Major improvements slated
for Smith-Dodd intersection
Jake Spitzack
Staff Writer
After years of study and planning, one of West St. Paul’s most dangerous intersections will finally be revamped in 2025. The infamous intersection at Smith and Dodd currently has an X-shaped alignment, which creates poor sightlines for drivers and unsafe crosswalks for pedestrians. A 4-year study ending in 2022 gave the intersection a crash rating index 2.5 times higher than the national average.
Proposed changes include realigning Dodd Road to create two separate “T” intersections – one at Smith Avenue and one at Bernard Street. The new intersection at Dodd and Smith will have traffic lights and the one at Smith and Bernard will have a stop sign. Plans also call for utility work, creating new sidewalks and bus stops, and an expanded Albert Park.
A final design for improvements is being finalized, with construction expected to begin this summer. The City of West St. Paul has partnered with MnDOT and received a federal grant to fund the $2.3 million project.
Park design options
The roadway reconfigurations will open space to expand Albert Park, which was recognized by Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” as the “smallest dedicated park in the USA.” The city is considering two possibilities, and each has an expanded version that’s contingent on the adjacent Doddway shopping center being redeveloped into a mixed-use building, which is under consideration according to the City.
The first option would add trees, gardens, a seating wall, fixed tables and chairs, heavy but movable Adirondack chairs and a walking path. The expanded version has more green space and wall seating, as well as sculptural art.
The second plan features a three-tiered seating wall, pergola, gardens, and a colorful “WSP” sign. The expanded version has additional seating, public art and a small space for performances.
The park will also be used for a permanent memorial for Mendota Heights Police Officer Scott Patrick, who was murdered at the intersection in 2014 during a routine traffic stop. The City has worked with the Patrick family to create two design concepts. Park improvements are slated for 2026. For more information, visit wspmn.gov and search “Smith Dodd.”
