Modern Highway Photos: I-494 to Red Wing

Leaving Hastings on southbound U.S. 61. The two-lane section through southeastern Dakota County has barely changed since it was first paved in the early 1930's. The first concrete pavement, completed in 1931, wasn't paved over until 1968. The road was widened and modernized to its current width in 1988.

Another view to the south, probably in Marshan Township. The stretch of U.S. 61 between Hastings and the junction with Highway 50 has the route's lowest traffic counts between St. Paul and La Crosse, as most traffic between Red Wing and Hastings uses the shorter route via Highway 316. U.S. 61 now provides part of the primary route between Hastings and Cannon Falls.

Approaching the junction with State Highways 20 and 50 in Douglas Township. The current junction's configuration dates back to 1984. U.S. is forced to make a hard turn to the east here towards Miesville and Red Wing.

More signage at the junction. Note the "TO" above the marker for Highway 20. U.S. 61 no longer technically has a junction with Highway 20; the connection is made via a very short jog on Highway 50.

Another view of the junction, looking east from Highway 50.

Eastbound, where Highway 50 seamlessly ends and merges onto U.S. 61. Note the U.S. route markers indicating the right-angle turn the route makes here.

Eastbound on U.S. 61 between Highway 50 and Miesville.

E ntering the city limits of Miesville (I hit the shutter a bit late).

Approaching Miesville.

A U.S. 61 route marker in Miesville.