MN and WI shared elements include: 1. On-alignment replacement of the Osceola Bridge (MnDOT Bridge #6347, WisDOT B-48-224). 2. Roadway reconstruction. 3. Management features to treat runoff from the bridge and improve water quality. 4. Coordination and studies are ongoing with multiple government agencies, including: FHWA, US DOT, National Park Service, MnDOT, WisDOT, MnDNR, WDNR. 5. In-water work in the St. Croix River is anticipated for two construction seasons (2025 & 2026). Project elements in MN include: 1. Bridge replacement for Bridge #6347 (and the opportunity to remove a bridge pier from the Riverway). 2. A new westbound left turn lane at the Osceola Landing entrance. 3. A MN wayside rest area will be relocated from existing location to directly across from Osceola Landing entrance. 4. A side path is proposed on the north side of Highway 243 (on and off the bridge), as well as a side path connection to Osceola Landing. 5. Within Osceola Landing, the side path/trail would continue (south of existing right of way) to provide a crosswalk/sidewalk connection to the comfort area on the south side of the parking lot. 6. A wet pond is proposed near the Osceola Landing (MN) entrance for stormwater and water quality management, along with drainage improvements within existing right of way to the west of Osceola Landing. 7. The opportunity to improve ecological and floodplain connectivity at the MN causeway. 8. A permit with the National Park Service is required for the work in Osceola Landing (MN). Project elements in WI include: 1. Addition of a pull off area on Highway 243 on the WI side of the river. 2. The planned side path would continue east of the river bridge and extend to WI-35 (the eastern limit of the project). The side path on the WI side of the river will include ADA considerations like buffers away from the roadway (where practicable), and bump outs (three side landings on the north side of the side path, to allow for a wheelchair accessible rest area as the grade change steepens. Planned landings would be 205 to 210 feet apart. 3. The Highway 243/WI-35 intersection does not meet current ADA standards, therefore several ADA updates are planned for this intersection. Improvements include sidewalk reconstruction, cross walk pavement markings, curb ramps, and a sign relocation. 4. A traffic detour will be required due to temporary bridge closure, which will reroute traffic to the north (Highway 8 river crossing). 5. Temporary easements are anticipated in WI, but no permanent right of way acquisition is anticipated.
