Hwy 169 at Hwy41/County Road 78 diverging diamond intersection opens Sept. 15
ROSEVILLE, Minn. –Motorists traveling on Highway 169 at Hwy 41/County Road 78 south of Shakopee will be able to use the new diverging diamond interchange beginning at 3 p.m., Sept. 15.
Over the past two years, the Minnesota Department of Transportation and Scott County constructed an interchange called a diverging diamond. This interchange replaced an existing traffic signal on Highways 169 at Hwy 41 and County Road 78. Motorists can learn to navigate the diverging diamond by viewing a video.
At this intersection, there is a lot of left turning traffic. When these left-turning vehicles cross oncoming traffic, there is a greater potential for crashes to happen. On average, a diverging diamond reduces crashes, and when crashes do occur, they are typically less severe.
Diverging diamond interchanges also:
- Reduce traffic delays
- Create safer free flowing turns to enter and exit the highway
- Expand traffic capacity even twenty years after construction
Road work continues to be a critical service. MnDOT is committed to protecting the health, safety and well-being of its employees, contractors and all Minnesotans. Crews continue to follow the guidance of state and federal health officials to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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