Urgent $800K Study Announced for Highway 14 Corridor Upgrades
UPDATE: An $800,000 study aimed at transforming the Highway 14 corridor in Mankato and North Mankato has just been announced, with immediate plans to assess crucial infrastructure developments. The study will explore the construction of a bike trail bridge over the Minnesota River, the addition of roundabouts at highway ramps, and the potential expansion of the region’s busiest roadway.
This two-year study will cover the corridor from Blue Earth County Road 12 to the Lookout Drive interchange and is essential for accommodating the significant growth in traffic—currently between 16,000 to 37,000 vehicles daily. With projections indicating traffic could soar to over 40,000 vehicles per day by 2050, the urgency for this study cannot be overstated.
The Mankato-North Mankato Area Planning Organization (MAPO) will soon issue proposals for engineering firms to conduct this critical assessment, alongside a smaller study on Stoltzman Road. This comprehensive analysis will not only evaluate the necessity for roadway enhancements but also scrutinize the functionality of connections to other highways and streets, ensuring that the needs of both drivers and cyclists are met.
“MnDOT anticipates needing to make bridge replacements in this corridor in the 2030s due to condition,” stated MAPO officials. This study will guide how the corridor can be rebuilt to support future growth effectively.
The selected consultant will investigate various options for improving traffic flow at key intersections, particularly the Highway 169-Highway 14 interchange, where up to 10 design options will be developed. Additionally, the study will re-evaluate the Victory Drive-Raintree Road intersection, located adjacent to the Highway 14 ramps.
In parallel, the $75,000 Stoltzman Road study—set to begin in March 2026—will identify improvements for pedestrian safety and traffic management around Mankato West High School. This initiative underscores the community’s commitment to enhancing roadway safety and accessibility.
As the study progresses, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay engaged and informed about the proposed changes that could reshape the Mankato area for decades to come. The deadline for the completion of the Highway 14 study is set for December 2027, marking a pivotal moment for regional development.
Stay tuned for more updates as this critical project unfolds.
