I-94 West – 7th Street Ramp

After completing the successful federal funding application, SRF designed the reconstruction of the I-94 westbound off-ramp from 5th Street to 7th Street into downtown Minneapolis. The new ramp combined with the existing TH 55 (Hiawatha Avenue) off-ramp. The ramp serves as a transition area between the MnDOT freeway system and the City of Minneapolis’ downtown street network.

SRF coordinated with the City of Minneapolis, MnDOT, Metro Transit, and FHWA. Other key stakeholders included Bethany Church, Hennepin County Medical Center, and the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Authority. SRF led numerous meetings with the Technical Advisory Committee, stakeholders, and the public.

SRF developed alternatives for the combined connection and 7th Street, analyzing the operations and safety of the alternatives, evaluated the alternatives using identified goals and criteria, and completed environmental documentation (Categorical Exclusion) and noise analysis. For the alternatives, we also developed initial concept layouts and cost estimates.

As the project was under a tight schedule to meet the funding sunset date, final design began before the layout was approved. The project included a seven-span, 880-foot-long bridge, traffic signal system, storm water treatment facilities and local utility relocations. An existing duct bank was in conflict with the proposed bridge abatement and piers, and SRF led utility meetings to determine new location for the duct bank SRF also prepared the Transportation Management Plan (TMP) and designed traffic signals, signing, pavement markings, and detour signing. Detours of mainline I-35W, TH 55, and associated major ramps were necessary to set the bridge beams.