MnDOT asks motorists, farm equipment operators to safely share the road during harvestseason

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Motorists traveling on Minnesota highways this fall need to be aware of large farm equipment transporting crops to markets, grain elevators and processing plants, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. 

“Harvest season is in full swing and farmers in every corner of the state are out using the highways,” said Sue Groth, state traffic engineer. “Motorists need to be prepared to encounter slow-moving farm vehicles, especially on rural, two-lane roads.”

Farm equipment is large and heavy, making it hard for operators to accelerate, slow down and stop. The machines also make wide turns and sometimes cross over the center line. In addition, farm vehicles can create large blind spots, making it difficult for operators to see approaching vehicles. All of these factors can cause serious crashes. 

During 2012-14, 414 traffic crashes took place on Minnesota roads involving at least one farm vehicle, resulting in 13 fatalities and 202 injuries. Of the 13 fatalities, eight were farm vehicle riders; of the 202 injuries, 48 were farm vehicle riders.

“The biggest factors contributing to farm equipment/vehicle crashes are inattention, unsafe passing and speed,” Groth said. “Motorists should always slow down and use caution when approaching farm equipment.”

Motorists should:

• Watch for debris dropped by trucks hauling sugar beets and other crops. It is safer to brake or drive through debris than to veer into oncoming cars or off the road  
• Wait for a safe place to pass
• Wear seatbelts
• Drive with headlights on at all times

Farm equipment operators should:

• Use lights and flashers to make equipment more visible  
• Use slow-moving vehicle emblems on equipment traveling less than 30 mph  
• Consider using a follow vehicle when moving equipment, especially at night  

MnDOT is installing warning systems at 54 rural intersections statewide

ST. PAUL, Minn. - More rural areas of the state this summer are getting intelligent transportation systems at high-risk intersections that will help reduce crashes and improve safety, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

MnDOT is installing the Rural Intersection Conflict Warning Systems at 54 high-risk locations around the state. The sites are ranked for factors such as limited visibility before the intersection, whether there is a railroad or commercial development close by, traffic volume, previous crash history and distance on the road from the last stop sign.

The systems are used at stop-controlled intersections to alert drivers when vehicles are approaching the intersection. The system uses a combination of traditional signing, flashing lights that turn on when traffic is approaching an intersection and sensors that trigger the lights to flash.

“The system gives real-time warning to motorists approaching a stop sign that there is traffic approaching and also warns drivers on the road without the stop sign that a vehicle is stopped or entering the intersection,” said Ken Hansen, RICWS project manager.

Motorists on the major road will see a standard “Entering Traffic” sign, a “When Flashing” sign and a flashing light as they approach and pass through the intersection. The flashing light will only be lit when vehicles are present on the minor road. Motorists on the minor road will see an illuminated LED “Traffic Approaching” sign and “When Flashing” sign with dual flashing lights. The dual flashing lights will only be on when there is traffic approaching. The LED “Traffic Approaching” is constantly illuminated.

He said people tend to think there are fewer crashes in rural areas since they aren’t as populated as urban areas, but about 66 percent of fatal crashes in the state happen on rural roads. This is due to varying terrain, inconsistent sightlines such as trees and vegetation near the travel lanes, roadway skews and motorists driving at higher speeds.

“Injuries in rural areas are usually serious injuries and fatalities,” Hansen said. “Emergency response often takes longer because of the distance between cities. We think these systems will make a difference in reducing crashes and saving lives.”

In 2014, 324 fatal crashes occurred in the state and 214 of those were in population areas of less than 1,000. The number of personal injury crashes in population areas of less than 1,000 was higher than the injuries in areas with populations of 250,000 and greater.

A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study found that 62 percent of crashes in rural stop-controlled intersections were caused by drivers stopping and looking, but not seeing the other vehicle and proceeding into the intersection. A MnDOT study found that 26 percent of right-angle crashes at stop-controlled intersections were caused by drivers failing to stop.

“Drivers should always obey the stop signs as they approach an intersection, but the added technology is designed to be an additional safety message,” Hansen said.

A new MnDOT video shows drivers how the system works. View the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLAL10hTEXI

For a list of locations where the system is being installed, go to mndot.gov/trafficeng/signals/conflictwarning.html.

MnDOT seeks public input on Area Transportation Improvement Program Plan

BEMIDJI, Minn. – The public and other stakeholders are invited to provide input on the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Area Transportation Improvement Program Plan for construction projects from 2016-2019. The public comment period for the ATIP is March 18 to April 18, 2015.

