Public notice and opportunity for comment
MnDOT is proposing improvements to an approximate 1.8-mile section of Hwy 97, beginning just east of I-35 in Columbus and ending just west of Hwy 61 in Forest Lake. The project plans include reconstruction of Hwy 97, an undivided, two-lane highway, into a two-lane highway with a center median and designated turn-lanes.
Additionally, the project will include construction of a roundabout at Fenway Ave. N., a paved trail along the entire southern side of the highway and portions of the northern side, stormwater ponds, and a dry pond for water infiltration. Traffic signal improvements, overhead lighting, Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility features, and drainage updates will also be completed. The proposed project is scheduled to be constructed during the summer months of 2025 and 2026.
The project involves work along an approximately 0.25 mile segment within the Lamprey Pass Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which is owned and operated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR). Project construction will require permanent acquisition of 0.48 acre and 0.12 acre of temporary easement, totaling 0.60 acre from the MnDNR.
In accordance with 23 CFR 774.5, MnDOT is soliciting comments on the effects this project would have on the Lamprey Pass WMA. The Federal Highway Administration has made a preliminary determination that the proposed action on the Lamprey Pass WMA is a Section 4(f) de minimis action in accordance with 23 CFR 774.5, conditioned on public review and comment. A de minimis finding may be made when uses of Section 4(f) land will have no adverse effect on the protected resources.
Information on this impact and avoidance, minimization, mitigation, and/or enhancement measures is also available for review in hard copies at the following locations:
Forest Lake City Hall
1408 Lake St. S.
Forest Lake, MN 55025
MnDOT Metro District
1500 W. County Rd. B-2
Roseville, MN 55113-3174
Comments must be submitted on or before Thu, June 6, 2024. Comments will become part of the official record and will be considered when making future project-related decisions. Submit your comments to Victor Vasas, MnDOT Project Manager, via mail, phone or email:
1500 W. County Rd. B-2, MN 55113-3174
651-234-7724
victor.vasas@state.mn.us