Anoka County Seeks $36.8 Million to Close Funding Gap for Highway 65 / Bunker Lake Interchange

HAM LAKE / BLAINE, Minn. — Anoka County officials are pressing to secure approximately $36.8 million to complete a critical safety and mobility project: a grade-separated interchange at the intersection of Trunk Highway 65 and Bunker Lake Boulevard (CSAH 116).

Project Overview and Need

The existing at-grade, signalized intersection is considered high-risk, with a crash rate reportedly three times the state average. Heavy daily traffic — estimated at 25,000–30,000 vehicles — combined with nearby schools and residential areas, has made congestion and unpredictable travel times a persistent problem. The highway also acts as a barrier, limiting east–west connectivity.

“Replacing this intersection with a grade-separated interchange will significantly improve safety and traffic flow,” said county officials.

Proposed Improvements

The project, if fully funded, includes:

• Construction of a grade-separated interchange to eliminate the at-grade crossing.
• New service (frontage) roads and access modifications to improve local traffic circulation.
• Pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, including sidewalks and trails, to enhance safety for non-motorized users.

Funding Status and Gap

The total estimated cost of the project is approximately $40 million. Current commitments include:

County leaders are urging the Minnesota Legislature to help close the funding gap, with lobbying efforts ongoing through MnDOT and legislative transportation committees.

Timeline

The project is a collaborative effort involving Anoka County, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), and the cities of Ham Lake and Blaine. Key milestones include:

• Design and Environmental Planning: Underway, 2025–2026
• Right-of-Way Acquisition: 2026–2027
• Target Construction Start: 2028 (contingent on full funding)

Significance

This interchange is a centerpiece of the broader “Thrive on 65” corridor improvement initiative, which aims to upgrade multiple intersections along Highway 65 with safety and mobility enhancements, including roundabouts and grade separations. County officials emphasize the project will reduce crashes, improve regional traffic flow, and enhance connections across the corridor.

Challenges

Despite progress, the project faces several challenges:

• Funding Risk: Without the full $36.8 million, construction could be delayed or scaled back.
• Right-of-Way Acquisition: Negotiations and purchases may be affected by rising property costs or legal hurdles.
• Community Impact: Some access points to Highway 65 will be modified, potentially generating local opposition.

Bottom line: Anoka County’s Highway 65/Bunker Lake Boulevard interchange represents a major safety and mobility upgrade for a high-traffic intersection. Securing the remaining funding is critical to moving forward with a project that could transform the corridor for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

MinneapoliMedia