• Between 2016-2019, there have been 109 crashes along Baker Road between Martin Drive and the bridge under I-494. Note that many crashes go unreported and there are many near miss crashes that do not get reported or included in this dataset.
• Between Martin Drive and I-494, 53% of the crashes were either rear-end or left-turn crashes.
• Of the 109 crashes, 33 occurred between the Valley View Road and County Road 62 signals (area being considered for restriping).
• Of these 33 crashes that occurred between Valley View Road and County Road 62, 33% were rear-end crashes, 24% were angle crashes, and 21% were left-turn crashes.
• Crash modification factors are used to understand the change in number of crashes expected upon implementation of a countermeasure (for example, a four-to-three lane conversion). The crash modification factor notes that through a four-to-three lane conversion, we may see a 47% reduction in all crash types (rear end, angle, left turn, etc), and all crash severities along Baker Road.

• A three lane roadway would reduce the chance that a multiple threat crash occurs. A multiple threat crash occurs when a vehicle stops for a person crossing the street, but a second vehicle, who does not see the person crossing, swerves around the stopped car and collides with the person crossing.
• Three lane conversions decrease left-turn and rear-end crashes because of the dedicated center turn lane.
• Three lane roads typically see a 33-50% reduction in crashes compared to four lane undivided roads.
• Between Martin Drive and I-494, 53% of the crashes were either rear-end or left-turn crashes.
• MnDOT notes that a three lane configuration has a crash rate of 46% lower than four lane roadways.
• Studies have found that drivers more closely adhere to the posted speed limit, due to a feeling of narrower and closer constraints. A three lane also provides more consistent traffic flow.
• On a three lane road, drivers can make safer turns with few motorists making dangerous weaving maneuvers around them or running into them.
• A larger shoulder on three lane roads leaves from room for people biking, bus stops, right turns, delivery/postal vehicles, and creates a comfortable buffer from adjacent sidewalks.
• Side-street traffic can more comfortably enter the roadway because there are fewer lanes to cross. This can reduce delays for people on side-streets.
• Studies have found that traffic delays have often decreased or stayed the same after a three lane conversion. At major intersections or highway interchanges, the three lane roads are usually supplemented with additional through or turn lanes for traffic capacity reasons.

View proposed Baker Road layout (PDF)

We are interested in your questions and comments! Please complete our Baker Road comment form.

You can also contact Emily Kettell, project manager, directly at emily.kettell@hennepin.us or by phone at 612-543-1963.

Please send us your thoughts by February 16, 2021.