In the 2023 Transportation Omnibus bill, a new program entitled Safe Road Zones was developed. The program is explained in the 2023 Minnesota Transportation Omnibus Bill and enables government agencies (State, Tribal, County, City, and/or Township) to request the creation of a proposed “Safe Road Zone”. This is to be done collectively by the chief law enforcement officer of a political subdivision, the road authority/owner, and the chief executive officer, board member, or appointed designee. The funding from the legislature includes $1,000,000 for development and delivery of public awareness and education about the safe road zone. Also, an additional $1,000,000 is available for additional traffic safety enforcement activities within the safe road zones.

The legislation describes that applications will be based on the evaluation of traffic safety concerns for the street or highway, including but not limited to: excessive speed; crash history; safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vulnerable road users; intersection risks; and roadway design.

The City of Shakopee is applying to establish a Safe Road Zone along US 169 extending from CR 69 to the Minnesota River Bridge. Funding requested for US 169 will be used to conduct public outreach, develop a plan for enhanced awareness (including signs) and increased enforcement activities. Staff plan to request up to $200,000 in the application. 

If successful, the funding would be available in July 2024 and would need to be spent by June 30, 2025.