City of Mankato receives $1.6 million for enhancements to Highway 169 construction project
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has awarded the City of Mankato $1.6 million for enhancements to the reconstruction of the Highway 169 corridor. MnDOT estimates it will spend at least $70 million to reimagine the stretch of Highway 169 from Highway 14 to the southwestern part of Mankato.
The funding comes from the state’s Transportation Economic Development (TED) program. Mankato will use the TED funds to create a new bike and pedestrian underpass near North River Lane. The $1.6 million award helps offset the $2 million the City is budgeted to spend on the underpass.
“These funds will allow us to make improvements above and beyond the basic roadway proposed by the state,” Susan Arntz, Mankato City Manager said. “In addition to the underpass, the funds will develop a more welcoming entrance to the City, something I have envisioned since my arrival in Mankato. Improving that section is a one-time opportunity and we will need the community to provide input on our portion of the aesthetic design of the reconstructed area.”
“We will be coming to the community with potential plans and visual enhancements once ideas are ready to share,” Paul David, Director of Engagement and Communications, said. “There is a community group working closely with MnDOT to develop ideas and understand what is possible.”
The City’s overall financial share of the $70 million project is expected to be $10 million. The reconstruction of Highway 169 is scheduled to begin in 2027 and be completed in 2028.
