ST. PAUL – In order to address congestion and safety concerns near the National Sports Center, State Representative Nolan West (R-Blaine) is chief-authoring legislation that would reconstruct 105th Avenue in Blaine.
“When the USA Cup is in town, we have tens of thousands of parents and kids trying to cross from the soccer fields to the National Sports Center throughout the day,” West said. “105th Avenue is in terrible condition and is unfit for this kind of traffic. Improvements are long overdue, and I’m hopeful my legislation will greatly improve area traffic flow and pedestrian safety.”
West has submitted two bills addressing 105th Avenue, the first would appropriate $3.246 million from bonding proceeds - along with $3 million from the City of Blaine - to reconstruct the roadway, while the second proposal would allocate the same state amount from Minnesota’s General Fund.
“I am open to whatever route the Legislature determines is the best way to fund this project, which is why I’m offering two options,” West said.
According to West’s legislation, the 105th Avenue reconstruction would include changing the street near the National Sports Center from five lanes to four, complete with a median, turn lanes, sidewalk, trail, landscaping, lighting, and the consolidation of access driveways.
Since the street is the most significant access point to state-owned property, West believes state investment for 105th Avenue is critical. His legislation notes that the state’s contribution would not occur until the City of Blaine commits $3 million to the project.