Bill > SF4598

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, modifies requirements for design standards and variances in county and municipal state-aid transportation projects, which are roads and streets that local governments maintain with state funding. It establishes that the most recent edition of the Facility Design Guide or a successor document will set the design and engineering standards for new construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, or resurfacing projects. The bill also overhauls the process for requesting variances, which are exceptions to these design standards, by requiring a formal written request submitted as an adopted resolution from the political subdivision (like a county or city). This request must include detailed project information, technical design data, and an analysis of potential impacts on the economy, society, safety, and environment, including specific considerations for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users. A new advisory committee on design variances will be established to review these requests and make recommendations to the commissioner, with the commissioner required to provide justification for any denial and report to the legislature on the committee's activities. The bill also specifies that certain alternative design manuals, such as those from AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) and NACTO (National Association of City Transportation Officials), can be used as a basis for variance requests, with special consideration given to designs that enhance school safety or transit access.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/SF/4598/