Rochester, MN — February 5, 2026 — Local News Update

Motorcyclist Killed in Crash Southeast of Rochester

On Thursday morning, a 52-year-old man from St. Charles was fatally injured in a collision on Highway 14 at Chester Avenue Southeast in Marion Township. The motorcyclist was traveling westbound when he collided with an eastbound pickup truck. The driver of the pickup, a 53-year-old man from Maple Grove, was uninjured. The incident is under investigation, and alcohol was not a factor. This brings the total number of traffic-related deaths in Minnesota this year to 191.

Former Restaurant Building to Be Demolished in Downtown Rochester

The long-vacant site of Michaels restaurant in downtown Rochester is set to be demolished. The building has been empty since 2014, and efforts to redevelop the property have stalled. The demolition is expected to take about a month and comes amid concerns that the deteriorating structure poses safety risks to first responders. Property owner Andy Chafoulias stated that the issue arose last year when city officials reported trespassers on the site.

Upcoming Construction Projects in Downtown Rochester

Starting at the end of February, downtown Rochester will undergo significant construction as part of various projects. The city is collaborating with organizations like Mayo Clinic and the Rochester Downtown Alliance to help residents and visitors navigate road and path closures. Efforts include dedicated construction update websites, signage, and marketing campaigns for businesses affected by the construction.

Link Bus Rapid Transit Project Underway

Construction for the Link Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in Rochester is underway, with completion anticipated by the end of 2026. The 2.6-mile route will connect downtown Rochester, Mayo Clinic’s downtown campus, Mayo Clinic’s Saint Mary’s campus, University of Minnesota Rochester, and a new 13-acre transit-oriented development at the western terminus. The project aims to enhance public transportation and support the city’s growth.

Sources

• Motorcyclist killed in crash southeast of Rochester, state patrol says
• Former restaurant building will be razed in downtown Rochester
• Getting around downtown Rochester will get ugly this summer, city warns
• Link (Rochester)