Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

Hwy 47 and BNSF Railroad Crossing Study

Anoka

About this study

Hwy 47 and BNSF RR Crossing Study location
Hwy 47 and BNSF RR Crossing Study location map
Click map for larger PDF version.

Proposed Hwy 47 (Ferry St.)/BNSF Railway overpass

MnDOT completed a study of current safety issues at the Hwy 47 (Ferry St.)/BNSF Railroad crossing in Anoka in 2016. The study recommended separating the highway and railroad crossing north of Hwy 10. A separation between Ferry St. and the BNSF Railway would improve safety for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists and trains. It would also improve regional mobility and emergency responder time.

Study goals

  • MnDOT studied the benefits and impacts of two main alternatives: a bridge over the railroad tracks or a tunnel beneath the railroad tracks
  • The study identified one possible solution as a multi-span, two-lane bridge with a mixed use trail on Hwy 47/Ferry St. over the BNSF railroad tracks.

Project schedule

  • Currently not funded. Future analysis will determine if the bridge will carry two or four lanes and consider various alignments of the crossing. MnDOT continues to pursue funding sources to design and construct a new separated railroad crossing at Hwy 47/Ferry St.
  • Final Report completed in 2016.

Traffic impacts

MnDOT has identified several key issues in the area including the location of the Rum River, nearby businesses and the school district building. MnDOT is also aware of the need to maintain rail service during project construction.