Community engagement

Summer through fall 2025

To reach as many residents, businesses, and road users as possible, both online and in-person engagement tools were used for this project. This included:

Developing and launching a study website.
Collaborating with city partner communication professionals to promote events and engagement opportunities. This also included the Independent School District 199 serving the Inver Grove Heights community.

Multiple social media posts, emails and printed newsletters distributed by the City of Inver Grove Heights, the City of Eagan, the City of Rosemount, Dakota County and ISD 199

Planning in-person engagement events in each partner city, Inver Grove Heights, Eagan and Rosemount, and Dakota County.

Five community pop-ups in each partner city and Dakota County
Dakota County Regional Chamber Board of Directors presentation, American Legion Post 65 Riders discussion and Rosemount business district canvassing.

Creating online engagement tools for people to use at their convenience including a comment map and survey.

Key themes and insights:

Safety: Safety was a major concern in all engagement activities. People were especially worried about speeding and poor visibility at certain intersections, such as 65th St., Ann Marie Trail, Bonaire Path and Biscayne Ave. Many also said the curvy section of the road between Jefferson Trail (Hwy 149) and Hwy 55 is very dangerous, especially for motorcyclists and bicyclists.
Congestion and traffic flow: With new homes and businesses being built along the road, people reported more traffic delays, backups and how difficult it is to access Hwy 3 from side streets. The area between Diffley Rd. and Jefferson Trail was a particular area of concern due to traffic coming from both directions, and a narrow spot near the railroad bridge before the Jefferson Trail intersection. People said it is also hard to reach businesses in downtown Rosemount because of heavy traffic throughout the day.
Bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure: Many people said there are not enough sidewalks, bike paths, or safe crossings especially near McAndrews Rd. Business owners in downtown Rosemount were also concerned about safety. However, some people were against adding pedestrian and bicycle trails, saying noting that Hwy 3 should be kept as a vehicle only road.
Environmental impacts: Some people were concerned that widening Hwy 3 or adding bicycle trails would harm the natural beauty of the area as well as decrease the wildlife habitat. Others were concerned about loosing trees and the impact on wetlands.
Community or land impacts: Residents asked how much private land would be needed, to potentially widen the road or add a trail system, and what detour routes may look like.
Next steps: The project team is reviewing all public feedback to help shape design options. Representatives from Dakota County, along with the cities of Inver Grove Heights, Eagan and Rosemount will be involved in the development of these design options. The team will share design options with the community and business in early 2026 and ask for more feedback.