Commission Asks DOT to Keep Key Access Points on US 2; Flags M-16, M-34 Closures

Ramsey County staff reviewed proposed U.S. Highway 2 improvements from the state DOT and asked the commission for local comment.

The DOT proposal—shown on maps at the meeting—uses colored markings to indicate existing turn lanes, modifications and proposed closures. Staff said the design results from earlier public input and federal design standards that sometimes require removing closely spaced turn lanes.

Several commissioners voiced concern that closing certain access points would affect private drives and businesses. The chair and commissioners singled out M-16 (the south entrance to the Cliff subdivision and the access used by Cowboys wrecking/hauling operations) and M-34 (a large crossover past the rest area) as locations they want DOT to reconsider. One commissioner requested a site visit so county staff and DOT could talk through safety and business access needs.

The commission directed staff to send formal comments to DOT by the June 1 deadline and to coordinate with township officials and DOT representatives to seek modifications where closures would impair private access.