Northwest Metro Mississippi River Crossing Feasibility Analysis Study

MnDOT and their partners initiated the Northwest Metro Mississippi River Crossing Feasibility Analysis Study to quantify the need for increased capacity, study a range of improvements on the existing system as well as new alignments, and to understand the impacts created by investment. Bolton & Menk was a major partner on this effort with another consulting firm. Together, our team

• Compiled previous studies and community plans that identified needs for improved river crossing capacity

• Analyzed the impact of land use patterns and projected population and employment growth on mobility and access

• Developed a clear understanding of the travel patterns of existing users at three regional Mississippi River crossings at Highway 101, 169, and 610

• Quantified the benefits and costs of numerous improvements

• Developed an understanding of how travel patterns may change within the context of planned and new improvements, including a new river crossing

• Created and evaluated high-level concepts to address operational issues, determining if a new river crossing is both technically and economically feasible

• Identified potential next steps

This completed study allows MnDOT and impacted communities to make an informed decision about a potential future bridge crossing and other transportation investments in the NW Metro.