Congestion Expected Near US Bank Stadium and Uptown for Major Saturday Events

High Traffic Volumes Expected for Monster Jam and Luminary Loppet

Minneapolis residents and visitors should prepare for significant congestion in two primary urban hubs today. Downtown East will see a surge in traffic starting this afternoon as Monster Jam takes over US Bank Stadium. Doors for the event open at 3:30 PM, with the main competition beginning at 5:00 PM. Commuters should expect heavy delays on I-35W and I-94 near the stadium exits, as well as on local streets such as 4th Street and Chicago Avenue. With thousands of fans expected, parking ramps in the immediate vicinity of the stadium will likely reach capacity early.

Meanwhile, the Uptown area will host the 22nd Annual Luminary Loppet at Lake of the Isles from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This popular candlelit event attracts a large number of walkers and cross-country skiers to the Chain of Lakes. Traffic along Lake of the Isles Parkway and nearby arterials like Hennepin Avenue and Lake Street will be slow-moving throughout the evening. Because parking in the residential areas around the lake will be extremely limited, attendees are encouraged to use ride-sharing services or the designated shuttle options. Pedestrian traffic will be heavy, so motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution in the residential zones of the East Isles and Kenwood neighborhoods.

Roadworks and Construction Detours

Major infrastructure projects continue to impact travel times across the city today. On Hennepin Avenue, phase two of the major reconstruction project is currently active. Drivers should plan for continued road closures and restricted access between 26th Street and Douglas Avenue. While local businesses remain accessible, through-traffic is being redirected to use Lyndale Avenue as the primary north-south detour. Sidewalk closures may also affect those walking in the area.

For those traveling toward the eastern metro, bridge construction on I-94 westbound near Woodbury is scheduled to impact lanes today, which may cause backups for those returning to Minneapolis from the east. Within the city limits, bridge improvement work on I-94 between Huron Boulevard and I-35W is ongoing, potentially leading to periodic lane restrictions. Additionally, preparation for upcoming major shifts on the I-394 bridge project continues; while the primary lane reconfigurations are slated for later this month, motorists should remain alert for overnight ramp closures, such as the Louisiana Avenue entrance ramp, which remains closed for ongoing repairs.

Transit and Weather Outlook

Metro Transit has implemented a service update for Route 27 this week. A new westbound bus stop is now operational at 26th Street East and 5th Avenue South to better serve the local community. Riders are reminded that standard Saturday schedules are in effect for all bus and light rail lines. While no major service disruptions are reported for the METRO Blue or Green lines today, those attending the Luminary Loppet or Monster Jam are advised to check the Metro Transit app for real-time departure information to avoid platform crowding.

Weather conditions for this Saturday are favorable for winter travel, with breezy conditions and high temperatures in the mid-30s. While no significant snowfall is expected to create hazardous driving surfaces today, the breezy conditions may cause minor visibility issues in open areas. The clear but cool forecast is expected to keep pedestrian activity high in the downtown and Uptown districts through the late evening hours.