From July to October 2023, the study team conducted engagement to inform the public about the study and listen to residents and those who travel along and across the study area. The study team also collected and analyzed technical data including safety, current traffic volumes, vehicle turning movements, crashes, and conducted traffic forecasting and modeling. Information gathered during engagement and the technical analysis was used to help establish the purpose and need for the Hwy 61 study, which will help with the development and analysis of ideas for improvements, also known as alternatives.
The study team attended three community events and hosted two public meetings to speak with residents about the study and gather feedback about the study area.
A public survey was available from September to October. During the approximately two months the survey was active 379 people responded with their input.
Respondents top transportation purposes were work, shopping or other errands, living near Hwy 61 and taking children to/from school.
Reasons respondents avoid traveling along the study area
Congestion, traffic lights, and difficulty navigating the study area were cited by the respondents as reasons they avoid traveling along Hwy 61 from I-94 to Lower Afton Rd.
Burns Ave. and Lower Afton Rd. were frequently cited as intersections where pedestrians and bicyclists feel unsafe. Reasons listed for avoiding crossing Burns Ave. include high driver speeds and volume in addition to uncomfortable crossing distances. Lower Afton Rd. has the park and ride drop off, where many pedestrians walk across the road.
Priorities for respondents
The three highest-ranked priorities for respondents were improving safety, travel time / congestion, and access to parks and trails.
Primary needs
The Hwy 61 study will identify the transportation needs for the corridor. Needs help define the purpose of proposed future improvements. Based on the existing conditions of the corridor, the needs for this study are:
Safety
Mobility
Walkability/bikeability
Alternatives development and analysis
January through June 2024
The study team is developing ideas for improvements or alternatives and analyzing them against the purpose and needs. Your input is needed! Sign up for email updates to receive information on how you can share your input on the ideas for improvement.
