Extreme Cold and Major Ramp Closures Impact Friday Commute

Bitter Cold and Potential Slick Spots

Minneapolis commuters are facing a frigid start to the day this Friday, January 30, 2026. While the forecast remains sunny, temperatures are hovering between -2°F and 7°F, with wind chills plummeting as low as -12°F. Although no major new precipitation is falling today, drivers should remain alert for slippery spots on secondary roads, shaded bridge decks, and ramps due to the refreezing of moisture from earlier in the week. The extreme temperatures also pose a risk for vehicle battery failures and tire pressure drops, so residents are encouraged to check their vehicles before heading out.

Significant Highway Construction and Detours

Several major roadwork projects continue to affect traffic flow across the Twin Cities. Motorists should plan for the following ongoing disruptions:

• I-35W and I-94 Interchange

  The high-impact ramp closures between I-35W and I-94 in Minneapolis remain in effect. This project, which involves extensive bridge and ramp rehabilitation, is not scheduled for completion until late September 2026. Commuters transitioning between these two major arteries should expect significant delays during peak hours and consider using Highway 280 or I-394 as alternative routes depending on their destination.

• I-35W Burnsville Work

  South of the city, resurfacing and bridge repair work continues on I-35W in Burnsville. This long-term project is still causing lane shifts and periodic nightly closures, impacting those traveling between the southern suburbs and downtown Minneapolis.

• I-94 Lane Reductions

  Lane restrictions persist on I-94 between 11th Avenue South and Franklin Avenue Southeast. Crews are performing safety upgrades and bridge deck repairs, maintaining only two active lanes in each direction through this corridor.

Public Transport Alerts and Station Status

Metro Transit reports several facility issues that may impact accessibility for light rail riders today. At the Blue Line Lake St/Midtown Station, escalators remain unavailable due to mechanical issues; however, the north tower elevator is operational. Additionally, both elevators at the Franklin Ave Station are out of service. Riders requiring vertical access are advised to use the ramp on the north side of the station.

Looking ahead to the weekend, commuters should be aware of detours starting Saturday afternoon for the Winter Carnival Torchlight Parade. The METRO Gold Line, METRO B Line, and Route 63 will be rerouted away from 5th Street in St. Paul between 2:00 PM and 10:00 PM on January 31. For today, all light rail and bus routes are operating on standard winter schedules, though minor delays may occur if the extreme cold affects rail switches or equipment.