I-494 Ramp Closures and I-35W Construction Shifts Highlight Thursday Commute

Morning Traffic Overview

Commuters in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area should prepare for a mix of ongoing construction impacts and specific ramp closures this Thursday, February 5, 2026. While the region is currently free of snow emergency restrictions, several major artery projects are entering critical phases that will affect travel times throughout the day.

Major Roadwork and Ramp Closures

The most significant impact for south metro commuters remains on the I-494 corridor. According to the latest transit and department of transportation updates, the following restrictions are in place:

• I-494 at Portland Avenue: Both the eastbound entrance ramp and the westbound exit ramp at County Road 35 (Portland Ave/12th Ave) are currently closed. These closures are expected to remain in effect until February 13, 2026, as crews conduct localized infrastructure improvements.
• I-35W Burnsville Resurfacing: The multi-year project between Cliff Road and the I-35/I-35E/I-35W split continues. Drivers should expect lane shifts and intermittent lane closures in both directions as resurfacing work progresses. Commuters heading north into Minneapolis from the south suburbs should allow for an extra 10 to 15 minutes during peak rush hours.
• I-94 Bridge Construction: In the Eagan area, bridge construction continues on westbound I-94 between Exit 70 and MN-13. This long-term project is scheduled to run through mid-summer, maintaining narrower lanes and reduced speed limits.

Impending I-394 Work

While I-394 is currently seeing relatively normal flow, MnDOT has reminded motorists that the winter reprieve is nearly over. The massive bridge and pavement repair project between downtown Minneapolis and Highway 100 is slated to resume on February 22. Currently, E-ZPass lanes remain open to help manage flow, but major westbound reductions are expected to begin later this month. Commuters are encouraged to utilize these lanes while they remain available in their current configuration.

Public Transport and Transit Alerts

Metro Transit has announced a service adjustment for Route 27 that went into effect yesterday. Westbound buses are now following a permanent detour, traveling on 26th Street to Stevens Avenue, then turning onto Lake Street to resume their regular route. A new bus stop has been added at 26th Street East and 5th Avenue South to accommodate this change.

Additionally, following Transit Equity Day on February 4, all transit fares have returned to their standard rates. Commuters are advised to check the Metro Transit app for real-time bus and light rail positions, as cold weather can occasionally cause minor mechanical delays on the Blue and Green lines.

Parking and City Notices

The City of Minneapolis confirms that no snow emergency is currently in effect. Standard parking rules apply across all city streets. However, city officials continue to monitor potential roadway blockages following recent community safety alerts and political demonstrations. While the city supports peaceful assembly, the Mayor’s office has emphasized that blocking major thoroughfares remains prohibited to ensure emergency vehicle access.