Frequently Asked Questions
What was the goal of the Highway 61 Corridor Study through Two Harbors? The study developed a range of possible changes to Highway 61 through Two Harbors and determined a recommended alternative for further development and support from the community. We looked at options to help address congestion, delay and safety.
Who were key Stakeholders in the planning process? Every voice is important. MnDOT identified a list of 15 to 20 individuals representing businesses, industry, local and regional governments, emergency responders, schools and institutions. They worked closely with us at key points in the study to ensure the diverse interests of the local community were represented.
What were the public input opportunities? The public was invited to contribute feedback throughout the corridor study. Results of the fall 2021 survey results can be viewed here. Several roadway concepts were developed for improvements along the Highway 61 corridor and were presented to the public in the spring of 2022.
Several public meetings were also held during the study.
What is the timing and the budget for this project and who pays for it? The total project cost is $17 million. The City of Two Harbors will contribute to certain aesthetic features important to the community. The current study was completed in 2022, final design will occur in 2023 and 2024 and construction is to be determined.
Are local roadways going to be improved/developed to help support traffic along Highway 61, and what about a bypass of the community? This project did not study local roadways in detail. However, we did point out possible connections or other improvements off Highway 61 that could improve mobility along the highway. While a bypass has been discussed in the past, it was not the focus of this study or the project MnDOT has programmed to construct and fund. This study may leave recommendations for a potential future study of local connections of benefit to Highway 61 and/or an alternate route around of the Two Harbors community. This study focused on the current alignment of Highway 61 through Two Harbors.
Did you consider the presence of ATV or snowmobile traffic along/adjacent to the Highway 61 Corridor? We were made aware of recreational vehicles which use the shoulders and intersect with Highway 61. We accounted for these users in the solutions we considered.
How do you determine existing and future traffic for Highway 61? We look at historic data back several decades by gathering counts from both permanent and temporary data collection devices. We look at data sources that show trends of the seasonal/recreational variations in Two Harbors and along the North Shore. We use this data to help us project forward a growth rate for future traffic that accounts for the unique nature of North Shore and Two Harbors in specific.
What plans are there for more bike lanes, sidewalks, or shared use trails? Accessibility and mobility for all users is our priority. We looked at options to expand biking and walking safety along the Highway 61 corridor. We also considered previous sidewalk and trail recommendations developed by the city and MnDOT and coordinated with the DNR’s plan to extend the Gitchi Gami state trail toward Two Harbors.