Council Approves Next Phase for East Side Tunnel Project Funding and Engineering Study

Concerns over the proposed tunnel project dominated the Edina City Council meeting on August 19, 2025, as council members grappled with the feasibility and funding of the initiative. Council Member Agnew expressed discomfort with the current plans, emphasizing the need for a balanced view and more objective analysis before proceeding. She highlighted the potential $20 million investment in a tunnel, questioning whether residents would actually use it, and pointed out existing safety issues at intersections that still require attention.

City Manager Neal and Engineering Manager Neudorf defended the decision to hire LHB, an engineering firm known for integrating human-centered design with technical expertise. They explained that LHB was chosen after evaluating multiple firms, with a focus on creating a solution that is not only functional but also appealing to pedestrians.

The council discussed funding options, including the possibility of utilizing resources from the Centennial Lake TIF District to cover preliminary engineering costs. The conversation underscored the importance of ensuring that any public improvements do not lead to increased general taxes, a concern echoed by several members.

Ultimately, the council voted 4-1 to move forward with the next phase of the project, which includes further studies and soliciting proposals for preliminary engineering documents. This decision reflects a commitment to enhancing connectivity in the area, despite ongoing concerns about costs and practicality. The next steps will involve notifying adjacent developers and pursuing funding from various sources, as the city aims to balance development with community needs.