The Senate Transportation Committee recently heard a bill from Sen. Warren Limmer (R-Maple Grove) that allocates $55 million in funding to expand several miles of Highway 55 to a four-lane, divided roadway. The project aims to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and support economic growth in the region.
“This expansion is long overdue,” said Sen. Limmer. “Highway 55 is a vital route for Minnesotans, and its current capacity far exceeds the demands of our communities. Investing in this expansion will improve safety, reduce congestion, and support economic development. This is about making sure Minnesotans can get where they need to go safely and efficiently.”
Highway 55 is a critical transportation corridor for commuters, businesses, and emergency services, but increasing congestion and a crash rate 1.5 times higher than similar highways have made expansion a pressing issue. The proposed project will alleviate bottlenecks, improve traffic flow, and create additional capacity for freight and commuters. In 2024, Sen. Limmer secured $2 million to update an environmental impact and early design statement for the project.
The bill was laid over for possible inclusion in a future transportation budget bill. If approved, the funding will help move the project forward, addressing one of the region’s most pressing transportation challenges.
Photo Link: Kent Koch, Highway 55 Corridor Coalition Chair, Sen. Limmer, and Hennepin County Commissioner Kevin Anderson, who also serves as the Secretary for the Highway 55 Corridor Coalition, testify before the Senate Transportation Committee.