About this project
Summary of work
Construction of a Reduced Conflict Intersection (RCI) at Hwy 61 and Goodhue Co. Rd. 18 began July 18 and was completed early September.
MnDOT evaluated Hwy 61 to identify improvements to help with safety and traffic flow through the corridor, specifically at the Hwy 61/Co. Rd. 18 intersection in Goodhue County. Through this evaluation MnDOT made recommendations on:
- Improving intersection safety for all users
- Improving ways to safely get to and from the highway
- Shortening wait times and keeping traffic moving
To address the safety issues created by left turns and crossing traffic at the intersection, MnDOT is proposed to construct a RCI.
Construction is also scheduled in 2022 for the Hwy 61/Hwy 316 roundabout project in Goodhue County.
RCI benefits
- Maintains access to and from the highway for all travelers
- Significantly reduces the risk of crashes, especially severe right-angle crashes
- Increases safety for all users
- Makes it easier to turn left through major intersections
Project background
The Hwy 61/Co. Rd. 18 intersection has a history of left turn crashes due to speed, traffic volumes and poor sightlines. Significant safety issues were identified at this intersection, which include:
- A history of serious right-angle crashes. Right-angle crashes, sometimes called “T-bone” crashes, are often more deadly or serious than other crashes. Traditional four-lane divided highway intersections, such as this one, have an increased risk of severe T-bone crashes, especially for drivers attempting to cross all four lanes of traffic or turn left.
- Difficulty getting on/off Hwy 61 during certain times of the day.
Public meeting summary
MnDOT hosted a public meeting on July 12, 2022 that highlighted five projects occurring along Hwy 61 through 2024. In the meeting summary, you can view materials that were at the meeting.