Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The City of Rochester has received a significant federal grant to begin planning for a possible overpass for pedestrians and bicyclists along South Broadway.

A news release says the $2.5 million is from the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grant program through the US Department of Transportation. Rochester officials say the funding will support the South Broadway Avenue Planning Project, which "aims to improve safety and conductivity on South Broadway Avenue between 4th Street and 9th Street Southeast.

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“We are deeply grateful to our lawmakers for their support in securing the RAISE funding. This presents a tremendous opportunity to make important improvements, especially for the thousands of people who live, work and enjoy the area. The project will enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, creating a more accessible and inclusive environment. It will also support equitable spaces that promote economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for Rochester's residents and visitors,” shared Mayor Kim Norton.

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City of Rochester photo
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The news release indicates more than 26,000 vehicles travel on the four-lane roadway in that area each day. It also states that, during the past four years, there have been 62 crashes, including pedestrian and bicycle incidents, in that corridor.

“Broadway Avenue is the main north-south access to downtown Rochester and this federal support will improve the safety of this major corridor,” said Minnesota US Senator Amy Klobuchar. “By building an overpass, we will make Broadway Avenue safer for pedestrians, bikers, drivers, and all travelers.”

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South Broadway is currently listed on the Minnesota Department of Transportations Vulnerable Road User High Injury Network, which lists roadways with the highest numbers of people who have died or have been seriously injured in traffic crashes while walking or biking.

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ThinkStock
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City officials say the federal funding will be utilized for planning and design phases of the project and that additional information about the start of the project will be shared in coming months.

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