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The Minnesota Department of Transportation has chosen an alternate route for a dangerous stretch of Highway 169 south of Ely, Minn.

 to rebuild a curvy, hilly stretch of Highway 169 between Tower and Ely. Beyond narrow shoulders that are just a couple of feet wide, the terrain, plummets about 20 feet.


In 2005 they helped secure $18 million in federal funding for the project. But it was delayed for years by environmental concerns because rock that contains sulfur will have to be blasted. When exposed to air and rain it could pollute nearby waterways.


State transportation officials have selected a $19 million plan that doesn't blast as much rock as other routes it considered, but still straightens out curves, widens shoulders and increases opportunities to pass. 

The public can comment on the plan through Jan. 30. If approved, the project is scheduled to be finished by 2018.

Environmental News

Dan Kraker

Author

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has chosen an alternate route for a dangerous stretch of Highway 169 south of Ely, Minn.


Ely highway reroute addresses environmental concerns

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