Plymouth Plans ‘Legacy Change’ for County Road 73, Highway 55 Area
The city of Plymouth is planning for a major rebuild of County Road 73 at Highway 55.
The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded the city $15 million for the project.
This week, the Plymouth City Council approved the grant agreement with the federal government.
Michael Thompson, director of public works for Plymouth, called the project a “legacy change” for the area.
“It’s a huge investment,” he said. “There are a number of crashes there. As you know, County [Road] 73, it’s crooked and doesn’t really align correctly with Highway 55, so that would get straightened out … there is a lot of confusion with the traffic, especially at peak hour times.”
A rendering of the rebuild planned for County Road 73 and Highway 55 in Plymouth.
Rebuilt Roads, Underpass and Trails
The project includes reconstruction of parts of County Road 73 and Highway 55, new inline bus platforms for the Station 73 Park and Ride, two new roundabouts, a pedestrian underpass and new regional trails.
“Pedestrian safety, traffic safety and mobility, transit-oriented development support,” Thompson said. “I would say it’s kind of an all-in-one type project so that we’re really reinvigorating the area.”
Thompson said designs should be finalized for the rebuild in 2024.
Crews will begin construction in spring 2025 and continue working through 2026.
“There will be traffic disruptions, so it is a large project,” Thompson said. “Short term pain for long term gain. When all is said and done, a lot of improvements, not only for traffic and vehicles but pedestrian safety, transit, a lot of investment into our Station 73 area … it will be well worth it.”
Hennepin County, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Metropolitan Council and Three Rivers Park District are also working on the project.
The total costs for the project are approximately $23 million.
To provide feedback on the project or get updates from the city, click here.
