# The Hidden Costs of "Improving" This Minnesota Highway

An episode of [The Strong Towns Podcast](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/369032477), 15 Dec 2025, 1 h 05 min.

Audio: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/g4umcr7vwpbe98ym/STP_12-15-25.mp3

A major highway project is pitched as a safety upgrade — but at what cost to the community? Today, Chuck is joined by Matt Steele, a fellow Brainerd-area resident and longtime Strong Towns member. They unpack a highway interchange that's been proposed in nearby Baxter and the long-term trade-offs that shape strong (or fragile) places. Additional Show Notes • Read more about this project: "Six Roundabouts to Nowhere" by Charles Marohn • Chuck Marohn (Substack) This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

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