Where we are now

MnDOT has completed its evaluation of the proposed alternatives that address identified transportation problems on I-94 and has shared its recommendations with federal Cooperating Agencies. Agencies will review the evaluation of the alternatives and will inform MnDOT whether they agree with the conclusions and if the information can be included in the Scoping Document/Draft Scoping Decision Document (SD/DSDD). If they agree with MnDOT’s recommendations on the alternatives to be further studied, MnDOT will prepare a SD/DSDD. If federal agencies do not agree with the SD/DSDD, MnDOT will work with them to make appropriate modifications to obtain their approval.

The SD/DSDD will recommend alternatives to be further studied in the Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) as well as discuss the issues and topics that will be evaluated in more detail in the Tier 1 EIS. Agency partners and committees will review the draft document. After making updates, MnDOT will share the SD/DSDD with the public.

Next steps

Fall 2025 - Winter 2025: Scoping Document/Draft Scoping Decision Document (SD/DSDD)

MnDOT will publish the Scoping Document/Draft Scoping Decision Document (SD/DSDD) for public review and comment. The formal public comment period will last for 60 days, 30 days beyond what is required by state law. During the formal public comment period, MnDOT will collect and categorize public feedback by theme. Comments received will inform the environmental review process, help refine options and solutions, and will be included in the final document in the Scoping Process known as the Scoping Decision Document.

MnDOT welcomes comments and questions about the project at any time. However, public comments received outside the official SD/DSDD comment period will be collected and reviewed but will not be included as formal comments in the Scoping Decision Document. Additional information on the comment period and participation details will be shared later in 2025.

Spring - Summer 2026: Final Scoping Decision Document

After the public comment period, MnDOT will prepare the final Scoping Decision Document. This document will summarize the comments received and provide responses to them. It will also finalize the alternatives for further study in the Tier 1 EIS and outline the topics that will be explored in more detail.