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1. What is the function of Manning Avenue?

Manning Avenue is a high-mobility road that runs north/south through Washington County. It provides access to several neighborhoods, residences, schools, and businesses, as well as a direct connection to I-94.

2. Why does Manning Avenue need to be upgraded to a 4-lane facility?

The current volume of traffic is nearing a point at which a two-lane roadway can no longer operate efficiently and safely. The expected growth and development in this area will generate enough traffic to require a four-lane facility.

3. Has a 3-lane facility been considered for Manning Avenue?

A three-lane facility has been considered but would not be able to safely accommodate the volume of traffic anticipated with the future growth in the area.

4. How will access be “managed” along the corridor?

Properly spacing intersections, combining access points, and separating the roadway with a raised median will help to improve safety and mobility along the corridor. We will work with property owners regarding their individual access needs. Properties will not lose their access, although the access may be combined in some cases. No property will be landlocked.

5. Why do we need a center median along Manning Avenue?

A center median (4 to 6 inches high) will help increase roadway functionality and safety by separating opposing traffic, while reducing vehicle conflict points and traffic congestion.

6. Can something be done to slow traffic down?

The Manning Avenue corridor is wide and flat, and there’s nothing in the physical design that can effectively slow traffic down without seriously compromising safety or diverting traffic elsewhere onto less safe routes. Therefore, we need to design roadway features to safely accommodate the speeds that we expect drivers to choose based on the topography and surroundings.

7. Will roundabouts be considered along with this project?

Roundabouts, as well as other traffic control alternatives, will be evaluated at major intersections. The traffic control type selected for major intersections will be determined using criteria such as traffic volumes, operations, safety, and cost.

8. What are the traffic benefits of the TH 5 realignment alternative?

Realigning TH 5 to connect to the CSAH 14/Manning Avenue intersection would consolidate two intersections (TH 5/Manning Avenue and CSAH 14/Manning Avenue) into one, thereby simplifying intersection access. This alternative also includes realigning Manning Avenue to provide a more continuous and efficient north-south route. From a system standpoint, this alternative yields the highest reduction in vehicle-hours traveled in the area and helps improve operations on local roads.

9. Will all or parts of my property along Manning Avenue need to be acquired by the County?

The County will acquire permanent and temporary easements for roadway improvements, utilities, and trails, though the extent and location are yet to be determined. Significant effort will be placed on developing a solution that minimizes impacts to private property.

10. Will there be assessments to my property?

The County does not assess properties for roadway improvement projects. Our project partners at the City of Lake Elmo, Baytown Township, and West Lakeland Township each have their own assessment policies.

11. What additional accommodations will be made for pedestrians and bicyclists?

An 8-foot multi-use trail on both sides of Manning Avenue will be evaluated. Appropriate pedestrian crossings will be included at the controlled intersections.

12. What is being done to minimize impacts to the natural environment?

An environmental review will be performed, though impacts to natural resources are expected to be minimal.

13. How will noise be addressed as part of the project?

A noise study may be performed as part of the environmental review process, in accordance with applicable state and federal requirements. The study would include monitoring current noise levels, modeling future noise levels, and analyzing potential mitigation alternatives.

14. How is the public being informed of the project progress and how can they get involved?

Several public open houses and information meetings are planned, and individual meetings will be accommodated upon request. Project-related newsletters and e-mail updates will be distributed, and the project website regularly updated as the project progresses. You may also contact Frank Ticknor, Washington County project manager, at 651-430-4319 or frank.ticknor@co.washington.mn.us with questions.