Contra Flow MnPASS Lane
The additional northbound lane would be created by using a truck that moves the center concrete median so that one or more of the lanes generally used only for southbound traffic can be used for northbound traffic. This would be done during rush hour and other times when there is heavy traffic. These lanes are sometimes referred to as Contra-Flow Lanes
The advantages include lower construction cost and shorter construction time. Also, because it would use existing pavement, it would use less resources--a cleaner commute!
The initial study shows this would be a good solution for this section of Cedar Avenue. Mn/DOT has received federal funds to further study the idea. These lanes could operate like the MnPASS lanes on I-394 and I-35W and would be open to high occupancy vehicles, buses, and single occupant vehicles that pay a fee.
- New through lane constructed in the existing
median from 138th Street to Diffley Road - Requires concrete median barrier from 138th Street to I-35E (no grass median)
- Will require noise walls
Advantages:
- Relieves bottleneck north of 138th Street
- Provides congestion relief for general purpose traffic over no build
Disadvantages:
- No increased capacity over river – moves bottleneck to Hwy 13
- Does not enhance advantages to transit
- Does not provide congestion-free choice for general purpose traffic and carpools
- Does not improve travel time reliability
- Inconsistent with MHSIS long range plan currently under review