Rendering of Phase 1 safety improvements proposed by Our Streets, informed by community. Includes bus only lane, bike lane, and asphalt art.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the City of Minneapolis will implement near-term improvements on Olson Memorial Highway this summer. The highway’s design puts people at risk every day. Changes are long overdue, and watered-down improvements are unacceptable.

Join us in calling on MnDOT to implement all of the requested improvements outlined in phase one of the Bring Back 6th campaign. These changes are proven to reduce crashes, prevent speeding, and make walking, rolling, biking and driving more comfortable and convenient.

The requested near-term improvements include:

  • Restriping the roadway to reduce lane widths and add dedicated transit and bike lanes
  • Lower the posted speed limit to 25 mph
  • Improve lighting for pedestrians
  • Mark crosswalks at all intersections and mid-block crossings
  • Install an asphalt art pavement pilot project at the Olson & Van White intersection, collaborating with community partners, including Summit Academy, Green Garden Bakery, Urban Strategies, Heritage Park Neighborhood Association and Harrison Neighborhood Association. (MnDOT had an opportunity to apply for a Bloomberg Philanthropies grant to fund such a project but declined to do so)
  • Add leading pedestrian intervals and adjust walk signal timing so everyone, including people who are mobility impaired and parents with small children, have adequate time to cross the street
  • Use paint and bollards to add pedestrian bump-outs on cross streets

Join us in contacting decision-makers.

Take action by emailing key decision makers and standing up for reparative justice.