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September 11, 2021 <br />Page 7 <br />Analysis Goals <br />As a feasibility analysis, this study does not include project recommendations. It is a fact-finding <br />investigation and the first of several steps in the project development process. At this stage of the <br />process, MnDOT's primary goals are to assess the community and transportation context, identify <br />the locations and sources of congestion, understand stakeholder perspectives, and define a range of <br />potential solutions to mobility challenges. Specifically, the analysis seeks to: <br />• Understand Land Use and Growth — The Northwest Metropolitan Area has experienced <br />considerable growth. Identifying and compiling community plans provides an understanding of <br />long-term population and employment growth along the corridors and the mobility and access <br />needed to accommodate it. <br />• Understand Past Efforts — The idea of additional Mississippi River crossing capacity has been <br />studied numerous times over the past three decades. Understanding how project partners have <br />planned for improved crossing capacity serves as a baseline for this analysis. <br />• Understand Travel Patterns — This study details where people are, where they are going, and <br />how they get there to understand the role of Mississippi River crossings in regional travel. <br />• Understand System Performance — This study evaluates the severity, duration, and extent of <br />highway congestion. These metrics establish a baseline against which to measure performance, <br />assess significance, and evaluate the effectiveness of highway improvements. <br />• Understand Community Perspectives — This study includes a strategic engagement process <br />where the team listens to concerns, explore the facts, and presents clear and consistent findings. <br />Communities in the influence area of this effort are engaged and informed. <br />• Develop Improvement Concepts — This study develops concepts that address operational <br />issues and maximize the value of existing infrastructure. These concepts include improvements <br />to existing highways and new river crossings. <br />• Evaluate Concept Feasibility — This study evaluates concept feasibility based on land use, <br />system benefits, overall cost/benefit analysis, and return on investment. <br />Northwest Metro Mississippi River Crossing Feasibility Analysis <br />