CSAH 44 and TH 14 interchange project receives federal funding boost

March 12, 2024

Recent passage of a $460 billion federal spending package includes significant infrastructure support for projects across the nation. In Olmsted County, thanks to members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation, the County State Aid Highway Road (CSAH) 44 and Minnesota Trunk Highway (TH) 14 interchange project between Byron and Rochester will receive $7.3 million. 

"This investment is crucial for addressing the longstanding safety concerns at the CSAH 44 and TH 14 intersection,” said Olmsted County Public Works Division Administrator Kaye Bieniek. “With the design featuring a new interchange over TH 14, complete with on/off ramps, we are one step closer to realizing a safer roadway system for our residents." 

"The median closure of the CSAH 44 and TH 14 intersection in 2022 due to recurring accidents emphasized the urgent need for infrastructure improvements,” said Olmsted County Public Works Director Benjamin Johnson. “Olmsted County is grateful for the support from both federal and state governments. This support, along with Olmsted County's commitment, positions us to address these challenges effectively." 

In July 2023, Governor Tim Walz announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) would allocate $380 million to fund eight new infrastructure projects through the state’s Corridors of Commerce program. The CSAH 44 and TH 14 interchange project was selected to receive $60 million from that allocation. The additional $7.3 million in federal funding will assist in Olmsted County’s cost-participation for the project. 

Construction on the project is expected to begin as soon as fall 2025. 

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Media contact: Rachel Wick, Communications Specialist, 507-328-6537