Property impacts
We are conducting a significant study on Hwy 252/I-94 in Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, and north Minneapolis. Keep reading to learn more about potential property impacts for this project.
Some properties will be impacted if Hwy 252 is converted to a freeway
The study is considering converting Hwy 252 from an expressway with signalized intersections into a grade-separated freeway. This means that some intersections would be converted into an interchange with ramps. Interchanges require more space, resulting in the need to acquire properties to accommodate potential new interchanges.
Total number of property impacts
MnDOT’s priority is to limit the number of potential property impacts. Where property impacts cannot be avoided, MnDOT will work to mitigate the impact to the community and those directly affected. So far, MnDOT anticipates anywhere from 9 to 64 potential relocations (renters, single family, commercial). The specific impacts will vary depending on the number and location of interchanges. Those will be determined as we work with the community to select a preferred alternative in 2027.
Property impacts identified
In 2024, MnDOT met with potentially impacted property owners along key Hwy 252 intersections. This involved comparing potential relocations for whether Hwy 252 should intersect over or under the local roads. Our preliminary recommendation is to build Hwy 252 over the local road because it has fewer property impacts and potential relocations.
The most recent potential property impact maps as of November 2024 can be viewed below. Please note that only 2-3 intersections will ultimately be selected for an interchange.
- View the potential property impacts maps:
For more information on intersection combinations being considered, view the access combinations map.
How MnDOT acquires property and when
The process of acquiring any property will not begin until after a preferred alternative is selected and the environmental study is completed. Currently, that is not anticipated until 2026.
If MnDOT determines your property is necessary for the construction of the selected alternative, the property acquisition process will begin. Right-of-way agents will contact affected property owners to begin an appraisal and determine a fair market value.
State law allows MnDOT to acquire property through direct purchase or eminent domain and requires property owners receive "just compensation," which is fair market value of the land determined by an independent appraisal. The direct purchase process involves MnDOT making an offer based on an appraisal of the property's value. The owner may accept this offer, which includes signing legal documents and transferring ownership.
MnDOT understands the disruption that can result from a property acquisition and relocation.
If a direct purchase is not possible, MnDOT may use a process called eminent domain. This allows the state to acquire the property through court proceedings.
In either case, direct purchase or eminent domain, property owners are entitled to compensation.
Property owners are also entitled to participate in public meetings to discuss planned projects and may request additional information from MnDOT regarding the acquisition of their property. For further details about the acquisition process and involved parties, please visit the Guide for property owners.
Relocation assistance
Having to move from your residence or place of business can be a significant interruption in your life. The State of Minnesota recognizes the inconvenient and sometimes traumatic nature of being displaced by a public project. We are committed to do our utmost to make the situation as simple, straightforward and trouble-free as possible.
If you qualify as a displaced residential person, you are entitled to reimbursement for certain payments. Based upon your occupancy status and extent of displacement, these payments may include:
- Moving Expenses
- Replacement housing costs
Visit the Relocation assistance document to learn more about what that would look like.
Additional questions and information
We encourage you to reach out to the project hotline or email if you have any questions or concerns or would like to arrange a meeting. You may also want to sign up for project email updates, or follow the project on Facebook and/or Twitter.
MnDOT aims to minimize property impacts
One of the objectives for this project is to minimize the need to acquire additional property. MnDOT is carefully reviewing potential property impacts for each road option.
MnDOT will continue exploring design tactics to minimize property impacts and relocations. As refinements are taking place, MnDOT will be sharing this information with the community.