Goodhue County

A University of Minnesota study found that highway construction detours accelerate road damage on local streets, particularly from heavy truck traffic. Researchers in Goodhue County observed that three months of detoured truck traffic caused two years of damage to Highway 5, prompting the development of a computer model to optimize detour routes and reduce strain on vulnerable roads.

A Wisconsin man was arrested after his truck collided with other vehicles, fled police, and became stuck in the Zumbro River in Goodhue County. He was charged with driving under the influence, fleeing, hit-and-run, and possession of a firearm while under the influence.

Minnesota passed a 2025 law requiring large data centers to cover their own energy costs and infrastructure, ensuring ratepayers aren't burdened. Google's proposed Pine Island data center in Goodhue County aligns with the law, committing to carbon-free energy and water conservation while generating tax revenue and union jobs.