Road design
We have created a design for Hwy 61 in Hastings informed by technical analysis and input from the community.
Based on community feedback and technical analysis, we will add full-sized roundabouts at the intersections on Hwy 61 at Hwy 316 and 36th St.
The new roundabouts are designed to make the area safer by slowing down vehicles, reducing crashes, and helping traffic move more smoothly. They will be full-sized roundabouts, different from smaller compact roundabouts, and will be the first of their kind in Hastings.
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View full-size image
Based on community feedback and technical analysis, we will add a traffic signal at Hwy 61 and 18th St. This is designed to reduce wait times and accommodate future growth and traffic, including larger trucks.
We will be adding medians at certain intersections across Hwy 61 that will improve vehicle and pedestrian safety, reduce vehicle speeds, and add more pedestrian crossings.
These medians will eliminate east-west vehicle crossings, requiring drivers to turn right into and out of the intersections. Vehicles can make left turns and turn around at nearby intersections.
Medians will be placed at the following intersections:
- 5th St. East/West
- 7th St. East/West
- 9th St. East/West
- 19th St. West
- 24th St. West
Selective movement restrictions are planned for other public streets and private driveways:
- 11th St. East/Hwy 55
- 14th St. East/West
- 16th St. East
The existing retaining wall at Todd Field will need to be replaced to accommodate ADA improvements. Due to its historic nature, we are coordinating its replacement with the State Historic Preservation Office and the Hastings Heritage Preservation Commission.
A possible new bike/pedestrian bridge is proposed alongside the Hwy 61 bridge over the Vermillion River, pending funding and approval. New trail connections would link this bridge with the Vermillion River Trail and a new trail on the west side of Hwy 61 from Hwy 316 to 36th St. Another new trail would connect people from the new bike/pedestrian bridge down to the Vermillion River Trail connection. The new trail on the west side and new sidewalk on the east side will prepare Hwy 61 between 36th St. and Hwy 316 for future growth.