Dakota County Proposes Removing Dorset Road Connection to Delaware Avenue for Safety Improvements

In a significant move to enhance road safety and accessibility, the Inver Grove Heights City Council has approved a resolution supporting the removal of the Dorset Road connection to Delaware Avenue. This decision, made during the council meeting on September 2, 2025, aims to address longstanding safety concerns associated with the steep slope of Dorset Road, which currently stands at 13.5%.

Assistant City Engineer Ritchie presented the proposal, highlighting that Dakota County plans to reconstruct Delaware Avenue in 2027. The redesign will include a multi-use trail on the west side of Delaware Avenue, improving pedestrian access. The steep slope of Dorset Road has posed challenges for winter maintenance, as snowplows struggle to navigate safely. The proposed changes include replacing the intersection with a cul-de-sac, which would reduce the slope to a more manageable 3-4%, thereby enhancing safety for both drivers and pedestrians.

The council's decision follows feedback from residents, with a roughly even split in opinions regarding the cul-de-sac proposal. While four residents supported the change, two opposed it, and two others expressed concerns about increased traffic on nearby streets. The council acknowledged these concerns, particularly regarding emergency service response times, and consulted with local police and fire officials to assess potential impacts.

The project will be funded through municipal state aid, ensuring that the necessary improvements can be made without imposing additional costs on residents. As the city moves forward with these plans, the council remains committed to engaging with the community to address any ongoing concerns and ensure a smooth transition to the new roadway design.