Chaska Downtown TH 41 Improvements Wins Project of the Year
We are proud to announce the Downtown TH 41 Improvements project in Chaska, Minnesota has received the 2025 Project of the Year – Public Welfare award from the Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers (MnSPE). This award is given to projects that serve the core of what professional engineers do – serve the health, safety, and public welfare of our communities.
The City of Chaska aimed to revitalize its downtown as a hub of community destinations that celebrate its historic character and small-town atmosphere. However, the transportation network, including State Highway 41 and County Highway 61, posed challenges.
To balance local and regional needs, Chaska collaborated with MnDOT and Carver County, reviewing various engineering and planning measures. The TH 41 Improvements project, completed in October 2023, introduced a “Road Diet” and a two-lane divided section, enhancing safety, connectivity, and pedestrian accommodations. The $32 million investment reduced crashes and improved local access, serving as a model for future projects through strong partnerships and flexible design. After reopening, converting from four lanes to two lanes divided has led to fewer crashes.
Project Team
- Project Owner: City of Chaska, Minnesota
- Project Designer: Bolton & Menk, Inc.
- General Contractor: S.M. Hentges & Sons
Learn more about this award-winning transportation safety project.
