Tom Warne Report, 17 December 2011
The Minnesota Department of Transportation has turned down a scaled down version for a new St. Croix River crossing, after the agency analyzed the proposal from the group called “Sensible Stillwater Bridge Crossing.” The lower-cost three-lane crossing is an alternative to the current $690 million plan for a wider span. MnDOT officials said that the partnership’s plan for a diagonal concept had been previously rejected because it would have a greater environmental impact on the St. Croix River.
The department also said the three-lane bridge proposal “did not adequately meet the transportation needs” of the region.” Transportation officials added that if a new site was a possibility for consideration, the project would be delayed for up to six years to allow for additional environmental reviews, public meetings and completion of design concepts.
“With Congressional approval, there is only one plan for a new bridge that can be permitted and built,” said Ken Harycki, Stillwater mayor and co-chair of the Coalition for the St. Croix River Crossing. “The proposed St. Croix River Crossing works because it’s the only plan that balances all the needs, interests and laws that impact the St. Croix River Valley.”