Mora Hwy 65 and Hwy 23 — Corridor Study

We developed a set of guiding values to describe our vision for the future of Hwy 65 and Hwy 23.

1. Develop a safe and equitable multimodal transportation system
   • Hwy 65 and Hwy 23 will be a safe, accessible, and efficient street for walkers, bikers, cars, trucks, and transit users.
2. Provide improvements that are compatible and sustainable with the environment
   • Hwy 65 and Hwy 23 improvements will address long-term infrastructure needs and create opportunities for existing and future land development.
3. Support local business community
   • Hwy 65 and Hwy 23 improvements will ensure fair and safe access for the business community.

The Hwy 65 and Hwy 23 Corridor Study was initiated by the Minnesota Department of Transportation to identify and prioritize improvements on two critical roadways within the City of Mora. These arterial roadways are critical for both the local community and greater region. A prior study of both corridors was completed in 2005, but since then the area has grown and conditions have changed. The study area includes both highways within city limits and portions of Hwy 65 to the south of city limits. Improvements have been made to both highways in recent years, but issues remain.

The study will seek to understand the following:

• Needs and opportunities in the corridor
• Establish purpose and need
• Goals and objectives
• Develop and evaluate alternatives
• Reach a consensus on a vision
• Develop an implementation plan that shows improvements
• Allows the vision to be achieved over time

The project team will utilize the history of the corridor to bring fresh ideas and innovative approaches to the proposed vision.