Residents and stakeholders in Washington and Ramsey Counties now have a digital platform to voice their concerns and provide feedback on the future of Highway 96. An online engagement session, which complements a recent in-person open house, is currently open to anyone wishing to learn about and comment on the proposed corridor study of the 10+ mile segment of Highway 96, stretching from Hwy 61 in White Bear Lake to Hwy 95 in Stillwater.
The counties, working with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), aim to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the route. Aimed at discerning the corridor's present condition and pinpointing future requirements, officials are seeking robust public involvement to shape a long-term enhancement strategy that resonates with the community. Available through the project website, this engagement opportunity kicked off on September 24 and will remain accessible until October 8, inviting participants to review potential improvement alternatives and submit their input.
No formal presentation or group discussion will accompany this online engagement format, allowing participants to visit the project website at their convenience to explore the study's scope, schedule, and objectives. This self-guided approach facilitates a more flexible means for the public to engage with the material and provide feedback that could influence future transportation planning and investment decisions in the region.
The digital engagement tool underscores the counties' commitment to transparency and public participation, ensuring that the voices of various stakeholders are heard and considered during the corridor's evaluation process. Deemed critical for developing a plan that aligns with both stakeholder and public aspirations, input gathered through this phase will be instrumental in informing the study's progression and the identification of viable improvement strategies to address the myriad issues facing Highway 96.
