Ayd Mill Road reopens, giving smooth ride and optimism

It was a long and bumpy journey but motorists, cyclists and those who like to walk around town have a smoother path on St. Paul’s Ayd Mill Road.

During its closure since Aug. 1 crews have laid down new asphalt and striping, improved drainage, added clear traffic signals and street lighting, and provided a new way for people to connect with the capital city with a pedestrian and cycling path.

It has a new speed limit of 35 mph and the focus was on a 1.5-mile stretch that connects Interstate 35E and Selby Avenue. Over the years it was well known for being riddled with potholes and having limited access for cyclists and pedestrians.

Ayd Mill Road in St. Paul to reopen Saturday

"Ayd Mill Road has challenged our city for over a generation," St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter said. "Reimagining this critical route as a complete street we can all use and enjoy demonstrates our community’s commitment to our residents and our planet alike."

Access and progression like this has been at the root of St. Paul Bike Coalition’s mission. Co-chair Andy Singer was on Ayd Mill Road — on his bike, of course — on the grand opening.

"It’s great. It’s one of the greatest days for bicyclist and pedestrian advocacy in St. Paul that I’ve even been part of," Singer said.

This improvement also gives Singer and his fellow advocates hope for a more biker and walker-friendly city.

Ayd Mill Road in St. Paul to see repairs, greenway in 2020