Lawmakers propose renaming stretch of highway to honor Prince

The state could pay homage to a musical icon by renaming part of Highway 5 in the western Twin Cities area the “Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway.”

The segment is within the City of Chanhassen, site of Prince’s former residence, known as Paisley Park. Prince’s studio and home is now open to the public for tours, concerts and events.

Sponsored by Rep. Greg Boe (R-Chanhassen), HF2236, as amended, was held over by the House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee Tuesday for possible omnibus bill inclusion.

Minnesota’s musical great would be further honored with as much purple signage as possible for the designation.  

“MnDOT says these signs have always been brown in the past,” Boe said. “We’re hoping we can nudge this over to purple because that was such an important color for Prince.”

Money for the signs has already been raised.

Paisley Park neighbors are delighted with the proposal, according to Mark Webster, a friend of Prince who works at Paisley Park. It’s a way to give back to someone who gave so much to Chanhassen, the state and the world, he said. 

The companion, SF2085, is sponsored by Sen. Julia Coleman (R-Chanhassen) and awaits action by the Senate Transportation Finance and Policy Committee.