The ATIP is a four-year program for state and federally funded transportation investments of significance for the northwestern region of Minnesota. Each draft ATIP includes a prioritized list of projects that help solve transportation problems and achieve long-range objectives for the area. The principal investment emphasis is on preservation, safety and operational improvements in the existing transportation system and seeks balanced decisions, which promote effective and efficient transportation.

The ATIP is the result of recommendations that come from the Area Transportation Partnership, which is comprised of members from cities, counties, townships, tribal governments, transit providers, metropolitan planning organizations, regional development commissions and Mn/DOT. The ATPs integrate state and local priorities within their areas and submit those projects for inclusion into the draft State Transportation Improvement Plan.

To view and provide comment on the ATIP, visit www.dot.state.mn.us/d2/business.html. To request a hard copy of the plan, contact Darren Laesch, Mn/DOT District 2 Planning Director, at 218-755-6554 or darren.laesch@state.mn.us.

Tri-Valley Transportation Offers New In-Town Services and Guaranteed Routes

(Crookston, Minn.)- Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. along with Tri-Valley Transportation is excited to announce that T.H.E. Bus now offers new in-town services and guaranteed routes throughout its service area.

In-town services that have been utilized in communities have been expanded. Towns that now receive this service include Hallock, Karlstad, Warren, Hendrum, Halstad, Ada, and Twin Valley. T.H.E. Bus will run in these communities on certain days of the month to help residents with transportation needs. Guaranteed routes are now available each month as well. A guaranteed route means it will run no matter how many people have scheduled a ride. Passengers that can utilize these routes will have peace of mind knowing that they will be able to get to their destination no matter the number of riders.

Also available to riders in May are two “Special Trips”. On May 16, T.H.E. Bus will take riders to Honker Flats Green House in Middle River. On May 20, T.H.E. Bus will take riders to Bergeson’s Nursery in Fertile.

For more information on in-town services, guaranteed routes, or special trips call 1-800-201-3432. Information and monthly calendars can also be found at www.tvoc.org/services/transportation/.
T.H.E. Bus is a curb to curb service and provides public transportation services to the general public in seven Minnesota counties, Polk, Red Lake, Norman, Marshall, Kittson, Pennington and Clearwater. Buses run through these counties on various days with various destinations. Tri-Valley public transit buses are available with no age limits or income guidelines. Buses have seating available for up to 45 passengers. Each bus is handicap accessible with two accessible entrances. If passengers are unable to use the door he/she may request the use of the lift. Each driver has been trained to properly use the lift and secure mobility devices within the buses.

Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. is a not-for-profit community action agency headquartered in Crookston, Minn. In existence since 1965, Tri-Valley provides services in 84 counties in Minnesota and Northeast North Dakota. The mission of Tri-Valley is to provide opportunities to improve the quality of life for people and communities. For more information on services offered and job opportunities at Tri-Valley visit the website at www.tvoc.org, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TVOCInc or on Twitter at @TriValley_TVOC.

Minnesota ranks second in nation for bicycle-friendly states

ST. PAUL, Minn.– Kicking off National Bike Month, the League of American Bicyclists today announced that Minnesota ranks as the second most bicycle-friendly state in the nation. Minnesota has consistently ranked in the top five since 2008.

“This ranking is recognition of the work on behalf of bicycling being done by both the public and private sectors throughout the state,” said Dorian Grilley, executive director, Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota. “It is not only because of the good work that is being done by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, but because the Department of Health, Explore Minnesota Tourism, Department of Natural Resources, other public agencies, local governments and many of our state's businesses, both big and small, are all engaged in making bicycling better in Minnesota,"

Nearly half of Minnesotans rode a bicycle last year, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation 2012 Omnibus Transportation Survey.

The Bicycle Friendly States ranking is based on key indicators, including infrastructure and funding that provide safe places to bike; education and encouragement programs that promote cycling; and passage and enforcement of bicycle-friendly laws that make it safe and comfortable for people of all ages and abilities to ride. 

"We are excited and encouraged to see real progress in states like California, Minnesota and Utah," said Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists. "Overall, we still see a lot of opportunity to realize the huge potential of bicycling to promote health, economic development, and quality of life." 

Washington remains the top ranked state for the seventh year in a row, followed by Minnesota, Wisconsin, Delaware and Oregon. Minnesota received its ranking because of many reasons, including:

·         Partnerships among several state agencies and local/statewide advocacy groups that are encouraging increased commuter and recreational bicycle use and leading the Safe Routes to School program.

·         Recognition as the “Best Trails State” in the nation in 2012. The state features more than 600 miles of paved trails managed by the Department of Natural Resources. The DNR adds about 10 miles of paved trail to the system each year. National, regional and local governments manage thousands of additional trail miles.

