Council approves city cost share for Maple diversion intersection; roundabout chosen as long‑term solution

The City Council approved a cost share for street improvements at the intersection of 6th Street and 2nd Avenue SW required by the Mouse River enhanced flood protection (Maple diversion) project.

Traffic and design staff described the proposed roundabout, explained that it increases the intersection footprint and costs (staff estimated an incremental cost of roughly $272,000 versus the base design), and noted design features such as truck aprons and modified pavement and lighting. Council members raised safety and size questions and discussed neighborhood familiarity with roundabouts. Staff said the roundabout would help "future proof" the intersection for expected long‑term traffic patterns and that roundabouts are statistically safer at comparable locations.

Council voted in favor of accepting the staff recommendation and providing the city cost share for the roundabout.

Why it matters: The decision commits city funds to a design that staff say improves safety and long‑term capacity, and ties local street design to flood‑protection work.

What’s next: Design finalization and funding allocation; staff indicated potential sources such as sales tax or street‑improvement funds.