NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 2, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Vic Lund, Traffic Engineer
218-625-3873 or lundv@stlouiscountymn.gov
Public meeting set as planning begins to eliminate two railroad crossings on Midway Road
St. Louis County is hosting a public meeting to kick off the planning process to eliminate two railroad crossings on Midway Road in Hermantown and Midway Township. The meeting will be Thursday, Nov. 12, at 5:30 p.m. at Aad Shrine Meeting and Event Center, 5152 Miller Trunk Highway in Hermantown. The meeting will provide an introduction to the planning project and future steps, as well as focus on listening to concerns, issues and future visions of Midway Road.
Community engagement and feedback is an essential part of the planning process. It will inform the development and analysis of alternatives that keep all traffic and freight moving safely and efficiently. This planning project will include multiple waves of engagement with key stakeholder groups including the general public.
St. Louis County has already conducted an exploration study that included numerous public meetings and surveys. The 2023 study determined that the top traffic concern in that area was the railroad crossings due to their impact on travel times. Additionally, feedback from residents, businesses, community leaders and other stakeholders showed an openness for change and wanting to see new options.
Last year, the County was awarded a $1.86 million Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) grant for project planning and development. Additionally, the county will receive $249,000 from the Minnesota Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) Match Program, to dedicate toward this project, leaving the county responsible for $217,000. The total planning project cost is estimated at $2,328,000. St. Louis County hired a consultant team to assist with the planning project. The team is led by Sambatek with assistance from Bolton & Menk, LHB and Braun Intertec.
More than 6,500 vehicles a day travel on Midway Road at both railroad crossings. Of that, 15-20% of the vehicles are trucks hauling various freight. Meanwhile each of the railroad crossings carry up to 30 trains per day. The combination of high traffic volume and high number of daily trains frequently results in significant delays and congestion. The exploration study noted that traffic delays have increased over time due to an increase in the lengths and frequency of trains.
Through the Midway Road Railroad Crossings Elimination Planning Project, St. Louis County will ultimately develop a final recommended layout and cost estimate and finalize an environmental document approved by the Federal Railroad Administration. St. Louis County would then work to request capital funds to construct the project. A timeline for project construction has not been determined.
To learn more about the planning project or the earlier exploration study, or to find a link to view the Nov. 12 meeting virtually, visit: Midway Rd Railroad Crossings Elimination Planning Project | Engage St Louis County
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