Project update
Alternatives Evaluation Memo feedback and next steps
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has received feedback and concurrence (support) from Cooperating Agencies on the Alternatives Evaluation Memo. Cooperating Agencies are federal agencies that assist with the environmental review process.
In mid-September, the FHWA sent the Alternatives Evaluation Memo to these Cooperating Agencies for their review and feedback. The memo was also shared with Participating Agencies — other federal, state, and local agencies with an interest in the project — for their information.
The Alternatives Evaluation Memo identifies which alternatives are recommended to move forward for further study in the next phase of the project, the Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The recommended alternatives advancing include: No Build, Maintenance B, Reduced Freeway, and Reconfigured Freeway.
MnDOT is preparing the Scoping Document / Draft Scoping Decision Document (SD/DSDD). A draft of the SD/DSDD will be shared with these same agencies for review and comment. After incorporating their input, MnDOT will make any necessary revisions and share the document with community leaders and the Policy Advisory Committee.
The SD/DSDD will then be released for public review. The public comment period is expected to take place late 2025/early 2026 and will be open for 60 days. In addition, MnDOT will hold a public meeting during this timeframe with a court reporter present to collect official comments.
Upcoming public meetings
We are hosting two public meetings to prepare the public for the upcoming official public comment period. These meetings are not a part of the public comment period that is expected to take place late 2025/early 2026.
Information will be provided on the alternatives recommended to move forward and how to comment on the SD/DSDD during the official public comment period. Project staff will be available to answer questions and discuss the project.
To learn more about the alternatives, the evaluation of alternatives, and recommendations for further study in the Tier 1 EIS, visit the project StoryMap.
Schedule
The project is in the environmental process phase. We will update the information and materials on this site as we continue through the process.
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