UPDATE: The city of Duluth has just confirmed its commitment to a major road construction project, allocating $2.7 million for the installation of two roundabouts on London Road. This decision comes as part of a reconstruction effort set to begin next year, with significant implications for local traffic and community sentiment.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will cover the majority of the project’s costs, but Duluth is responsible for funding the new roundabouts at the intersections of 26th Avenue East and 40th Avenue East. Additionally, the city will finance crosswalk flasher systems and other utility improvements, raising concerns among local officials and residents.
City officials are facing mounting pressure as the roundabout project receives pushback from the community. 1st District City Councilor Wendy Durrwachter expressed her concerns, stating, “There’s a lot of public pushback on roundabouts, and here we are spending $2.7 million on something many people don’t want.” Durrwachter advocates for a re-evaluation of the design, questioning if a more economical and less controversial solution is available.
City Administrator Matt Staehling responded, emphasizing the project’s advanced design stage and the urgency for City Council approval before bidding opens on December 3, 2023. “This project is well along in its design,” Staehling affirmed. Delaying approval could risk the entire project, as MnDOT’s Project Manager Tom Lamb noted that the final design was already approved in November 2023.
As construction looms, residents are left grappling with the implications of this large investment. The initial proposal included a third roundabout at 60th Avenue East, which was ultimately dropped following community objections. The project is expected to last two years, significantly impacting traffic in the area.
The urgency of this development cannot be overstated. As Duluth prepares to finalize its plans, the community is left wondering how this investment will shape their daily lives and whether their voices will be heard in future city projects.
Stay tuned for further updates as Duluth navigates these crucial decisions impacting its infrastructure and residents.
