Sunnyside neighborhood, 1st Ave. SE cul-de-sac feedback

In fall 2023, we shared a design concept for the intersection. The design was based on input from the community earlier in the year.

During that time some Sunnyside residents expressed concerned about the proposed cul-de-sac. We partnered with residents and the City of Rochester to get more feedback. We sent a letter to residents, informing them of the cul-de-sac and asked their opinion. A neighborhood volunteer also distributed letters. Individuals shared their opinions through a survey or contacted us. Others also participated in one of three listening sessions in January and February.

Thank you to everyone from the Sunnyside neighborhood who provided feedback. Community members shared concerns about access and reducing through traffic in the neighborhood.

Many individuals who opposed the cul-de-sac shared that they use the 1st Ave. SE to access their homes. They sited congestion and driver behaviors on 3rd Ave. SE as why they find alternate routes. Those who favored the cul-de-sac felt it could help reduce through traffic on 1st Ave. SE.

MnDOT is currently developing an updated design based on this input from the community. This concept is undergoing review. We plan to provide and update to the community in fall 2024.

Sunnyside residents who missed this opportunity are encouraged to contact the project team.

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