MnDOT says roundabouts, LED lights not feasible for intersection

May 18, 2023

Jun 7, 2023

MnDOT says

LED signs,

roundabout

not feasible

NEW ULM — Brown County commissioners discussed a Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) safety evaluation of the MN 4 and CSAH 22 intersection Tuesday.

The state highway department investigated crash statistics at the intersection south of Sleepy Eye from 2013 to May 2023 and reported 13 crashes over 10.5 years. The predominate crash trend, 9 of 13 crashes, were angle type crashes involving westbound and southbound vehicles.

All angle crashes involved vehicle drivers failing to yield at the side road stop sign, resulting in five minor injury crashes, one possible injury crash, and three property damage crashes. No fatal or serious injury crashes occurred at the intersection during the analysis period.

"It doesn't seem underground power lines would have helped in crashes in the last 10 years," said Commissioner Brian Braun. "Thirteen crashes in 10.5 years is above average."

Brown County Highway Engineer Wayne Stevens said there were no serious injuries, just minor injuries and property damage over 10 years. Stevens said a roundabout would result crashes.

"I feel a roundabout would alleviate issues," said Commissioner Braun.

Commissioner Tony Berg said he's like to see a roundabout built.

Stevens said a MnDOT traffic engineer feels the recommended safety enhancements including moving a stop bar closed to the intersection and lowering a black and white elineator attached to the westbound stop sign that blocked sight lines of oncoming southbound traffic will help.

"It's not really a blind intersection," Stevens said.

"It's a blind spot. We’re taking steps in the right direction.

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