Project Update!

Franklin Avenue - East River Parkway Intersection Improvements

Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis are ready to implement the Traffic Management Plan
developed for the Franklin Avenue/27th Avenue SE/East River Parkway intersection. The changes
will improve the operation and safety of the intersection to better serve existing users (pedestrians,
bikes and motor vehicles) and traffic pattern changes anticipated due to construction of the Central
Corridor Light Rail Transit line. Features of the plan include:

ƒ Bike lanes over the Franklin Avenue Bridge and on 27th Avenue with “bike boxes” at the
intersection
ƒ Improved lane assignments, signing and signal locations for driver clarity better serving
major traffic movements
ƒ A state-of-the-art traffic signal system able to detect bikes and motor vehicles
ƒ Shorter crosswalks where possible to decrease pedestrian exposure and crossing time
ƒ A shortened traffic signal cycle length to allow all users to be served more frequently

Construction Schedule - Preparation for improvements has begun with relocation of power
poles on Franklin Avenue. The project will be constructed through the coordinated efforts of the
county, city and a private contractor. A general sequence of events is planned as follows:

• Utility Relocation In progress

• Traffic Signal Removal (Stop signs will be erected) Begins July 19
• Removal of sidewalks, replacement of curb and gutter July 26 – August 6
• Construct new traffic signal August 9 – August 25
• Restore sidewalks By August 31
• Street paving, striping and signing By September 6

Project representatives will coordinate with property owners and residents to maintain access. The
intersection will remain open to traffic during construction but traffic delays may occur. Some
operations may require short term closures – advance notice will be provided to the extent possible.
The intersection, including all vehicle and bike lanes, sidewalks and trail crossings is planned to be
fully operational by Labor Day. Fine tuning of the new traffic signal and final clean-up and
restoration activities will continue during September.

Metro Transit Route 8 – The westbound bus stop on Franklin Avenue at 27th Street SE will be
temporarily taken out of service from approximately July 26 through August 31. Westbound riders
should use the stop on Franklin at East River Terrace (by St. Frances Cabrini Church). The
eastbound stop on Franklin at 27th Street SE will stay in service.

For More Information – go to www.sehinc.com\onlineprojects; then choose the Franklin

project, or contact Jeff Rhoda, Project Engineer, SEH Inc.; 952-912-2615 or James Grube,
Hennepin County Department of Transportation; 612-596-0300.

Thank you for your patience during these construction activities. Please
take care as you navigate the intersection.

Notice date: July 2, 2010