SF2313

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to regulate the installation of J-turn intersections in Minnesota. It seeks to involve local municipalities in the decision-making process regarding their implementation on state highways.

Main Provisions

• Definition of J-Turn: The bill defines a J-turn as a type of intersection where direct left-turns and through movements from minor roads are replaced by a configuration that requires traffic to make a right turn followed by a U-turn, either at a signalized or an unsignalized location, to continue in the desired direction.

• Municipal Consent Requirement: The bill mandates that any projects involving the construction or installation of J-turns require municipal consent. This means that local governments must agree before such changes can be made, ensuring that communities have a say in traffic design changes that affect them.

• Traffic Projects Review: The bill specifies that Sections 161.162 to 161.167, which govern the review process for highway projects, apply to those altering access, changing highway traffic capacity, or needing additional rights-of-way. J-turn projects are included in this review process.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill amends existing statutes to differentiate J-turns from other traffic safety measures. Specifically, it states that J-turns are not considered as traffic safety measures within the context of statutes 161.162 to 161.167, thereby requiring a distinct approval process involving local authorities.

Relevant Terms

J-turn, intersection design, municipal consent, highway projects, traffic safety measures, right-of-way, local government approval, traffic control devices.