Carlton Residents Provide Input on Highway 45 and 210 Corridor Study

Minnesota Department of Transportation seeks community feedback on resurfacing and safety improvements planned for 2035.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:00am

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An abstract, colorful photograph with sweeping, blurred lines representing the dynamic movement of vehicles on a highway interchange, conveying the urgency for transportation infrastructure upgrades in the Carlton area.A conceptual illustration capturing the chaotic energy and constant motion of a busy highway interchange, hinting at the need for infrastructure improvements to enhance safety and efficiency.Carlton Today

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) held an open house in Carlton to gather input from residents on upcoming resurfacing and safety improvement projects planned for Highways 45 and 210. The projects are scheduled for 2035, but MnDOT is already seeking early feedback from the community on issues like vehicle speeds, pedestrian crossings, trails, freight movement, and interchange design.

Why it matters

The Highway 45 and 210 corridor is a critical transportation route through Carlton, connecting Interstate 35 to the surrounding region. Gathering community input now will help MnDOT develop plans that address the needs of all users, from drivers and pedestrians to freight haulers and ATV riders, while also improving safety and mobility along the corridor.

The details

The open house drew close to 30 attendees, who provided feedback on the project plans. Key issues raised included the need to improve the I-35 southbound ramp in Scanlon, which was described as "horrendous," as well as the short on-ramp from Scanlon to southbound I-35 that makes it difficult for trucks to reach freeway speeds. Residents also discussed the desire to connect ATV trail systems by allowing riders to use the shoulder of a 3-block stretch of Highway 45 through Carlton. Other topics included the potential for a roundabout at the four-way stop in Carlton and addressing safety issues at driveway intersections.

  • The projects are planned for 2035, nine years away.
  • The open house was held on March 26, 2026.

The players

Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)

The state agency responsible for planning and managing Minnesota's transportation infrastructure, including highways, roads, and trails.

Alliant Engineers

The consulting firm partnering with MnDOT to conduct the Highway 45 and 210 corridor study.

Carlton County Riders ATV group

A local group advocating for the ability to connect ATV trail systems by using the shoulder of a 3-block stretch of Highway 45 through Carlton.

Mike Orlowski

A resident of Twin Lakes Township who expressed concern about the I-35 southbound ramp in Scanlon.

Wes Vork

A former trucking company owner in Scanlon who said the ramp from Scanlon to southbound I-35 is problematic because it's too short, making it difficult for trucks to reach freeway speeds.

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What they’re saying

“The I-35 southbound ramp is horrendous.”

— Mike Orlowski, Twin Lakes Township resident

“If we were going during the day, especially if we were loaded, we would just go through Carlton. You need a better approach to get to freeway speed before you merge.”

— Wes Vork, Former trucking company owner in Scanlon

“We know it needs something sooner so we are going to try our darndest to try and get it moved up.”

— Erika Shepard, MnDOT planner

What’s next

MnDOT and Alliant Engineers will continue the Highway 45 and 210 corridor study through the rest of 2026, incorporating the feedback gathered at the open house. They hope to secure additional funding to expedite improvements to the problematic I-35 interchange in Scanlon.

The takeaway

This corridor study highlights the importance of engaging the local community early in the transportation planning process. By soliciting input from residents, business owners, and user groups, MnDOT can develop solutions that address the diverse needs and concerns of all who rely on Highways 45 and 210 in Carlton.