Northfield Transportation Advisory Committee Meeting Date: January 21, 2026
To: Members of the Northfield Transportation Advisory Committee
From: David Bennett, Public Works Director/City Engineer
Title
Consider Input on MnDOT Trunk Highway 19 Improvement Project.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield Transportation Advisory Committee receives an update and provides input on the MnDOT Trunk Highway 19 Improvement Project.
Summary Report:
MnDOT is currently in final design for the MnDOT Trunk Highway Improvement Project. The project was split during the preliminary design and engagement process. In 2026, MnDOT will overlay TH-19 from I-35 to Decker Avenue. In 2028, TH-19 will be regraded between Decker and TH-3.
MnDOT held an open house August 13, 2025 for the 2028 project to share final project recommendations with the public (see attachments). MnDOT is currently scheduling meetings with stakeholders/businesses along the corridor to review the final layout.
It is anticipated that the project will have one more open house to share final plans in the summer of 2026, date/time TBD. After the summer meeting, MnDOT let the design-build contract, and have contractor on-board late summer 2027. There will be addition public meetings related to project coordination fall 2027/winter 2028 prior to the spring 2028 construction start.
A couple of items to bring to the attention of the NTAC:
1. The proposed realignment of the Garrett/Decker intersection with TH-19. If NTAC has any thoughts/feedback related to this realignment it would be good to hear to share with MnDOT.
2. St. Olaf Natural Lands Crossing - St. Olaf has brought concerns for student safety crossing. MnDOT is proposing adding a marked crosswalk in this location. St. Olaf is coordinating a meeting with MnDOT
3. In review of the 2026 overlay project, MnDOT didn't include the living fence/snow fence in areas identified as blowing snow/icing issues that were identified during the public enga...
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