$3.1 Million In Federal Funds Will Go To West St. Paul Intersection

WEST ST. PAUL, MN — More than $3 million in federal funds will be used to upgrade the Smith Avenue and Dodd Road intersection in West St. Paul, Rep. Angie Craig announced Thursday.

Part of the investment will go towards the construction of a permanent memorial for Mendota Heights police officer Scott Patrick, who was killed in the line of duty at the intersection in 2014.

"The funding we announced today will create good-paying jobs in West St. Paul, make the Smith Ave./Dodd Rd intersection safer and honor the life of the late Officer Patrick," Craig said in a news release.

"I’ll keep working to help make a difference for our communities."

More than 10,000 vehicles per day use the intersection, according to Craig's office. She said she began pushing for the funding last year.

"Realigning the Smith Avenue and Dodd Road intersection allows us an opportunity to improve traffic safety here in West St. Paul and create a memorial to honor Mendota Heights Police Officer Scott Patrick, who was tragically killed at this very intersection just 8 years ago," said West St. Paul Mayor Dave Napier.

"Additionally, this project will bring increased job opportunities and millions in new development to the City of West St. Paul. We thank Rep. Craig for her support to secure these critical funds."

Specific design plans for the intersection have not yet been released. Read Craig's letter of request for the funds here.