Completion of Highway 169 Redefine Project Enhances Elk River Community

Completion of Highway 169 Redefine Project Enhances

Elk River Community

Elk River, Minn. – The ambitious 169 Redefine project, a three-year, $124 million transformation of Highway 169 into a freeway, has reached its successful completion. This comprehensive project, led by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) in collaboration with Ames Construction Inc. and WSB Engineering, reconstructed a three-mile stretch of Highway 169. It delivered four new interchanges, enhanced pedestrian access, upgraded essential underground infrastructure, and improved access points for the Elk River community. “The Highway 169 Elk River Redefine is a project that all should be proud of. From the very beginning when we built a team around a concept, to the completion of the multi-staged, multi-season project, MnDOT and its partners, Ames Construction Inc. and all stakeholders participated 100%, with a common goal of completing the project safely, on time, and within budget. MnDOT and Ames worked side by side, day in and day out, ensuring the project’s success,” -Tim Paul, MnDOT Project Manager.

Receiving notable praise throughout the project, Ames Construction Inc. continually impressed involved stakeholders, along with residents, over their quality of work. Sam Buttweiler, Senior Project Manager for Ames, spoke on behalf of the company, “It is our hope that this project is remembered for the teamwork needed to build it and the people whom it was built for. Thank you for allowing us to be your partner. It has been an honor.”

The City of Elk River acknowledges the patience and resilience of local businesses and residents who navigated three years of construction. “It’s been a long journey,” said Elk River Mayor John Dietz. “Our businesses endured challenges, and our citizens adjusted to alternative routes, all of which played a role in making this project a success. We owe a tremendous thanks to Ames Construction for their diligent work in minimizing disruptions.”

To mark the completion, the City of Elk River hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, November 7, on the School Street Bridge over Highway 169. The Elk River City Council, MnDOT, Ames Construction Inc., the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce, and other community leaders gathered to celebrate this milestone achievement.

Although she could not attend, former State Senator Mary Kiffmeyer conveyed her support, noting, “What an exciting time to see this three-year project with such a benefit to Elk River and all Minnesotans. As your State Senator, it was an honor to carry the funding of this bill.”

Looking ahead, Justin Femrite, Elk River’s Chief Engineer highlighted the long-term benefits, “The 169 Redefine project provides a future Elk River community to prosper in a way the project visionaries from 20 years ago dreamed of. It provides a connected community from east to west to thrive as one. The improved access to all citizens and the travel choices of their desire will last for generations to come.”

With its completion, the 169 Redefine project paves the way for a stronger, more connected Elk River, serving as a model of community-focused infrastructure advancement.