Washington County, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the cities of Grant and Lake Elmo, is asking for the public’s feedback on a draft Purpose and Need Document and draft Evaluation Criteria for improvements to the intersection of Highway 36 and County Highway 17, or Lake Elmo Avenue.

The Purpose and Need statement explains why the project is being undertaken and the main objectives of the project. The “need” describes the transportation problems to be addressed by the project. The “purpose” is a broad statement of the intended transportation results of the project. Together, the purpose and need serve as a tool to determine how well the project alternatives meet the project’s needs.

The draft documents have been prepared as part of the environmental documentation phase of the project and will be used to help evaluate alternatives for improvements. An online open house between June 6 and June 21 will provide an opportunity for members of the public to comment on the document. There will be no formal presentation or discussion during the online engagement. See co.washington. mn.us/LakeElmoAve and provide comments before the comment period closes June 21 or contact the project manager Kevin Peterson at 651-430-4330 or [email protected] co.washington.mn.us.