Hwy 43 — Winona

Do you drive, bike, or walk in Winona? We are planning improvements to make your experience better and safer on Hwy 43 from Mankato Ave to the Mississippi River Bridge. We plan to begin construction in 2028.

Engagement overview

MnDOT hosted two rounds of engagement for the Highway 43 project in Winona, MN. The first round introduced the project and collected initial community feedback on how community members use Hwy 43 and what needs improvement. The online comment portal was visited by over 1,400 people and received over 80 location-specific comments in Spring 2023.

The second round of engagement for the study focused on sharing potential improvement concepts and collecting community feedback. Round 2 engagement included an in-person Open House as well as an online Virtual Open House and comment portal. The official comment period for the Study closed on August 18, 2023, but you can review the information boards and the concepts that were discussed or the virtual meeting video.

What we heard from the community

MnDOT hosted an Open House for the Hwy 43 Improvement Project in Winona on July 18, 2023 to introduce improvement concepts, including the consideration of roundabouts and the removal of signalized intersections. Following the in-person event, meeting materials were posted online and a one-month online comment period was advertised. During that time, there were over 800 visits to the site and a total of 60 comments submitted. The comments reflect a diverse range of opinions and concerns about the proposed changes to the road infrastructure, particularly regarding the introduction of roundabouts and their impact on traffic flow and pedestrian safety. The following describes the themes of comments received about the proposed improvement concepts.

1. Traffic Flow and Efficiency:
   • Concerns are raised about the suitability of roundabouts for heavy truck traffic and their impact on pedestrians.
   • Some support the idea of roundabouts, claiming they could enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion, provide time savings, and increase safety.
   • Concerns are raised about speeding and traffic violations on Main Street and the need for enforcement.
2. Pedestrian Safety / Safety Evidence:
   • A common concern is the safety of pedestrians (including children and older adults), particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic/crossings.
   • Some worry that roundabouts may not be pedestrian-friendly and could pose risks to walkers and cyclists.
   • Request evidence that roundabouts are safer for pedestrians than other alternatives.
3. Alternative Solutions:
   • Some individuals suggest rerouting Hwy 43 to improve traffic flow and avoid congested areas, implementing additional crosswalks, and improving existing roads.
4. Beautification and Aesthetics:
   • Some request beautification efforts, such as flowers, art, lighting, and trees to enhance aesthetics.
5. Walkability:
   • Debate about whether proposed changes prioritize traffic efficiency at the expense of pedestrian safety.
   • Suggest slower speeds to ensure pedestrian well-being.

Thank you to everyone who provided input on the Study. MnDOT will use these comments to continue to refine designs as it considers long-term improvements for the roadway.

Potential improvements

• Resurface Hwy 43 to provide a smoother driving experience and increase the longevity of the road
• Reconstruct sidewalks and curb ramps to meet ADA standards
• Improve mobility and safety for bicyclists
• Reconstruct and restripe several intersections to improve safety and traffic flow

It’s important to remember that funding exists for repaving the road from Mankato Avenue to the Mississippi River bridge and making additional improvements to pedestrian facilities to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Additional improvements are not currently funded, but MnDOT is gathering input to determine if it’s able to seek more funding to do more. We plan to keep you updated on any changes that might occur based on the input from you and others in the community.

Anticipated traffic impacts

• Daily lane closures during the resurfacing
• Pedestrian and bicycle routes will be detoured to alternative routes
• Local street detours will occur during intersection work

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