Minneapolis
In spring and summer 2024, we heard feedback from over 2,000 people about proposed changes. Thank you to everyone who shared their input. This feedback helps us understand what improvements should be made to University Ave. N.E.
People largely support raised/separated bike lane improvements on University Ave. N.E. between Central Ave. and 1st Ave. The most common concerns shared were potential parking and traffic impacts.
Proposed changes included adding a bike lane between Central Ave. and 1st Ave., and making bike crossing improvements at specific intersections.
The majority like the proposed designs for a 4-3 lane conversion of University Ave. N.E. Those in favor liked the design’s potential safety, efficiency and walkability, and believe it can help reduce speeding. A smaller percentage of people are opposed, sharing concerns they felt reducing lanes would be inefficient, confusing or dangerous, and that vehicles may use the center lane to pass others.
Proposed changes included narrowing University Ave. N.E. from four lanes to three lanes, creating larger boulevards that separate sidewalks from the road, widening the sidewalks to six feet and adding curb extensions on side streets.
Most people agree that medians at key intersections would provide safer and easier pedestrian and bike crossings. However, some in the community shared concerns that restricting left turns on University Ave. N.E. would reduce neighborhood access for drivers and could encourage dangerous driving.
Proposed changes included adding medians at specific intersections – like the 7th Ave. intersection – to improve safety.
The community is split as to whether street parking belongs on University Ave. N.E. Many believe that the current parking is unsafe and unnecessary due to the amount of nearby neighborhood parking and would prefer to use this space to widen sidewalks and increase green space. Others believe that parking is important for local businesses, including the Northeast Farmers Market and those on Hennepin and 1st Ave.
Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback this spring and summer. Based on this input, we are finalizing plans for the University Ave. N.E. redesign. We plan to share a refined design layout with the community this fall.
Once finalized, MnDOT and local partners will seek funding to make road improvements. This project is currently planned for 2027, with potential utility work in 2026.
