MnDOT, in coordination with the county and city of Minneapolis, is leading a project to rebuild the I-394 and Washington Avenue intersection, reconstruct the I-394 ramps, and add a left turn lane to Washington Avenue from I-394. The project will improve pedestrian access and safety by removing a right turn island and adding curb extensions to reduce crossing width.

Proposed agreement PW 37-40-22 with MnDOT (State Contract No. 1050590) stipulates that MnDOT is the lead agency and is responsible for developing the plan and specifications for the project, with input from county staff, and will administer the construction contract. The county will participate in the construction cost and associated engineering fees for the portions of the project impacting county’s assets at an estimated county cost of $358,596. After project completion, MnDOT and Minneapolis will be responsible for maintenance of the improvements as stipulated in Agreement PW 37-40-22.

Funding for the project will come from CP 2183500 Cost Participation and Partnerships 2019-2023, with expenses tracked in its associated subproject CP 2183531 - Cost participation in safety improvements at the CSAH 152 (Washington Ave) and 3rd Ave N.

Project construction is proposed for spring 2023 with substantial completion the same year.

Current Request: This request is for authorization to negotiate and execute Agreement PW 37-40-22 with MnDOT for cost participation and maintenance responsibilities for the improvements at the I-394 and Washington Avenue intersection, CP 2183500, at an estimated county cost of $358,596.

Impacts/Outcomes: Approval of this request will allow the county to cost participate in these proposed improvements which align with the county’s Mobility 2040 goals, climate action and disparity reduction efforts by improving accessibility, mobility and safety for multi-modal transportation users.