Over the past several years, Ramsey County has invested in improving roads surrounding Rice Creek Commons in anticipation of the development. Primary access to Rice Creek Commons will be from Highway 96 east of Highway 10 and County Road H near I-35W. A new boulevard, commonly referred to as the Spine Road, will serve as the main artery through the site. A roundabout built by Ramsey County at County Road H improved access to the on- and off-ramps, Spine Road and Rice Creek Parkway. Streets within Rice Creek Commons will be a combination of local city roads and private roads. Sidewalk and trail infrastructure will be prioritized within the development to ensure streets are pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly.
To prepare for private development, in 2024 Ramsey County executed an engineering contract with consultant team Kimley-Horn and Bolton & Menk for county public infrastructure on the site. This work includes grading, roadways, drainage, stormwater management features, mitigated wetlands and public utilities. The proposal will also include the final design of the Spine Road (CSAH 4), which will provide primary access to future residential neighborhoods and commercial areas throughout the site, as well as a direct connection to Interstate 35W. Final design and engineering of the Spine Road began in summer 2024 and is on track for completion at the end of 2025. This will result in final construction documents for the county public infrastructure and is a critical step toward preparing the site for vertical construction.
