I-394 Lane Shifts and Neighborhood Barricades: Tuesday Commute Update

Morning Commute Overview

Minneapolis commuters are facing a complex Tuesday morning on the roads. While the weather remains unseasonably mild for February with temperatures reaching into the mid-30s, significant infrastructure projects and neighborhood disruptions are affecting several major arteries. Drivers should prepare for restricted lane capacities on I-394 and localized delays in South and North Minneapolis due to ongoing civil activity and construction.

Major Highway Impacts and Roadworks

The most significant impact for those traveling from the western suburbs remains the massive bridge and pavement repair project on I-394. Westbound traffic is currently reduced to two lanes between downtown Minneapolis and Highway 100. All westbound vehicles have been shifted into the E-ZPass lanes, which are currently operating as general-purpose lanes with no tolls or carpool requirements. Additionally, the Penn Avenue bridge over I-394 remains closed to all traffic, requiring detours via North Wayzata Boulevard and Theodore Wirth Parkway.

• I-494 Construction: Major work continues on I-494 between Lyndale Avenue and I-35W in Bloomington, as well as on the stretch between Eagan and Richfield. Expect narrow lanes and ramp closures throughout the day.
• I-94 Ramp Closures: The westbound I-94 entrance ramp from 12th Street and Wabasha Street is currently closed for repairs.
• Hazard Alert: MnDOT has reported debris on the roadway on westbound I-394 between Plymouth Road and Carlson Parkway. Maintenance crews are en route, but drivers should use caution.

Neighborhood Traffic and Security Alerts

Commuters should be aware of intermittent roadblocks and neighborhood barricades that have appeared on Portland Avenue and in parts of North Minneapolis. While city crews have been working to clear these makeshift roundabouts and debris, the situation remains fluid. These disruptions are largely tied to local protests and efforts to monitor federal immigration activity in the area. Expect heavy police presence and potential sudden diversions on Portland, especially near the intersections of 26th and 28th Streets.

Public Transport and Metro Transit Updates

Metro Transit has issued several service alerts that may impact those relying on light rail and bus routes this morning. Maintenance issues and detours are the primary causes for these changes.

• METRO Blue Line: Both elevators at the Franklin Avenue Station and the Lake Street-Midtown Station are currently out of service. Passengers requiring ADA access are advised to utilize local bus service to connect between these stations.
• METRO C Line: Northbound buses are following a detour on Penn Avenue between 35th and Dowling Avenues. Several stops have been temporarily relocated to Oliver Avenue.
• Bus Route 27: Westbound Route 27 is operating on a modified path near Lake Street and Chicago Avenue due to neighborhood restrictions.
• Stop Closure: The stop at 2nd Avenue South and 9th Street (Stop #53316) is closed for all routes, including Route 156. Riders should use the alternative stop at 2nd Avenue and 11th Street.

With multiple points of congestion, Minneapolis commuters are encouraged to leave at least 15 minutes early and check real-time transit apps before departing.