·         Nice Ride Minnesota, the first large-scale bicycle sharing system in the nation, expanded into St. Paul in 2012.The program has more than 1,500 bicycles and 170 kiosks in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Expansion is also planned in Greater Minnesota.

·         The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota published “WALK! BIKE! FUN!” — a comprehensive curriculum with engaging lessons for kids in kindergarten through sixth grade.  Through classroom activities and on-the-bike skills practice, instructors can teach young people how to travel safely in their communities.

·         The state has high rates of bicycle commuting and recreational use.

·         The nationally recognized bicycle safety education campaign, “Share the Road,” helps improve awareness of bicycle laws for both motorists and bicyclists.

Several state agencies, including the departments of Health, Natural Resources, Transportation and Tourism invest in bicycling as an important component of Minnesota’s transportation system. Bicycle tourism has a positive impact on Minnesota’s economy and being physically active can decrease the risk of a variety of diseases such as heart disease and stroke, diabetes, depression and certain types of cancer.  

“This year’s bicycle friendly state announcement is a great acknowledgement of the dedication and commitment of our many agency partners, advocates and bicyclists from across the state towards making Minnesota a bicycle friendly state,” said Tim Mitchell, Minnesota Department of Transportation bicycle and pedestrian coordinator.

He said the Minnesota Department of Health has helped elevate interest in biking in the state. “Their Statewide Health Improvement Program has assisted more than 250 communities to increase access to bicycling and walking opportunities over the past few years, making the healthy choice an easy choice.”

Mitchell said while the ranking is a great achievement, there is work to do. “We can do even better,” he added. “The best way to continue to improve is to learn from constituents who use the highways, bike lanes and shoulders to bike.

MnDOT is asking the public’s input into developing a statewide bicycle system plan. Feedback will help MnDOT identify and recommend routes, improve existing facilities in the bike system and more effectively address the needs of bicycle riders in the state.To participate, interested persons can go online at www.mndot.gov/bike

MnDOT seeks public input for statewide bicycle system plan

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The public, local government officials and transportation supporters are invited to provide input for Minnesota’s statewide bicycle system plan at one of nine meetings statewide.

April 23 in St. Cloud – Whitney Senior Center, 1527 Northway Drive

April 30 in Granite Falls – Kilowatt Community Center, 600 Kilowatt Dr.

May 1 in Fergus Falls – West Central Initiative, 1000 Western Ave.

May 6 in Mankato – Blue Earth County Library, 100 E. Main St.

May 7 in Bemidji – Hampton Inn and Suites, 1019 Paul Bunyan Dr. S.

May 8 in Duluth – Duluth City Hall, 411 W. First St.

May 13 in Rochester – University Center Rochester, Heintz Center HA102, 1926 Collegeview Rd. E

May 14 in St. Paul – Neighborhood House at Wellstone Center, Westside Room, 179 Robie St E.

May 15 in Minneapolis – University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center, 2001 Plymouth Ave N

All meetings will take place from 4 to 6 p.m., and attendees should plan to stay the entire time. The event will begin with a brief project description followed by a facilitated workshop. There will also be a community open house from 6 to 7 p.m., where people can come and go. An online participation is also available at www.mndot.gov/bike.

Activities will be offered throughout the evening for adults bringing their children.

“Minnesota is often recognized as one of the top bicycle-friendly states in the country, and the best way to continue improving is to learn from constituents who use the highways, bike lanes and shoulders to bike,” said Tim Mitchell, MnDOT bicycle and pedestrian coordinator.   

Participants will be asked to provide feedback on:

·         Where are the MnDOT roads that could improve the local bike network?

·         Where are the places riders want to bike long distance?

·         Where do people feel comfortable biking?

·         With limited funding, how do we prioritize projects?

Feedback will help MnDOT identify and recommend routes, improve existing facilities in the bike system and more effectively address the needs of bicycles riders in Minnesota.

The public also may submit written comments on the project website, email greta.alquist@state.mn.us or mail to Greta Alquist, MnDOT Office of Transit MS 315, 395 John Ireland Blvd., St. Paul, MN, 55155

To request an ASL or foreign language interpreter, or other reasonable accommodation, call Janet Miller at 651-366-4720 or 1-800-657-3774 (Greater Minnesota); 711 or 1-800-627-3529 (Minnesota Relay). Alternatively, send an email to janet.rae.miller@state.mn.us. Please request at least one week in advance.

For more information on the project, visit www.dot.state.mn.us/bike/study.html.         

