Klobuchar, Franken Commend MnDOT Decision to End Further Study of Westerly Route for Highway 53

Press Release

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken today commended the decision by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to end further study of the proposed westerly route for Highway 53, citing concerns over the route's potential impact. In July, Klobuchar and Franken held a meeting in Virginia, MN with the Highway 53 impact committee and Virginia City Councilmembers to discuss the potential safety and economic impact of the proposed westerly route.

"Today's decision is a positive step toward finding a route for Highway 53 that doesn't needlessly increase driving time and jeopardize public safety," Klobuchar said. "I will continue to work with MnDOT to ensure the final project meets the needs of the region while taking into account the economic needs and concerns of residents."

"The relocation of Highway 53 is a great concern to residents, businesses, and community leaders in the Quad Cities, which is why I pressed MnDOT to take the westerly reroute off the table," said Sen. Franken. "I'm very pleased to hear that, as this process continues, the westerly option will not be included in the plans. Moving forward, I will keep working to ensure that the final route selection is the best choice for the region."

The proposed westerly route under consideration for Highway 53 would significantly increase the travel time from Eveleth to Virginia, turning a three mile trip into one that is nearly 15 miles. Virginia has the only advanced life support ambulances on the eastern Range which could mean the route could vastly increase wait and travel times for emergency services.

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