Ramsey County Proposes Crosswalk Modifications in Roseville Amid Community Concerns

Under the bright lights of the Roseville City Hall, city council members gathered on July 21, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure improvements that could reshape pedestrian safety in the community. The meeting focused on proposed modifications to crosswalks and traffic patterns along County Road C, a project that has stirred both interest and concern among residents.

The council reviewed plans for a milling overlay and a conversion from four lanes to three, a strategy that has shown promise in enhancing safety for both vehicles and pedestrians in similar projects across Ramsey County. John Mazatello, Deputy Director of Public Works, emphasized the benefits of this approach, citing a 40% reduction in all crashes and a 28% decrease in pedestrian accidents in areas where such conversions have been implemented.

Luis Flores, the county's traffic engineer, presented two options for crosswalk modifications. The first option included pedestrian islands, allowing individuals to cross in two stages, while the second proposed a simpler design without the islands but with improved ADA-compliant landings. The council members engaged in a robust discussion about the implications of these designs, weighing the benefits of safety enhancements against community feedback.

Residents voiced their concerns during the public comment period, with many expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of the proposed pedestrian islands. Former council member Greg Schrader argued that the new crossings would not be utilized as intended, suggesting that people would continue to cross at existing intersections rather than using mid-block crossings. Others echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the need for simplicity and practicality in the design.

The council also addressed the importance of maintaining ADA compliance throughout the project, ensuring that all modifications would accommodate individuals with disabilities. The conversation highlighted the delicate balance between improving safety and addressing community concerns, particularly regarding the potential for increased maintenance challenges with new infrastructure.

As the meeting concluded, the council set a tentative date for a public open house on August 28, where residents would have the opportunity to provide further input on the proposed designs. This engagement reflects the city’s commitment to involving the community in decisions that directly impact their daily lives.

With the project timeline extending into 2026 for construction, the council's decisions in the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the future of pedestrian safety in Roseville. As residents await the next steps, the discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of collaboration between city officials and the community in creating a safer environment for all.