No decision on new river crossing yet

A decision on a new Highway 41 Minnesota River crossing has yet to be made, according to MnDOT project manager Diane Langenbach.  

"We are still meeting with stakeholders and working on a proposed preferred alternative," she stated in an e-mail.

MnDOT is reviewing six possiblilities for a new Highway 41 connecting new Highway 212 to Highway 169 over the Minnesota River. The options stretch from eastern Chaska/western Chanhassen to western Chaska/eastern Carver and have raised objections from many cities, businesses and residents that would be affected by the proposed routes.

Langenbach said they are hoping to issue a statement on a proposed preferred alternative by mid-to-late February.

According to the project Web site, MnDOT has received and reviewed over 700 comments on the draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) released last year. A meeting is being held "later this month to confirm a recommendation for the proposed preferred alternative."

"As we move ahead and release more details about the proposed preferred alternative, it is important to understand this selection is a process and not a final decision," stated Langenbach on the site. "There will still be many outstanding issues related to the proposed preferred alternative."  

This year should bring the development of the final environmental impact study (FEIS) as well a federal Record of Decision. 

Related:

Scott County: Move river crossing east

Sizing up the river crossing options

River crossing options: Giving MnDOT piece of mind

Shakopee: Move river crossing east

River crossing comment period: The end is near

Carver: River crossing report flawed

River crossing study released

DNR officials and Chanhassen: No eastern crossing

Battle brewing between Chaska and Carver?

Mobile homeowners: Where will we live?