We are planning improvements for Olson Memorial Hwy between Border Ave./Oak Lake Ave. and the bridge west of Thomas Ave. This highway is an important route for the local community and surrounding region, including those that drive, walk, bike, roll and use public transit.
We conducted a study from August 2022 to May 2025 to better understand the needs of the community. During the study we conducted public engagement, developed and evaluated different transportation elements, and determined which elements will be carried forward for the next step in project development. The next step in project development is preliminary design and will include collecting input from the public to help inform design concepts and identify a preferred design alternative.
We will continue to gather input from communities close to the project area during preliminary design. Sign up for email updates to receive information on how you can share your input and stay up to date on this project.
Summary of work
Safety improvements for people walking, biking or rolling
Resurface Olson Memorial Hwy between Border Ave./Oak Lake Ave. and the bridge west of Thomas Ave.
Curb and sidewalk repairs
Traffic signal replacements
Lighting improvements
Public engagement
Throughout the preliminary design process, we will provide opportunities for the public to submit stories and provide feedback. Engagement activities will include tabling at community events, virtual and in-person public meetings and online surveys. We will focus on hearing community stories and collecting feedback about users’ experiences traveling along and across Olson Memorial Hwy. Input collected will be used to inform preliminary design of alternatives for the corridor.
What we heard
During the fall of 2025, we conducted the first phase of engagement which focused on understanding the public’s travel experiences along and across Olson Memorial Hwy, gathering feedback on design elements and raising awareness about the project. The project team collected input through hundreds of interactions with the public, stakeholders and community leaders.
The main takeaways from public input included:
Safety is the primary concern for all users: drivers, pedestrians bikers and transit users. The public noted significant safety concerns near Lyndale Ave. E and the I-94E ramp.
People feel unsafe crossing Olson Memorial Hwy due to long crossing distances and insufficient time to cross.
The public was asked which type of crossing improvements they would prefer on Olson Memorial Hwy. Those we engaged strongly favored improved lighting for pedestrians and slightly favored push-activated crossing devices, raised crosswalks and center median improvements.
There was a strong preference for keeping existing median trees. Though, some community members accept removal if necessary for safety improvements.
Views were mixed on whether to keep or remove frontage roads.
Stay engaged
We need your continued input to develop a preferred alternative. We are developing alternative concepts and will seek public input on them during the next phase of engagement in the fall. Stay tuned for future events.
Traffic impacts
All traffic impacts are tentative and weather dependent.
Upcoming
Information about upcoming traffic impacts will be posted as details become available.
