Expect Delays on I-394 and Nicollet Ave as Early Construction Resumes

Morning Commute Overview

Commuters in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area should prepare for a mix of seasonal maintenance and the early resumption of major infrastructure projects this Tuesday morning. While the worst of the winter weather has subsided for the moment, roadwork activity is beginning to ramp up, particularly on the western and southern sides of the metro. Motorists are advised to allow an extra 10 to 15 minutes for their morning routes, especially those utilizing the I-394 corridor or major surface streets in South Minneapolis.

Major Arteries and Construction Zones

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has officially resumed site preparation for the multi-year I-394 and I-94 repair project. For today, Tuesday, February 17, drivers should note the following impacts:

• I-394 Westbound: Expect intermittent lane closures between downtown Minneapolis and Highway 100. While the primary lane shifts and bridge closures are scheduled for later this week, crews are on-site today for preliminary safety improvements and sign placement.
• I-494 Corridor: The ongoing construction from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport to Highway 169 continues to cause significant congestion. East 78th Street remains closed between Chicago Avenue and 12th Avenue. Drivers heading toward the airport should watch for lane reductions and lower speed limits near the Bloomington-Richfield border.
• I-94 Intermittent Closures: Brief lane restrictions may occur between the Lowry Hill Tunnel and Highway 55 as maintenance crews conduct bridge inspections.

Metro Transit and Public Transport Alerts

Transit riders will face several detours today due to localized roadwork and station maintenance. Metro Transit has issued the following alerts for Tuesday commuters:

• Route 18 Detours: Buses are currently detoured off Nicollet Avenue from 24th Street to 29th Street. Additionally, new stop closures are in effect at Nicollet Avenue South and 70th/74th Streets due to active construction.
• Route 27 Updates: Be aware that westbound Route 27 has adjusted its stops near 26th Street East and 5th Avenue South as part of a permanent schedule update effective this month.
• Light Rail Station Maintenance: At the Franklin Avenue Station, both elevators are currently out of service due to mechanical issues. The station remains accessible via the ramp on the north side. Similarly, at Lake Street/Midtown Station, passengers should utilize the north tower elevator as the escalators are unavailable today.

Commuter Safety Reminders

With temperatures hovering near freezing, please remain vigilant for occasional slick spots on ramps and overpasses. Metro Transit has also increased the presence of safety ambassadors and transit rider investment program agents across high-traffic platforms this morning to assist with the winter safety push. Plan ahead and use real-time tracking apps to stay updated on the status of your specific route.