Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

Traffic signal replacement

Albert Lea and Faribault

About this project

Summary of work

In 2024, MnDOT will replace four older traffic signals in Albert Lea and Faribault. These signals are reaching the end of their useful life and need replacement. At some intersections, MnDOT will also make ADA improvements and changes to vehicle turning and through movements to increase intersection safety.

Location of signal replacements in Albert Lea

Albert Lea:

  • Hwy 65 (S. Broadway Ave.) and Front St.
    • Replace signal
    • ADA improvements

The S. Broadway Ave. and Margaretha Ave. signal was initially a part of this project. After a second look, it does not need to be replaced. Only ADA work will occur at this intersection.

Location of signal replacements in Faribault

Faribault:

  • Hwy 60 and Western Ave.
    • View image of changes
    • Replace signal
    • Expand Western Ave. southbound to include left and right turn lanes
    • Convert Western Ave. northbound to a left turn and thru/right lanes.
    • Add pedestrian crossings on south, west, and north approaches
    • Upgrade median
    • ADA improvements
  • Hwy 21 (Lyndale Ave.) and 7th St. NW
    • View image of changes
    • Replace signal
    • Expand westbound 7th St. NW to include left and right turn lanes
    • Convert 7th St. NW eastbound to a left turn and thru/right lanes
    • Add pedestrian crossings on the east and north approaches
    • ADA improvements
  • Hwy 60 (1st Ave. NE) and 3rd St. NE
    • View image of changes
    • Replace signal
    • Convert Hwy 60 from a 4-lane to a 3-lane
    • Add pedestrian crossing on the south approach at 2nd St./Heritage Pl.
    • ADA improvements

Traffic impacts

Albert Lea

S. Broadway Ave.

  • During construction, traffic on S. Broadway will remain open to vehicles
  • Pedestrians and bicyclists will be detoured around the construction zone
  • Northbound pedestrian and bicyclists will be detoured east onto 3rd St., north onto Newton Ave. and west on College St.
  • Southbound pedestrian and bicyclists will be detoured west on Pearl St., south on Washington Ave. and east on 3rd St.
  • The rail gate arms will remain functional

Front St.

  • Front St. will be closed to vehicle, pedestrian and bicyclists during construction
  • S. Broadway can be accessed via S. Pearl St. or W. 3rd St.

All local and adjacent property access is anticipated to stay open during construction.

Construction is expected to last 4 weeks and will occur after school has released for summer break.