MnDOT, Columbia Heights present preferred Central Ave reconstruction plan with roundabouts and bus lane

MnDOT and City of Columbia Heights staff outlined a preferred layout for reconstructing two miles of Central Ave (Trunk Hwy 65) between 37th Avenue and 53rd Avenue, detailing safety upgrades, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and multimodal access improvements. The presentation was delivered by City engineer Rochelle Widmer and MnDOT North Metro Engineer Chris Bower at a June 16 special council meeting.

Chris Bower told the council and the public that the project will address pavement conditions, upgrade pedestrian crossings, manage speeds and expand multimodal options while improving transit access. "Central Ave. from 40th to 47th Ave. has the second highest rate of fatal and serious injury crashes in Minnesota," Bower said, citing crash statistics shared during the presentation. Presenters described design elements such as lane reductions, a northbound bus lane, access changes at six intersections, and both single- and multi-lane roundabouts.

City staff and MnDOT described a phased schedule: final design is planned for 2027 with construction expected to begin in 2028 and likely continue for about three years. The municipal consent process requires the public hearing held June 16 and a City Council decision within 90 days, with options to approve, approve with conditions, deny, or take no action (which results in default approval). The council opened and later closed the public hearing by unanimous motions. The project will return to the council for action once MnDOT and staff address outstanding questions and incorporate feedback.