Governor Dayton, MnDOT Announce 10 ‘Corridors of Commerce’ Projects

BEMIDJI, Minn. – ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Mark Dayton and the Minnesota Department of Transportation announced today that ten highway construction projects will receive funding through the state’s new $300 million Corridors of Commerce program. The projects will strengthen Minnesota’s transportation system by adding capacity and improving the movement of freight across the state.

“These projects will reduce travel times and improve safety for Minnesota citizens, and help our businesses transport their products more efficiently,” said Governor Dayton. “The number of projects from all over our state, which sought financing from this program, underscores the acute need for more transportation funding.”

Transportation improvements include the addition of lanes, bypasses and shoulders to essential travel corridors in the state, including Interstate 94 between Rogers and St. Michael, Highway 14 in southern Minnesota, and Highway 34 between Detroit Lakes and Nevis. The bonding authority is effective July 1, 2014, with five projects scheduled to start in 2014, three in 2015 and two in 2016.

The selected projects were among more than 400 proposals representing more than 100 unique projects that MnDOT received earlier this fall from public sector partners, stakeholders and interested citizens across the state. Agency staff evaluated eligible projects on selection criteria that included project readiness and deliverability, community support, projected return on investment, and safety impacts.

“These projects represent a great first step for the Corridors of Commerce program,” said MnDOT Commissioner Charlie Zelle. “These critical improvements demonstrate our commitment to providing a commerce friendly network of freight corridors to ship goods and provide safety and mobility to all users.”

Enacted during the 2013 legislative session, the Corridors of Commerce program authorizes trunk highway bonding to be used for projects that are not already in the state’s four-year State Transportation Improvement Program. The legislation established two major goals for the program: to increase highway capacity on segments where bottlenecks occur and to improve the movement of freight and reduce barriers to commerce.

The selected projects are:

Route	Project	Preliminary Cost Estimate (millions)	Estimated Construction Start	Project Category
Hwy 2	Passing lanes from Cass Lake to Deer River	$8-$10	2014	Freight Improvement
I-94	Lanes from MN 101 to MN 241	$35-$46	2014	IRC Capacity Development
Hwy 34	Passing lanes from Detroit Lakes to Nevis	$11-$15	2014	Freight Improvement
Hwy 14	4‐lane Owatonna to Dodge Center	$16-$20	2014	IRC Capacity Development
Hwy 610	Freeway from CSAH 81 to I‐94	$103-$131	2014	Metro Capacity Development
Hwy 14	4‐lane N. Mankato to Nicollet	$20-$28	2015	IRC Capacity Development
Hwy 14	Nicollet Bypass (4 lane)	$15-$25	2015	IRC Capacity Development
I-694	Dynamic shoulder lane from Rice to Lexington	$35-$42	2015	Metro Capacity Development
Hwy 169	4‐lane from CSAH 15 to 1 mile east of CSAH 7	$14-$20	2016	Freight Improvement
Hwy 23	Passing lanes from Willmar to I‐90	$13-$19	2016	Freight Improvement

 

“There were many good project proposals submitted, indicative of the need and desire to improve Minnesota’s transportation network,” Zelle said. “Unfortunately, we have more projects than money to go around. I’ve been travelling around the state this fall to draw attention to the need for a long-term stable funding source for transportation. My hope is that state and local governments, stakeholders and user groups will join together to address this problem today, to keep our state competitive tomorrow.”

More information about the Corridors of Commerce program can be found at www.mndot.gov/corridorsofcommerce/.

MnDOT commissioner to host town hall event in Thief River Falls

BEMIDJI, Minn. – Minnesota Department of Transportation Commissioner Charlie Zelle invites the public to attend a town hall event to discuss transportation issues on Thursday, Oct. 24 in Thief River Falls.

The town hall will begin at 9:30 a.m. at Digi-Key Corporation, 701 Brooks Avenue South, Thief River Falls. Please RSVP to Cathy Fynboh, cathy.fynboh@digikey.com or 218-681-6674, ext. 1408 by Tuesday, Oct. 22. Refreshments will be provided courtesy of Digi-Key Corporation.

Commissioner Zelle will lead a discussion about transportation, how it affects quality of life, its strong ties to Minnesota’s economy and the importance of continuing to invest in this significant asset.

The event is open to the public, and includes an “open microphone” question and answer session where the commissioner will take feedback and answer questions about Minnesota’s transportation system.

In addition to Commissioner Zelle, MnDOT District 2 Engineer Craig Collison and other local transportation officials will be available to answer questions.

Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend.

To request an ASL or foreign language interpreter, or other reasonable accommodation, call 651-366-4720 or 1-800-657-3774 (Greater Minnesota), 711 or 1-800-627-3529 (Minnesota Relay). You may also send an email to ADArequest.dot@state.mn.us.