight, and has reclaimed a lot of paved area because of this.
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For more information contact:
Connie Taillon (City staff) | ctaillon@whitebearlake.org | 651-429-8564
Partners:
Greenstep Advisor
Nissa Tupper, Transportation and Public Health Planner, Sustainability and Public Health Division, MN Dept. of Transportation: 651/366-4807, Nissa.Tupper@state.mn.us, www.dot.state.mn.us/planning/completestreets