CityConnect BlaineMN.gov
January/February 2026
2026 • Project goes out for bid
What’s Inside
• Bid process completed, contractor selected • Construction begins on west side frontage road and other side street improvements
2027/2028 • Highway 65 bridge construction at 99th, 105th, 109th, and 117th Avenues
2029 • Completion of local road connections underneath new Highway 65 bridges
Clearing the Way - How Blaine’s Plow Crews Keep the City Moving...................3
Highway 65 Construction Begins in 2026 Project to Last Four Years
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The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), in partnership with Anoka County and the City of Blaine, continues to move forward with plans to reconstruct Highway 65 between 97th Avenue and 125th Avenue. Recently two public open houses were held to share project details, and another business focused meeting was held for area business owners. Highway 65 is Blaine’s busiest corridor, carrying thousands of vehicles each day. The planned improvements will address longstanding safety and congestion issues by converting key intersections into safer, gradeseparated interchanges. The project also includes new frontage and backage roads, upgraded pedestrian connections, and improved drainage.
Community Gardens..............................................8
Current plans call for two lanes in each direction to remain open on Highway 65 throughout most of the construction. Once completed, the project will provide smoother travel, fewer delays, and better access to neighborhoods and businesses along the corridor. These improvements aim to reduce crashes, improve mobility, and support Blaine’s continued growth.
City of Blaine 10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine MN 55449
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Residents are encouraged to stay informed throughout the process. MnDOT’s Highway 65 project page includes design layouts, timelines, and opportunities to sign up for project updates. Visit BlaineMN.gov/ThriveOn65 for links to MnDOT resources and a project overview.
Reminder: New Garbage and Recycling Routes Starting January 5, 2026
Updated garbage and recycling collection routes launch on January 5. This is the first major update since 2012. The changes were developed through a collaboration between city staff and Walters to create more balanced and efficient service routes. The route changes will impact about 30 percent of all households in the City. If your pickup day changed, you should have received a mailed notice. You can also check your schedule at BlaineMN.gov/GarbageAndRecycling or in the Walters app. Even if your day didn’t change, pickup times may vary, so set carts out by 6AM to avoid missed service. Questions? City of Blaine: BlaineMN.gov/GarbageAndRecycling or 763-785-6141 Walters Recycling & Refuse: WaltersRecycling.com or 763-780-8464