High Winds and Major Bridge Work Impact Wednesday Commute in Minneapolis

Morning Commute Overview

Minneapolis residents are advised to exercise caution during the Wednesday, February 18, 2026, commute as a combination of high winds and ongoing major infrastructure projects impacts several key arteries. While the most severe blizzard conditions are currently concentrated in northern Minnesota, the Twin Cities metro remains under a Winter Weather Advisory and High Wind Warning through mid-afternoon. Commuters should prepare for gusty conditions and potentially slick surfaces on bridges and overpasses.

Major Highway and Roadwork Alerts

Construction activity remains a primary driver of delays this morning, particularly on the I-394 and I-494 corridors. Motorists should be aware of the following specific disruptions:

• I-394 Bridge Repairs: Significant bridge and ramp repair work continues between downtown Minneapolis and Highway 100. Overnight lane closures on eastbound I-394 near Penn Avenue are scheduled to wrap up early this morning, but residual congestion is expected during the peak rush hour as crews clear equipment.
• I-494 Bridge Project: The ongoing maintenance and repair project for the I-494 bridge over the Minnesota River is causing directional lane shifts between Bloomington and Eagan. Commuters traveling toward the MSP Airport should allow an extra 15 to 20 minutes of travel time.
• South Metro Demolition: Looking ahead, MnDOT has announced that major ramp closures for bridge demolition will begin tomorrow, February 19, on I-494. Drivers are encouraged to scout alternative routes today to avoid tomorrow's anticipated gridlock.
• University Avenue (Hwy 47): Surface street delays continue near the University of Minnesota campus due to repaving and ADA intersection improvements between Central Avenue and I-35W.

Public Transit Updates

Metro Transit is reporting several active service alerts that may affect your route today. Transit users are encouraged to check the NexTrip app for real-time departure adjustments caused by the high winds.

• Route 22: A long-term detour remains in effect for Route 22. Buses are currently diverted off 28th Avenue between 56th and 58th Streets due to local construction.
• I-35W & Lake St Station: The northeast tower elevator at the I-35W and Lake Street Station is currently out of service for mechanical repairs. Passengers requiring elevator access to the platforms are directed to use the northwest, southeast, or southwest towers.
• Route 18 & 27: Minor detours and stop closures are in effect for Route 18 due to downtown infrastructure work, and Route 27 has implemented a new westbound stop at 26th Street East and 5th Avenue South to improve service frequency.

Weather-Related Driving Hazards

With wind gusts forecast to reach up to 55 mph today, high-profile vehicles such as trucks and SUVs should use extra caution on elevated stretches of I-35W and I-94. The mixture of rain and light snow moving through the metro area could lead to sudden reductions in visibility. Keep your headlights on and maintain a safe following distance as road crews remain active across the city.